98 force 120 waterpump impeller

[wideopen98]

I know i am going to get in trouble for saying this but i just bought this boat(98 partybarge 25) and am curious as to if i need to replace the waterpump impeller or not, if the boat is peeing fine when i put it out for the first time this year then am i safe as long as i look at it when i first crank it every trip? Does the impeller fail over time or will it all happen at once? Like i said i just bought the boat and the owner has changed the lower unit oil and said its ready to go and runs great and i really dont want to dish out the money or time to replace it unless its really necessary or is it a "all at once motor blown up kind of thing"?? I have heard people say that its not necessary to replace the impeller as often and some people do and that they last, just need some clarity on the subject, thanks!

 

[Justinde]

Re: 98 force 120 waterpump impeller

No such thing as a bad question. I replaced my waterpump complete for $65.00 delivered to Sydney for the part, and did the labour myself. About 1 hour. Lower unit oil was $18.00, so for less than $100.00, I know I have new lower unit oil, and a new waterpump!

Change the waterpump so you know where you stand...

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 98 force 120 waterpump impeller

That 1998 is a Mercury designed lower unit with a Mercury water pump and impeller. It is easy to change that impeller and it doesn't cost a lot. It is always a good idea to change impellers on an unknown history engine. However, if yours is giving a good flow of water and the engie overheat alarm is not sounding you should be OK. Just keep an eye on it.

Typically these impellers do not fail dramatically unless they are old and hard. BUT--- be aware that at some point you will need to change it, so why not now and be certain you will have your fun on the water instead of aggravation? Remember: You can change it yourself with just hand tools, and what you spend in gas the first day out will probably be more than the cost of the part--so don't say you can't afford it.

Usually, you can safely get 2 years out of a new impeller IF you don't abuse it and run it dry. More if you only sporadically use the boat. Ultimately it comes down to your comfort level and insurance. Are you the type that only buys state minimum coverage for your vehicle or do you buy a million dollar policy? Million dollar is changing it every season and state minimum is changing it only when the overheat alarm goes off.

 

[wideopen98]

Re: 98 force 120 waterpump impeller

thanks for the responses, i know i need to change it im just kind of intimidated by the motor size...i am decent with a wrench and if its as easy as everyone says then i might just try myself... for future reference does a 98 force 120 on a party barge have an overheat alarm???

 

[roscoe]

Re: 98 force 120 waterpump impeller

It shoud have an alarm.

Sensor in head connected to orange wire in wire harness, I believe.

Small buzzer type alarm up under the dash, near the ignition switch.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 98 force 120 waterpump impeller

Profile?Location? You might be close to someone who can help.
If there is ANY doubt change it.Not a hard job and not too expensive.
The seller said the oil was new??I'd rather buy it before the change.That way you know it not leaking and has water in it.
After the first run check/change it.
Worst case??Motors 14 years old and possibly needs seals???
You do a compression test?
Failure:can go at once if you run aground.Sand and gravel/rocks/mud.
Change at least every 2 years.
If it sets for long periods then every year.
NEVER run out of the water unless on the muffs or a bucket.J

 

[wideopen98]

Re: 98 force 120 waterpump impeller

wow this forum is awesome, thanks for all the help guys!,..maybe i can give back one day once i learn this motor a little better