Water pump – ‘56 Firestone 30HP

[jpatti75]

Bucc,

I know a couple guys doing tests with those Honda impellers that are reporting good results, too. Well done!

I’m not sure about the 16HP models … mine is the less abundant 30 HP model, and it does not have the baffle plate. There is, however, a big rubber gasket/grommet at the base of the crankshaft to seal off where the crankshaft mates with the driveshaft. They must have wanted provide the crankshafts/driveshaft a little extra protection from water since the water pump is spewing water from the four holes in the cover so close by.

JP

[frankr]

I sort of remember a service bulletin concerning that boot to protect the splines.

[jpatti75]

It’s a fairly substantial boot, protruding about 1.5” from the base of the powerhead. Seems to have done its job for the last 65 years, as the splines are still in great shape. I still slathered everything with a generous amount of grease prior to assembly.

[Buccaneer]

One of my 7.5’s splines are good, the other “so – so”, so thanks for the reminder
about water intrusion to the splines.
The “grab handle” assembly plate covers the top of the LU housing, and
has a cork gasket affair where the driveshaft goes through. I’ll have to
make sure that’s in good order.

Prepare to be boarded!

[Author]

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