Bent impeller causing caviation?

[danzr1]

Hey guys,

I have a 97 Challenger that just won't accelerate. I looked at the impeller and noticed one of the tips is bent inward on the impeller. Would this cause the cavitation? I must have sucked up a rock, as it worked fine the last time I was out.

View pic. Also, can this be bent back or am I looking at a new impeller?

 

[Dr Honda]

Generally... cavitation from the impeller will com from leading edge damage. But a bend like that will cause vibration.

I would take it out, and pound it straight. Then, verify the pitch. It's fully repairable. Don't send it out, and pay a shop to fix it.

 

[danzr1]

Ok, I was in the process of taking the pump out thinking the wear ring is worn, but so far it seems okay, but I can barely reach my feeler gauge in there. I'll take the pump out to have a better look. I don't have a tool to take the impeller off though.

Thanks for the quick reply.

 

[Dr Honda]

you need a tool to get the impeller out, and fix it.


From what I can see... your ring is fine.

 

[danzr1]

I have the pump out. I have a feeler gauge that is .55mm, and it won't fit in certain places. Where exactly am I measuring the gap? I'll either have to wait to order a tool, or take it to shop and pay them. They said 3/4 to an hour to change the wear ring if I brought the pump in. I like to it myself, but I would also like to use the boat! lol

 

[Dr Honda]

the ring is fine at half mm.


If you have a local dealer... I'm sure they have a tool for you to buy. Also... most "Shops" won't fix an impeller. So, you will pay for a new one, and the install. Buying a tool... even at full retail, will be cheaper than paying the labor.

If you have a local boat accessory shop... they may have the tool to buy.


And finally... just because the shop is quoting you 2/3hr labor... that doesn't mean they will do it when you show up. It may sit on their shelf for a few days first. Besides... you don't need a ring. I don't even need a feeler gauge to tell from the pic, that the gap is fine.

 

[danzr1]

Well after taking the pump off, the wear ring is fairly worn, I took it into the shop and I'm having them change it out. I don't mind paying the extra right now to get it in the water sooner, summers short here! Thanks for all your help. Now time to figure out the lack fuel on the other engine!