I have recently purchased from a private seller a 2009 SeaRay 195 Sport with 53 hours on the 5.0 Mercruiser Engine. I brought the boat in for service to change the oil in the lower unit and motor. During this process while the boat was running in dealers pool the operating temp was about 175. They suggested a new water pump and impeller. Okay, so they re-ran it in the pool still 170 to 175. Said the proper temp is 160, for sea water cooled engines. Recommend changing the thermostat. After swap, boat still around 170. Dealer now suggests that its the manifolds and dry joint elbows. $3500. I ran the boat at full throttle and steady cruise last weekend temp would fluctuate between 170 175, at full open would momentarily get to 180 and immediately come back down. I guess my question or advice i am looking for is: Is this temp something to be concerned about? Can i Keep operating the boat at 170-175 without engine damage? Is the dealer actually giving me good advice? Any suggestions would be great!
