Aft Loading on Impeller?

[LSaupe]

Greetings All.

I just installed a Skat Track impeller on my Challenger, though haven't started anything up yet. I have a question concerning allowable aft/rear impeller loading. The Skat Trak has a different type of rubber seal (boot) between the driveshat and impeller that the original OEM style. When I put this together I notice that the seal (boot) compresses between the impeller and shaft collar, effectively putting rear loading on the impeller (as it tries to force the shaft and impeller apart to make the seal).

The pump seems well rigged for forward loading with the flat bearing (as it should be for operation), but how about when pushed the other way?

Question is, is what I am seeing normal and/or of any concern? When the impeller is pushed backwards what does it ride againts (I.e. bearing surface - nylon in the cone maybe?)

Any experineces here greatly appreciated.

Larry

 

[Dr Honda]

As far as I know... there is no spec for fore/aft movement. Also... once you start the engine, in the water, the pump will load forward. (on to the thrust bearing)

Unless you are seeing something unusual, or some interference... don't worry about it.

 

[scooper77515]

I installed the same thing and had worries, and called Impros to see what was up. They said it was ok, but I still worried about it. I figured they knew what they were talking about and spent a good season on the water with absolutely no problems, so now my worries have gone away.

So I know how you feel, since you and I "are in the same boat"...:reddevil:

 

[LSaupe]

Thanks guys for the feedback.

Here is an image of the final intallation. Hope to get it out this week.

 

[scooper77515]

Yep. That is what mine looks like.

 

[LSaupe]

Thought I would post an update here. I usually give my pump a visual inspection every few runs.

Two weeks ago I noticed that my rubber seal between the drive shaft and impeller had split. This concerned me, but figured I could still run it in the very near term.

Today I find the seal has departed. Well.... no more aft loading.

Have any of you run across this before?

Larry S.

 

[Dr Honda]

I've seen seals get weak, crack and split. But after a few months... that was fast. Maybe it didn't like your grease. Was it synthetic or petroleum base??? (petroleum base could have attacked the rubber)

 

[phough5757]

I wonder if the motor could have moved?
Maybe the wrong Seal?
If the seal was keeping the impeller from making contact with the thrust-
bearing, I to would think something was suspect.
Could the rubber bumper on the end of the driveshaft fallen off inside the
Impeller?
Just some things to look at.