92 2.5 V6 with a squeaky water pump, OK or time to replace?

[SAMMYBOY]

92 2.5 V6 with a squeaky water pump....

I’m setting the timing on my 1991 200hp 2.5 Mercury outboard. When I turn the flywheel CW and CCW using a socket/ratchet to find TDC/advance markings, there is this loud squeaky rubber sound that comes from the lower unit. I assume this is the water impeller. I don’t remember this noise coming from the lower unit the last time I did this… the water pump/impeller is only 2-3 years old, with less than 50 hours, water pressure is OK. Is this sound normal/OK? Or is it a hint to install a new pump?

Thank You!

[rock]

2 or 3 years is a long time for an impeller. I would change it. Also try to limit the CCW movement as it can cause the vanes on the impeller to switch directions sometimes leading to premature failure. Hearing the noise is fairly normal.
Rock

[ddipert]

I don't know how often your user your boat but with only 50 hours in 3 yrs I would say not often. Your impeller will "set"and not pump efficiently.

Rock you are correct that is a long time on an impeller. I replace mine yearly only takes 30 minutes. A lot cheaper then burning up a motor over a 10 dallar part.

[SAMMYBOY]

Rock, DDipert

Sound like a good idea... I was trying to be lazy and not replace the pump.....

I live in Seattle, we only get about 15 days of real sunshine, the other times it's that liquid stuff.

Thanks again for your replies....

[KIRCHNER]

I don't know how often your user your boat but with only 50 hours in 3 yrs I would say not often. Your impeller will "set"and not pump efficiently.

Rock you are correct that is a long time on an impeller. I replace mine yearly only takes 30 minutes. A lot cheaper then burning up a motor over a 10 dallar part.

To avoid getting a set in impeller i crank motor a tad, 1/2 turn every couple of weeks, moving impeller slightly. on my small motors just give em a 1/2 turn with the pull cord,i think it helps. also, make sure impeller slides easy up & down on key, because drive shaft moves vertically, when you shift F-N-R. backlash. could jam against wear plate.

[mn808gade]

guess you don't do many yamaha's..