Water Pump Question

[Swampmouse]

I have a question about my 1983 Johnson 115hp water pump. I am finishing a 10 month rebuild project - actually I was finished with the powerhead back in the fall but hunting season happened so here I am now.

Anyway, I got a water pump impeller and kit for it and have it all put together. When running my engine on the muffs, I noticed water draining out the front of the lower unit through what appears to be a weep hole. I pulled the unit and have found that all around the pump area and forward in the lower unit has a lot of water in it and consequently weeping out- and I am guessing this should not be the case?

If this is correct, could it be possible that the new grommet that seals the water uptake tube is not sealing? What would be a possible remedy?

Thanks,
SM

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Water Pump Question

As far as i know thats very normal.My 175 does the same thing.It comes out of that small square notch on the front where the lower meets the mid section.
All of thats submerged when the boats in the water anyway.

 

[wilde1j]

Re: Water Pump Question

The region above the pump and down to the internal top of the lower unit MUST be flooded, or the pump won't pump. Completely normal. There are drain holes which constantly dump water when running on the hose. Those holes allow the lower unit to drain all of the water when the motor is out of the water and vertical (prevents freezing in cold weather).

 

[Lodgepole]

Re: Water Pump Question

We should all be reminded to keep all the drain back or weep holes open. Over time and in dirty water, these holes can stop up and then cause a split casting if water freezes inside.

 

[F_R]

Re: Water Pump Question

The mid-section actually fills up with water when running (except for the exhaust tube). So it is perfectly normal that you found water in there when you took it back apart. As said, there are numerous drain holes, not to worry.

 

[Swampmouse]

Re: Water Pump Question

Sweet Nelly!

Thanks to all of you for your help! I am new to fixing all this stuff - prior to 2007 all I knew was how to turn it on and run it to my favorite fishing hole!

I plan to put a new tach on next weekend and shift cable and then I can do a link and sync!

Thanks again,
SM