Merc 3.3 HP Outboard Impeller Replacement

[Bob Ohler]

Everything I read said that getting the lower unit off and the impeller replaced was the easy part. Everyone else was right.

If you have this outboard, may I suggest:
Use dish soap to lubricate the new impeller.
Align the newly greased spline shaft first.
Align the water tube next. By having the tube closer to the inspection hole, you can push it into place so that it will align with the water pump hole.
Tie the lower unit in place so it does not drop after the first two pieces are aligned. (Not that this happened to me, mind you.)
Make the clamp for the shift rod loose, but not so loose that it falls.
Push the lower unit into place, aligning the shift rod connector as you go. I used a bent-tip brake adjusting tool like the ones used to adjust drum brakes.

Verify that the shift lever and the rod are both in the neutral position before tightening the clamp.

Be patient. It may take two nights and a lot of prayer, but yes, it does go back together!

I wonder how they did it at the factory?

[Bob Ohler]

She pumps water great now! Before, it was more of a trickle. While the old impeller had all the vanes attached, a few of them where misformed.

[guy leslie]

Bob,
Thanks for posting. I need to do this and your experience will surely help!

Guy