Water pump change out 2003 XR6 150

[TxRanger1]

First time for me to change water pump in a Mercury. Question is, once I drop the lower unit, remove the old water pump and impeller and put the new on and ready to slide the lower unit back on to the mid section, is it required to put a bead of silicone around the top of the lower unit when putting it back together? Also, is there anything else that I need to look out for when putting it back together?

I do not have the serial number with me at this time to put in here. Hoping that the question s generic enough that it isn't needed.

Thanks

[22R]

i usually replace the entire kit with the housing, gaskets, and impeller. I never use the silicone. Make sure you line up the shift shaft and both the lower unit and the control is in neutral.

22R

[mxmike]

As 22R said. Replace with entire kit and no silicone needed.

I put the shift lever in forward before I drop LU. That way when reinstalling the LU I can turn the prop slightly to line up the drive shaft splines rather than trying to reach up and turn the fly wheel.

[Alex from GA]

Watch that the water pipe gets in the top of the pump.

[EuropeanAM]

Check out the FAQ Section on the 2.5L Forum (next forum down). Sherm's Water Pump Replacement instructions are linked there.

DON'T use grease on the impeller. Dawn Dishsoap is a good lubricant for the impeller (and safe).

YOU WILL NEED TO USE SILICONE ACROSS THE EXHAUST DAM (just aft of the water pump). No sealant is used on the gaskets, however.