Replacing raw water impeller

[GO OVRIT]

The impeller burned up on one of my 302s this past sunday. It made a lot of smoke and let me see just how slow my boat is on one engine. I've got a new impeller, but have never replaced one. Should I pack any grease or anything around it for the initial start? What lubricates the front part of the pump? I already flushed the little rubber particals out of the system. Thanks, Mike

 

[Bondo]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

Should I pack any grease or anything around it for the initial start?

Ayuh,... Dishsoap...

What lubricates the front part of the pump?

Donno,.... 302s doesn't really define what you're workin' on.... Probably Water...

 

[Les Robb]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

I've always used Vaseline but it is petroleum based and it could affect the rubber in an impeller. Dish soap even if it dried would get slicker than well whatever as soon as water hits it. I'll try next time and wash my hands at the same time.

Good luck on your project

 

[GO OVRIT]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

I actually carried the vaseline out to the boat, but figured I ask first. I'll give the dish soap a try. The engines are 1988 Pleasurecraft marine 302s with velvet drives. The pumps are Sherwood, but I don't know any model numbers. I can't tell how they're lubricated on the pulley side. It doesn't feel as smooth as I would think it should when I turn it by hand. Thanks for any insight, Mike

 

[rjlipscomb]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

Dish soap is the easiest thing to use. Some impellers come with a small package of glycerin. But the dish soap is the next best thing.

 

[davemoore]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

My Mercruiser Factory Service Manual says to use liquid soap.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

I always use a shot of silicone spray. It doesn't dry out like soap can if you sit for several days before running, but you should run right after installation to check for flow anyway.

Some have sealed bearings, some have bronze bushings.

 

[jtybt]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

Di-electric silicone grease is probably the best and won't dry out if you can't run it right away. The problem with silicone spray is the solvents in it. Spray some on an old impeller and rub it with a paper towel. If it doesn't turn black, you're OK to use that type.

 

[Wet Wonder]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

Impellers can be tricky to install in the housing b/c they need to be squeezed in there. Keep trying and you'll get it.

I wonder why it burned up all at once. Maybe something caught into the the through fitting and restricted raw water intake. I don't know.

 

[Les Robb]

Re: Replacing raw water impeller

I almost got in trouble one time with plastic grocery bag. Got caught around the water intakes and if I had been going full blast (little deaf here) would never had heard horn. It would probably shake off if you went in reverse. It only takes a minute or two to fry an impeller with no water to cool it and lubricate it. One other note if you have a smaller enging and run it in a barrel in gear for a long period of time you can ruin a non oil resistant impeller. Got to keep the water clean.

Good boating ya'll