Logo

1989 mercury mariner 150hp 2.5 overheating issue running out of options

dezimunda

New member
Hey everyone,

I’m looking for some help with my Mariner 150hp outboard (model #0B384105). I’ve been chasing a persistent overheating issue. Here’s what’s happening:

-I’ve already replaced the thermostat and the impeller (and inspected the impeller several times—it looks good and is installed properly).
- compression between 134-138 on all cylinders
- Instead of a solid stream from the telltale, I’m getting water mixed with air bubbles, followed by steam.
- There’s a strong exhaust smell coming from the telltale, and the steam burns your eyes.
The water pressure gauge on the boat is reading 0 psi, so it doesn’t seem to be building any water pressure.

I’ve pulled the cylinder head and found some suspicious spots on the head gasket. I’ll post some photos below—can anyone tell me if it looks blown or if there are other signs I should look for?
 
Update after installing new head gasket problem still remain ..it started up worked perfectly good stream tell tale then switches to steam or smoke no water and overheats ..im using drum not earmuffs
 
Have you replaced the poppet valve? Usually a high speed issue. Only other issue could be a corrosion hole in the exhaust plate causing exhaust gases to scavenge into the water flow path that may cause the bubbles and steam.
 
Back
Top