4.3 engine water pump , can you use automotive pump

[noworries1998]

I have a 4.3 mercruiser 1997 that the is leaking water from the weep hole. I have on hand an automotive water pump for a 4.3. Just wondering if I can use this pump. Is there a diffrence in the water volume they push because of the impeller in the out drive. It is a alfa gen II.

 

[Don S]

Re: 4.3 engine water pump , can you use automotive pump

Assuming you are talking about the engine circulating pump, I wouldn't on a raw water cooled engine. Marine are stainless backing plates with bronze impellers, heavier bushings and seals to deal with different water conditions.

 

[PS94]

Re: 4.3 engine water pump , can you use automotive pump

And, the 4.3 automotive pump has lines for heater core, which need plugged or tied in somewhere... and doesn't fit too well....my local NAPA got me the proper marine pump, for $60, overnight....and I'm up north by alaska!!!