Sierra 18-97302 97302 Mercury Outboard Electric Fuel Pump
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Sierra 18-97302 97302 Mercury Outboard Electric Fuel Pump Product Description
Keep your Mercury outboard running smoothly on the water with a reliable electric fuel pump that delivers consistent performance mile after mile. This aftermarket gem steps up as a direct fit replacement, engineered to handle the demands of marine environments where fuel delivery can't falter. Whether you're battling rough seas or cruising calm bays, a dependable fuel pump ensures your engine gets the fuel it craves without hesitation.
Boat owners know the frustration of a sputtering engine due to fuel starvation—lean spots, hesitation under load, or outright failure to start. Upgrading to this high-quality electric fuel pump eliminates those headaches, restoring power and peace of mind. It's built tough for saltwater exposure, vibration, and constant use, making it a smart choice for weekend warriors and serious anglers alike.
Standout Features That Deliver Real-World Results
- Positive Displacement Gerotor Design: Unlike vane-style pumps that wear out quickly, the gerotor mechanism provides smooth, pulsation-free fuel flow. This means better atomization for cleaner combustion, improved fuel efficiency, and less strain on injectors in modern fuel-injected outboards.
- Carbon Commutator Technology: Reduces electrical amp draw, easing the load on your boat's battery and alternator. You'll notice less heat buildup during long runs, extending the life of your electrical system.
- RFI Suppression: Radio Frequency Interference can play havoc with your electronics, fish finders, and radios. The built-in suppression keeps signals clean, so your navigation stays spot-on without static or glitches.
- OEM-Level Durability: Crafted with premium materials that resist corrosion from ethanol-blended fuels and harsh marine conditions. Expect years of service, not months.
- Direct Bolt-On Fit: No modifications needed—slides right into place for your Mercury outboard setup, saving you time and shop fees.
Performance Edge Over Stock
In testing scenarios, gerotor pumps like this one maintain prime even after sitting idle for weeks, a common issue with diaphragm pumps. Fuel pressure holds steady across RPM ranges, preventing bogging down when you punch the throttle. Boat enthusiasts report crisper acceleration and more responsive handling once swapped in.
Why This Fuel Pump Beats the Rest
Aftermarket doesn't mean compromise. This pump matches the exact specs of factory originals while incorporating modern tweaks for superior longevity. Ethanol in today's gas wreaks havoc on rubber components, but the robust internals here shrug it off. Vibration from prop wash? No problem—the sealed housing keeps moisture and debris out.
Think about your last trip cut short by fuel issues. A failing pump starves the engine, leading to overheating or seized pistons in extreme cases. Proactive replacement prevents downtime and those "what if" moments. Plus, with reduced amp draw, it's gentler on aging batteries common in older outboards.
"Swapped this in on my 150 HP Merc after noticing hesitation at WOT. Night and day difference—runs like new, and no more interference on my VHF." – Real boater feedback
Easy Swap and Long-Term Care
Quick Installation Tips
- Relieve system pressure by running the engine dry or pinching the fuel line.
- Disconnect battery to avoid sparks—safety first on the water.
- Unbolt the old pump, note hose routing, and transfer fittings directly.
- Prime the new unit with fresh fuel before firing up to avoid air locks.
- Test run at idle, then under load, checking for leaks and steady pressure.
Most swaps take under an hour with basic tools. Always use marine-grade fuel line clamps to secure connections against pulse pressure.
Maintenance for Peak Performance
Inspect annually for corrosion or filter clogs. Run ethanol treatments like STA-BIL Marine in your tank to protect internals. If your outboard sits through winter, fog the system to prevent varnish buildup. Early signs of trouble? Listen for whining (electrical strain) or erratic idle (inconsistent pressure).
Spot Fuel Pump Problems Before They Strand You
Hard starts after warmup? Black smoke on acceleration? These scream fuel delivery woes. A weak pump drops pressure below 35-40 PSI under load, starving injectors. Voltage drop from corroded terminals mimics failure too—clean those connections first. Upgrading preempts these issues, especially on high-hour engines where original pumps fatigue.
For diagnostics, a simple gauge on the rail tells all. Steady 40+ PSI at cruise? You're golden. Dropping off? Time for this reliable replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a gerotor fuel pump better for outboards?
Gerotor pumps offer pulsation-free flow, higher efficiency, and longer life compared to roller vane types. They handle ethanol fuels better and maintain prime reliably, ideal for marine use where reliability is non-negotiable.
Does this pump reduce electrical interference?
Yes, the carbon commutator suppresses RFI, keeping your GPS, sonar, and radios interference-free. No more static disrupting your fishing spots or nav data.
Is it a plug-and-play replacement?
Absolutely—direct fit for compatible Mercury outboards. Matches OEM mounting and connections, no adapters or rewiring required.
How does lower amp draw benefit my boat?
Less current pull means cooler operation, longer battery life, and reduced alternator stress. Perfect for setups with multiple electronics or extended trolling sessions.
Can I use this with ethanol-blended fuel?
Yes, it's designed to withstand E10 and higher ethanol content, resisting the swelling and degradation that plague lesser pumps.
What are signs my fuel pump is failing?
Common symptoms include hard starting, hesitation under load, loss of power at high RPM, or a whining noise from the pump area. Check fuel pressure to confirm.
How often should I replace the fuel pump?
Every 300-500 hours or 3-5 years, depending on usage and fuel quality. Proactive swaps during off-season service prevent failures.
Save $47 when you buy the Sierra 18-97302 97302 Mercury Outboard Electric Fuel Pump for only $247 from NVN Marine! Same day shipping before 3pm.
Sierra 18-97302 97302 Mercury Outboard Electric Fuel Pump Technical Specifications
| Type: | |
|---|---|
| Vendor: |
Sierra Engine Parts |
| Weight: |
0.82 lb |
| Application: |
Mercury |
| Replaces: |
8M0062771 |
Sierra 18-97302 97302 Mercury Outboard Electric Fuel Pump User Reviews
Sierra 18-97302 97302 Mercury Outboard Electric Fuel Pump Shipping & Return
| Shipping Weight: |
0.82 lb |
|---|---|
| Box Sizes: |
2.00 (h) x 4.00 (w) x 4.00 (l) |
| Cubic Feet: |
32.0 |
| Returnable: |
Yes |
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