Volvo Penta Leaking Sea Water Pump?

[MachSchnell]

Not exactly sure where to look first. I noticed a steady drip from the bottom of the sea water pump today - the arrow in the photo is pointing to the location of the drip. Lake George water is cooler, in the mid 60's now and the engine is running at 100-120 degrees max.

Would anyone have some simple advice for a simple fellow as far as this model is concerned? This 290 duo-prop has been strong as a bull and I don't think I'm in serious trouble - yet

Thank you for your time! Rob

 

[PatinIdaho]

Could it be the front seal leaking?
I have the same pump on mine, we both have a Jabsco pump. 6 Screws holding the cover on.
I could be wrong but been told its not rebuildable and to replace it with a Johnson F6B
My plan is to just let it drip and replace it this coming winter unless it gets to bad.

 

[dypcdiver]

Please be aware that if it is the seal that is worn the pump can suck air and severely restrict the amount of cooling water supplied to the motor. This happened to mine albeit a slightly later pump.
The other problem being that the water got into the bearing washed out the grease, it then started to seize, the outer race then rotated in the brass housing, wearing away the interference fit, making the pump un- repairable.
Do I need to mention the amount of salt water thrown around the engine compartment by the harmonic balancer whilst the engine was running. All this happened over a couple of days running with a drip! Your choice.

 

[MachSchnell]

Thank you for your responses. I'm not exactly sure if the weep hole is the spot where it's dripping from is the only weep hole. I've seen other pumps showing a weep hole closer to the engine near the block. There are many different pump designs for the 5.7. Mine is a 1990 and drips right below the housing for the impeller. VP makes a complete replacement, at around $385. If I need a bearing press, I might send this one to the marine for repair. Fortunately, Lake George NY is one of the cleanest fresh water lakes in the world.

I really appreciate this forum and the valuable advice available here!