changing water pumps

[deppong]

I have a force 120HP engine - this weekend I got the overheat horn and noticed no water shooting out where it should be. I'm assuming its the water pump. I have a good mechanical background - is replacing the water pump a task for an expert or is it easy enough for me to attempt> is it possible that it could be something else other than the water pump.

 

[JB]

Re: changing water pumps

Howdy, deppong. Changing an impeller is something every boater should be able to do, and should do every couple of years as a routine preventive maintenance item. It is a little bit harder than falling overboard, but easier than getting back aboard.<br /><br />Go to your friendly neighborhood Force/Merc dealer and buy 2 impellers. Get them to explain how to drop the lower unit and install one of them. Keep the extra one aboard, along with your spare prop.<br /><br />Happy boating.<br />JB

 

[deppong]

Re: changing water pumps

JB - thanks for the info - got a manual and it does not look that hard - just needed someone to push me into it. I was suprised that the manual even suggested once a year to replace the impeller or water pump. One more question ------- can the thermostat stop the water flow all together. I find it hard to beleive that one minute the pump is OK and the next its not pumping at all. Thanks for the input!!!!