Water Pump Questions

[loopit]

I was testing out my 1973 6 HP Evinrude today and noticed the motor was really hot inside the cover and some white smoke was coming out the hole that’s about a foot above the surface of the water and 6 inches down from the engine cap in the very back of the shaft. <br /><br />Could this mean the water pump is bad? Can somebody tell me where the water pump is located on the motor so I can take a look at it? If for some reason this is the problem can I just fix the one that is in there or do I need to buy a replacement?<br /><br />Jeff

 

[Yepblaze]

Re: Water Pump Questions

Yes, lots of hot steam would indicate an overheating problem. If it has a thermastat you should figure it should get about 160 degrees before it opens and really pums water through the motor. They sometimes stick closed.<br /><br />The pump would be in the lower unit just above the propeller gears.<br /><br />There are other items that it could be but a waterpump impeller check sounds like a good first step. Never run the motor out of the water or unless it has the proper hookup to a garden hose.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Water Pump Questions

I agree but want to add a couple of things. I don't know that exact motor but if it has a thermostat, I would check that also. They sometimes stick particularly if run in salt water and tend to "crud-up" over the years.<br /><br />If a new water pump and checking the thermostat dosen't do it you may have an obstruction in the cooling passages of the head or block. This is more frequent in salt water engines. If you get into this I would suggest that you do the head and the exhaust manifold. I have tried the quick and easy only to have to go back again. Cleaning the passages is an easy job and may not cost a cent unless you damage gaskets when you disassemble.