Temp Sender problem + water in gearcase?

[hifi55]

Hi,<br /><br />On my OMC Cobra 4.3 I am having trouble getting my engine water temp indication working. Removed the sender wire, grounded to engine block, gauge pegged, seems fine. Replaced temp sender, still no dice. Water system seems great and when I pull the sender plenty of water comes out. <br /><br />Took my recently purchased used boat out today and ran her for an hour (3500rpm cruise), still no indication at first then temporarily got a good indication of about 150 that lasted for about 2 minutes, then quit (no indication).<br /><br />I have yet to get a good temp reading on my motor and its making me a little uneasy.. riser temps seem ok, I'd say about 100 deg or so by guess. Any ideas on how to fix this? Am I installing the sender wrong? I am using a single wrap of teflon tape and tightening moderately. <br /><br />Another possibly related issue, when muffs on idle in the driveway I feel the temp of the exhaust water and it is not very hot, maybe 100deg. I am wondering if there is a thermostat problem (stuck open?). <br /><br />And one more thing (I'm new at this sorry for all the questions! .. Checked the gearcase oil level before going out, and I can't tell if its wet or not but it appears slightly bubbly and cloudy.. (from microscopic bubbles). Is this a sign of water? What's the standard procedure for repairing this kind of issue?<br /><br />Thanks for any help!!<br /><br />-Damian

 

[akriverrat]

Re: Temp Sender problem + water in gearcase?

teflon tape can sometimes insulate electrically. probably will not help but try pipe dope. oil with water will look like creamed coffee if oil was brown new.

 

[kdmiller8251]

Re: Temp Sender problem + water in gearcase?

Ok how about this, heat up a pot of water and drop the sending unit in the water see if it works that way....<br /><br />maybe a bad gauge?<br /><br />As for the water in the case.... Do a pressure test on the case... see if it leaks..<br /><br />Tallman

 

[DJ]

Re: Temp Sender problem + water in gearcase?

I'm with tallman. That sensor needs to have a good ground to the engine block.

 

[Ted S.]

Re: Temp Sender problem + water in gearcase?

I'm with djons on this one. Check your connections at the battery and where your main ground strap grounds to the block. Check the entire circuit for loose wiring and corroded connections. Good hunting!!

 

[bernieb]

Re: Temp Sender problem + water in gearcase?

If your engine is sucking in 55 degree lake water to cool your engine don't expect your guage to show all that much.