Ok to run Merc 200 V-6 with water relief poppet valve bypassed?

[captweed]

Built a really nice and tight(135# compression)Merc v-6 I'm breaking in easy in barrell. Found a binding relief valve( no flow thru it,seems clean and loose,don't trust it) too be cause of overheating.Running with the sealing washer removed ok?,this valve seems to run open on my other engines even when cold,Does it create back pressure for proper heat distribution in cooling circuit? Thermos in head seem to open and flow,block is hot,heads cooler.Any experience anyone? I know it would be better to have this,worried about reliability out in middle of lake Erie!

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Ok to run Merc 200 V-6 with water relief poppet valve bypassed?

Good catch! Thats been the cause of many a failure. We've cut a round or two off the spring to relieve the pressure on the valve. I've heard of dealers putting in "weaker" springs. But I've also seen water pass through too quickly and cause problems if it is removed altogether. Some race guys replace it with a washer to retain the correct ammount of water in the block. The Scream and Fly guys may be able to give you more direction. Or Jeff at Baker Marine Support - 847-838-0066.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[captweed]

Re: Ok to run Merc 200 V-6 with water relief poppet valve bypassed?

Thanks,I left the poppet stem with spring in block grommett for partial restriction,just removed washer,What king of problems have you heard caused? warping? The temp range from the reed box and crank cover to block is alot.thanks