Too cool or normal?

[tcontic]

Greetings,

I ran my 2001 Sea Ray 230BR, 7.4MPI B3, 180hrs for the first time this year to check it out after winter storage. This spring I changed the thermostat, 160d egree because at the end of last year temperature was a bit erratic.

Once the boat warmed up temp was rock solid at 170, normal according to merc specs. My only concern is that after being out for almost three hours the risers were still cool to the touch. Is this odd or normal?

Tom

 

[Lazy Daze]

Cool/warm/hot is relative. On the other hand, if you couldn't keep your hand on it, THAT would be a problem. You're golden.

 

[Hampton]

Normal.

 

[tdappleman]

I'd vote normal - I have the 160 degree thermostats in my 4.3's - temps on both are right at 170 on the gauge and the risers are warm but it can depend on the air and water temperature. If you are really concerned you can remove the thermostat and put in a pot of hot water to make sure the thermostat opens and closes correctly. A meat thermometer can give you the temp of the water to ensure it's opening in the 160 or so range.