A buddy asked me yesterday what automotive parts could be used on a marine engine, specifically the carb and fuel pump. I was under the impression that this isn't a wise move.

What is the good, the bad and the ugly of doing this?

The biggest problem is the fuel pump is not sealed off from fuel leaks if the diaphram leaks. As you know marine fuel pumps have a tube that runs from the topside of the diaphram body to the carb in case it was to fail fuel will go into the carb and not in the bilge. The Carb is sealed as well. The choke rod areas are sealed off with sleeves and the vents for the carb bowls have "J" tubes so incase of a flood over the fuel goes into the main body rather then all over the outside of the carb and intake. Also if you friend does put these items on and you get stopped and boarded by a CG person that knows of the differences it could get ugly. Its not worth it now a days. Some of the marine fuel pumps and carbs are around the same price as its street counterparts.

Flat out not worth doing... If he's building a race boat, that's one thing, but if he's working on a pleasure boat I wouldn't take the risk. We got into this the other day talking about it. Unfortunately too many people don't know the laws so they get broken. Even if it's a stupid law it's still it's still the law...

I found out that his engine builder (pleasure boat) wants to use automotive fuel components - that is why he was asking. I told him that his engine guy must be looking for a lawsuit!

Just no good reason to use an automotive parts on a pleasure boat.

I agree with Doug. Good talking to you the other night Brother!

You too Deano... Best of luck with your deals