Water Temp Chrysler 318 RWC

[randyp]

I know this may have been covered before, but just in case: I've wondered about the temp gauge reading on my 77 F-26 w/single Chrysler 318, RWC. I THINK the temp should be in the 140-160 range when warmed up. The gauge (original) is marked off at 100 - 180 (center) and 220 top end. It never gets above the second mark above 100, which does not have a number, but is in the "neighborhood" of 120 since the second mark is below the middle of 100 and 180.

But the boat runs fine, and has done so for over 33 years, even on our 500+ mile trip on the NYS (Erie) Canal trip. The exit water is hot and will "steam" when the throttle is open and the boat is on plane. Not a large amount of steam, but "enough".

So, the question remains -
1. leave it alone (aint broke, don't fix it),
2. replace the thermostat,
3. replace the sender, or
4. replace the gauge.

I'm tending to go with option 1, but would like some input from the experts out there.

Thanks

[TADTOOMUCH]

My engine runs exactly at that temp as well and has new stats and senders and gauges. It aint broke. Running in cool lakes it will run that temp. If you ran in the Gulf of Mexico it would probably run warmer. It is fine.

[MattSC]

My old 318 used to run the same temp as yours, it's fine. Just don't neglect the impeller on your raw water pump.

[randyp]

Thanks guys. I change out the impeller each season and carry a spare, so I'll not stress out over the temp.

[prowlersfish]

Number 1

[vabeach1234]

I purchased a infrared temperature gun at Home Depot and leave it on the boat. About once a month I go over the engine with it when the engine gets warmed up just to verify the temp gauges and make sure both exhaust manifolds are running close to the same temperature. For $40 its a great useful tool for peace of mind.

[alexander38]

#1

[jwhalen]

I have a 76 F26 and it runs at 120. Leave it alone