2003 20 hp Merc - needs impeller?

[lakelover]

Today I started my motor for the first time this season with the lower unit submerged in a full garbage can. With new plugs and gas,it started right up but right away I noticed that no water was coming out the exhaust or pee hole, so I shut it down. It probably ran for less than 10 seconds. I ran a wire up through the pee hole tube and tried it again and same thing, nothing from either outlet so shut it down right away again. It was probably running for a total of about 15 seconds all told. <br /><br />Is it safe to assume the impeller needs replacement (hasn't been replaced since new, coming up on the third season of use)? The manual says to replace it every 3 years but it looks like it's ready now. How much of a job is this for someone who's only done the very basics of maintenance?<br /><br />My launch date is July 5, so I don't know yet how long it might take a dealer to do the work, I know this is a very busy time of year. That's why I'm wondering about doing it myself.<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[Laddies]

Re: 2003 20 hp Merc - needs impeller?

Disconnect the shift shaft under the carb remove the bolts attaching the lower unit to the mid section pull the lower unit down and the w/pump sits right on top of the unit remove the hsg screws and there is the impeller

 

[lakelover]

Re: 2003 20 hp Merc - needs impeller?

Just occurred to me and wondering...motor is still in warranty, purchased with a 3 year term. Do you think this would be covered? I'll have to check into that..

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: 2003 20 hp Merc - needs impeller?

It probably ran for less than 10 seconds

Let it run a little longer. Chances are that the pump has not yet filled all the water passages. You won't harm the motor but letting it run 20-30 seconds if you are starting it up cold. <br /><br />If this is the third season however, its probably a good idea to change the impeller anyways even if it still does pump water. The pump is probably one of the simpler DIY tasks especially on such a new motor. No serious corrosion or seized bolts to speak of. With just some basic tools you should be able to get it done in a couple hours. Pay attention to what goes where when you take it apart. If you don't already have one, get yourself a manual first.

 

[lakelover]

Re: 2003 20 hp Merc - needs impeller?

Thanks for the info, I'm learning as I go. The aftermarket manuals (Clymer, Seloc) for this engine aren't available yet. I understand the release date was to be May 1, but for some reason, the publisher is behind.<br /><br />As I thought, impeller is a maintenance item, not covered by warranty.

 

[lakelover]

Re: 2003 20 hp Merc - needs impeller?

Tried it again and let it run a little longer. You were right, it started up and really shot out when the thermostat opened up. I guess I just panicked the first time and jumped the gun. I'll replace the impeller this season though.<br /><br />They say you get what you pay for, but on these boards, you get way more than you pay for! In this case, a little peace of mind. <br /><br />Thanks for the advice.

 

[ehenry]

Re: 2003 20 hp Merc - needs impeller?

Lot of time just running a wire up through the Tell-Tale wont unstop it. Next time pull the engine cowl off and pull the rubber hose that runs from the thermostat housing down to the plastic fitting where it exits the lower cowl and blow air through it.