13 replies to this topic

[zira]

If anybody has any ideas or comments I would very much appreciate it.


1997 Challenger 1800 - has been running like a top! - until yesterday

*speed #'s are according to speedometer not actual speeds
I'm cruising @ about 5k ---> 40mph* --->6k (50mph*) ----->7200k(60mph*)(WOT)

THEN - It feels like when a tranny slips on a car -and I can't get above 40mph* even at WOT!

Now I have to run @ 4k just to start moving!

Are my impellers - clogged? Broken? I'm at a loss here!


anyone bueller?

[zira]

I think it's cavitating - is that the word?

[zira]

ok!

why does it feel like I'm talking to myself?!

I opened the grates and when I reach inside I can feel fishing line wrapped around the impeller(?) - could this be my problem?

How do I get the fishing line off?

[kvoman]

That sounds like cavitation and you can cut the fishing line with an exacto/utility knife.

[thumper]

zira - you may have to wait for replies - but people will respond - once you have cleared your
impellers you should find that they will run ok

[Yuji]

Yes...just remove the fishing line and inspect your pump. Make sure your impeller nose cone is on and not walking up the driveshaft and most importantly check your wear ring

[zira]

Yes...just remove the fishing line and inspect your pump. Make sure your impeller nose cone is on and not walking up the driveshaft and most importantly check your wear ring

Thanks for the tips!

I'll let you know how I make out!

[zira]

Cleared all of the fishing line - took it out for a test run - still cavitating.

what should I check next?

[Yuji]

Check the wear ring for gouges and check too make sure the nose cone is on properly. If those things all check out then you'll have to check your drive seal where the drive shaft comes thru the hull. I really think it's just your wear ring.

[zira]

It feels like the port side impeller is a bit dinged up - I'm not sure hoe to check the wear ring condition. Do I have to remove the venturi and pump from the hull to properly inspect?

Maybe I should order evrything I might need ie. impellers.wear rings, new seals, bearings - before proceeding further. or maybe not!



ALSO - I was wondering if I would get this loss of speed if the reverse bucket isn't moving up and down properly.

[Yuji]

If the reverse bucket is hanging down and restricting pump flow you surely will have loss of top speed...but I really think it's your wear ring. If the impeller is bent then you will have cavitation/loss of speed and vibration in the driveline. The wear ring is the sleeve that surrounds the impeller and you want it to be fairly smooth with little gap between impeller outside diameter and wear ring. If there are gouges or severe wear it needs to be replaced.

In the attached picture, if you look down the pump passed the vanes you can see a light almost white coloured material. This is the Delrin wear ring that surrounds the impeller. This is on my 2005 C-180...and changing this out is not a big dea and yes...it just requires removing the reverse bucket, dis-connecting steering linkage and then removing pump. Removing the wear ring with the impeller in is a bit tricky but if you remove the impeller to repair or replace then the wear ring removal is easy. If you don't feel comfortable I would find a reputable dealer/mechanic to do it for you.

Hope this helps





Same thing only this is a Stainless Steel wear ring and is easier to see.

[zira]

Thanks Yuji - I have been doing some research and have the service manual. I have confidence that I can do the job. Is there a good online resource to order parts or should I locate a local dealer. I'm in SW FL.

[Yuji]

You could try this outfit...pricing seems fair. Your local dealer should have them as well , just show them the pricing you have found online and hopefully they will match it. In the link listed below you will find BRP rings listed and the WSM branded ones which are a little cheaper.

Wear Rings

[zira]

Thanks!

I had a window open to that site before I even read your post!


Good idea bringing a copy to my local dealer..