Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

[Doug Redinger]

I know that many parts on an automotive engine are considered a big no no on marine engines of the same design. My water pump on my mercruiser 888 is leaking, can I replace it with an automotive water pump, or will an automotive pump not hold up under marine use. Standard ( not closed ) cooling system.

 

[WizeOne]

Re: Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

.... or will an automotive pump not hold up under marine use.

You hit the nail in the head.

 

[MikDee]

Re: Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

I priced it at Mercruiser about 20 yrs ago on a lark, I figured, let me do the right thing, the guy said: "$325!" I said: "Whats it made of Gold!" So, I drove to the nearest auto supply, & picked up a rebuilt generic 302 Ford V8 water pump, but be warned, the marine unit uses an expensive stainless back plate on the back, take yours off, & switch it! Also, there were 2 heater hose pipes right in the way for mounting, I had to pull them out (not easy) and epoxy a few plugs in there! But, for $20 I could do this once a year for the next 15yrs, & still be ahead of the game! I don't know if the impellers are different but it pumps water, so what the hey!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

Location: Montana

Ayuh,..... I don't see much a chance of running in Saltwater there....

You'll get pretty good service life out an Automotive unit.......

 

[Doug Redinger]

Re: Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

Wow!!! Widely varying opinions!!! Most of my running up here is crystal clear freshwater. Hope I am not making a big mistake, but considering the huge price difference I may just try a automotive pump. Am I making a big mistake? Opinions please!

 

[CharlieB]

Re: Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

They are both right.

The major difference is the quality of materials, the backing plate and the impeller, the seal.

You are not likely to run in salt water, an automotive pump will NOT last AS LONG as a marine, but it will pump water.

No professional will go 'on record' to tell you that you can use automotive parts.

There are definitely automotive parts that SHOULD NOT be used, generally fuel and electrical related fire/explosion safety issues.

Be aware of the possible consequences of your decisions.

 

[MikDee]

Re: Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

You should be able to get a new replacement water pump from Sierra, (a Mercruiser alternative) I found part #18-3584 for about $135 for your engine, NAPA auto stores can usually get you the parts from Sierra, they normally all have the Sierra catalog.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Automotive style water pump??? 888 mercruiser

The backing plate is the main difference.It is usually stainless.Change it on your new pump and go.Jerry