"Pete" wrote in message
ups.com...
I forgot to say that during this time it gets VERY hot and does not
shoot water out of it even though holes are now submersed.

Pete
It actually has to submersed in water several inches above the intake holes.
The water pump sits above the point where you see that you can separate the
lower gearcase from the leg. So, if I remember correctly it has to be under
water at least 4" above that point. That being said, I put a new impeller
in my 15hp and still no water came out the pee hole when testing this way
and even with a hose connected to the lower unit with "ears". But when I
put the boat in the river, I got plenty of water shooting out the exhaust
hole in the back right below the power head. Actually it doesn't have a
"pee" hole, just the hole I mentioned above. I, too, thought the impeller
was bad when I didn't get the telltale water coming out during test ( I had
just bought the motor used) so I bought a new impeller ($40) and installed
it. The old impeller looked like new so I saved it for future use. I
would put it back in the water and try it before replacing the
impeller...that is if you can solve the not running problem. And if you
insist on replacing it..you take the 6 bolts out that hold the gearcase to
the leg, then with the motor in forward gear, pull it apart far enough to
reach in and loosen the set screw/bolt that holds the upper shift arm shaft
in its coupler. Then it should come right off. You'll see the water pump
housing bolted to the top of the lower part you removed. Be careful when
taking the water pump apart that you don't lose the little key that fits
inside the impeller against the shaft. That is if you might want to put it
back together when you see that all looks well. A new water pump kit comes
with a new key and all gaskets you need. You might be able to buy just the
impeller cheaper but my local dealer didn't give me that option.
Solve the running problem first, I don't think it's related to a water pump
problem. One other thing...there were some motors that had the shift shaft
coupler up below the powerhead rather than where I said, but I've never seen
one. And finally here's a link with lots of Johnson/Evinrude info and
repair tips. http://www.outboardrepairs.com/johnson/

Tom G.