BRAVO 3

[nat liantonio]

how often do i needto change water pumps on my bravo 3 drives had them done 2 years ago boat is in salt water thanks.

 

[GeeBee]

Two years is about as long as I go.

 

[littlebookworm]

Two years is a good number. You usually don't have to change the entire pump, just the impeller, seals or O-rings, gaskets, and friction plate, if there is one. A kit contains all the parts you need. Hy

 

[CurrentSea]

Bravo 3 Impeller is mounted on the engine if I recall, it's not in drives.
It's fan belt mounted.

 

[GeeBee]

That is correct

 

[jtybt15]

There are at least 3 versions of the Bravo raw water pump. The original had a plastic body and cast iron end cap. The second had a one piece plastic body and end cap and the 3rd had the fuel pump as part of the pump.

GVP (Geo) said to replace the impeller every 2-3 years...though I have one that I left the old impeller in and dropped the boat in the water after 10 years and she worked fine but it was a Jabsco version.

 

[littlebookworm]

Charlie's right on the three versions. I still recommend replacing the 'kit' every two years simply because the impeller takes a set after a while, which does affect its performance. Since the Bravo pump is on the engine, replacing the kit isn't too difficult, once you master getting the hoses off and on. One trick I used is to remove the pump first and then the hoses, checking the 'bend' of the hoses to install them in the same direction and on the original fittings. On installation, put the hoses on first and then mount the pump. Hy

 

[kauaiman]

In addition to Hy's comment, this procedure is best done with the boat out of the water. When you pull the input hose off the pump, water will begin flowing from the outdrive.

Also, the torque for the 5 bolts on the pump housing I believe is 10 ft./lbs.

ED

 

[BillK]

I replaced mine every 2nd year. I bought the kit that included the impeller and housing < $100. If replacing it in the water be prepared for water to start flowing when you disconnect the intake hose. I always stuffed a cutoff broom handle wrapped in a towel into the hose. Don't try to replace the impeller without taking the whole pump assembly and pulley off the bracket - it's an exercise in futility.

 

[nat liantonio]

thanks all

 

[GeeBee]

Personally, I just keep an extra pump on the shelf in overhauled condition. It makes replacement fast and easy and if I blow a pump underway, I can do a quick swap and I am good to go.

 

[j-d]

I remember reading something about that integrated Raw Water/Fuel Pump unit. Is that the one with an oil reservoir on it? IF that's true, checking the oil in the pump needs to be part of routine checks/preventive maintenance.