poppet valve
 

I bought everything to replace that poppet valve and thats next on my list. Still no on the water test yet as I have now have to fix the tilt and trim first. And so it goes on.:booty:

All better now
 

I fianally got the 18 fisherman into the water last week and its all better now. I replaced both the thermostats and the poppet valve and the Merc is running like a champ right now. I am actually surprised at how well its performing. Now I have to try a couple of different props on it. I have a 17 inch merc aluminium on it and that one throws it out of the hole and on plane in about 30 feet. Its nice because you can throttle down to nothing and still keep her up on plane, but not good for covering any distance or economy. I also had to put on a brand new trim system, but got a great deal from Action Marine in Holyoke on a new in box unit. So now with a couple of minor items to pick up and down to CT. and the river and sound. Thanks everyone for the info. Have a great day. :clap: