changing a omc cobra impeller

[rcahill31]

I have a 88 four winns 5.7 cobra outdrive and would to know if the impeller can be changed with the boat in the water providing nothing else is needed, also are there any gaskets to change after replacing the impeller

 

[boatin_bob]

Yes you can do it with the boat in the water, I've done mine a few times that way (although not ideal it beats pulling it out just for an impeller)
I can lay on my swim platform and reach them with the drives tilted up, you are going to get your hands wet and some of your tools. Just pull the back upper cover off (3 bolts) and then remove the 3 bolts holding the water pump housing on, the stainless steel pump liner and even the impeller may come off inside the housing. The gasket that goes around the water pump housing has to be sitting inside it's grove all the way around, you don't want to pinch it and don't over torque the water pump housing when putting it back on, they can crack. Pic below is a typical rebuild kit but most times just the impeller is worn or cracked...missing fins.

 

[rcahill31]

thank you for the information BOATIN BOB I really appreciate the reply, the book is not that clear.

 

[louc]

Yep the Cobra has about the easiest to replace impeller that there is....