Suzuki DF15A water flow question.

[ZodiacManiac]

Hi all. I changed my impeller because the old one was completely gone. I put it all together again using new original Suzuki parts for the impeller. But a no name for the lid/housing as I couldn’t find original. Water now spurts out of the tell tale perfectly and also from a small hole at the back of the engine… another smaller tell tale. Water also flows out of a large opening around the gear shift rod. My question is is it normal for water to flow out of the large hole where the rod goes in or is something not quite right? I phoned up my boat shop but only the dad’s father is there and his employee is unfortunately in hospital. I would like to get on the water tomorrow so a prompt reply from someone in the know would be great. I’ve never noticed this before but to be honest never looked for it. The engine warning light now stays off.

[Fenlander]

Frequently there is a little water from odd extra places on all makes/models but I've just looked back at an image of my old DF20AS at idle in the flush bucket and where yours is pouring out mine was small drips.

I can't remember exactly the parts but did you replace all the appropriate gaskets, seals and O-rings?

The old impeller was worse than any I've seen.

[ZodiacManiac]

Originally Posted by Fenlander

Frequently there is a little water from odd extra places on all makes/models but I've just looked back at an image of my old DF20AS at idle in the flush bucket and where yours is pouring out mine was small drips.

I can't remember exactly the parts but did you replace all the appropriate gaskets, seals and O-rings?

The old impeller was worse than any I've seen.

Thanks for replying first of all. Yes I replaced all the parts with new parts. I took the old ones off and replaced them with new parts in the same order. I saw the water and dropped the bottom of to see if something was not seated correctly… put it back together and it was flowing out of there and a hole below. Water comes out of the tell tale with a good force too.

[Fenlander]

You will have to go with what you feel, they do all vary. Mine was just 12mths old in the image I’ve looked at.

[ZodiacManiac]

I just took it apart again to see if a “water guide” was in place which it was. The edge that presses on top of the rubber bushing was a bit curved though. I did notice that in the rubber thing that goes on top of the water pump housing it has a channel built in. Maybe this is TO let water out into this area where the water was coming out. This would actually make sense as it would cool the outside housing of the water pump housing. I just don’t know for sure.

[Fenlander]

Have a look at post 7 on this thread and see if there is anything in the images or text that seems different to yours.

https://www.rib.net/forum/f36/suzuki...ice-75209.html

[ZodiacManiac]

Originally Posted by Fenlander

Have a look at post 7 on this thread and see if there is anything in the images or text that seems different to yours.

https://www.rib.net/forum/f36/suzuki...ice-75209.html

I had a look and all seems the same. The housing is water tight. I will just cancel tomorrow and see if I can contact the boat shop to see if it’s “normal”. That little channel in the grommet seems like it’s supposed to just I’ve never noticed it before I may just buy a new original pump case and new grommet and water guide. Maybe the original grommet isn’t fitting correct ly into the third party case. Anyway thanks for your time. If anyone else knows for sure please give me a nod.

[ZodiacManiac]

I thought I’d ask chatGPT: It looks as if the channel
On the grommet is a pressure release … maybe it’s a bit worn too. Maybe it’s working so well there is too much pressure. I don’t even know if CGPT is telling the truth but it was pretty convincing.

The small channel on the grommet that sits on top of the water pump in your Suzuki DF15A outboard motor is designed to help guide water flow through the cooling system in a controlled way. Specifically, this channel serves a few purposes:
1. Pressure Relief: The channel helps to release excess pressure from the water pump, preventing an over-pressurization situation that could damage seals, the impeller, or other components.
2. Air Ventilation: It can allow trapped air to escape, which helps the water pump prime itself more easily. If air is trapped in the pump, it can reduce the effectiveness of the water pump and lead to overheating.
3. Water Flow Control: This channel helps direct the water flow into the correct passageways in the cooling system, ensuring that water circulates properly through the engine and exits through the tell-tale or pee hole, indicating that the cooling system is working.
4. Draining After Use: The channel can also facilitate draining any residual water when the engine is turned off, reducing corrosion risk by allowing water to drain away instead of sitting in the pump housing.

Overall, this small channel is essential for maintaining smooth water flow, pressure control, and overall efficiency of the cooling system.

—-Asked if water flowed over pump…….—-

Yes, that small channel can allow a small amount of water to flow over the top of the water pump housing and exit through the back. This design ensures a controlled release of water, aiding in pressure relief and allowing any excess water or air trapped in the system to escape.

In normal operation:
1. Primary Flow: Most of the water pumped is directed through the engine cooling passages and exits through the exhaust or tell-tale (pee hole).
2. Overflow/Relief Path: The channel on the grommet allows a minor, controlled release of water. This water might spill over the top of the water pump housing and exit toward the back of the lower unit, helping prevent over-pressurization or air locking in the water pump.

