New guy needs water pump help

[john from md]

Hi,

I just bought another boat after not having one for four years. I gave up sailing as it was too much work with a bad back but I missed the water so I bought an '85 Bayliner Capri with a 85hp Force on back.

I need to change the water pump as the guy I bought it from told me it is five years old. The problem is, I have read that it can be a 3/4 inch or a 1 inch impeller. Can anyone tell me by S/N which one mine takes?

Model number 856X5L s/n 3923.

Additionally, if I buy a thermostat, does it come with a gasket? I'm asking as I plan to buy these parts online and they don't go into much detail.

Thanks a bunch,

John from MD

 

[steamplant]

Re: New guy needs water pump help

You can lookup your parts via model and serial number here
http://www.mercruiserparts.com/

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: New guy needs water pump help

From 1979 1/2 when Chrysler changed its 3 and 4 cylinder engines to a one piece lower unit, to at least 1989, Chrysler and Force all used the same impeller. It was 1 inch thick. The 3/4 inch thick impeller was used on the two piece lower units prior to 1979 1/2.

I think the thermostat gasket is sold separately, but it is a simple piece and you can make one yourself. Before you buy a thermostat, just take the old one out and place in a pot of water. As you heat it, it should open. If it opens when or before the water boils, it is good and does not need replacing unless it sticks open.

Two (I forget which but I think it is the top 2) of the thermostat housing screws enter the water passage and may be corroded in . They will be really tight and you may need an impact screwdriver to loosen them. They may snap off if you are unlucky. When you put them back in use PLENTY of anti-seize.

 

[john from md]

Re: New guy needs water pump help

Thanks loads for the help guys, this is a really great forum!!!

John