About how long should I idle to let it warm up to temperature, especially in 45 -50 degree water? It's a 2006 200hp if that matters.
About how long should I idle to let it warm up to temperature, especially in 45 -50 degree water? It's a 2006 200hp if that matters.
First start, I watch the SmartCraft temp gauge as I idle out until I see the temp drop when the thermostats open at about 132d. It takes a while in cooler water - never timed it, but wouldn't be surprised if it's three or four minutes.
After that during the day, if the temp when I start is 100d+, wait 'til it gets above 120 - if the temp is below that, I wait for the thermostats again.
So many honey-dos . . . . . so little motivation
You need to monitor engine temperature via a Smartcraft Instrument, and ensure that it reaches AT LEAST 120 degrees BEFORE ACCELERATING.
Before shutting engine down, you should also ensure the temperatures STABILIZE at above 120 degrees (30-60 seconds at idle in this case).
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
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I don't have a SmartCraft yet, just got the boat. Any guidelines on how long it typically takes, I'd rather err on the high side. Is five minutes more than enough, ten minutes?
then I would be safe and go with 10 mins. I was in 44 degrees yesterday and it took 5-7 mins before my smartcraft showed 120
2018 Phoenix 920 Pro XP
Thanks Jim, that's what I was looking for.
I timed it yesterday, water temp 59d, 4 1/2 minutes at idle speed for the thermostats to open.
So many honey-dos . . . . . so little motivation
<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by Puma Jim »</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">then I would be safe and go with 10 mins. I was in 44 degrees yesterday and it took 5-7 mins before my smartcraft showed 120</td></tr></table>
The problem.... trying to utilize a "time method" of monitoring temp is simply GUESSING.
All it takes is one small pebble.... or one little chunk of wood in a thermostat, and that engine will NEVER come up to temperature.
And if you're using the "guess" method.... you'll only find out when it's too late....
Dual Mercury Master Technician- for Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Mercury Racing at European Marine in Greenville, SC.
Still consider myself a "Marine Apprentice" after 48 years (learn something new every day).
Mercury Parts, Mercury Outboards, Smartcraft & Accessories, Injector Service, TDR Reeds- BBC Sponsor
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