News

When it comes to essential outboard maintenance, one simple little piece of plastic makes a world of difference: the water pump impeller. Replacing the impeller ensures the motor cools properly, protecting the engine from overheating and severe damage. The impeller is a small rotating component with plastic blades. As it rotates within the water pump housing, the blades push cold water into and through the outboard’s cooling system.  The plastic blades of an impeller have a limited lifespan and are prone to cracking or breaking over time. When this happens, the impeller no longer sends enough (or any) cold water through the...

Having the correct propeller pitch is extremely important, as it affects the performance of a boat – hole shot, top speed, etc. Pitch also ensures the motor is working in its optimum wide open throttle RPM range, and that it’s not being unduly stressed. If your prop’s pitch is incorrect, you’ll be losing performance and running the risk of damaging your motor. Never assume your boat’s propeller pitch is correct, even if it’s a brand new boat.  The amount of passengers or gear on a boat make a big difference on determining the correct pitch requirements. And if you bought a secondhand boat, it’s highly...

Mercury 40HP 2-Stroke Outboard Water Pump Repair Servicing the water pump and replacing the impeller in an outboard motor is standard maintenance that should be done every year.  Replacing the impeller in your Mercury outboard helps ensure your outboard’s cooling system works perfectly, protecting the motor from overheating. Watch the video above and follow the steps below to replace the water pump in a Mercury 40HP 2-Stroke motor.  Tools and Parts Needed – Mercury 40HP 2-Stroke Water Pump Repair Tools Ratchet and sockets Parts  Water pump repair kit First you’ll need to remove the lower unit from the outboard. Watch the video...

Whether you want to swap propellers, replace a damaged one, inspect the oil seal or remove debris, replacing an outboard propeller is pretty simple. No special tools are needed to get the job done. Typical toolbox items such as a ratchet and sockets, screwdrivers and pliers will suffice. An outboard prop swap/reinstall can usually be done in a matter of minutes. Here’s how to remove and replace an outboard engine propeller. Removing an Outboard Propeller Step 1. Bend back the tabs on the lock-washer securing the propeller nut, or remove the cotter pin securing the propeller castle nut. Step 2. Place a...

Anodes (or zincs) need to be replaced at least once year as part of an outboard’s routine maintenance. Fortunately, changing the external anodes on an outboard is incredibly easy! Basically if you can hold and turn a wrench, you can replace outboard anodes yourself. Tools Needed – Replacing Outboard External Anodes Open-end wrench Ratchet, extension bar and socket pieces Most of the bolts holding the zincs will be 8mm - 10mm (5/16” - 3/8”), and are easily accessible using a socket piece or open-end wrench. Replace any anode bolts that are corroded, and be careful not to overtighten any bolts or strip the...