225 0ptimax low water pressure

[CraigMH]

This is a 2005 225 optimax the power head was replaced by Merc in 07 due to clod sieze . I was running out about 3 miles at 4500rpm then stopped and while idleing looking for fish the engine warning came on and the temp was at 181 on the smart guage . I shut it down tried it again after allowing it to cool, again engine temp went to 180 shut it down again(its night and I am 3 miles off shore) I tried it again this time everything is fine I returned to dock no problems .The next day I experienced a low .5 at idle on the smart guage max 7lb water pressure so I replaced the waterpump . Got .7 at idle ,7-8 at 5000rpm . This motor has the nose cone inlets. I assumed all was well put on a newly blue printed prop from Mark as I am checking out the performance (excellent up to 4500 rpms) at 4500 rpms I get a check engine warning and a waterpump pressure warning on the smart guage .It did not go into a change mode but I ran it home at about 300rpmswith my fingers crossed. I took the poppet out it looks fine, checked the screen it was clean . Took it to the dealer he says it looks like the gasket between the power head and the tuner is blown .I will know when he gets it apart. How does that happen ? What else should we check ? how can I keep it from happening again

[EuropeanAM]

Replace BOTH the powerhead AND adapter plate gaskets if you're in that far.

This usually occurs due to improper torque, or loose hardware.

Additionally- make sure that the LOW WATER INLETS are CLEAN AND CLEAR. This can ONLY be properly accomplished with the gearcase REMOVED, WATER PUMP REMOVED, including the impeller plate, lower gasket, shift shaft bushing, and any plate BELOW the bushing.

Then, and ONLY THEN can you access and see the passages from various angles to ensure there is no debris floating around.

WOOD DEBRIS is especially troublesome in this area.

[CraigMH]

Thanks, Don I will do all you recommended