replacing thermostat on 1984 johnson 15hp

[crabbyallday]

the thermostat on my 1984 15hp johnson needs replaced and i was told that in order to do this the whole powerhead needs to be removed in order to get to it. I was wondering if this is indeed true and how difficult this is.

 

[kodibass]

Re: replacing thermostat on 1984 johnson 15hp

I have changed many of these without pulling the power head, The issue is the two lower bolts, the simpleton method I use is to drill 2 holes about the size of a dime in the pan in line with the bolts, once the t-stat is replaced I go to the hardware store in the isle where they have all the little pull out drawers and buy plastic insert plugs, they look totally factory and come in many colors. makes this job a snap!

 

[Haffiman]

Re: replacing thermostat on 1984 johnson 15hp

Two other possibilities:
1: Remove the rear cover latch and hook, and you get just enough space.
2: Remove the head, but then you will need a new head gasket as well.

 

[crabbyallday]

Re: replacing thermostat on 1984 johnson 15hp

Thanks. These sound much easier then removing the head