1988 force 85hp cooling issue

[bcfdsq11]

I have a 1988 forcr 85hp outboard. When i first got it from the guy i bought it from he said there wasnt any issues. I went and placed the motor in a tub and it started fine. The problem i'm having is that water doesnt seem to be getting to the head unit and cuases it to heat up fast. I did notice that no water was streaming out of the holes on the back of the mid leg. I pulled the lower unit and inspected the impeller and it seems to be in good working order. I replace the gasket and put the lower unit back on. when i fired the motor up again i still had the same problem. I plan on replacing the whole water pump tomorrow but i feel like that wont solve the issue. Can anyone shed some light on what else could be wrong? Why am i not getting water to the head unit? Thanks

 

[pnwboat]

Re: 1988 force 85hp cooling issue

How are you supplying water to the motor? Are you using muffs or a tank? Sometimes it's difficult to get the muffs lined up perfectly on the lower end to supply enough water. Also, sometimes water pressure is not adequate. If you're using a tank, the water level needs to be well above the cavitation plate in order for the pump to prime properly.

If those things check out, it could be the thermostat. You can do a temporary test by removing it. It's not advisable to run it without one if you want full power. Motor/cylinder head temperature needs to be 110 - 140 degrees to run the best.

 

[bcfdsq11]

Re: 1988 force 85hp cooling issue

i tried the muffs but played hell getting them lined up just right and as far as a tank i dont have one deep enough to get me above the cavitation plate.

I will try getting something else thats deep enough to get it done....Thanks Master chief ...I'll keep you posted