Aluminium

[kujawski]

Does anyone know if aluminium as used on the impellor of a car engine waterpump corrodes in seawater?

[sifellis]

are you actually putting seawater in your water pump? or are you fabricating a small boat of some sort?

When i was in the navy we had brass propellers. Plenty of chandlers sell aluminium props though, so i imagine they're fit for the purpose but the retail aluminium props are all heavily treated.

Stainless steel is usually a more common option on light water craft.

[rdv]

boats used in salt water have a sacrificial anode attached to them that needs to be replaced at intervals to limit the amount of corrosion taking place. yes salt water is highly corrosive to untreated aluminium

[kujawski]

ok reason i ask is that i have a boat with a volvo AQ170 6 cylinder engine, (same block as in a volvo 164 from the early 70's) , the water pump has worn bearings and a replacement part costs in the region of 500 pounds (which for a water pump i think is a bit over the top and i have tried every where, even replacement bearings cost in the region of 200 pounds!), hence i did a little research and found a water pump from a volvo 164 (old new stock) which was the same apart from an aluminium impellor instead of a brass one, hence my reason for asking.

[mr rusty]

Just fill your cooling system with a decent antifreeze mixed with distilled water.....I wouldn't worry about an ally impeller corroding as in most modern cars the whole engine is made from ally.

[mr rusty]

Poxy software- no edit! I meant to add, another option is an electrical water pump, which are available from most motorsport outlets for a lot less than 500 quid......here's one- https://secure.visav.co.uk/avshop/products.asp?getcats=true&cat=39&scat=93 easily fitted with a bit of thought and a reasonable level of skill!

[mr rusty]

Try again.....

https://secure.visav.co.uk/avshop/products.asp?getcats=true&cat=39&scat=93

[rdv]

Mr Rusty
although these engines are derived from auto engines they are raw water cooled, they pick up water through the sterndrive unit and it exits through the exhaust.
kujowski
contact me on [email protected]
I can help

[kujawski]

Hi,

Thanks for all your replies,