Water Pump Question

[Northernbob]

I just put a rebuilt engine (4.3)in my boat (240hrs since new) . New manifolds to. Engine runs fine etc. Everything went back together well, no extra parts, I took lots of pictures so everything is back where it is supposed to be. Timing is good. Oil pressure is good. No fluid leaks.
It overheats at idle, It will cool down at high idle 1800rpm, with thermostat out. So I have no idea what the PO did to this boat as far as maintenance.
I want to change the pump impeller. Raw water cooled. Can I remove the lower gearcase (alpha1 genII) without removing the drive from the boat?? Do I need to drain the gearlube first??
Thanks
Bob
I tried a search but can't go advanced so way to much reading.

 

[Don S]

Re: Water Pump Question

I want to change the pump impeller. Raw water cooled. Can I remove the lower gearcase (alpha1 genII) without removing the drive from the boat?? Do I need to drain the gearlube first??

Yes, but not advised, and yes because it needs changed yearly any way.

The drive needs to be removed yearly to check alignment, lube ujoints, and to inspect for water in the bellows.
The impeller, since you have a an Alpha I Gen II drive is usually good for 3 years before needing replaced, but the gear lube should be replaced yearly.

 

[actionljackson]

Re: Water Pump Question

Hi bob I just pulled my lower unit yesterday for the first time.YES you can take it off without removing the whole unit.And YES drain your oil first.It would help to have a manual.I didn't and could not figure why it would not budge.Turns out there was a bolt on the unit that I missed.There are some great links in the stickys on this forum that show everything you need in detail as well as part numbers.I just found these with the help of the great people on here myself
You will get a lot of info on your questions you just need to decide what will work best for you.My engine is a 4.3 as well but with an older outdrive alpha one model.Just thought I would offer my opinion as I'm going through this as I write and my water pump should be here Friday.With all the help I have received I feel onligated to give something backAt least when I can.
~Leo

 

[Northernbob]

Re: Water Pump Question

Yes, but not advised, and yes because it needs changed yearly any way.

The drive needs to be removed yearly to check alignment, lube ujoints, and to inspect for water in the bellows.
The impeller, since you have a an Alpha I Gen II drive is usually good for 3 years before needing replaced, but the gear lube should be replaced yearly.

Thanks Don
Just did the alignment etc. Lube was just done, in the fall by PO/dealer.
Guess I got caught by not servicing the pump while I had the drive off to do the engine. Oh well just a few bolts.
TIA

 

[Northernbob]

Re: Water Pump Question

Hi bob I just pulled my lower unit yesterday for the first time.YES you can take it off without removing the whole unit.And YES drain your oil first.It would help to have a manual.I didn't and could not figure why it would not budge.Turns out there was a bolt on the unit that I missed.There are some great links in the stickys on this forum that show everything you need in detail as well as part numbers.I just found these with the help of the great people on here myself
You will get a lot of info on your questions you just need to decide what will work best for you.My engine is a 4.3 as well but with an older outdrive alpha one model.Just thought I would offer my opinion as I'm going through this as I write and my water pump should be here Friday.With all the help I have received I feel onligated to give something backAt least when I can.
~Leo

Got the manual. It's didnt say anything about the lube. Got the better manual and it says to drain etc.
And thanks for being onligated!! LOL

 

[Northernbob]

Re: Water Pump Question

I have the thunderbolt IV ignition, from what I read you just time it 8deg btdc and done, no purple wire to ground,, correct??
I do see a purple wire zapped by the dist.
TIA
Bob

 

[Bondo]

Re: Water Pump Question

I have the thunderbolt IV ignition, from what I read you just time it 8deg btdc and done, no purple wire to ground,, correct??

Yes...

 

[Northernbob]

Re: Water Pump Question

Thanks Bond-o. Timing done.
Pulled the leg off found two old flappers in the exhaust, and the plastic square plate from behind the pump, it was wedged in the lower drive exhaust, it was a bear to get out, I put it back in its respectful place. The flappers were no fun to get out, one I got first try, the other was a chore. Still runs up to 190+ but cooler than before. Still cools off when revved above 2k. Impeller is as new, dealer said not a thing wrong with that impeller. So tomorrow I will take the drive off again and double check all the tubes and seals, and the water pocket thing in the upper drive.
Also will back flush the line from the thermostat hsg to the drive.
just found this info to.
http://www.marinemechanic.com/site/PAGE261.htm

Found a very good read on another forum.
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