Can I change my Impeller in the water?

[rj12c]

I Need to change the impeller on my 1998 Mercury 150 2.5L 2-stroke saltwater series motor. The question is can I do this with the boat in the water? It is on my 5-ton work barge and Cant really take it out. I can tie it stern to dock and lift the lower unit above the dock. Is this possible?

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Can I change my Impeller in the water?

probably not as the unit has to drop 20 inches or more to clear the driveshaft.
I have done a few in the water while standing in the shallow end.

 

[j_martin]

Re: Can I change my Impeller in the water?

probably not as the unit has to drop 20 inches or more to clear the driveshaft.
I have done a few in the water while standing in the shallow end.

I don't see why not. Theoretically you could do it with the engine in the running position. There's nothing that water would hurt.

Dropped parts, tools, etc ought to be a lot of fun, though. If you could video the job and post it, we could all get a good laugh.

hope it helps
John

 

[jackd1023]

Re: Can I change my Impeller in the water?

If you attempt this bring a large magnet on a string...........................

 

[ENSIGN]

Re: Can I change my Impeller in the water?

Back it in a boat ramp or floating pier and place a sein under the motor

 

[will941s]

Re: Can I change my Impeller in the water?

Do it in shallow water, It has some heft to it....I'd hate for it to slip out of your hands and become a new house for fish. I broke my midsection one time and the only thing that saved the foot in 30' of water was the little tiny shift rod held by a little steel pin. 5 years ago and my heart still drops everytime I think about it.

 

[j_martin]

Re: Can I change my Impeller in the water?

Back it in a boat ramp or floating pier and place a sein under the motor

That takes all the fun out of it.