• Free shipping

  • Free help & advice

  • Hassle-free returns

  • Factory direct prices

Flash Sale now on!

FLASHSALE25

Water Pump Repair Kit – Fits Mercury Outboards 65HP-V6 & MerCruiser Sterndrives (Replaces 96148A8)

Regular price $58.49
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Water Pump Repair Kit – Fits Mercury Outboards 65HP-V6 & MerCruiser Sterndrives (Replaces 96148A8) is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.


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

Free standard shipping on all orders under 1 KG

If you have any questions, feel free to email us at info@sierramarines.com, and we’ll get back to you within 20–36 hours.

Product Details

This Water Pump Repair Kit – Fits Mercury Outboards 65HP-V6 & MerCruiser Sterndrives (Replaces 96148A8) provides all necessary components to restore your engine’s cooling system. It is engineered for Mercury and Mariner 65HP (4-cylinder) through V6 outboards that use short-vane impellers. The kit also fits MerCruiser I, R, MR, and Alpha One Gen 1 sterndrives with serial numbers from 2491586 to 0D469858.

It serves as a direct replacement for Mercury/Quicksilver 96148A8, Sierra 18-3320, GLM 12120, and Mallory 9-48307.

  • Designed for direct installation, replacing OEM components without modification.
  • Includes the critical water pump base (46-44292A3) for a complete overhaul.
  • Features a durable neoprene impeller built to OEM specifications for reliable performance.

Part Number Matrix

Use this matrix to confirm equivalent references across OEM and aftermarket brands.

Brand Part Number
Mercury / Quicksilver 96148A8
Sierra 18-3320
GLM 12120
Mallory 9-48307

Engine & Model Compatibility

Confirm your engine model and serial number range in the tables below.

For Mercury/Mariner outboards, this kit fits models from 65 HP (4-cylinder) up to V6 engines that use a short-vane impeller.

For MerCruiser sterndrives, this kit is compatible with I, R, MR, and Alpha One (Gen 1) models within the serial number range 2491586–0D469858. Note that a key identifier for compatible MR and Alpha One drives is the absence of a preload pin on the vertical driveshaft.

Brand Model Rated HP OEM Part No. Notes
Mercury/Mariner 4-Cylinder Outboards 65 96148A8 Short-vane impeller models only
Mercury/Mariner V6 Outboards 75-225 96148A8 Short-vane impeller models only
Brand Model OEM Part No. Notes
MerCruiser I Drives 96148A8 Serial No. 2491586–0D469858
MerCruiser R Drives 96148A8 Serial No. 2491586–0D469858
MerCruiser MR Drives 96148A8 Serial No. 2491586–0D469858
MerCruiser Alpha One Gen 1 96148A8 Serial No. 2491586–0D469858

Technical Specs

Product Type
Water Pump Repair Kit
Installation
Direct replacement for OEM components
Housing Material
Plastic (pump housing)
Impeller Material
Neoprene (based on OEM specifications)
Housing Color
Black
Fitting Type
Direct fit to water pump base
Warranty
30-day return/replacement (retailer warranty)
Base Diameter
2.356 in (59.84 mm)

What’s in the Box

  • 1 x Water Pump Housing (46-96148A1)
  • 1 x Impeller (47-89984)
  • 1 x Water Pump Base (46-44292A3)
  • 1 x Impeller Plate (324351)
  • 1 x Water Tube Guide (23-29804)
  • 1 x Water Pump Housing Bushing (26-38970)
  • 1 x Water Pump Gasket (27-32438)
  • 1 x Water Pump Base Gasket (27-33146)
  • 1 x Water Pump Gasket (27-856081)
  • 1 x Water Pump Gasket (27-858524)
  • 1 x Water Pump Gasket (27-426311)
  • 1 x Seal Ring Gasket (26-455771)
  • 2 x Drain Screw Gasket (12-191833)
  • 1 x O-Ring (25-30613)
  • 1 x O-Ring (25-33145)
  • 1 x O-Ring (25-30224)
  • 1 x O-Ring (25-90011)
  • 1 x O-Ring (25-30271)
  • 1 x O-Ring (25-38099)

Installation Notes

  1. Disconnect the battery and ensure the engine is off and cool.
  2. Drain the lower unit gear lube.
  3. Remove the propeller and lower unit bolts, then carefully detach the lower unit.
  4. Unbolt and remove the old water pump housing assembly.
  5. Clean the mounting surfaces, removing any old gasket material or sealant.
  6. Assemble the new kit components in reverse order, starting with the base gasket and plate.
  7. Apply a light coat of marine grease to the inside of the new housing and install the new impeller, turning the driveshaft clockwise to seat the vanes.
  8. Install the new housing, O-rings, and seals, ensuring all parts are correctly aligned.
  9. Reattach the lower unit, reconnect the shift linkage, and refill with gear lube.
  10. Once assembled, start the engine with a proper water supply (flushing muffs) to verify correct pump operation and check for leaks.

Troubleshooting & FAQ

How can I be sure this kit fits my MerCruiser drive?

First, check your serial number. This kit fits drives with serials between 2491586 and 0D469858. Second, check the vertical shaft. If there is a preload pin on the shaft, this kit is NOT compatible. If there is no preload pin, this kit IS compatible with your MR or Alpha One Gen 1 drive.

What are the signs of a failing water pump?

Common symptoms include the engine overheating at idle or low speeds, a weak or non-existent "telltale" water stream, or a dry, cracked, or brittle impeller found during inspection. A damaged housing can also cause pressure loss and poor cooling.

How often should the water pump impeller be replaced?

As a general maintenance rule, the impeller should be inspected annually and replaced every 1-2 years or every 100-200 hours of operation, depending on usage conditions (e.g., more frequently in saltwater or sandy/silty water).

Why doesn't this kit fit all MerCruiser R drives?

Drives made around 1985–1986 can be confusing. If the serial number is before 6854393, it is an earlier R drive model that uses a different water pump kit, distinguished by a preload pin on the vertical shaft. This kit is for models without that pin.

Is there a difference between OEM and aftermarket parts?

This listing is for an aftermarket replacement, not an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part. It is built to meet or exceed OEM-level specifications using comparable materials and is manufactured in an ISO 9002 facility. Each batch is inspected for quality and consistency.

What are the shipping speed and cost?

We ship worldwide quickly, with a typical transit time of 5–15 days for most regions. Standard shipping is free, and expedited options are available at checkout where applicable.

What is the warranty and return policy?

This product is covered by a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects under normal use. If any issues arise, please contact our support team with your order details. Returns are accepted within our standard window for items that are unused and in their original condition. See our official policy page or reach out for instructions.

Safety & Important Info

  • Verify images and specifications against your original part before purchase. If anything differs—even if your model appears on a compatibility list—do not order.
  • This is an aftermarket replacement component, not a genuine OEM part.
  • Professional installation is highly recommended for safety, proper function, and performance.

About Sea Sierra

  • Pro-Grade Standards — We supply marine parts engineered to OEM-level tolerances and rigorously tested for demanding real-world conditions.
  • Fast Global Fulfillment — We offer free standard delivery to most regions, with an average transit time of 5–15 days.
  • Manufacturer-Direct Value — Our parts deliver fair pricing without compromising on materials or quality control.

Payment & Security

Payment methods

  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Diners Club
  • Discover
  • Google Pay
  • JCB
  • Maestro
  • Mastercard
  • PayPal
  • Union Pay
  • Visa

Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.