Overheating 454

noank

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Apr 30, 2011
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I have a 1997 454 Bravo II raw water cooled.Last time out last year at idle it would be fine.When I would run the boat at higher RPMs it would overheat.I thought t-stat.When the boat was out of water for season I started working on it.I replaced t-stat,raw water impeller and housing,circulating pump,manifold, risers ,spacer blocks and hoses.Manifold,riser and blocks where 5 years old.Everything else was original I think.Nothing seemed to look like the cause but was showing signs of wear.Spark plugs did not look to have signs of water.Did not compression check.Put boat back in water and doing the same thing.Anyone have any thoughts?Thanks for viewing.
 

dubs283

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Jul 27, 2005
Messages
5,346
Re: Overheating 454

riser gaskets - did you install two slot or four slot??
 

noank

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Apr 30, 2011
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Re: Overheating 454

On the bottom of the spacer block it had all 4 slots open.On the top of the block that met the riser the sides are open and the front are closed with one hole each in them.
 

Pete104

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Apr 30, 2011
Messages
1,439
Re: Overheating 454

Pretty vaque description.

The impeller has probably been changed a few times! Very possible you've got pieces of "impeller" making your system "hot"! Also, if there is growth on some of the intake grates (not all) you are running the sea pump dry.

Are you getting an alarm?
 

dubs283

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Jul 27, 2005
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5,346
Re: Overheating 454

keep in mind that an engine not only needs cool intake water but also has to get rid of hot water to stay running at operating temp

there is a service bulletin about two and four slot gaskets on risers/elbows and it will explain what you need depending on your set-up

go to your local merc dealer and ask them about it, i beleive it is bulletin 98-12

also, as the other poster mentioned, check the water intake on the drive and the oil cooler for blockage - weeds, marine growth, impeller pieces, etc...
 

noank

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Apr 30, 2011
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5
Re: Overheating 454

Yes,I am getting the alarm.Once I bring the RPMs down it will start to cool off and alarm goes off.
 

noank

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Apr 30, 2011
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Re: Overheating 454

I will look into the bulletin.

I checked the bulletin.It is for 1999.I will have to check the cooler.I know the second cooler near circulating pump is clear.
 
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