I have a Beta 38 with about 1000 hours. When first installed, while running in mid-range speeds (~2500 RPM), the coolant temp never rose above about 165, where the thermostat opens fully. I don't usually run all-out, because I have to pay for the diesel, but when comisioning, I never saw anything over 180. Moving from Pacific Mexico into Panama, and now the Caribbean, I'm seeing temps up to 190. My comissioning guide simply says "make sure the overheat light does not come on". I know that I've moved into much higher sea water temps, but I'm wondering if I should be concerned about temp in the 190 rage. the engine has never actually overheated, though it got over 200 while attempting to make the 8 knots demanded by the Panama Canal authorities.
I have of course checked all the obvious things, and find nothing amiss, so I'm wondering what is "normal".
This is not out of order. The water in the canal and the Caribbean is much warmer than the water on the Pacific coast so you must expect a change. The thermostat actually starts to open at 159 and is fully open at 185 degrees.
Having said this, it is still a good idea when you perform your next engine service, that you clean the heat exchanger tube stack. An overnight soak in white vinager after you have removed it will remove most of the crud. Hose it off and you should get the rest.
Stanley
-- Edited by Stanley on Wednesday 6th of June 2012 07:52:14 AM
Thanks. I had planned to pull the tube stack next week--before the boat goes into hurricane storage. It is good to know that this is not abnormal. I lived for years with a Universal that would overheat at the drop of a hat. I am naturally cautious.
-- Edited by MitchWest on Tuesday 5th of June 2012 06:14:48 PM
