2000 Merc 8hp 2stroke LS

STLHEAD1 · 02-23-2006, 06:57 PM

Hi Boat Doc,I bought this motor used and it runs real well but the tattletale water seemed a little cold. Last night I pulled the thermostat housing and found no thermostat. My question is can I run a Merc #75692-143 deg. themostat instead of the stock #14586-120 deg. thermostat. I ask this because where I steelhead fish in Idaho in the spring the water temps. run between 30 and 40 degrees. Thanks in advance, Stlhead 1.

Boat Doc' · 02-24-2006, 07:37 AM

I would stick with the stock one, be aware with the thermostat installed the water discharge will function as the thermostat opens and closes. At trolling speeds the thermostat may not ever open with the hotter thermostat. I also don't know if it would fit in the hole- might be to deep.

STLHEAD1 · 02-24-2006, 05:27 PM

Thanks, Boat Doc. I put in a 120 degree thermostat and all seems to work well. I appreciate your help. Stlhead1