Posted by Lighthouse Marine Supply on Sep 8th 2025
Avoid Engine Trouble: Be Prepared with a Backup Impeller
When you’re out on the water, peace of mind comes from knowing your engine is ready for anything. One small but critical part—your impeller—can make the difference between a great day on the water and an unexpected tow back to shore. Here’s why understanding your impeller and carrying a backup is a smart move for every boater.
What Is an Impeller and What Does It Do?
The impeller is a small, rubber component inside your engine’s water pump. Its job is to move water through the cooling system, keeping your engine running at the right
temperature. Without a functioning impeller, your engine can quickly overheat, leading to costly repairs or even engine failure.
Why Do Impellers Fail?
Impellers wear out over time—rubber blades can crack, break, or become brittle from age, heat, or lack of use. Running your engine dry (even for a short time) can destroy an
impeller in minutes. Debris sucked into the cooling system can also cause damage.
Signs Your Impeller Needs Attention:
Unexpected Failures: Even with regular maintenance, impellers can fail without warning. Having a spare means you’re prepared for the unexpected.
Quick Fix, Less Downtime: Replacing an impeller is a straightforward task for most DIY boaters and mechanics. With a backup on board, you can fix the problem and get back on the water—no waiting for parts or costly tows.
Protects Your Investment: Running an engine without water flow can cause serious internal damage. A quick impeller swap can save you thousands in repairs.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have the right parts on hand lets you enjoy your time on the water, worry-free.
Tips for Impeller Maintenance:
Not sure which impeller fits your engine? Our team at Lighthouse Marine Supply is here to help you find the right part and offer tips for easy replacement.
Need a new impeller or a backup for your next trip? Shop online for Johnson Pump Impeller Kits, Outboard Impellers & Water Pump Kits, Stern Drive & Inboard Impellers Kits, or stop by our Riverhead store. We’re always happy to help keep you on the water.
What Is an Impeller and What Does It Do?
The impeller is a small, rubber component inside your engine’s water pump. Its job is to move water through the cooling system, keeping your engine running at the right
temperature. Without a functioning impeller, your engine can quickly overheat, leading to costly repairs or even engine failure.
Why Do Impellers Fail?
Impellers wear out over time—rubber blades can crack, break, or become brittle from age, heat, or lack of use. Running your engine dry (even for a short time) can destroy an
impeller in minutes. Debris sucked into the cooling system can also cause damage.
Signs Your Impeller Needs Attention:
- Engine is running hotter than normal
- Reduced water flow from the tell-tale
- Unusual noises from the water pump
- It’s been more than a year or 100 hours since your last replacement
Unexpected Failures: Even with regular maintenance, impellers can fail without warning. Having a spare means you’re prepared for the unexpected.
Quick Fix, Less Downtime: Replacing an impeller is a straightforward task for most DIY boaters and mechanics. With a backup on board, you can fix the problem and get back on the water—no waiting for parts or costly tows.
Protects Your Investment: Running an engine without water flow can cause serious internal damage. A quick impeller swap can save you thousands in repairs.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you have the right parts on hand lets you enjoy your time on the water, worry-free.
Tips for Impeller Maintenance:
- Inspect and replace your impeller at least once a season or every 100 engine hours
- Always use the correct impeller for your engine model—check your manual or ask our team for help
- Store your spare impeller in a cool, dry place on your boat, along with the tools you’ll need for replacement
Not sure which impeller fits your engine? Our team at Lighthouse Marine Supply is here to help you find the right part and offer tips for easy replacement.
Need a new impeller or a backup for your next trip? Shop online for Johnson Pump Impeller Kits, Outboard Impellers & Water Pump Kits, Stern Drive & Inboard Impellers Kits, or stop by our Riverhead store. We’re always happy to help keep you on the water.