Last season I experienced (at the end of the season) the classic symptoms of a worn impeller, and that's the fact that it wouldn't prime well unless the boat was moving forward. Naturally, since my boat is trailered, I break the suction every time I pull out of the water, but still, the pump should still be able to prime itself a few inches when the boat goes back in the water each time.
The motor would fire up nicely, idle there at the dock no water, no water, no water, finally if I revved then all of a sudden there would be a gush of water coming through and steam. Not real good for the motor to throw cold water to it as it got hot, but anyway, we watched it closely. Once under way, it always ran beautifully, but it became clear I needed a new impeller.
I called the friendly guys at Depco today, ordered one up and it will be here BEFORE THE RUSH for marine parts (which happens each year as soon as there is a pretty day, and I remind everyone, March 20 is the first day of springtime!).
Impeller was $29.83, cams are $46.87, and I passed on the cam as I'm not real sure I actually need one yet.
I suppose I could have saved a buck or three somewhere by shopping around, but Depco supports the marine industry, they know boats and pumps, they help people who have the classic boats like we do, and I'm sure I'll get the right part for the motor first time around.
The part will be here mid next week, I'll do the install on a reasonably warm day when I want to turn a wrench and possibly skin my knuckles again!
Regards,
Paul