Which Direction to Curve Water Pump Impeller Blades

[ppeter4685]

I have to replace the impeller on the water pump on a 60HP 1989 Mariner. I took the old impeller out and failed to notice which way the blades were curved, and there appears to be no difference between the "top" side or "bottom" sided of the impeller. How do I determine which way to curve the blades when I put the new impeller in the housing? Incidentally, in case it makes any difference, the shaft on this pump is centered in the housing, not off center.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Which Direction to Curve Water Pump Impeller Blades

The driveshaft rotates clockwise when viewed from the top. Therefore the blades should point to the left or counterclockwise. They will be "dragged" around so they do NOT point in the direction of rotation. In most cases it doesn't matter because they will flip once the engine is started. But why not start them in the correct orientation.

 

[oldman570]

Re: Which Direction to Curve Water Pump Impeller Blades

A look at which way the motor turns will tell you which way to have the impeller blades turned. Just place the new impeller on the drive shaft and alingn the keyway and turn the drive shaft the same way as the motor would. Putting a little lube (dish soap) on the impeller helps when putting it back together. That drive shaft should turn clockwise when viewed from the top.JMO
Oldman570

 

[Texasmark]

This ain't a Volvo sir.

 

[GA_Boater]

This ain't a Volvo sir.

Sorry, Tex. The post got deleted.