Loss of AC Pump Prime

[JD5652]

Since we have been running the 58 LRC up the ICW since 6/2/19... we have lost the prime on the air conditioning pump about a dozen times. Only happens while underway. Checked and cleaned the strainer... strainer was "mudded up" a little..... tightened all hose clamps... none were really "loose".... hose from thru-hull to pump appears to be in very good condition with no cracks.....

Anyone expernece this on similar Hatteras or have any thoughts on other possible thigns to check??

Thanks in advance!

[CTdave]

I had a similar situation a while back. I replaced the impeller and the problem was solved. I'm not saying this is the problem that you're experiencing but it sounds like it. Even after being hauled out of the water, I've never had to prime the pump.
Good luck!

[jim rosenthal]

Could the passage of seawater across the external strainer be sucking the prime out of the inlet hose?I believe this could happen with a mushroom type strainer. With a scoop strainer, not so likely.

[Pascal]

I don’t think an LRC can go fast enough for flow to be disrupted or Air to be ingested assuming the pump is in good condition

What kind of pump do you have? Some of the Cruisair branded pumps or Scott Punp have metal impeller that will either corrode or erode with time resulting in a weaker pump which may not be able to suck water under way

Also check for obstruction inside the seacock and outside the scoop. If it only happens underway I doubt that s the problem but you never know. So many times I have open a strainer lid and gotten a healthy flow yet under pump suction something would just clog flow

[SKYCHENEY]

I loose prime after a run but not while underway. I replaced my Oberdorfer pump with a March. Still have the same issue.

[Pascal]

That s weird. What kind of TH cover do you have? Scoop?