Solved my problem!  The drain hole of the water pump cover had a screw in it that was too long and was interfering with the impellar.  Derrr!!  Someone skillbilly'd it.  It had a regular hex head, so i never noticed it.  Replaced it with a M8x1.25 x 12mm bolt.  Works perfect.

**THE COVERS ARE FINE AND FIT ALL YEARS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOUR COVER IS A 'BOY' OR A 'GIRL'.