Modifying water pump to increase pressure.

[Tesorodeoro]

Has anyone modified a Honda WX15 or WH15 water pump to increase pressure by machining the volute/impeller? I know this was a mod. That folks used to do on Keene pumps.

I’ve spoken to Keene and they said they would make whatever I needed, but it’s kind of spendy for what I’m trying to do.

Lower volume/high pressure/head.

 

[N-Lionberger]

I haven’t but I am curious as I have both of those pumps. What kind of modification are you talking?

 

[Tesorodeoro]

I haven’t but I am curious as I have both of those pumps. What kind of modification are you talking?

Reducing the clearance between the volute and impleller. I’ve not had one apart yet, but I believe that would increase the pressure and head. I need to look at a parts diagram. I just remember my dad modifying a Keene pump for a dredge. We are talking thousandths.

 

[Tesorodeoro]

Honda’s high pressure pump leaves a lot to be desired as far as pressure goes.

 

[N-Lionberger]

Reducing the clearance between the volute and impleller. I’ve not had one apart yet, but I believe that would increase the pressure and head. I need to look at a parts diagram. I just remember my dad modifying a Keene pump for a dredge. We are talking thousandths.

I haven’t pulled mine apart so I don’t know what the guts are like.

 

[russau]

I've never needed anymore pressure for my smaller pumps BUT I thought you would open up the opening of the Volute intake by removing a plastics ring or machining the opening and leave the impellor alone . Boy that brings back some memories !

 

[Quinc]

Cleaning up any casting marks and a light polish might help. Not sure if the pumps can handle more; but raising compression and some light porting to increase rpms/power might help with pressure. Or keep an eye out for another pump. I just picked up a used wx15 with a Hidels pump seh-40h and it has 61psi and 74gph at 7000rpms.

Edit: might also try these guys:

Pump Impeller Grinding and Surface Finishing Service | Generation Impeller

We’re dedicated to polishing impeller vanes and pump bowls to brilliant smooth surface conditions; Underfilling is the removal of material from the back side of the vane at the exit.

www.generationimpeller.com