Does water temperature affect outboard performance?

[Ken1949]

I was recently fishing at a powerplant lake with water temperatures in the mid to upper 90s. Temperatures in the hot water arm exceeded 100. I was wondering if the high water temperatures could damage or effect the outboard? Any thoughts on this subject? 

[fishinwrench]

Some Mercury V6 outboards have issues overheating at idle during the hottest part of summer (shiny black cowling in direct sunlight, low water pressure, ect).   Other than that....Not really.   That extra 15-20 degrees is no big deal.  Operating temps should still be within an acceptable range if the cooling system is operating right.   It may even run better.   

Your motor should have an overheat warning system that will let you know of an overheat situation way in advance of any damage. 

[Ken1949]

Thanks for the info. My 25 HP Merc is a year 2000 model. I am not aware of an overheat warning system. Probably does not have one. 

[momule]

So, do you catch any fish in 100 degree lake water and if so is it pre-poached? Sounds CRAZY...