Replace Water Pump now or next Spring?

[27E_20]

1990 Johnson GT200 (VJ200SLESE)

I have noticed the past few times I have been out that it is taking the engine longer than 10 seconds to start "peeing". The water pump was changed out a little over a year ago (14 months), so it is about time for a new one anyway. It looks like it spits out muddy water when it finally does start flowing good, so Im wondering if something is just dirty/clogged- like that inlet screen, maybe?

Question is, should I replace it now and let it sit for the winter? I might still use it through November.

OR, would I be able to just take everything apart, clean, blow out lines, etc. Put back together and just wait until next spring to replace everything.

Wise or Unwise?

 

[Bosunsmate]

Re: Replace Water Pump now or next Spring?

If its taking longer than it use too, id do it now. Itl be ok over winter. I turn mine over every five weeks or so to help keep the impeller from getting set.
I dont know why it looks like muddy water, maybe you have sucked up mud somewhere. Your thermostats could be partially blocked too.
If you do change the impeller, attach a hose to the water pick up tube and give it a good flush til its clear.

 

[27E_20]

Re: Replace Water Pump now or next Spring?

Will do- thanks. Wasnt sure if changing it now would defeat the purpose if it just sat all winter. Funny you mentioned the t-stats, there is something weird about the idle speed- have to rev it to get it to drop down to normal RPMs; think I do need to check out the t-stats as well.

 

[bonz_d]

Re: Replace Water Pump now or next Spring?

If I knew I was done for the season I'd wait until spring and do it then. Won't hurt anything to leave it over the winter while it is unused.

 

[boobie]

Re: Replace Water Pump now or next Spring?

I'd change it in the spring. That way the impeller will be nice and fresh and won't take a set during the winter.