I have a Mercury XR4 175 that is in need of a new water pump. I purchased the pump last night and plan to install this evening. Anything that I need to know to help this go smoothly would be greatly appreciated.

Just pay attention as you lower the lower unit and make sure when you re-attach you align the crankshaft in the holes properly other then that its SUPER EASY

Everyone says its easy but I was told the same thing when I put a leveling kit on my truck. 4 hours on one side, and after figuring out all the tricks, 40 minutes on the other side. Just wanted to make sure there weren't any tricks or "easier" ways to do it. Thanks for the advise on the crank shaft WesTex.

pm sent....have same motor

Should be similar to my XRi 175.

Make sure the unit is in neutral before you start and line everything up. It is a pretty easy job. Back the bolts off slowly or it will drop.

Mark the shift linkage nuts so they can be repositioned exactly as before.

Linkage alignment is the only area where I'd get concerned. Other than that, shouldn't be a problem

It will be easer if you have it in gear. Then you can turn the prop to line up the drive shaft. Just changed mine out it only took about 30 minuets or do to it. Put dish wasting soap on the impeller to put it in. It will help it slid in.
just the way i did it

Keep the old impeller and examine it to see how often you need to change it.

My trick is I pay this guy, he offers me a beer and I drink two or three of them while he does the work. So easy.

Changed it out and took it for a run, still getting an alarm though. I think something is up with the thermostat. How difficult is on of these to change out??

pm sent

i had same problem. the thermostats work at idle. the water pump takes over when you are underway. if the alarm doesnt come on at idle then it isnt the thermostats. i ended up changing the water pump and then the poppet valve. the poppet valve is also easy to change. it opens and closes to allow excess water pressure out of engine. the symptom i had was that the water pressure gauge wet limp and bounced around when i got to about 3000 rpm. i ended up changing thermostats also (2 x $8). they are also easy to change. i sent phone number if you want to call me.

hope this helps....flowermoundfish

For the next water pump, here is a good Bass Boat Central instructional:

http://www.bassboatcentral.com/sttips.htm

I like Reelfisherman's Method .