2000 Johnson 15hp thermostat removal

[Derboe1]

Hi everyone. I have been pulling my hair out trying to get the dang thermostat out of my 2000 15 horse johnson (j15rvsss). I just want to take it out to test it, but there is a rubber diaphragm and plastic washer looking deal overtop of it. The seloc manual called it a cap and diaphragm I think. It looks delicate so I don't wanna start prying on it with a flat head. Plus is costs 45 bucks like every other simple looking part on my engine. Anyone have experience removing one of these?

 

[Boobie]

It looks like it's rusted in there. Try a pick or a screw driver to get it out.

 

[faztbullet]

The seloc manual called it a cap and diaphragm I think​

Need to get a factory manual and use the Selco for TP.....As suggested use a pick and remove diaphragm(the rubber cap) and t-stat will come out.

 

[Derboe1]

use the Selco for TP

I hear that. It can be kind of vague sometimes. Just says to remove it, no suggestions how.

Thanks, I will try to pry it out tomorrow.

 

[Boobie]

Did you ever get it out ??

 

[Derboe1]

I did, but I chipped the thermostat housing and poked a bunch of holes in the diaphragm. Waiting on parts before I put it back in. The thermostat housing is plastic and prying on it broke the lip. Turns out there is a thin washer over top the OD of the diaphragm.
You have to scrape it and pop it out with a pick before you can get to the diaphragm lip. Eh well, lesson learned!