LT,

I'm really impressed with your story. Now, for those of us - like me - that don't have access to a machine shop, do you think these are tasks that can be reasonably accomplished free-hand with a file and or grinder? If not, do you know of shops that perform this work?

My jet pump is really old, and I've never had it apart.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.

Salmo g - One thing to consider, for you especially having an older motor, is the power loss from wear is so gradual that one doesn't recognize it. I can only imagine how many pounds of suspended sediment alone has passed through my pump. The real killer is driving the boat on the trailer. Ya know... a guy has to look cool on the river; as for myself, I will be doing a lot more hand cranking.

This topic really interested me, to the point that I pulled all my college fluid power books from the attic. The readings were a good refresher to confirm what I though was happening. I am really suprised that the manufacturers aren't doing these improvements on new pumps. They are just giving away power.

Yes, all of the operations can be accomplished w/ files, hand grinders, pedistal grinders...... I would bet that it would impove the performance but how much I don't know.

You could ask Titanium Cranium if he saw much improvement. I beleive that he did some work on his grates with a grinder of some sort.

A rough estimate to have the parts machined - starting at $150 and that would be real cheap. If you look in your local yellow pages you will find machine shops, mores specifically Job Shops. My shop would charge about $500.
When you call around to the smaller shops, remember people like cash.

I am willing to do the work on others pumps. I am all for bartering. Maybe, trade for a fishing trip for my girlfriend and I. I must say that I am definately not looking to make a fast buck.

Good luck,
LT

Well I just got back from testing my new improved impeller that was worked over by LT. It works great! I did the work on the grates myself with the bench grinder, not as cool as the mill but sufficent. Lt cut the new edges on my impeller so they are sharpened at the proper angle and of the same height. Before my cruising speed was 24 mph @ 4200, now 24@3600 or if I prefer 29@4200. Keep in mind that the before performance was from a basically new impeller, not rounded or dinged up. Very much worthwhile, Thanks for the help LT!!

Very nice!

LT

Helping out friends !