Rebuild raw water pump??

[rfrye1]

I had a service person tell me I should consider rebuilding my raw-water pump on my 1998 Hunter Yanmar 3JH2E with 650 hrs (salt water), when I asked him to quote a complete fresh water flush/heat exchange service. I usually replace my impeller about every 18 months as "insurance".

What are your thoughts? There is no leakage or current problems. Is this a common preventative maintience repair? What is there to rebuild?

Thanks. Bob Frye
San Diego

 

[AXEL]

Raw water pumps are expensive, around $800 on average so the temptation to rebuild for about $250 (kit) sounds like a good idea. So I thought anyway several years ago. There are a bunch of bushings and fittings that have to be pressed together and if it's not done just right the pump will leak. In my case I ended up wasting my money on the rebuild kit, sea water in the block, and ultimately bought a new raw water pump. It's not a tough job, but one that requires the correct tools (a press). The next time I have to replace I will search on-line for the best price. There are places on-line that will rebuild or sell refurbs.

Note; if it's just an impeller change, that is a fairly easy job. Most pumps have a weep hole located on the pump. When it starts to drip that is indication maintenance is required. Don't wait too long after.

 

[Paul F]

Raw water pump spindles, etc. wear out. 650 hours doesn't sound like a rebuild is needed. But give these guys a call Depco http://www.depcopump.com/ They are very helpful and reliable. I would just replace the impeler and go on.

 

[Chris Patterson]

That mechanic is trying to take your money, man. That few amount of hours, regular impeller change, not leaking. No way.

 

[Rob2435]

Mine started leaking with about the same amount of time you have on yours, turned out to be the water seal. Replaced it in less than 45 mins and $6.50

 

[RichH]

The best is to buy the needed parts (seals, gaskets, etc.) and store them on board for when you NEED them as they will be instantly available ... although youll need to find someone with a arbor press and the proper expertise to 'set' the clearances of the new parts. Most Yanmar pumps require precise clearances ... all done during the 'setup' during rebuild; so, its also a good idea to have your Yanmar Shop Service Manual along ... as any 'good' mechanic can easily follow the setup clearances, etc.

No need to constantly rebuild pumps; but, there is a constant need to inspect the 'weep holes' and occasionally release belt tension and manually 'wiggle' the shafting, etc. to see if the bearings and seals are beginning to wear - so indicating the need soon for a rebuild.

 

[Gary_H]

I wouldn't rebuild until it starts leaking out of the weep hole. That said I've rebuilt two pumps with no problem. They are not that hard to do. You can make bushing presses using the appropriate size bolts, nuts and washers.