Merc '98 ELPTO impeller location

[chutta]

My outboard had been triggering the temp horn the last couple years despite a strong indicator stream. I replaced the tiny holed hose way back with a vacuum hose, as the stocker kept getting clogged in river water.
This only happens after a while when trolling.
Is the water pump impeller in the very lower unit?
I know this could be much more serious than this, such as clogged jackets high in the cylinder, but changing out this would be a start.
Help?

[jpollman]

Yes, the impeller is in the top of the lower unit. There should be seven (I think) bolts to remove and the unit will drop down. I think think there are three on each side and one at the very back in the center. When you drop the lower unit, it will come out and the drive shaft will be sticking up out of the top of the unit. The impeller housing is right on top and just held on with about a half dozen screws. Take the screws out and pull it up and there is the impeller. You say that it is a 1998 motor. If so, you ARE due for a new impeller! Even with limited use of the motor, I'd suggest changing the impeller ate least every 3-4 years. Some guys that use their boats a lot will replace them every year or two. An impeller is only around $20 and it's easy to do. It's cheap insurance! Even if the motor isn't used much they will dry out and lose their flexibility. If you think you want to do it yourself I'm sure you can probably handle it. But I'd get clear specific instructions first and familiarize yourself with the procedure before starting.

Good luck!

John

[Damark Marine]

I would agree, the impeller is due & I would also ck & make sure their is nothing tied up in the water system or impeller. I have seen debris get caught up in the t stat as well.

[chutta]

I bought the part and for now put off installation due questions.
On a partial teardown, the blue gasket up tight against the cyl block, visible in the base of the cowling is where I had separation, the cowling itself having to be unbolted from the lower end from within. Is this base gasket my access point? There's another gasket below the cowling.

Also, do I remove the bottom gear assy first, or will the entire thing drop as a unit?

I put er back together for now, deciding on whether to go ahead or pay for labor. Thank you

[Damark Marine]

You are only removing the lower gear housing. That will be the part with the flat plate just above the prop & everything below that. I can e mail you a service manual section if you would like or you might look into purchasing one they are only about $29.95 +tax & usps. It would give you good reading for this project as well as future use.

[chutta]

Wow, that's old hat for me. cool, thanx. Can't say I remember an impeller in my older Evinrudes down there.

[chutta]

Replaced it today in less than 2 hours. The original was just mushed over, but still soft rubber. No air horn in over 1/2 hour of trolling.