First Coast Marine Services

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My boat overheats while underway

What a bummer!

You've got the family, friends, or girlfriend and plans for a fun filled day and then this.

Well, you can't check the radiator 'cause there isn't one. And frankly there are very little you can do out on the water to correct the problem. First look to see if the water outlets are actually letting water out. If they aren't and if you can reach the intake ports you can check that they are not blocked with some flotsam. If they aren't blocked just kill the engine and call for a tow.

If water is flowing through the engine try throttling back and see if that helps. It might allow you to get back to port on your own. Even if throttling back does drop the temperature be sure to keep a close eye on the temperature and head to port, now.

Pull the cowling and take a look. There is a slight chance that there might be a leak that caused a leak under heave load. If so you "might" be able to put a good wrapping of tape over it and make port.

Be aware that operating a boat with an indication that the cooling system has a problem could void any warranty and certainly could ruin an engine. Best to let us check your boat before the boating season starts or now if you haven't already had it checked

Call Eric (904) 563-3885

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