55 Chrysler Won't Pump Water

['82Glastron]

I have a 1971 55 Chrysler and I can't seem to get it to pump water. I just replaced the impeller so I know that is not the problem. I have tried to run it for about 30 seconds and still no water. If anyone has any suggestions on what I can do please let me know. Thanks

 

[wickware]

Are you trying deep in a 55 gal barrel or in the lake/river vs muff? The Chryslers seem to like to be deep as in a lake.

 

[MickLovin]

Have you tried with your thermostat out, could be your t'stat.

 

['82Glastron]

I am running it in a large garbage pale so I know it is deep enough. I replaced the thermostat with another used one that seemed to be working, but can the engine be ran without the thermostat in to see if that is the problem? Thanks

 

[foodfisher]

Yes. Won't be good for normal use though.

 

[wickware]

1. Is your motor in the water level it would be in at the lake? I have seen 2” above my norm (due to storing on jack sands to lift my tires) cause no water flow. I'm running approx 24" deep in a 31" deep barrel before some water is revved out but it continues to pump. The pump is instant in below 70 weather.
2. I also feel as instant as I get water flow, there is a bypass that allows water to flow past the thermostat (on my 1970 35 hp Chrysler).

 

['82Glastron]

My motor was not completely level, I will try correcting that and see if it solves my problem. Thanks

 

[tater76]

Did you replace the pin that the impeller sits over?It can fall out easily.

 

['82Glastron]

Are you talking about the pin on the drive shaft? If so, I never removed that.

 

[MickLovin]

Have you tried taking the lower unit off and running water up the water tube to the head with the thermostat out. I believe it should come straight out your back exhaust, but I am not sure with the 55hp.
I have also heard of the exhaust plate being blocked and causing this problem, but again others here will know better.
Also you need to have your outboard in the water 3" or more above your water pump.

 

['82Glastron]

Thanks for all of the replies. I found out what the problem was. When I re-installed the lower end I forgot to line up the pickup tube with the impeller housing. Water shoots out great now that they're lined up. I guess i'll have to check better the next time.