Water Pump Replacement

[butts0907]

I've always heard you should replace your water pump every other year. I had it done two years ago and I guess it's time to have it done again (I have a 2005 mercury 50 hp). But what I was wondering is what is that 2-year time frame based on? Is it based on how much the boat is used? I haven't had the boat in the water much the past couple of years due to family and work obligations, so could I get another year out of the water pump?

If not, does anyone on here know of someone in the Nashville/Brentwood area that could do this?

Thanks in advance!
-Paul

[skiff_life]

I would flush the motor to see if the impeller is moving water through the system. I know that Clark Marine in Franklin can do the work, and I'm sure that any Mercury dealer is able to replace the impeller if it needs it.

[tkwalker]

Paul, The rule of thumb is every 2 years. Now as far as the usage, it is harder on the impellor if it sets dormant do to the fact that the water pump is not round it is elongated. The blades of the impellor is designed to open and close somewhat to scoop water in the longest area of the pump. What happens if it is an older impellor or stays stagnant the blades will take on a bent bias shape which will reduce it's efficiency. Also dry rot can set in, and the blades will start breaking apart, if this happens not only will you overheat the powerhead and cause it to seize but the broken pieces of the blades will be sucked into the cooling channels in the powerhead ...Now that is a major pain to clear this out.
Now you can check the output of the pump as Skiff Life suggested which is always a good idea. But this is usually done at a lower RPM. an older Impellor can disintegrate at anytime at a loaded high rpm condition. Note: what you see coming out of the Tell Tale (Pee Hole) is just a small percentage of the actual discharge which is through the hub of the prop.

If you want to travel to Lebanon The cost for replacing the Impellor, Changing the lower unit fluid, as well as pressure testing for seal leaks is usually from $75 to $100 depending on the price of your particular Impellor needed. <'TK>< :)

[butts0907]

Guys,

I appreciate the input. TK- I appreciate the offer, but due to distance, I think I'll try Clark Marine first. If they want an arm and a leg for the work, I'll get back in touch with you.

Thanks again!
-Paul

[Dakota]

Paul, The rule of thumb is every 2 years. Now as far as the usage, it is harder on the impellor if it sets dormant do to the fact that the water pump is not round it is elongated. The blades of the impellor is designed to open and close somewhat to scoop water in the longest area of the pump. What happens if it is an older impellor or stays stagnant the blades will take on a bent bias shape which will reduce it's efficiency. Also dry rot can set in, and the blades will start breaking apart, if this happens not only will you overheat the powerhead and cause it to seize but the broken pieces of the blades will be sucked into the cooling channels in the powerhead ...Now that is a major pain to clear this out.

Now you can check the output of the pump as Skiff Life suggested which is always a good idea. But this is usually done at a lower RPM. an older Impellor can disintegrate at anytime at a loaded high rpm condition. Note: what you see coming out of the Tell Tale (Pee Hole) is just a small percentage of the actual discharge which is through the hub of the prop.



If you want to travel to Lebanon The cost for replacing the Impellor, Changing the lower unit fluid, as well as pressure testing for seal leaks is usually from $75 to $100 depending on the price of your particular Impellor needed. <'TK>< :)


Good info TK. I have a Yamaha 115 4 stroke and change mine every three years. Well Nashville Marine changes it, they are over by four corners on JPP for those of you unaware.!


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