johnson 5.5 cd17 not pumping

baugh55grfmj

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Joined
May 11, 2012
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5
Ok, I replaced the impeller. I started it up in a tub of water that was 7 inches above the intake tube. I did not notice any water exiting the motor anywhere. anything I can check on these motors why they wouldnt be pumping water? Hopefully that water tube lined up correctly with the grommet when I put the lower unit back on, cant really see if it does line up, one just has to expect it to.
 

HighTrim

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Jun 21, 2007
Messages
10,486
Re: johnson 5.5 cd17 not pumping

The water should exit with the exhaust. Ensure the barrel is filled to just beneath the exhaust relief hole. Also ensure the water intake area is free of debris, you remembered the key for the impeller, the grommet isnt pinching the water line, and there are no blockages in the cooling circuit. Was the old impeller ripped apart at all?
 

baugh55grfmj

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Joined
May 11, 2012
Messages
5
Re: johnson 5.5 cd17 not pumping

I remembered the key, not sure if it is pinching the grommet or do not know if the cooling circuit is plugged. I'm afraid I have to drop the lower and double check everything again. I can't rest easy until I know everything is good. Whats the small rubber hose on these motors on the shift side running up and down is that a water line?
 

baugh55grfmj

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Joined
May 11, 2012
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Re: johnson 5.5 cd17 not pumping

ok, I answered one question, the hose is prolly a crank case breather tube. I popped out the thermostat and it is crusty and ruined the thermostat housing is also very dry so that tells me water is not making it up to the motor, right?
 

HighTrim

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Jun 21, 2007
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10,486
Re: johnson 5.5 cd17 not pumping

You may be right.

Drop the gearcase, and run compressed air or the hose up the water line while the thermostat is removed and see if it is clear or if you can get any debris out. If the old impeller was destroyed, you may have chunks of rubber stuck in the cooling circuit.
 

OptsyEagle

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Joined
Sep 13, 2006
Messages
1,365
Re: johnson 5.5 cd17 not pumping

It may be the T-stat or it may not. Sounds like the T-stat needs to be changed anyways.

2 important things to remember. Having water above the intake tube is irrelevant. You need it above where the water pump sits on your motor since these pumps are not self-priming.

2ndly, when you push up the lower unit to the mid-section you may need to manually guide the copper tube into the grommet on the water pump. They do not necessarity go in by themselves. After you have done this, shine a flashlight down from the top (since your powerhead is not there) and visually confirm that the water tube is inserted correctly into your water pump.

Either of those last two issues will prevent cooling water from flowing. Good luck.
 
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