2003 200 OX66 vmax 3.1 overheating

[wamma]

Just uncovered the boat from its winters nap.Motor started right up as usual but after idling for five minutes the buzzer sounded and the overheat light came on. Shut it down immediately.Water was pumping out of the indicator so I guess the water pump was working.Let it sit for half hour started up again and same thing.Where do I start or do I just call a mechanic but dont want to shell out the cash this day and age if its something simple.I must add I was using the muffs. Thanks Mike

[JOHN202]

Dont think i would try to start anymore.You did not say if you changed the impeller but if its been more then 2yrs you might need to.The other thing that comes to mind is the thermostats are stuck.Either way if you cant do it yourself then bring it in for service.

JOHN202

[craigs06]

I'm betting the impeller is bad. Mine had a steady stream of water, would still get the alarm if I idled much. New impeller fixed it.

[wamma]

did the impeller last season but I guess it still can go bad. Thanks guys

[esoxfly]

I'd go put it in water. There was a dude on here a week ago that was overheating, or wasn't getting "pee" or something to that effect on ears, but put it in a bucket of water and it was fine I'd put you l/u in a trash can full water first just for troubleshooting purposes.

But you're getting water, just maybe not enough. Impeller'd be my guess as well.

[JOHN202]

Just wondering,is your oil and over heat on the same light.If you changed the impeller last year maybe its a bad oil sensor.

JOHN202

[wamma]

John no there seperate lights. Thanks

[R1Peacock]

I have a 2004 and mine did the same thing. I had the impeller changed at the dealer and it still would overheat while going through no wake zones and at idle. I checked the Poppit Valve and it was mucked up. I cleaned it out and the problem was solved. Not sure if thats your problem but I would start there. I just had my impeller and housing changed out a few weeks ago for this season. I was told by the mechanic at the shop to change impeller every 2 years and each time they will inspect the housing. They suggested mine be changed this year so I would also consider that as a possible fix.

If you can't make it to the lake to test your water psi I'd go to Southern States or Tractor Supply and purchase a 100 gallon stock tank. These tanks are used by farmers to feed and water cattle. I bought one 2 years ago and test my motor using it rather than the ears. You can fill it up with water with a hose and let the hose continue to run. Drop the lower unit in and start up the engine. You will be able to get the same psi as if you were at the lake. The tanks run about $60-$70.

http://www.tractorsupply.com/w...lag=1




Modified by R1Peacock at 11:18 AM 3/19/2009

[esoxfly]

Good post Peacock.

Also, alot of hardware stores sell the big 55 gallon plastic barrels that were used for shipping liquid for like $10. I bought one that had apple vinegar cider in it at one time. I got rid of it when I moved last summer, but I'm going to find another one, and cut it in half and use it.

[wamma]

Thanks for all the input guys.This is the exact reason I love this site. Mike

[wamma]

Thanks to everyone especially esox.Put the motor in a landscaping pail which was just big enough.Started her up and noticed right away she was pissing a lot better.Ran her at idle for 10 minutes and no overheat.water pressure was 4-5 psi @ 800 rpms and 6-7psi @ 1000rpms.So the award goes to esox.Thanks made my day Mike

[BuzzB8]

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by esoxfly &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I'd go put it in water. There was a dude on here a week ago that was overheating, or wasn't getting "pee" or something to that effect on ears, but put it in a bucket of water and it was fine </TD></TR></TABLE>

Actually, he drove it to the local river and just backed the trailer in the water... but my suggestion to him was to get the big tank or garbage can.

Putting your boat on a garden hose isn't the same as putting it in the lake (or a big tank).

[esoxfly]

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by BuzzB8 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">

Actually, he drove it to the local river and just backed the trailer in the water... but my suggestion to him was to get the big tank or garbage can.

Putting your boat on a garden hose isn't the same as putting it in the lake (or a big tank).</TD></TR></TABLE>

I didn't recall the specifics, just that it'd been discussed.

Either way, you gotta put it in water.

[BuzzB8]

Some engines pee on the hose, and some don't.

[leeman197628]

i always get a buzzer after 5 to 8 minutes on the hose with mine but is fine when you put in on the water.