What is a common cause of overheating in a marine engine?

A clogged seawater intake or malfunctioning water pump is a common cause of overheating in a marine engine because these components are crucial for cooling the engine. The seawater intake is responsible for drawing in water from the surrounding environment, which then circulates through the engine to absorb excess heat. If the intake becomes clogged with debris, marine organisms, or other obstructions, the flow of seawater is restricted, leading to insufficient cooling and, ultimately, overheating.

Additionally, the water pump plays a vital role in ensuring that seawater circulates properly through the engine cooling system. If the water pump is malfunctioning or fails to operate effectively, it can result in reduced water flow, hindering the engine’s ability to dissipate heat. Over time, this can cause the engine temperature to rise to dangerous levels, potentially leading to engine damage or failure.

Thus, addressing issues with the seawater intake and water pump is essential for maintaining proper engine temperature and avoiding overheating.