Impeller replacement

[Andre Michel]

My 1972 Catalina 27 has a Universal Atomic 4 which has given me good service since I've owned the boat, over a year now . I would like to replace the water pump impeller but access is extremely limited, I can't even see the pump. Has anyone a good technique that I can use to make the change? Would there be anything wrong with cutting an access hole from the starboard quarterbunk so I could gain better access to service my engine? Any sugestions would be apreciated thanks.

 

[Garry @ S/V TASHTEGO]

Impeller

I don't know about '72s but my '79 Cat 27 has an opening from the starboard quarter berth into the engine compartment with a cover which lifts up and pulls out then down. To find the water pump blind, reach in and find the valve for the cooling water on the bottom, then follow the hose up to the water pump. To remove the impeller you will need a pair of snap ring pliers to remove the snap ring holding the impeller onto the shaft. You can view a scanned copy of the owners manual at http://www.geocities.com/atomfour/ and get repair parts and help from Don Moyer at http://www.moyermarine.com/

 

[Rob Rich]

Same as Gary

I have the same access port as Gary on my 1979 C27. I would check with Catalina Direct and see if they frown on cutting an access port in the wall. One thing is for sure - you need to change that impeller. The previous owner of my vessel rarely changed it, and it failed on me the first time out, resulting in an overheat. Best to do it now in cool weather, than wait for summer and its heat.Best if luck!Rob

 

[Moebetta]

go for it

Aloha I have a 74 Catalina 27 and it has a small hole cut in the side to get to the water pump. Very usefull to have to ad grease to the pump and also to check the points condenser. You can make a cover for it like the other ones