Merc 6.2 Horizon / bravo raw water pump.

[rufescens]

Is there any raw water pump upgrade available that is superior to the stock part? We just installed used engine, and previous owner told me they had frequently replaced the pump because the (plastic) housing would fail. Impeller would still be brand new, but the housing gets distorted and will leak, etc. Thx.

 

[alldodge]

Is there any raw water pump upgrade available that is superior to the stock part? We just installed used engine, and previous owner told me they had frequently replaced the pump because the (plastic) housing would fail. Impeller would still be brand new, but the housing gets distorted and will leak, etc. Thx.

Only reason the pump would leak is if it was over tightened. Its plastic and doesn't take much torque

To answer your question, Hardin Marine makes a stainless steel pump housing and fittings. Its shinny and heavy.

I have one, and I stopped using it because of the weight and to compare pressures (installed pressure gauge). The Hardin pump has SS plates front and rear which need to be replaced to ensure it works correctly.

The OEM Merc pump cost about $100, so replacing the whole pump every other year isn't bad

https://www.hardin-marine.com/c-132-mercury-sea-pumps.aspx

 

[rufescens]

Thanks. The Hardin pump looks impressive. I was thinking it would be nice to have something that the housing is more durable, and we could just replace the impeller when necessary. We use the boat for recreational fishing, and don't like to be out of commission waiting on parts / repairs when the weather is good. Our old motor was a Gen 5 - 7.4, and I kept a couple spare impellers on hand, and could be back in the water same day if necessary. I also saw a GLM brass housing kit, #12088, but not sure if it's a match.
Our OEM part # is 46-8m0137216.

 

[alldodge]

was thinking it would be nice to have something that the housing is more durable, and we could just replace the impeller when necessary.

Note: the Hardin pump must have the wear plates also changed.

Don't see anyone having pump issues if regular maintenance is done. Impeller replacement should be done every 2 years, many get 3 and 4 years but this is just pushing it. The impeller is cheap when taking in consideration the cost of a motor when over heated.

The brass housing is ok, but I stopped using them years ago, just to many parts and to much trouble for this old guy. I use the plastic housing and put together using a 1/4 drive ratchet.

 

[hnt]

My plastic Bravo III housing is 24 years old and going strong.