Optimax 115hp Water pump replacement

[jlplitz]

In need of some wisdom from fellow boaters.I have a 2004 Merc Optimax 115hp that i bought new back 2005.I have been reading that the water pump should be changed around 100hrs of use.The smart craft guage shows i have 140 hours on the motor,but when using the boat last summer the smart craft guage was showing 2-4 psi at idle and 12-14 psi at full speed and the pee stream was strong.I've been good at doing at doing all the other maintenance on the motor except for dragging my feet on changing the water pump.Do you guys think i'll be good to go the spring since all the water pressure readings were good last year.

[gonz]

For me, I would since it sounds like it has never been replaced. It is probably ok, but it is now 10 years old and the rubber is getting older and I wouldn't risk a piece breaking off into my expensive motor. It is easy to replace if you have the impeller and maybe a gasket. If not comfortable doing it yourself, it shouldn't be that expensive at a reputable mechanic. Also, I would check the lower unit grease also if you haven't.

Gonz

[fishs]

Just did mine for the first time on a 2006 150 opti. The kit OEM which included a new housing, couple gaskets and impeller cost around $40.00. Lower unit is quite heavy and should be removed and replaced with 2 people. Good utube clips on how to change. Every thing was working fine I just thought it was time. Impeller looked great but one of the gaskets had turned to mush. Changed the one on my 06 9.9 kicker while I was at it also. Water was pissing out strong on that motor too. That impeller had a fin broke off. Long story short answer. Yes, change it.

[buckwheatNY]

I'm getting ready to do mine this spring. Do you know the part # for the 150 Opti. have the motor. Thanks

[outdoorsron]

Hello: I would change it. Not that hard to do with 2 people, not real expensive. Like fishs says watch youtube for How to videos. Good Luck this season. O - R

[fishs]

2006 150 Merc Optimax OEM part # for water pump kit 96148A8. Double check with your serial number. I would guess that it is the same.