restrictor instead of thermostat

rob 135

Petty Officer 2nd Class
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Aug 8, 2013
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167
1985 Chris Craft Scorpion 186. 230hp 305. I bought recently and was told thermostat was removed and restrictor installed . no cooling issues. runs between 140 - 160 depends on load. My question is if restrictor is working is thermostat needed?
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
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Jul 23, 2011
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50,234
Restrictors are used in racing for a very specific reason - a sticking t-stat will cause you to loose the race.

140 degrees is a bit cool and promotes wear.

run a proper t-stat.
 

rob 135

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 8, 2013
Messages
167
So I put new 160 thermostat in . Running on muffs in driveway it will stay at 150 degrees idle. If I put rpm up to about 1500 for a bit the temp keeps creeping higher . I no that's normal but figured would level off , it went little past 180 before I let idle back to 150. Question is if on muffs is there not enough flow of water at higher rpm ? Whats difference in temp from hose to floating boat? If weather good I will try tomorrow.
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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Jul 23, 2011
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50,234
No, there is not enough flow on muffs. 1000 rpm is about the limit.
 
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