Overheat Warning and Troubleshoot Question 1983 Force 85 HP

[Plainoldguy]

My overheat warning went off after a few minutes of idling in the water. The motor sat for a few years and I've read that the thermostat, impeller and water pump are all prime suspects. What logical order should I follow to problem-solve? Do I need special tools to test the thermostat?

 

[Jiggz]

Since it sat for a few years this is what a start up maintenance should have included:
1. Replace impeller, regardless if it looks brand new or in good working order.
2. Clean the thermostat and op-test it to make sure it still opens. This can easily be done with a pot of water over a stove and a simple thermometer
3. Check LU gear oil to make sure it is clear and bright.
4. Pull and clean the thermoswitch sensor (from the block)

 

[Tassie 1]

As well as the excellent info above

a repair manual has lots of good troubleshooting info re your problem

factory preferably then clymer then seloc in order of preference
think you can get them here.

 

[Plainoldguy]

Thanks Jiggz and Tassie-I intend to follow both of your suggestions.