Marine water circulation pump vs. Automotive

[dlogvine]

I'm looking to buy a water circulating pump for 2002 mercruiser 4.3 v6. Looks like an automotive pump is the same as the marine version and at least $40 cheaper. I cant think of any significant differences that could make a regular chevy pump unusable in marine application. Or am I wrong? Can paint the pump with anticorrosion paint. Thx

 

[achris]

Automotive - Impeller is pressed tin, seal is steel, backing plate is steel.
Marine - Impeller is cast brass (and bi-directional), seal is stainless, backing plate is stainless...

Apart from that, yes they are the same

Chris......

 

[wellcraft-classic210]

Hi
I believe the parts inside the pump ( fins on the impeller ) have added corrosion resistance to hold up on open loop cooling systems with no antifreeze or corrosion inhibitors present

The experts may be able to elaborate.

 

[wellcraft-classic210]

Looks like Achris provided the answer while I was typing.

 

[achris]

looks like achris provided the answer while i was typing.

 

[Scott Danforth]

if you have a heat exchanger, it doesnt matter. however if you are raw water cooled, see Chris's comment....you need a marine pump

 

[Lou C]

Don't get into thinking that automotive parts will work in a boat, that is a recipe for disaster! Marine carbs, alternators starters and distributors are all different for safety reasons. An auto pump in a raw water marine application will fail in short order leaving you stranded.

 

[aimlow]

Don't get into thinking that automotive parts will work in a boat, that is a recipe for disaster! Marine carbs, alternators starters and distributors are all different for safety reasons. An auto pump in a raw water marine application will fail in short order leaving you stranded.

This. Plus, some pumps spin the opposite direction on a SBC. Marine pump has straight impeller blades and worh either direction.