discussion on water pumps

S

Squeakit

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 1, 2002
Messages
216
Most outboard water pumps haven't changed in 50 or 60 years; they are dependent on a fragile rubber impeller which must be replaced frequently, and is often very difficult to service. Why can't some smart engineer design a rugged, durable, idiot-proof low maintenance, easy to service pump that will last as long as the waterpump in my old pickup? An outboard pump can drop dead without warning and trash an expensive engine in seconds. Maybe I'm wishful thinking, but there oughtta be a better way. Any comments?
 
F

FlyBoyMark

Ensign
Joined
Apr 14, 2002
Messages
934
Re: discussion on water pumps

Difficult....Outboard water pumps are positive displacement pressure pumps...not like automotive which are centrifigul, non pressure nor positive displacement. A backup "scoop type system I believe can be used mounted to the transom like some race boats....or an electric "water puppy" that kicks in if the engine overheats with associated plumbing.....This is why water pressure guage is important...no pressure, no cooling, and happens jus before engine siezes. Bells an' whistles should be attached to water pressure and overheat in my opinion....
 
S

sandy

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Oct 1, 2001
Messages
46
Re: discussion on water pumps

How difficult is it to replace the impeller in a water pump. Motor: 91' Johnson 150 looper. Can a shadetree mech. like myself do it with ease or do I need to go to an outboard guru. Need some answers. Thanks.
 
O

orca

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 12, 2002
Messages
422
Re: discussion on water pumps

If you REPLACE the impeller once a year, avoid running short of water and keep out of sand or mud you should have no problems. the modern outboard water pump is like a woman, look after her and she will look after you.
 
P

petryshyn

Commander
Joined
Oct 3, 2001
Messages
2,851
Re: discussion on water pumps

Sandy, its an easy job. Get a manual to help you with some good mechanical practices when disassembling and reassembling......<br /><br /> :)
 
J

JRJ

Commander
Joined
Sep 11, 2001
Messages
2,992
Re: discussion on water pumps

Yes Sandy you can do it at home. Get a manual for your engine. If you can't get a manual, go by an outboard shop and ask some questions. You're gonna have to buy parts anyway. If you run in a lot of salt and and your engine hasn't been taken apart lately, the bolts may take a lot of careful work including heat. The fun stops when these bad bolts break. Good Luck :cool:
 
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