Water pump conversion

[sealyons]

I have a 1985 5.0 merc and was interested changing the waterpump from the lower unit to something that operates off the engine pulleys and a thru hull. Has anyone heard if this is possible/ done it? I heard or read somewhere that Bravo Drives use a similar set up.

 

[bomar76]

Re: Water pump conversion

Yeah, it can be done, but why?<br />It takes more HP to run it.<br />It's not really any easier to change the impeller either.<br /><br />You loose some cooling of the outdrive.<br /><br />The Bravo's do use this set up. A Bravo style pump would work (need brackets, pulley, and belt along with a thru hull, valve and hoses - I'd put a sea strainer on it too)<br /><br />There are a bunch of other manufacturer's pumps available also.

 

[sealyons]

Re: Water pump conversion

I figured it would be easier than changing the one in the drive every year. I also run/ moor in salt water and barnacles are a problem. I have to clean out the intake and sometimes the area behind during periods of inactivity to maintain water flow. I already have a thru-hull w/ stainer for a wash-down pump and figured I could easily install a "T".

 

[bomar76]

Re: Water pump conversion

You still are gonna have to keep the thru hull for engine cooling clear of growth, so I don't see what effort you'd be saving there.<br /><br />You're gonna need a pump- about $240 or more - PLUS all the other items I mentioned above.

 

[sealyons]

Re: Water pump conversion

True, I also fugured if it ever went mid-season I wouldn't have to pull the boat, I could just do at the mooring.

 

[flashback]

Re: Water pump conversion

I think for some folks it is a good idea but for most folks, it is not... reason being, you need to remove the drive to lube the u-joints, check gimbal, and change water pump impeller....If you take the pump out of the equation, then a lot of folks would forget the other maintainence items..IMHO

 

[Don S]

Re: Water pump conversion

You also need the water flow through the drive for cooling of the drive. <br />Using the same impeller for 2 years is also not a problem. No real reason to change it every year.

 

[sealyons]

Re: Water pump conversion

Thanks for the info!