OEM or Aftermarket parts

[cannonman]

As I get closer to getting the boat out for another season, I have a few engine maintenance chores to perform. How many of you feel that buying OEM parts is the best way to go compared with the lower priced aftermarket parts from places like here at iboats.com? Opinions please.

 

[Georgesalmon]

Re: OEM or Aftermarket parts

I usually but a lot of aftermarket stuff with few problems. Depends on the parts your looking for I guess. If something internal maybe OEM, but with normal maintenance like water pump, plugs, filters etc, aftermarket has done fine by me. Others may have different experiences. IMHO

 

[skydiveD30571]

Re: OEM or Aftermarket parts

I usually but a lot of aftermarket stuff with few problems. Depends on the parts your looking for I guess. If something internal maybe OEM, but with normal maintenance like water pump, plugs, filters etc, aftermarket has done fine by me. Others may have different experiences. IMHO

To add to that, OEM bellows are generally preferred over aftermarket brands. For impellers, filters, spark plugs/wires, cap/rotor, lubes/oils, aftermarket is just fine (many people say to stay away from Mallory products but I cannot comment on them. I stick with Sierra).

 

[pyrotek]

Re: OEM or Aftermarket parts

The deeper the part is in the engine and more disassembly that is required (which is the usual case), the more I stay with OEM. If its easy to replace, go with aftermarket.

I replaced my manifolds and risers with aftermarket which was a good choice. However after some convincing from people on this forum, I didn't use the aftermarket gaskets that came with them. I ordered OEM and once received was very suprised at the quality difference. The OEM's were metallic and the aftermarket was cheap paper.

So in all, I'm about 80% OEM and 20% aftermarket.

I think you need to choose based on the part.