Why is my impeller not spinning?
If the impeller is not spinning at all, make sure the unit is turned off and try manually spinning it with a tool, such as a screwdriver or a pen. If you are unable to manually spin the impeller, the part will need to be replaced. A pump impeller may cease to spin after not being in use for a period of time.
How often replace water pump impeller?
It’s good outboard maintenance practice to check your water pump impeller every season, and replace it every two to three seasons. 300 hours of use or every 3 years whichever comes first!
What does a clogged impeller sound like?
Your pump will also sound different when the impeller is clogged. You may hear it straining, a bit louder than usual. It may sound like it’s growling or grumbling at you – time to do something!
Can a pump run backwards?
If the motor and pump are running backwards, the pump can often still move water, and the water will flow the normal direction through the pump. A centrifugal pump accelerates water off of the tips of the impeller vanes. If the impeller is threaded to the shaft, it may unscrew when running backwards.
What can I do if my pump impeller is not working?
Your pump may not have a diffuser piece. Use your coat hanger or a skinny and long screwdriver (or needle nose pliers) to clean the impeller. For small rocks or seeds that may be stuck in the vane, use wire to push them back towards the opening until they fall out. My water flow isn’t right even though I checked my pump impeller.
How does an inboard water pump impeller work?
The entire job is about $100 of cheap insurance. The torn-up blades of this inboard impeller are not going to move much water. The impeller itself is simply a series of rubber vanes molded around a hub. The vanes are flexible, and the hub rotates on an eccentric within the pump housing, which has a stainless steel liner.
Why does my water pump not pump water?
Allowing unfiltered water to enter the pump housing can also damage the impeller, as dirt and other debris can speed up the wear of this component. If the impeller on your pump wears down, it can be can be accessed and replaced by opening the pump housing. Still not sure which part is broken?
What happens if you drop the gearcase on a water pump?
Water lubricates the pump, and if it’s run dry the impeller can be ruined in just seconds. Note I said impeller service requires “dropping the gearcase.” For most of us checking the impeller is not a do-it-yourself project, which is probably why so many impellers are neglected until they fail.