Water pump impeller

[dirt surfer]

Is there somthing I should look for to make sure my water pump is pumping on my merc alfa 1? I just got the boat and it dosen't overheat. Is thier some way I can determine the volume of water it's pumping? I would just like to head offany future problems. Thanks.

 

[vipzach]

Re: Water pump impeller

I don't know if there is a way to tell just looking, other that watching temp. The best thing to do is to replace it every couple of years.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Water pump impeller

Save the effort of looking for water flow and put it towards replacing it every year or two.Charlie

 

[elpaso]

Re: Water pump impeller

To check the water flow from a Alpha 1 pump.<br />Look for the hose that comes from the transom to the thermostat housing.<br />Normally, when looking at front of engine. It will be the large ( 1 1/4 ) hose<br />on the lower right.<br />With outdrive in the water - up to the trim cylinders - start engine, let idle for<br />1-2 minutes - shut down. Pull end of above hose off t-stat housing - start engine.<br /><br />Watch water flow from hose at idle - should be strong and steady - shooting out<br />2-3 inches. Increase RPM to 2000. You should have water shooting out 1 ft. -<br />and steady. You will have water everywhere - but it’s just water.

 

[Phantom17]

Re: Water pump impeller

Even if you just replaced the impeller I'd watch your oil pressure and temp gauges frequently. Your 2 best / worst freinds on a boat.

 

[vicsponjr]

Re: Water pump impeller

I tried pulling the water feed hose on my 3.7 merc w/alpha drive. I disconnected it where it connects to the heat exchanger. I cranked the engine but STOPPED! when I saw water coming out of the heat exchanger (where the feed hose connects too) Figured it was being blown back by the exhaust?? The engine never started, I didn't want to screw anything up. Is this normal??