Mercury Marine Water Tube Bushing – Fits Alpha Drive Models (Replaces 23-816599, 23-8165991)
Mercury Marine Water Tube Bushing – Fits Alpha Drive Models (Replaces 23-816599, 23-8165991) is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
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Worry-free returns
Worry-free returns
You may return most new, unopened items within 7 days of delivery for a full refund. We'll also pay the return shipping costs if the return is a result of our error (you received an incorrect or defective item, etc.).
You should expect to receive your refund within four weeks of giving your package to the return shipper, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly. This time period includes the transit time for us to receive your return from the shipper (5 to 10 business days), the time it takes us to process your return once we receive it (3 to 5 business days), and the time it takes your bank to process our refund request (5 to 10 business days).
If you need to return an item, simply login to your account, view the order using the "Complete Orders" link under the My Account menu and click the Return Item(s) button. We'll notify you via e-mail of your refund once we've received and processed the returned item.
Delivery and Shipping
Delivery and Shipping
Free standard shipping on all orders under 1 KG
Mercury Marine Water Tube Bushing – Fits Alpha Drive Models (Replac...
Product Details
This aftermarket Mercury Marine Water Tube Bushing is an essential component for various Mercury/Mercruiser sterndrive Alpha and TRS drive systems manufactured between 1990 and 1995. It provides a critical seal for the water tube, preventing leaks and ensuring proper engine cooling.
This part is a direct cross-reference for Mercury and Quicksilver part numbers 23-816599, 23-8165991, and 8165991.
- Installation Method: Press-fit
- Housing Color: Black
- Quantity: Sold individually
Part Number Matrix
Use this matrix to confirm equivalent references across OEM and aftermarket suppliers.
| Brand | Part Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury / Mercruiser | 23-816599 | Original part number, superseded by 23-8165991. |
| Mercury / Mercruiser | 23-8165991 | Current OEM replacement number. |
| Mercury / Mercruiser | 8165991 | Alternate OEM part number. |
Engine & Model Compatibility
Confirm your engine model and year in the table below to ensure correct fitment.
| Brand | Model | Years | OEM Part No. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | ALPHA | 1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA [1.32:1] | 1991–1992 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA [1.50:1] | 1991–1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA [1.65:1] | 1990–1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA [1.84:1] | 1991–1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA [1.98:1] | 1991–1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA [2.40:1] | 1992–1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA [TRANSOM] | 1991–1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | TRS [1.50:1] | 1995 | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
| Mercury | ALPHA ONE GEN II | 1996 and up | 23-816599/23-8165991 |
Technical Specs
- Product Type
- Water Tube Bushing
- Installation
- Press-fit
- Housing Color
- Black
- Product Dimensions
- 8.5" L x 7.0" W x 2.5" H
- Weight
- 0.0050 lb (2.3 g)
- Warranty
- 1 year factory warranty against defects and workmanship
What’s in the Box
- 1 x Water Tube Bushing (Replaces 23-816599/23-8165991)
Installation Notes
- Before starting, ensure the engine is off, cool, and disconnected from any power source.
- Access the sterndrive's water tube housing assembly according to your drive's service manual.
- Carefully extract the old bushing. Avoid damaging the housing and note the original part's orientation.
- Thoroughly clean the housing seat, removing any old sealant, corrosion, or debris.
- Align the new bushing and use a suitable press or bushing driver tool to install it evenly until it is fully seated. Do not hammer the part into place.
- Reassemble all components in the reverse order of disassembly.
- Once reassembled, start the engine and check carefully for any water leaks around the new bushing.
Troubleshooting & FAQ
How can I confirm this bushing fits my sterndrive?
This bushing is designed for select Mercury Alpha and TRS drive systems from 1990–1995, as well as Alpha One Gen II models. To ensure a perfect match, check your model and year against our detailed compatibility table. Verifying your existing part number against 23-816599 or 23-8165991 is the most reliable method.
What symptoms indicate a worn-out water tube bushing?
Common signs of a failing bushing include water leaks around the sterndrive unit, engine overheating from improper water circulation, or visible damage like cracks and hardening when you inspect the old part.
Do I need a special tool for installation?
Yes, a press-fit installation is required. Using a proper bushing driver or press ensures the part is installed straight and securely without damage. Applying uneven force or hammering the bushing can crack it or damage the drive housing.
Is this an OEM or aftermarket part?
This listing is an aftermarket replacement (not OEM). Built to OEM-level specifications with comparable materials. Manufactured in an ISO 9002 facility, batch-inspected for consistency.
What are the shipping speed and cost?
We ship worldwide quickly—typical transit 5–15 days. Standard shipping is free; expedited options appear at checkout where available.
What is the warranty and return policy?
Covered by a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects under normal use. If issues arise, contact support with your order details. Returns are accepted within our standard window (unused & in original condition). See our policy page or reach out for instructions.
Safety & Important Info
- Verify images/specifications vs your original part. If anything differs—even if your model appears compatible—do not purchase.
- This is an aftermarket replacement, not an OEM component.
- Professional installation is recommended for safety and performance.
About Sea Sierra
- Pro-Grade Standards — We supply marine parts engineered to OEM-level tolerances and tested for real-world conditions.
- Fast Global Fulfillment — Free standard delivery to most regions in 5–15 days.
- Manufacturer-Direct Value — Fair pricing without compromising on materials or QC.
Payment & Security
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