Merc 150 water flow

[jpayeur01]

I bought a 1980 Mariner 150 and when I got it the guy told me it needed a water pump. He said no water comes out of the tell tale unless he removes the thermostats. I replaced the water pump and thermostats and I get the same thing. any ideas what could cause that? is there a way to flush the water jackets throughout the whole motor with a hose?
Thanks

 

[j_martin]

Re: Merc 150 water flow

All the water for the tell-tale has to go through the t-stats first. Until the engine warms up, it'll just be dribbles, and until the block fills up with water, there will even be a little air.

The best indication of cooling system condition is a water pressure meter. The tell tale is useful to tell you the engine is warm enough for your first hole shot without cold-seizing it.

The thermostats are required for proper operation.

hope it helps
John