New/Old Tohatsu kicker

Ken O · Posted: Thu Sep 24, 2020 8:03 pm Post subject: New/Old Tohatsu kicker

It looks like I will be acquiring an "almost new" 2007 Nissan/Tohatsu 9.8 for the kicker on my C-22 Cruiser. The seller says that it only has 20 hours on it. I talked to the mechanic that tested it out and he agrees it is "like new." Proper storage, draining fuel, no ethanol gas all have been discussed and I believe the seller.

My question is: Should I replace that 13-year-old impeller or just carry a spare? I'm thinking it won't be worn out, but it might be brittle. Any thoughts? Thanks.

bshillam · Posted: Thu Sep 24, 2020 8:56 pm Post subject:

Cheap insurance.

hardee · Posted: Fri Sep 25, 2020 12:53 am Post subject:

Knipet · Posted: Fri Sep 25, 2020 6:18 am Post subject:

Replacing an impeller is a very easy job, especially on a small engine where the lower end is not very heavy. Watch a couple of YouTube videos (there are plenty out there) and you will see how straight forward it is.

thataway · Posted: Fri Sep 25, 2020 10:06 pm Post subject:

If the engine has not been run, it vanes of the impeller will take a "set" and fail. Also the being brittle applies...Change it.

Ken O · Posted: Sat Sep 26, 2020 6:36 pm Post subject:

Thanks for all the info. I looked up the impeller at the Tohatsu/Nissan parts site and it goes for $18.43. The gaskets are a few dollars each. Done deal!

starcrafttom · Posted: Wed Sep 30, 2020 1:57 pm Post subject:

I would replace the 13 year old low hour impeller before I would replace a 5 year old high hour impeller. Yes you can wear out an impeller but the what really causes them to fail is " setting up" Just sitting there uunused and dry causes them to get brittle and crack and shrink. any impeller that just sits for a few years should be replaced before one that gets used a lot. Low hours is not always good for a motor compared to a motor the same age that is getting used.