T&T: Impeller removal

[Albin43SDtr]

Mike and all Cummins 5.9 Owners,

>Does anyone have a simple method  (or even a not so simple method) to remove
>the raw water impeller from a Cummins 5.9?

The Celestial is currently in the yard getting some extensive work 
done at Dog River Marina in Mobile. The Celestial has twin Cummins 
6BT5.9M engines. While talking with the engine shop supervisor, he 
said they always remove the entire raw water pump in order to change 
the impellers on 5.9 engines. He said that they remove the pump as it 
doesn't take any longer and then they can inspect the bearings and 
seal for wear. I asked about the gasket in the pump mount and was 
told that they seldom have to replace it as it is a fairly thick on 
and comes off cleanly.

The reason that they consider it easier and just as fast, is that the 
pump is held on by two accessible bolts and, of course, the hoses 
have to be removed. (Remove the hoses first so that water will not be 
able to drain into the open hole left by the pump. They then have 
easy access to that pesky back screw that holds the impeller cover 
on. The pump has weep holes that can be inspected for signs of water 
leakage and the shaft bearing can be checked for wear.

I have always just removed the screws holding the cover and removed 
the impellers using needlenosed pliers. I also use Never-Seize or 
something such to make removal easy.

I think I still prefer to just remove the impeller cover, but wanted 
to report how the "experts" do it.


Take care and be safe.

Wayne
Celestial
Albin 43 Sundeck
Near Panama City, FL