1981 Evinrude 50 hp - questions on changing thermostat components

[MartyTn]

I want to change the thermostat components in my 1981 50 hp E50BELCIC 2-cyl 2-stroke, and I'm wondering if I'll be able to pull the head cover and change the thermostat parts without pulling the head or powerhead. It appears that I can get to all the small water cover / head cover bolts, but there appears to be only about 5/8" horizontal clearance between the water cover and the rear of the lower cowl. Is this sufficient room to get the cover off and un-install & re-install all the new thermostat components (including relief spring) ?

I've read that another way to change the thermostat components is to pull the head with head cover still attached and to then pull the head cover and un-install / re-install thermostat components on the bench.

Is there enough free space on this 50 hp motor to do the thermostat components swap without pullling the head ?

Thanks!

 

[boobie]

Re: 1981 Evinrude 50 hp - questions on changing thermostat components

I've done it on that mtr but I had the right tools. In your case you might want to pull the head. It would probably be easier in case any bolts snap.

 

[MartyTn]

Re: 1981 Evinrude 50 hp - questions on changing thermostat components

Thanks boobie. It looks like the cover bolts would be pretty easy with a long box end wrench. But having never replaced these thermostat components before, I wasn't sure if the 5/8" rear horizontal clearance would be enough space to get the relief spring and thermostat out and back in, but it sounds like there is enough room there. I might try the cover first and pull the head if needed. Many thanks for your help.

 

[phipps]

Re: 1981 Evinrude 50 hp - questions on changing thermostat components

Marty,

Were you able to do it? I was thinking of changing the stat in my '83 50hp but wasn't sure how to do it.