1986 mercruiser thermostat replacement

Jon 1975

Cadet
Joined
Aug 19, 2020
Messages
7
Hello I’m new to this. I have a 1986 mercruiser 3.7 liter 170. Can anyone tell me how to get to the thermostat. I bought a new one and need to replace the old one due to overheating at mid to high speeds. Thanks for any guidance on this issue.
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
51,887
first, welcome aboard

second, get a factory manual.

on the 470 motor, there are dozens of things that lead to an over-heat and the first one is the raw water impeller.

if the motor overheats, usually you also need to replace the head gasket.
 

Jon 1975

Cadet
Joined
Aug 19, 2020
Messages
7
Thank you for your reply. I have the 170 motor. Is that the same configuration as the 470? It does not overheat unless I am at about 3/4 throttle and then when I slow down it cools down fairly quickly. How can I purchase a shop manual for this motor? Do you use a website regularly that you can share? Again thanks for your help.
 

Jon 1975

Cadet
Joined
Aug 19, 2020
Messages
7
I have found the thermostat on this diagram. Do you know if it is a difficult task to get to it?
 
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