drydock impeller test?

[cee-bee]

Recently aquired O'Day OMC zepher 15HP, Inboard"saildrive". During drydock rennovation, would like to check or verify operation of cooling/pumping condition of impeller. Is there a way to modify a tank test(hoses) to do this??? I have no record of service to this, hopefully, awesome set-up. The saildrive that is.

 

[Mike Maculley]

What is it in?

What boat is the engine installed in? Will you be testing it installed or off the boat?

 

[cee-bee]

still in the barn

actually, the Zephyr is in an O'Day 25 cb model '79. undertaking new owner TLC, thought is, changeout if required would be best before launch. It runs fine with slight water pressure "looped in" via hose adapter,etc. Are you familiar with this engine Mike?

 

[Mike Maculley]

Sure am...

I have a '79 O'day 25' CB with the venerable zephyr so...yes, I am familiar with it. As a matter of fact, I'm pulling mine next week due to galvanic corrosion around the hull seal. I'm going to take pics and post them on the site so you can check out my progress. Anyway, try putting the lower unit in a bucket/drum of water...as long as the water intake on the bottom of the lower unit is submerged you should be able to run the engine and verify the operation of the water pump. A water hose might be applying a positive pressure that could be misleading. One other tip...carry a spare power pack onboard if you do buy the boat...It's one of the few things that can quit without notice and is irreparible at sea...I know from experience. I also have the shop manual for the engine so if you need any specific help just let me know...I can scan and e-mail or snail mail test procedures etc.hope this helpsAnam CaraMike

 

[cee-bee]

shop manual

thanx, Mike. check the location of impellor relative to waterline @ sail vs. the waterline of a bucket at hull. My thought is becuase the saildrive is virtually at or below waterline at sail, use of a bucketwouldn't provide "gravity"level required for pump displacement. Does the manual cover this? What power pak is best available?

 

[Mike Maculley]

Power pack

There is only one power pack for the engine as far as I know. It supplies the juice to the coils. As far as the bucket, you raise a good point, and the shop manual does not cover that...just removal and installation. It's relly not too difficult to take out and check other than the cramped quarters. That would be your best bet. The only downside that I've found to the engine is the lack of parts availability...I'm in the process of trying to find a reliable supplier, but as of yet am having little luck. If I find anything I'll let you know.