I decided it was time to switch impellers. I was running a skat-trak 10-18 that was installed by the previous owner of my SJ. It is awesome in the mid and top end, but I don't care about top end, so I ordered a Hooker 9/15. I have read horror stories of impeller removal so I was prepared, but I figured mine wouldn't be too bad since this is a freshwater ski. I was wrong.
After many failed attempts of removal (yes, I knew these were left hand threads) and application of heat via propane torch and eventually acetylene, I broke the drive shaft in two pieces. It sheared off right at the front of the impeller.
Oops.
Now I had to figure out how to get this impeller off so I could save my stock pump. I used a 3/4" carbide endmill to plunge straight through the prop and driveshaft.
This worked and the prop fell off, so if anyone is interested in a Skat-Trak 10-18 with a 3/4" hole through it, I know where you can get one.
Now at least I can press out the shaft, seals, and bearings for replacement and have a functional stock pump again. I decided it was a good time to upgrade to the Solas (yes, I know I just saved my stock pump but what the hell) so I ordered one from Jetmaniac (of course) along with a new driveshaft for it. In the mean time I decided to work on my reduction nozzle a bit. Chris recommended an 85mm bore on the reduction nozzle, so I went ahead and did that. I filled the siphon fitting with two-part epoxy and set it up in the CNC mill and came up with this.
The siphon fitting still protruding into the flow of water was bothering me, so I grabbed a mini belt sander and smoothed it out like this.
Not perfect, but not too bad.
I'll post more when the Solas arrives. USPS tracking says it will be here tomorrow, so I have my fingers crossed. Props to Jetmaniac for getting these parts out quick to get me back on the water this weekend! (no pun intended)