Overheated 40hp thermostat blew out

[fcooper1]

My 1991 Johnson 40hp model tj40eleia overheated and when it cooled I found that the thermostat O-ring melted around the thermostat cover screw and blew out. Engine did not freeze up, just stopped. Do I need to replace the water pump also?

 

[58 Shell Lake]

Re: Overheated 40hp thermostat blew out

my rule of thumb is to replace the water pump impeller every year, some say 2 some estimate by the running hour, salt or fresh water, I figure it only takes me 30 min to change it out and its 22 bucks worth of insurance. Remember.......maintenance is only expensive if you dont do it. (not my quote, I read it somewhere)

 

[fcooper1]

Re: Overheated 40hp thermostat blew out

Thank You. This will be my first time replacing a water pump impeller and taking apart the lower unit to get to it. But I guess there is always a first time... Thanks again for your help.