Engine temp. low on Volvo AQ 231A Engine - The Hull Truth

leelander44 · 07-31-2006, 02:50 PM

I'm having a problem with engine temp. I have replaced the thermo. twice (160 deg.) I installed a new sender, and the guage works. I grounded the sending wire to the block and the needle moves indicating it's circuit is good. I replaced the pump impeller at the beginning of the season. Engine is raw water cooled. I have a laser hand held temp. sensor , I aim it at the manifold heat riser's and get a reading of 110 -118. I know an engine should operate at a specific temp. range to be efficient. Engine is a 1990 Volvo AQ 231A V8 with 375 total hrs. on it. The guage is a teleflex model. Range is 120- 200 degrees. Needless to say when I'm running the needle doesn't move as I'm only getting 110 -118 deg.
If anyone can give me a heads up I'll appreciate it, thanks in advance.
Leelander

CalWldLif · 07-31-2006, 10:02 PM

I think this is the first post
about low temps, it is usually the
other way.
Leelander is that about where you are,
baltic, north, arctic sea?
400 hrs in a 16 year old boat?
Yours new or new to you?
A little more info please

baitkiller · 07-31-2006, 10:07 PM

Thermostat, install one. The risers should still stay in low 100's but when you read the thermostat housing it should be closer to 150.

ReelWork · 07-31-2006, 11:07 PM

The thermostat is either non-existent or one of the new ones that are designed to "fail" in the open position so the motor doesn't overheat...

Replace it with the Volvo T-Stat and be done.. Change out the gasket too.

prockvoan · 08-01-2006, 07:49 AM

If you run it on a water hose,what is your temp then?Were you boat at?Sea temp?Yes,for best fuel mileage,the engine should run at145F to 160F.The only thing you are hurting is the fuel mileage and not getting the engine warm to burn out any water build up in the valve covers when the boat sits for a few days.If that is the case,change your engine oil sooner for cheap insurance.