Water Pump Replacement

[dwtata]

I've read on this forum that the water pump should be replaced ever other year or so. Well i've been running a 1997 90 hp SPL evinrude close to 65-75 hrs a year since 1997 and i've never changed the water pump. The tell tale still has a strong stream of water and the motor still runs just as good as new. Of course i've kept up on what i consider routine maintenance i'm just wondering how big of a deal it is that i've never replaced the water pump. I'd love to hear what other people think about this topic. Heres the motor

and here are some boss freakin hog smallmouth that we're catchin on erie these days

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Water Pump Replacement

It's a big deal that it has not been replaced in that long. I takes less than an hour to do. Why take the chance of ruining you motor?

 

[Cofe]

Re: Water Pump Replacement

When a old water pump shreds and the vane parts are pumped up into the motor water passage ways and lodge, then about the only way to get them out is a complete tear down. People write in this forum all the time about their motor over heats even though they just replaced the water pump and thermostats.

Not to mention all the parts that are damaged or ruined from a overheat.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: Water Pump Replacement

Well, I think sitting is harder on the impellers, than regular use. It probably is a good time to change it out, simply because it's only 14 years old. I think changing them out every 5 to 10 years is good. Just make sure you never run the motor, without the lower unit submerged.

 

[dwtata]

Re: Water Pump Replacement

Ok thanks. Looks like i have another to-do on my list this weekend.