Force 85HP overheated, now runs crappy

[freshwaterdave]

I have a new impeller kit for it, but want to see if I can get it fixed without pulling the LU (boat is still in the water). I've been running wire to unclog every port I can find, cleaning things out. The boat WILL turn over, but it does not run at proper idle. I will put it all the way down in neutral forward and it stays at the same low RPM. Any hints or tricks or areas to explore would be very helpful.

 

[The Force power]

Welcome to IBoats

??? Your title says: Overheated, now runs crappy
There's a reason why it overheated!! find out why & drop the LU and inspect and/or replace the impeller!
If... that's too much work: read the Sticky notes on top of this forum and or use search bar

Good luck

 

[freshwaterdave]

Thanks. I'm trying to diagnose without taking it fully out of the water first. I'm wondering if there are areas to explore without having to drop the LU.

 

[flyingscott]

You overheated your motor there is no magic fix. More than likely your powerhead now needs a rebuild. . You need to do a compression test at this point!!!

 

[freshwaterdave]

I'm doing a compression test tomorrow. My issue is that the boat was running hot so I shut it down, but I don't believe/think it heat seized. That is what I want to find out. What am I looking for with the compression test that will tell me yes or no.

 

[flyingscott]

Just because it did not seize does not mean the damage wasn't done. Report the findings of the compression test.

 

[Tassie 1]

Thanks.

I'm wondering if there are areas to explore without having to drop the LU.

I'd start exploring the dark areas of your wallet.
You really need to pull the boat out of the water and then pull the tools out and then pull the lower unit.

Not gonna fix...or find.. the problem until ya do that.

 

[Sea Rider]

Before making a CT re torque the exhaust cover if having one and the cylinder head gasket to factory specs, If the motor didn't overheated badly as to shut itself OFF while smoking heavily a CT will show very little compression variation. If the problem persists get a new cylinder gasket and torque it to specs with a torque wrench.

If pulling the cylinder head check with a metal ruler that the head is not warpped. Inspect the impeller just in case was damaged due to running dry. If so buy a new one along the head gasket.

Happy Boating