New/Old Tohatsu kicker

Ken O

Ken O

Member
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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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!
 
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.
 
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