Thermostat removal

[metairiedave]

2000 E200FCXSSC 200 hp Evinrude Ficht. I would appreciate any help I can get on removing the plastic thermostat covers. I seem to have one thermostat stuck in the open position, which prevents that bank of cylinders from warming up to perating temperature. I tried to remove one and about 150 ft.lbs the hex part twisted off' Is there a particular way that it is supposed to come off? Also is there a special socket made for this? Does anyone know of an easy way to get them off ? I have had this motor since new in May of 2000 and the thermostats are the originals. Rig is a 192 Scout V bottom 19 ft with the 200 hp Rude. The rig hasn't been used much in all these years, it only has 81 (original) hours on the motor. I just ordered the factory service manual and should get it sometime next week.

Also would like input on the Ficht diagnostic software V1.42B sold by princecraft196. Is it any good?

Thanks in advance for any and all help.

[SEAHORSE]

Wow, 11 years on the thermostats and never inspected, no wonder the cap is corroded on. Since it is already broken, get read to spend time with a small chisel and chipping away hoping that you do not damage the threads.

A 1 1/2" socket works better when trying to remove stuck caps. Use plenty of Triple Guard grease on the oring and threads when you install the new one. Inspect those thermostats annually

[metairiedave]

Thanks for your input. Boat has been stored more than used, only 81 hours run time on motor.

Do you know anything about FICHT diagnostic software?

[nola 521dvx]

You probably would do this anyway but just in case - plug the hole into the head with a cloth while you are chipping away with the chisel, you don't need that plastic down there...Mine haven't been on there that long but they were also hard to remove so don't feel too bad.

The diagnostic software is a must have if you intend doing your own work - $300 for the latest version but worth it IMO.

[metairiedave]

Thanks nola for your input. Which software are you refering to for $300.00. I haven't run across that one yet. Plese let me know what the name is and where to get it. I am very interested in it. The only one I have found so far is one that says it is version 1.46b for $60.00.

[Danrude]

The virsion I have is 4.2, I not sure but I think it is now 4.4 You should be able to order it from your local BRP dealer. It is far better than the old 1.46b.

[metairiedave]

Thanks for the info Danrude. I did finally get it chipped out without dammaging the threads in the head. Had to order two new thermostats and one thermostat cover.

I will call dealer to see about the software.

[nola 521dvx]

I bought Evinrude diagnostics 4.4 CD p/n 764642 - IIRC it's good for DI and ETEC motors - from l and m marine online, $290 plus shipping. You'll also need the cable to hook the computer up to the motor. I had a bad experience with a $60 1.42b I purchased from a Canadian guy on ebay - didn't work for me at all.

[metairiedave]

Thanks again for your reply nola. I really appreciate all the help received from all concerned. By your code name of nola, are you in New Orleans? If so I live in Metairie. Let me know.

[nola 521dvx]

Yep - Uptown New Orleans.

BTW Do you use Magnum on the West Bank? Great guys over there, have always helped me out a lot be it with a gearcase just out of warranty, repairs after a rear end collision and with advice when I rebuilt my 225 HO myself last year. Highly recommend them.

[metairiedave]

Hey nola, Great to hear you are local. Please e-mail your phone number and name at n5dbs2@cox.net
I would like to chat with you more and maybe meet for coffee somewhere.