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15hp Johnson water pump

K

KRN

New member
I started my Johnson 15 HP, model # J15RCIS, serial #E5423331 (1980 model I believe) in a tank after having stored it for 5 years indoors (it had been properly pickled for storage). It started fine after a few pulls with fresh mixed gas and ran normally, but there was no water stream from the water pump, so I shut it off after a couple of minutes. Does this motor have a thermostat that just hadn't opened yet, or do I have a faulty water pump?
Thanks.
 
1981 model .... CI are the date letters for 1981

It does have a thermostat ... #19 on the parts diagram on this site .... see http://www.marineengine.com/parts/johnson-evinrude-parts.php?year=1981&hp=15&model=J15RCIS&manufacturer=Johnson&section=Cylinder+%26amp%3B+Crankcase
but it should "pee" regardless of whether the thermostat is open or closed

Check the telltale is not blocked including the hose elbow fitting at the engine end

Also be sure when running in a tank that the water level is high enough to completely submerge the pump which means it must be several inches above the joint between the gearcase and the exhaust housing

Probably needs a new pump impeller. It would have been prudent to have replaced the impeller before running after a prolonged period of non use especially if you do not know how old it is.

Hope no bits have broken off and are now blocking the water tube or lodged else where

Flush though with a hose direct onto the water tube before you reassemble after fitting new impeller
 
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Thanks for the info and advice. There was plenty of water in the tank, so it looks like I do have a problem.
 
Yes, sir Vic was very accurate with his suggestions. These have a very small diameter and tightly wrapped impeller. Depending on what quality impeller was previously installed....5 years is about max.....whether stored or not. Rubber is not rubber (latex), like in years gone by....it's a synthetic, meaning is has a shorter life in many applications such as a water pump impeller, or even a tire.
 
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