I have had B & BF7.5 and BF100s up until now, but recently got a BF15A, early model, 100xxxx serial number. It is a really clean motor, low hours I believe. The lower cowling that has the oil contained in it gets pretty hot after a short time running (10 mins or so, long enough for engine to warm up) and stays hot, so hot that when you slow down and the water comes up over the lower cowl, it steams.

Is it normal for these to get that hot? I put a new thermostat in just to be sure, everything looked clean in there. It has never "overheated" that I know of. The paint is discolored on the lower cowling.

Thanks...