Can a water pump loose its prime?

[willroach]

Folks,
I just finished replacing the water pump gasket, the water tube grommets, and the lower bearing housing and seal on the water pump on the '61 Evinrude 10hp model 10022. Items 13, 37, 42, and 43 on the attached image.

Prior to these parts being replaced, there was no issues with water being pumped through the power head. Since i have replaced them i do not observe any water coming out of the power head. I took the lower unit off and submerged it in water, I was able to use a drill and after a good bit, water finally was coming out of the water tube.

I put the lower unit back on, put on the muffs, and fired it up, no water coming out of the power head. Whats going on here guys? when replacing water pump components is it possible to loose its prime? Do these pumps even need a prime?

I did notice that the water tube fits a lot tighter in the grommets than before, but i assume that is normal?

Thanks for the help,
Will

 

[emoney]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

No "prime" it's mechanical in action. Sounds like you need to revisit the water tube seals, more than likely at the top near the head. Are you sure you put the key back in the driveshaft at the water pump?

 

[willroach]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

Yeah key in place, thought same thing but if water was being pumped when i used the drill, that verified to me that it was in place correctly.

 

[emoney]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

The drill may have more torque...just a thought. Did you replace the impellar?
You may have to drop the lower unit again and check the rubber seal at the top of the water tube. It may've gotten pinched when you rejoined them. Lot's of times they stay up under the powerhead instead of coming out with the lower unit.

 

[willroach]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

Ok, headed out now to check things out. Thanks for the assistance!

 

[AlTn]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

put it on the muffs?...it needs to be in the water with the water level a few inches below the exhaust relief holes...you should see water mixed with exhaust coming from these holes while the motor is running

 

[luckyeddie777]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

was impeller #35 put on facing the right direction?

 

[willroach]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

Had boat in water, and all seems fine now. Thanks everyone for the assistance!

 

[clemsonfor]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

CAnt loose the prime, cause when it sits in the water the water level is higher than the pump.

 

[levi_tsk]

Re: Can a water pump loose its prime?

CAnt loose the prime, cause when it sits in the water the water level is higher than the pump.

agreed!