water pump

[Elmar Fudd]

Hello. I am in need of some advice and possibly parts. I have a 1978Merc M-800 80 hp outboard, S# 5006205. Last fall, the cooling water squirting out the side slowed down allot. I would like to know what I might need to do. I have changed the impeller, it's been a couple of years ago. The guy at the local boat shop says I need a new pump kit. I don't know. He gave me this number: 96148A8. What do you think? I seen another Merc motor simular to mine and there was a heck of a stream of water shooting out his discharge tube. Mine has never done that. What parts might I need?

Also the choke doesn't actuate when I press the choke button. Any ideas there?

Thanks for your time and help,

elmar

[scolba]

for your parts needs, you can go here:
http://www.eastcoastmarineservice.co...it.html#wpkits

that number matches up to a "Mercury Water Pump Kit includes plastic pump housing assembly, impeller, face plate, gaskets, drive key or pin, water tube guide sleeve, orings and gear lube fill & vent screw seals." Its $49.00.

Seems to me if it isn't peeing like a champ after that, then there could be some blockage in the internals from years of use. Kind of how plumbing at home can get mineral deposits. Not really sure what would be next if thats the case....