Lifespan of the engine circulating pump? Preventative maintenance

[Drcoffee]

My boat is a 1995 Rinker with a 5.7 Mercruiser carb alpha 1 gen two. It has 550 hours on the clock. Is there a recommended interval where the water pump on the engine should be replaced as a maintenance item before the engine overheats? Looks like an easy job to do and the cost is reasonable as a DIY. Is there a way to know if the pump has been replaced already?

 

[dubs283]

No recommended interval. Most circ pumps get replaced for leaking shaft seal(s), bearing failure, overheating issues, etc....

Can't say as to knowing when/if a circ pump has been replaced other than mismatched paint, witness marks on bolt heads, excess seal shellac, paperwork....

 

[achris]

... and the cost is reasonable as a DIY. ...

If you're looking at automotive pumps, forget it... You need a marine pump (yes, they are VERY different. Marine pump will last 20+ years, automotive pump MIGHT last you one season)...

Chris...

 

[Scott Danforth]

Unless the bearings go bad from a leaking seal, the circulating pump will usually outlast the motor.

550 hours in 27 years is quite low. Average use is 50 hrs per year

Suggest you use the boat more

 

[Drcoffee]

If you're looking at automotive pumps, forget it... You need a marine pump (yes, they are VERY different. Marine pump will last 20+ years, automotive pump MIGHT last you one season)...

Chris...

I guessed as much. Mine is not leaking. Just curious if its at its end of life.

 

[achris]

...Mine is not leaking...

Then it's not ready to be replaced...