Macerator Pump Question

[Sailboattraitor]

I tried to pump the holding tank contents overboard this past weekend. (5 miles offshore is my standard location) The pump motor makes the usual humming noise, but nothing was drawn through the pump to send overboard. I turned the screw at the end of the motor and it seems to be clear of debris. I am thinking it may be an impeller issue. It is a standard Jabsco macerator pump. Can this pump be disassembled to replace the impeller or is it time for a new pump?

 

[happyhour]

I replaced the impeller in mine and then it wouldn't work. I found the replacement impeller was a little thicker so it was binding when I reassembled. A little coarse sand paper and file fixed it 3 years ago.

 

[Vic Willman]

Be sure the vent line for the holding tank isn't plugged up. If air can't come into the tank, you can't pump anything out of it.

Jabsco offers both full service kits and just replacement impellers for their macerator pumps, see right column, second entry:

http://www.boatfix.com/catalog/594.pdf

Service kit is discounted 12 dollars and change:

http://www.boatfix.com/bypage2index.asp?page=594

 

[Sailboattraitor]

Thanks, guyz. Of course, I tried to cover everything to narrow the focus on my question, but Vic caught me . . . . I was able to easily pump out the holding tank at the pump-out station, so I'm pretty sure the vent is clear and free. Impeller replacement, here I come.