5.0GL VP running to cold

[Seed288]

I just purchased a 2003 crown line 288BR with twin 5.0 GL motors. My port engine will not heat up. It generally runs at idle around 100 degrees and tops out at 130-140 under load. I believe normal operating temp on these motors is 160-180. I have replaced the thermostat with no change. Should i be concerned?Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[Don S]

Re: 5.0GL VP running to cold

You have either another bad stat, it's stuck open with debris, or it's installed incorrectly.

 

[jluchuk]

Re: 5.0GL VP running to cold

I had the same problem on my 5.0 that took a long time to solve. I replaced the thermostat 3 times and still had the problem. The fix was a blocked bypass hole in the thermostat housing. If you clear the blockage or replace the housing it should fix your problem. I was not able to find a diagram to show this bypass but it is approximately 1/4 to 3/8" in diameter and hard to see. You can push a 12 gauge wire or something similar through it to clear it out. Blockage normally causes over heating so don't ask me why this causes an engine to run cold. I do know another boater who had the same problem for 2 years and could not get it fixed until he found out about this bypass. Good luck Jerry