I need to replace the raw water pump on one of my 465/502's- has anyone used the Sierra pumps or is this one of those items I should stick with the Mercruiser part?

Thanks in advance for your help,
Rick

I prefer the Mercrusier pumps, they usually last longer than the Sierra. Shop the part # online and print a copy of the cheapest Merc part you find. Then call West Marine's 800# and tell them you want a price match. As long as it is a U.S. based company, and they stock the part they will match the price. When you do this in advance the person on the phone will give you a code for an in store discount and you can get your part right away. You can also bring the copy of the webpage into the store and the manager will price match it for you. I do both just to make sure I do not have problems.

John

If your talking about the Merc Bravo seawater pump, there is a bronze version of the aluminum housing. I am not sure who makes it but I think its Sierra, and I found it on Ebay. It is only slightly more than the plastic and aluminum body Merc pump, but should last far longer.

Jabsco pump is the best replacement you can go with. Yes it is pricey but it is all bronze and works beautifully. Its impellers also have two or three more fins.

http://www.pumpagents.com/JabscoPumps/432100001.html

Double-check that pump- it might only work with v-belt drives and not serpentine belt drives: I dont know if the merc part is interchangeble.

http://www.diamondperformanceparts.c...cat=250&page=5

Great- thanks for the info!

That is true, I dont know. I have a V Belt setup so it works wonderfully with mine.

If your talking about the plastic housing I kn ow several guys that have all had problems with them......I'll pay extra for the Merc when it comes to this item.

I am not sure what you are saying- the Merc IS a plastic housing, along with an aluminum snout for the pully. I am on the Chesapeake near Annapolis with brackish water which is hard on the Merc water pump.