This flow is typically small and consistent, so if you’re noticing a large amount of water escaping from this area, it might indicate a wear issue with the grommet, impeller, or pump housing. However, a small amount of water escaping over the pump housing is expected and normal.

[Fenlander]

Hmm must be a first... I've been out detailed and out worded by a bot.

[ZodiacManiac]

Originally Posted by Fenlander

Hmm must be a first... I've been out detailed and out worded by a bot.

Well it basically finds info… I found a few people chatting about it and I think that’s where it gets its info. I didn’t mean to bother you bash you. 🫤 Well I’ve decided to go for a trip tomorrow… son and one of his friends. I’ll let you know how I get on. I think maybe more water is coming out because it’s new and the pressure is high. I’ve ordered a new case/water guide/grommet… original parts. See if it helps. I’ll keep the others as spares.

[Fenlander]

>> didn’t mean to bother you bash you

No problem.

The chatbot has basically offered up the info that there may/will be water exiting at these various points to a greater or lesser extent and yours seems at the maximum whereas mine was at the minimum.

As a matter of interest I knew the phrase chatGPT but had no experience. I've looked in detail and it's interesting that it confidently gives answers with great authority to pretty well everything. However I've checked out a niche subject I'm very familiar with and it has massive errors of information but which is still presented with great certainty.

Edit: I'm in danger of having to moderate myself going off topic here but I asked chatGPT why it had the incorrect information in my niche subject. It answered like a dodgy excuse making car salesman that it could be wrong and blamed it on the multiple sources it used. Hmm one to be treated with care.

[willk]

Originally Posted by Fenlander

As a matter of interest I knew the phrase chatGPT but had no experience.

ChatGPT is full of crap - when asked what RIB.net is is says:

"RIB.net is a cloud-based platform developed by RIB Software SE that focuses on the digital transformation of the construction industry. It is designed to facilitate collaboration and communication among various stakeholders involved in construction projects, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and clients.

RIB.net allows users to manage project data, streamline workflows, and enhance decision-making processes throughout the project lifecycle. The platform often features tools for project management, cost estimation, and resource allocation, contributing to improved efficiency and productivity in construction projects.

If you have any specific questions about RIB.net or its features, feel free to ask!"

[willk]

Outta pure malice I asked it which colour of cat tastes best - it had a complete meltdown...

[ZodiacManiac]

Originally Posted by willk

ChatGPT is full of crap - when asked what RIB.net is is says:

"RIB.net is a cloud-based platform developed by RIB Software SE that focuses on the digital transformation of the construction industry. It is designed to facilitate collaboration and communication among various stakeholders involved in construction projects, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and clients.

RIB.net allows users to manage project data, streamline workflows, and enhance decision-making processes throughout the project lifecycle. The platform often features tools for project management, cost estimation, and resource allocation, contributing to improved efficiency and productivity in construction projects.

If you have any specific questions about RIB.net or its features, feel free to ask!"

“What is Rib.net forum?”

The RIB.net forum, often referred to as the RIB Forum or The Rib Shack, was a popular online community dedicated to enthusiasts of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs). These boats, which combine a rigid hull with inflatable tubes, are known for their durability, versatility, and performance, making them popular in various maritime applications like leisure boating, rescue operations, and military use.

On the forum, users discussed a range of topics related to RIBs, including:
• Boat Maintenance and Repair: Tips and advice on caring for and repairing RIBs.
• Engine and Equipment Recommendations: Reviews and suggestions for engines, navigation systems, and other equipment.
• Boating Destinations: Shared experiences and recommendations for popular boating spots and adventures.
• Buying and Selling: A marketplace for buying, selling, and trading RIBs and related equipment.

The RIB.net forum served as a central hub for RIB owners, manufacturers, and maritime enthusiasts, allowing them to connect, share knowledge, and stay updated on industry developments. Over time, it gained a reputation as one of the largest communities specifically focused on RIBs. However, as with many niche forums, some of its activity may have moved to broader social media platforms in recent years.

[smallribber]

On the original subject. I fear you might be over thinking this. Just go out in the boat and see if you have any overheating issues. Obviously do the tests in a safe place

[ZodiacManiac]

Originally Posted by smallribber

On the original subject. I fear you might be over thinking this. Just go out in the boat and see if you have any overheating issues. Obviously do the tests in a safe place

Yes I’m going out in a few hours. First a little side water/harbour and then onto a river. I’ve cured the tell tale problem and the overheating lamp. I think it’s a case of a brand new “over working” impeller producing over pressure which is expelling a bit more water than usual (I hope). It will be my last trip this year as the days are getting shorter and colder. Thanks for replying.

[ZodiacManiac]

Looks like it’s good to go… 80km today.