Newbie water pump question ...

[b-rich]

How often do you replace water pumps on outboards?

Just bought a boat with a 73 Evinrude Fifty Sizzler and I want to go through it and do some preventative maintanance. I have heard people mention preyty frequently with outboards that they replace them often.

If any of you experienced folks bought a 1973 outboard motor that runs strong ... but wanted to make sure it stayed that way ... what type of things/parts would you replace, inspect, etc.

Thanks in advance for your advice and help.

- brian

 

[hawkf250]

Re: Newbie water pump question ...

Without knowing the maintenance that the previous owner did to it, I would go ahead and replace the water pump impeller and the lower unit fluid. If it were mine, I would go completely through it including checking all hoses, fuel pump and clean the carbs and wires just in case and fully lube everything.

 

[hawkf250]

Re: Newbie water pump question ...

As far as your other question, it is good practice to replace the water pump impeller every year, some people push it to every two years, but keep a close eye on your tell tale, it only take one time of overheating to equal a dead motor

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Newbie water pump question ...

If in doubt, change it out.
Read the top secret files for other essential maintenance.

 

[b-rich]

Re: Newbie water pump question ...

Perfect ... thanks for the advice. I will just go ahead and change it out and drain and replace the old fluids.

I will read that thread too.

 

[F_R]

Re: Newbie water pump question ...

1973 motors had problems with the impeller. The rubber would come loose from the hub. ESPECIALLY in salt water. Once a year is a must in salt, you can stretch it out in fresh.

If it still has the old original aluminum water pump housing, you ought to replace the whole pump with a new pump kit which includes a plastic housing with stainless steel liners. You will get better impeller life if you do.

 

[b-rich]

Re: Newbie water pump question ...

Will do .. i am definitely going to swap it out with the new housing too. Thanks for the advice.