1982 Southwind Engine/Impeller

Is the 351 Engine on the 1982 Southwind the same as the 1982 351 Natique engine? Our boat overheats when it idles, but cools down when we are moving, and we were told (probably) that the impeller inside the raw pump needs replaced and we can only get a part number for the Natique.

Thanks in advance for any help

Betty,
A overheat at idle typically is caused by sucking air on the suction side of the RWP (raw water pump). Check/tighten all your hose connections between the pump and the thru hull fitting and the gasket on the sea strainer if so equipped. What happens when the boat gets up to speed, water is forced into the system overcoming the air leak. It can be an impeller so it's not a bad idea to install a new one especially if it hasn't been changed in several years or if it's ever been run dry. The rubber impeller is water lubricated and if run without water it doesn't take much to trash them. It's not even recommended to run them dry even for short periods of time say for "let's see if the engine starts before we drop it in the lake". When running the engine out of the water, it's recommended to hook up the garden hose.

Jamestown distributors is a good source for impellers

Welcome to CCfan. Do you have any pictures you can post? We love pictures and always ask for them. An entry in the diary section is always welcome too.

Eh, I dry start my boat every time before heading to the lake. I get over 300 hours out of impellers.

The boat is current in North Carolina, and we are in Pennsylvania. But, we are going there this weekend and I will get the info and photo.

Thanks.

Yep, mine is always hand turned in the spring as to not rip off blades. My dry starts are just a quick fire to confirm operation.