1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

[JDusza]

I have a 1996 Johnson 130 v-4 J130TLEDP that is overheating with "new" thermostat components.
The engine was overheating at the end of last season, so I replaced the water pump impeller and thermostats. The impeller turned out to be fine, but the thermostats were snagged up with stuff that looked like a gasket material. I replaced their components per the parts diagram; springs, vernatherms, housings, washers, gaskets, diapraghms, ...

This year, the engine ran at 160 for about two weeks. The engine is now overheating again, 200+. I pulled the thermostats. Everything is clear and clean. I kept them out as a diagnostic and the engine sat at about 125. I put the thermostats back in and it goes to 200+.

So, can new thermostats fail so soon? As these are purchased by the piece part, what is the component that is likely to be the failure; springs, vernatherm, ...?

Thank you,
J

 

[boobie]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

Is this mtr run in salt water ??

 

[JDusza]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

We're in fresh water, not salt water.
Went at it again today.
Removed thermostat components and covers and started the engine. After a few seconds, water blew out the thermostat holes, so I think the block is clear.
I started to think the pump impeller just can't handle the head required to supply the engine as required. Without thermostats, the pee-pee stream is light, but does increase to heavy when throttled up.
With thermostat components back in, BAM! 200+
These vernatherms are rated at 143, but I don't know how to I can test just components.
I ended up leaving the thermostat components out to enjoy the day.
Thank you,
J

 

[boobie]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

Dumb question and don't get mad, but are all the thermo parts installed correctly?

 

[bob johnson]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

what is giving you the reading of 200+. are you going by a gauge or using an infared thermometer?

it is likely you have a lean condition causing the motor to run hot. do yiou ahve the right plugs in the motor?

how strong is the tell tale stream?

bob

 

[Haffiman]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

Is it overheating on both sides?
Are both vernatherms(#94) working properly (center pin moves freely?) and membranes sealing properly?
If one is defective and stays open, the other side will run hot!
http://www.marineengine.com/parts/j...rer=Evinrude&section=Cylinder+&+Crankcase

 

[JDusza]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

I can feel the love! Thanks, guys!

I believe the parts are installed correctly. The housing first, the little spring next, then vernatherm with pin, the diaphragm has a groove to pick up the housing, outer washer, the outer spring and cover with gasket. The only doubt I have is the position of the pins in the vernatherms; flat out or crown out. I have them at crown out.

I am going by gauge and hand touch. I do not have a gun or temp tapes.
Got the right plugs.
Fuel mix at 50:1.
With thermostat parts in, tell-tale stream is strong. With thermostat components out, tell-tale stream is moderate at idle and picks up to strong at high speed.

One side does appear to be hotter than the other, but without a reading, it's a subjective guess.
Both pins are free in the holes, membranes look good.

I ordered two more vernatherms with pins today.

Do you think I can run for a few days without thermostat guts? The temp sits about 125 F. Probably foul the plugs a little.

Thanks,
J

 

[boobie]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

If you're going by a temp gauge forget it. They're the most inaccurate things I've ever seen. Get an infared temp gun and then check it.

 

[Haffiman]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

Running without thermostats you may get an air pocket on top of the engine risking to burn down your rectifier/regulator due to lack of cooling.

 

[JDusza]

Re: 1996 Johnson 130 Overheating

hrumpf.... I'd better fix it.....