MD6A: Can engine overheat despite low cooling water temp?

[Vega1447]

Hi.
I've spent some money and time getting exhaust system cleaned out on my
MD6A and cooling water temp is now just over 50 even at high revs and
plenty of water pumping out the tailpipe.

Seems to be a bit more power too.

But..... maybe cooling channels in engine are blocked (as those in
exhaust system were).

Engine block is certainly a lot hotter than 50 Centigrade - as you would
expect.

I'm going to attach a temp probe to engine block.

What is the max temp that I should regard as acceptable?

Where is best place to attach the probe?

Thanks for any advice,

John
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

 

[groundhogyh]

I measured my engine with a digital thermometer the other day and it was running about 77C on the outside of the block. The temperature gauge read a little above 80C. I'm not sure if this is normal or not.
groundhog

 

[stevebirch2002]

Hi John

As you know I have been following your exploits for quite a while now.
The engine cooling channels may be partially blocked and could perhaps
do with a good clean out. I have sailed many Vegas with the original
MD6A and many have been very, very, very hot. I would just sail your
Vega and use the engine. If the cooling water is going through and
cooling then just give it a go. The MD6A is an excellent engine and will
go on for ever.

The cooling water will be going through the block so long as the
thermostat is working. Dont worry too much just go sailing.

Cheers

Steve Birch (Technical)