Aftermarket parts confusion.

[Daniel1947]

I need information please on pro's and con's of aftermarket parts as it relates to OEM. As an experienced automotive mechanic, with many years experience, I know that when I want gaskets - go with FelPro, when it comes to hard parts, pistons or bearings, etc. there is confidence in purchasing Sealed Power, etc. I am sure you Mercury outboard experts (of which I am not) understand what I am trying to find out. I have torn down my 89 V6 Mercury 150HP, one cylinder was bored oversize because of a burnt piston. Everything looks fine, but plan to replace one piston, all other rings, plus a few bearings, the gaskets, etc., I have seen unbelievable price differances between Mercury prices and aftermarket. I guess my main question boils down to this for an example, How much better or inferior is a Mercury OEM piston, compared to a Sierra, Mallory, Wiseco, etc.? Is that price differance really worth it? Does anyone have any "bad" experience with any certain brand that they might suggest I stay away from? I can do the work, but I need the parts advice. Thanks to all that will reply and to all that have helped in the past.