1973 115 hp Johnson

[Gale Gross]

I have just replaced the water pump impeller and housing. As I tighten the housing bolts I can no longer turn the impeller shaft by hand. Is this normal? This is my first water pump replacement.

Thanks for any help

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: 1973 115 hp Johnson

As you noticed when you replaced the impellor, that is a good size chunk of rubber. They make a special socket to fit the drive shaft spline's so you can turn it with a wrench. Using grease on the impellor, and housing also helps.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: 1973 115 hp Johnson

Not sure I understand your question, but If you mean the driveshaft, then no, it would be tough to turn it in gear as it's "locked" into the powerhead.

 

[Walker]

Re: 1973 115 hp Johnson

You should be able to turn it with difficulty. Put a little liquid soap on the fins and it will turn easier. You want to turn it to be sure you don't pinch any of the fins between the cup and the base plate.

 

[Gale Gross]

Re: 1973 115 hp Johnson

thank you all. I am sure the fins are not pinched because the housing is all the way down. I was just confused because the shaft turn fairly easy at this point, but became impossibe as tightened the bolts. I just wanted to make sure that it would turn ok when I put the lower unit back on.