Correct T-Stat for Merc 260 (350 chevy)

[Fordiesel69]

It is a 1980 mercruiser 260HP 350. It has a 195 in it now and i think it is wrong. Owner said this engine needed higher temp to keep sludge minimal, is this true?

 

[picklenjim]

Re: Correct T-Stat for Merc 260 (350 chevy)

No. Should be 142.

 

[Fordiesel69]

Re: Correct T-Stat for Merc 260 (350 chevy)

Would going to a fuel injected 160 degree stat help or hurt anything. A guy told me I may pickup some fuel economy, but others say the oil can not last quite as long. Any suggestions?

 

[180shabah]

Re: Correct T-Stat for Merc 260 (350 chevy)

Just put the correct one in it and be comforted by the fact that they run thousands of hours as designed.