Expert: Everett Peacock - 10/23/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have a 1984 Merc 150 motor that was over-heating on a recent vacation. When the over heat alarm sounded, I instantly shut-up off the engine and waited a few minutes and tried re-starting it. But all I would get is a click at the starter. So I towed it home and let it sit for 3 weeks. I tried starting it again and it started fine. I let it run for awhile, it is pumping water out fine. But the water was warm and the longer it ran the hotter the Water was getting. I shut it off before the alarm went off. What can it be %26 what can I do to fix ? Will this cause any problems for me winterizing the boat.

Thanks Scott

ANSWER: sounds like the starter solenoid is going bad and if you run too long of the flushers they can over heat also..

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What do you mean the flushers can over-heat? Do I need to replace the flusher? How hard of a job is that?

Answer
no no no ... the larger waterflow outboards can over heat from running on the flushers that connect to the garden hose....the pump can only pump as much water as you give it...
if the water pump has not been replaced in the last few years then put a pump in..