GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit Review

Let’s Talk About GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit

Marine engines live a hard life, constantly battling corrosion and the stress of demanding conditions. The GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit promises a cost-effective solution to maintain proper engine temperature, crucial for performance and longevity. This kit, designed for Johnson/Evinrude V6 Crossflow engines, aims to replace worn components and restore thermostat function.

My old Johnson outboard was running rough, and after some troubleshooting, I suspected the thermostat was sticking. Instead of buying a whole new thermostat, which can be quite expensive, the GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit offered a more economical path. I liked the idea of reviving an existing part with fresh components.

Upon opening the kit, I found a selection of parts including the thermostat, seal, gasket, spring, valve, valve seat, diaphragm, and retainer. The components appeared to be of decent quality, though not as heavy-duty as some aftermarket racing parts I’ve used in the past. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – I hoped these would hold up under the harsh marine environment.

Compared to purchasing a completely new Sierra thermostat, the GLM kit was significantly cheaper. A new CDI Electronics thermostat would have also been an option, but the rebuild kit allowed me to get hands-on with the repair, potentially learning more about the engine in the process. Ultimately, the lower cost and the chance to troubleshoot swayed me towards the GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit.

I was excited to see if this relatively inexpensive kit could truly bring my old outboard back to life. My biggest fear was that the components would be of inferior quality, leading to premature failure and potentially causing engine damage. But I was ready to dive in and give it a try.

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Real-World Testing: Putting GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

The rebuilt thermostat was installed on my 1995 Johnson 150hp outboard, which powers my fishing boat on the Chesapeake Bay. The initial test was a shakedown cruise in relatively calm conditions, with water temperatures around 70°F.

The rebuilt thermostat seemed to function correctly; the engine warmed up to its operating temperature quicker than before and maintained a steady temperature during varying throttle settings. I paid close attention to the temperature gauge, as overheating would indicate a problem with the thermostat’s operation. There was a noticeable improvement in the engine’s smoothness and throttle response.

Initially, there were no issues, but after about an hour of running, I noticed a slight decrease in performance at higher RPMs. Upon returning to the dock and inspecting the engine, I found a small coolant leak around the thermostat housing, suggesting the gasket wasn’t sealing perfectly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including multiple fishing trips and some longer runs, the rebuilt thermostat generally performed well, but the slight leak persisted. I had to top off the coolant reservoir more frequently than before.

There were no other signs of wear and tear on the replaced components, but the persistent leak was a concern. The engine temperature remained stable, indicating the thermostat itself was still functioning properly, but the gasket issue detracted from the overall reliability.

Compared to my previous experience with a new Sierra thermostat, the GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit was a mixed bag. The Sierra unit offered peace of mind with reliable sealing, while the rebuilt kit required more attention and monitoring due to the leak. While the GLM kit saved money upfront, the potential for future issues was a trade-off.

Breaking Down the Features of GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit

Specifications

• Thermostat Temperature: 143°F. This is the temperature at which the thermostat is designed to fully open, allowing coolant to flow freely through the engine.

• Compatibility: Designed for Johnson/Evinrude V6 Crossflow engines. Ensuring compatibility is crucial to guarantee proper fit and function.

• Kit Components: Includes the thermostat, seal, gasket, spring, valve, valve seat, diaphragm, and retainer. These are all the necessary parts to overhaul a typical marine thermostat.

• Materials: Built from quality parts/materials. The specific materials used aren’t detailed, but they are implied to be suitable for marine environments.

These specifications are vital for ensuring proper engine cooling, preventing overheating, and maintaining optimal performance. The 143°F temperature is appropriate for many Johnson/Evinrude outboards, promoting efficient combustion and reducing engine wear.

Performance & Functionality

The GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit does an adequate job of restoring thermostat functionality. The engine temperature remained within the acceptable range, suggesting the thermostat valve was opening and closing as intended.

The main weakness was the gasket, which did not provide a perfect seal, leading to a minor coolant leak. Strengths included the comprehensive kit, providing all necessary components, and the cost savings compared to a complete thermostat replacement.

Overall, it met my basic expectations of restoring thermostat function, but the gasket issue was a significant drawback. This impacted the overall reliability and required more frequent monitoring.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is a standard thermostat rebuild kit, with no revolutionary features. The components appeared to be well-made and fit correctly within the thermostat housing.

The build quality was acceptable, though the gasket material felt slightly thinner than the original. There was no significant learning curve involved in the rebuild process, making it relatively user-friendly for anyone with basic mechanical skills.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the individual components seems promising based on initial use, with no visible signs of deterioration after several weeks. However, the longevity of the kit will depend on the quality of the materials and their resistance to corrosion.

Maintenance mainly involves checking for leaks and monitoring coolant levels. Regular inspection of the thermostat housing for signs of corrosion is also recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit doesn’t offer any accessories or customization options beyond the included components. The only potential modification would be to use a higher-quality aftermarket gasket if the included one proves to be unreliable.

Compatibility with other accessories is not relevant, as this is a self-contained rebuild kit. You could, however, pair it with a new thermostat housing if your existing one is heavily corroded.

Pros and Cons of GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit

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Who Should Buy GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit?

• Perfect for: DIY mechanics, budget-conscious boat owners, and those looking to extend the life of their existing thermostat.
• Who should skip this product? Those seeking maximum reliability and are unwilling to risk potential leaks, or those without basic mechanical skills.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality aftermarket gasket (e.g., Sierra) to ensure a leak-free seal.

Conclusion on GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit

The GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit offers a budget-friendly way to revive a faulty thermostat in Johnson/Evinrude V6 Crossflow engines. It provides all the necessary components for a rebuild and can restore proper engine temperature regulation.

However, the included gasket’s tendency to leak is a significant drawback, potentially requiring the purchase of a separate aftermarket gasket. The value proposition hinges on your willingness to accept this potential issue and your ability to perform the rebuild yourself.

I would cautiously recommend the GLM 13280 Thermostat Rebuilt Kit to experienced DIYers on a tight budget, provided they are prepared to purchase a higher-quality gasket separately. If reliability is your top priority and you’re unwilling to risk leaks, investing in a complete new thermostat from a reputable brand like Sierra or CDI Electronics is a better choice. But, if you’re looking to save some money and get hands-on with your engine, give the GLM kit a try – just be sure to have a good gasket handy!