How to Install an Impeller in an Outboard Motor

The outboard motor is an ingenious invention. This compact motor is powered by gasoline, is cooled by the water around it and generates enough power to push a boat and the people on it. Water pumps on outboard motors suck in water, cool the motor and expel it. Because boats operate in the water, rust and other corrosion can occur. This is the primary reason why outboard motor makers suggest replacing the impeller of the water pump once a year.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Socket wrench set
• Wrench
• Cheap dish soap

1. Find the water pump on your engine. This is located in the lower part of your engine, near the lower gears. The locking bolt is located on the motor's housing, directly above the propeller. Use your wrench to loosen the top bolt.

2. Remove the exterior housing to expose the casing and drive shaft.

3. Use a socket wrench to remove the four bolts that lock the head of the pump to the drive shaft. Make note of which bolt went into which hole.

4. Remove the pump. Use both hands and apply pressure to the head of the pump to remove it.

5. Replace the impeller. This is the metal sprocket that sits on the drive shaft. Simply remove the old impeller and replace with the new one.

6. Replace the casing of the pump. You may notice some resistance when reinstalling the pump's casing. If you find that the housing will not install correctly, coat the inside of the housing with dish soap. This provides enough lubrication to slide the casing on.

7. Replace the bolts, locking the casing to the motor, and reattach the outside of the outboard motor.

Tips & Warnings

• You may notice soap suds the first few times you run your boat. This is because the water pump needs to work all of the soap out of its system. This will not damage the boat or the environment.

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