Impeller keeps burning up while sitting on the water

[sacpdg]

My impeller keeps burning up the last couple trips. The trips were about three weeks apart and both time i was sitting on the river. I was already anchored and was leaving to find a new fishing hole. I started the motor and about one min later i saw my motor overheat while idleing. Does anyone know why a brand new impeller would burn up while in the water. I have a 76 searay with a mercruiser 888 alpha one stern drive. Both impellers were brand new and only lasted two boat trips. Thanks for the help.

 

[Don S]

Re: Impeller keeps burning up while sitting on the water

Did you ever start the engine out of the water without water?

 

[Pete104]

Re: Impeller keeps burning up while sitting on the water

Along with running them dry, Are the pick up holes free of debris? As well as the water tube & beyond free of any wasps or ants?

 

[series60]

Re: Impeller keeps burning up while sitting on the water

My impeller keeps burning up the last couple trips. The trips were about three weeks apart and both time i was sitting on the river. I was already anchored and was leaving to find a new fishing hole. I started the motor and about one min later i saw my motor overheat while idleing. Does anyone know why a brand new impeller would burn up while in the water. I have a 76 searay with a mercruiser 888 alpha one stern drive. Both impellers were brand new and only lasted two boat trips. Thanks for the help.

Most rivers will contain sand which is tough on impellers and their housings. Did both replacement impellers include replacing the housings? The housing could be scored inside. Pickups blocked with debris or mud dabbers.

 

[ktbarrentine]

Re: Impeller keeps burning up while sitting on the water

I hope I am not overstating the obvious, but are you sure the impeller is being installed correctly? Simple things (that have happened to people more than once), like leaving the impeller key out, or biasing the vanes in the wrong direction when installing the housing. Just sayin'. Also need to make sure you have the "exact" right kit for the gaskets, plates, etc, for your model drive. Can you post pics of what these impellers look like after you pull them out after the failure?

 

[sacpdg]

Re: Impeller keeps burning up while sitting on the water

I have not run the engine without water. I always have the boat in water or muffs. I will post pics soon. Last time the Impeller burnt up, the impeller fins were melted but the rest of the impeller was in tact. Thanks again guys.