Alpha 1 Gen 2 plastic coupling broke and deformed

[rekit]

1997 Merc Alpha 1 Gen2. I'm changing out the water pump in the drive with a Sierra kit, and the white plastic pipe above the coupling was found broken in two and looked like it got hot and deformed. The pump was still OK, and I've never had an overheating issue. I don't see what purpose this part serves, but I'll get a new one if I need to. See pics. Also there is a slot in the coupler-which way should it face? There are two black plastic seals or caps in the Sierra kit that I don't seem to have in my drive. The inner diameter is the same as the driveshaft, but have no rubber like a seal would. They are probably for another drive-just wondering. Thanks.

 

[Don S]

Re: Alpha 1 Gen 2 plastic coupling broke and deformed

It's there to line things up when you put it back together. If it's melted, you have an overheat problem, the engine may run under 180?, but it's running hotter than normal, due to lack of water flow. Time to check the manifolds and risers. If they plug up, you can have the best pump in the world and still overheat the exhaust.

 

[rekit]

Re: Alpha 1 Gen 2 plastic coupling broke and deformed

Thanks for the quick reply. I was hoping to have some time for an adult beverage while I was waiting, though. I'll check the manifolds and risers.