Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

[watchinthebobber]

1994 4.3LX that I just purchased. I was considering replacing the thermostat just to be safe since it's probably the original. Can I use a thermostat from the auto parts store or does it need to be a marine part? Do I just need the thermostat and a new gasket?

Thanks

 

[Bondo]

Re: Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

Do I just need the thermostat and a new gasket?

Ayuh,....

Unlike the automotive versions,...

You'll be needing Several gaskets,+ possibly an o-ring.....
Just buy the "Right" kit....

 

[watchinthebobber]

Re: Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

Makes sense. And I'm also hearing it's a different temp range for marine apps.

 

[Don S]

Re: Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

Why don't you get the right parts, then you don't have to worry. I would be less inclined to worry about the raw water pump impeller in a "new to me boat" than the thermostat. Then there is the ujoint bellows an alignment issues. Manifolds and riser condition. All that can kill an engine and/or an outdrive.
Anyway, back to the thermostat, you need a 143? thermostat for the raw water cooled engine along with either 1 or 2 gaskets (depending on which design you have for that year), and the ORing that holds the thermostat in place.

If you can post a SN for your engine, I can give you a link to your manual. Your 94 may be the boat year, but not the engine year, and you are right at the changeover.

 

[watchinthebobber]

Re: Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

Thanks guys.

I'm all about not cutting corners on jobs and I'm finding out with marine stuff there aren't really any alternatives. I'd rather have the peace of mind that the job is done right.

I wondered about a simple part like the thermostat that's why I posted.

Good idea on the SN. I will check it out soon.

 

[watchinthebobber]

Re: Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

If you can post a SN for your engine, I can give you a link to your manual. Your 94 may be the boat year, but not the engine year, and you are right at the changeover.

Hi Don S, here is the SN:

0F130612

 

[Don S]

Re: Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

Here's the manual link.

http://www-alt.mercurymarine.com/mnetdata/SERVICE/CRUISER/Servmanl/18/18covr2.pdf

It's 12 MB in size, so give it a while to load.

 

[watchinthebobber]

Re: Thermostat replacement - 4.3LX

Perfect. That's the one I had been referencing already. Thanks for helping me verify!