Expert: Everett Peacock - 4/13/2011

Question
I recently rebuilt the engine on my 1982 Sea Ray 260 Mercruiser, it purs like a kitten at normal idle, but then gets hot at high idle around 3000rpm's, could my problem be the impeller housing leaking water pressure from a stripped screw?

Answer
I don't think the screw is the problem.  Was the water pump replaced when you rebuilt it...pump should be changed every couple of years... on an engine of that age, check you exhaust elbows for restrictions from rust.  I think you may find the problem there.  if they are good and the pump is good then the water passage from the stern drive may be corroded reducing the water flow... I have in the past had to install a belt driven sea water pump with a thru hull fitting to solve a overheating problem on a repowered Merc..