Might be running a little hot

[zapper1]

I have a 1980 26 FT HOURSTON GLASCRAFT with an AQ 260 engine and a VOLVO 280 DUO PROP with a closed cooling system.
It runs well,but it does run at 180 degrees steady.
Should I change to a 165 degree stat?
Is it OK to use an automotive stat?
THANKS IN ADVANCE.
Cheers

 

[zapper1]

Just a little advice Please!!

 

[boatdoc55]

That isn't even close to hot. Leave it alone. Your car runs much more than that.

 

[olddawg]

My AQ125 runs at 190 degrees. That's what the book says the thermostat should be rated at.

 

[el_pescador]

My AQ125 runs at 190 degrees. That's what the book says the thermostat should be rated at.

Yours is an OHC 4 cylinder engine and the AQ260 is a V8 Chevy. The Volvo 4 cylinder and the Chevy 8 cylinder engines are two totally different animals and use thermostats for a different temperature range. The temperature range for the 4 cyinder is 180º-198ºF, and for the V8 (closed cooling) is 160º-182ºF.

 

[zapper1]

Is it more efficient to run a little cooler than hotter or do i have it backwards?

Cheers.

 

[boatdoc55]

You have it backwards or is it sdrawkcab. A cold engine does develope a little more power though and a lot more wear.