Would you replace thermostat or not?

I have a 2010 Yamaha 9.9 4stroke kicker that needs the water pump repaired. A mechanic is ordering the parts and will do the work this coming Thursday. He is putting in a complete kit. I just got thinking that maybe I should have him install a new thermostat while he is at it. Neither the pump or the thermostat have been touched before. I’m also worried that if impeller pieces are missing he may have to open up the thermostat to clean it out and not have the gaskets. What experiences have you guys had with this situation? I’ve pretty well decided to go ahead and replace it as preventitive maintenance on a ten year old motor. What do you guys think? Also how hard is it to do? Maybe I could do that myself.

Yes I would. Like you said…might as well while he’s in there.

I would get the gaskets for sure. Maybe they make them otherwise, that is a possibility.

Also absolutely the timing belt if it has one.

Thermostat for that motor should be pretty cheap and it’s only a couple bolts to replace it. I’d do it while it’s in the shop if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself!