Low Enginre Temp in Merc 260

[bmclees]

The engine temp in my 260 Mercruiser barely makes it to 125 deg. The gauge and temp sensors are apparently ok because switching them from the other engine made no difference. Any advice on where to look next? Is there a risk of using the engine this way? <br /><br />I would appreciate any advice or suggestions.<br />Thanks.<br /><br />bdm

 

[Wellcraft 89]

Re: Low Enginre Temp in Merc 260

Bdm <br />Maybe a stuck open thermostat!<br />You must have twin 260 in this boat if you switched <br />sensors.<br />Is this closed loop cooling?<br /><br />Rich

 

[bbracken]

Re: Low Enginre Temp in Merc 260

I have a 1986 Merc 5.7/260. It has a 130 deg stat; they are supposed to run cool. Given a little tolerance for the meter, sounds like you're okay. Mine ran at ~130 when I got it a couple of months ago, but now I am having overheating problem. <br /><br />Happy boating!

 

[ODDD1]

Re: Low Enginre Temp in Merc 260

bdm, gravel, small wooden sticks,etc can wedge in a thermostat and hold it open...normal temp on this is 140* [143* thermostat] pull the thermostat cover and check it...there are gaskets on the thermostat it self on some of the 260's..have seen them blow out, making the engine run cold at idle....