Rusted impeller collar, '72 Johnson 125HP.

Posted by Cray Lester (24.174.185.101) on October 16, 2003 at 18:59:44:

I pulled my lower unit on my recently purchased motor to find the impeller is rust locked/frozen to the shaft. Any secrets or suggestions? I'm using penetrating oil and light taps to the shaft and impeller collar; I've tapped it down lightly to maybe break the rust bond; I've braced a screw-driver under the impeller collar in a pry attempt. I'm reluctant to try heat before the impeller is 'cut away', may also try to find a nut-splitter - just grabbing for straws? (I know - straws won't work either???).

The irony to this drama is that I was told the water pump was broken - needed repair - so no water was being pumped out. However, the impeller appears to be almost new, pliable with no signs of damage. I did find the shaft O-ring about halfway down the shaft however - so probably was dragged out of place when last re-assembled.

Also plan to try to "back flush" through the tube/motor to see if there's blockage there...

Thanks, Cray L