Suzuki DF70 Trimming Overheats - The Hull Truth

hinmo · 06-07-2008, 06:36 AM

3 years on my Suzuki DF70. I've had it on 2 boats trying to get this motor to run right. The problem? If I trim this engine more than an inch from the total down position, and run 3/4 to full throttle, it kicks an overheat alarm (not enough cooling water flow) and goes thru its governed low idle condition.

The engine has less than 100 hrs. The dealer says its fine (had it back 5 times). In its current, tucked in all the way position, it makes both boats I've had it on plow bow down. The first was a 17 whaler that ran great with a 2-strk. The second is a 19 Alcar center console (current).

Is there anyway to get better water flow? The intake covers/grates look very small. Is this engine running right? I hate it!

A1 Outboard · 06-07-2008, 07:32 AM

One thing about those motors, there are a lot of small cooling system hoses all over the engine block and they plug up very easily with sand, mud, or salt. It is time consuming, but each one should be taken off and blown through to make sure that it and the fittings are clear. In addition, is the dealer sure that the motor is actually overheating or possibly getting a false signal from a bad sensor or possibly a pinched or chafed wire in the alarm circuit?

Other things besides the water pump and thermostat condition are a cracked water tube up to the motor, salt or sand buildup inside the cooling passages around the cylinderhead, or the engine may be picking up aerated water and the bubbles do not help the motor stay cool. A water pressure gauge would help with the troubleshooting.

Good luck with it and let us know what you eventually find out.

hinmo · 06-07-2008, 07:40 AM

Thanks - good info.

BTW - have you ever heard about these motors not being able to be trimmed much?