They crack between the vanes and the shroud on the exit side. Mostly from hydraulic shock when the pump loads. If you let it go unchecked long enough, chunks of the vanes could break off and damage the bowl. When the pump unloads, you have to take your foot out of it before it takes a gulp. Driving style plays a big part. If you baby it, it will never break. If you beat on it, it will eventually give it up.
My stock 304 shaft twisted the splines before my MPD detailed Berkeley B+ gave up.
When you upgrade to a SS impeller, you will want to upgrade your shaft to 17-4.