Is my water pump working?

[Evinrookie]

1967 80hp Evinrude
I just had my lower unit apart to replace some leaky seals and o-rings. After inspection, the impellar looked in great shape (almost new). I put the whole thing back together and finally started her up today for the first time this year (dreadful I know). As this being the first time I've ever worked on an outboard I became a little skittish that maybe the water pump isn't doing what it is supposed to and I shut her down after about 30 seconds. The motor has no telltale. Is there anything I can do to make sure my motor is being sufficiently cooled? While there isn't a pee stream, is there anywhere that water won't flow out of unless the water is pumping? Any help would be great.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Is my water pump working?

A temp sensor on the heads will tell you how well your motor is cooling.

 

[HighTrim]

Re: Is my water pump working?

Most of your spent cooling water will exit via the prop, but some will 'mist' out of the exhaust relief holes when the t stats open. If you can hold your hand on the head for a 1,2,3 count, or if water will not 'sizzle' when splashed on the head, you are usually ok. As stated, an infrared thermometer is an ideal way to verify engine temp.

For the future, I cannot think of a single scenario where I would pull the impeller housing without replacing the impellar. Especially if I was not the last one to change it.