R25 yanmar 110 getting at the impeller

[jimbeam]

The impeller is behind and below the alternator. They designed it facing aft and almost impossible to get at. Can't even see it. Have to feel behind the alternator and change the impeller by touch. I want to swivel the alternator in to make it easier to reach the impeller housing but I can't get the lower nut loose to swing the alt. The adjustment screw only moves the alternator in abit but stops so I figure the lower nut has to be loosened. Can't get it loose no matter how I try. Anyone know a trick or two to get it loose or move the alt in abit so I can reach around to get at the impeller?
jimbeam

 

[DBBRanger]

Do you have a generator installed? If so, that makes it even more difficult to replace the impeller because of the generator muffler and pipes. I have taken out my generator - it is much easier to replace it now. However, even with the generator installed, it is possible to replace the impeller. Try searching for Favuncleric's description of it. He doesn't have a generator, but it's basically the same. Lay down with your feet in the cabin and your chest on the engine. Put a towel under impeller to catch anything you drop. Use a mirror to see what you're doing. Use plenty of cushioning! It's doable without messing with the alternator. It's not as bad as accessing the rear thruster motor if that's any consolation!

Good Luck!

 

[doke01]

I actually lie on top of the engine and approach it from the rear. It's not easy either, but at least with a mirror/the right angle, you can actually see it.

You do have to loosen the lower and upper bolt to swing the alternator. I'm not really sure how much it will help to swing the alternator though. You'll more than likely have to remove it, and will need to be very careful with the wires. It can't hurt to loosen it, I'm on my third alternator so you'll likely need to do it at some point anyway.

Take off the adjustment bolt and grab the alternator and push-pull it side to side and it should loosen a bit. You will then need a good breaker bar. Spray it with PB-Blaster first and let it sit, then have a go.

Again though, I'd go at the impeller from the rear, I've found it to be easier.

 

[jimbeam]

Thanks for the info. My problem with the alternator is that I can't loosen the lower swing/pivot nut. I have tried and tried and no go. Now I'm afraid I might strip the nut head with the socket trying to force it. Does the nut loosen from the other end of the nut behind the alternator? That makes no sense and it is hard to get to it anyway.
jimbeam