My new SmartCraft guage has been installed (2006 Opti 200 hp). I wait until it reaches 120* - 125* before accelerating and for the most part it will raise to 140*, the stats will open and I'll run around 125* but on 2 occasions after accelerating the temp dropped from 125* to 111* - 113* and stayed there for the entire run. Any concerns? Water temp was 57*. Thanks.
On-plane engine temps will vary dramatically, based on LOAD/Operating conditions AND lake water temps.
The thermostats on your engine are essentially only functional at IDLE/LOW RPM (water flow is controlled by the POPPET VALVE at higher RPM's).
It's the temp at IDLE (ensuring proper warmup BEFORE acclerating, and ensuring temps stabilize after coming off plane) that are CRITICAL.
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