Let’s Dive into Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in
As someone who’s spent over a decade wrenching on boats and their complex stern drive systems, I’ve learned that the smallest parts can make the biggest difference. Enter the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in, a seemingly insignificant component that plays a critical role in the longevity and smooth operation of OMC and Volvo Penta stern drives. This isn’t some flashy new gadget, but rather a vital piece of the puzzle that keeps your boat running reliably.
I was chasing a persistent vibration in my own boat’s Volvo Penta outdrive, and after replacing what I thought were the culprits, I discovered excessive play in the thrust bearing. The Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in became a potential solution for addressing this wear and play within the stern drive assembly.
Upon receiving the shim, I was immediately impressed by the clean, precise machining. The shim appeared to be of high-quality material, with uniform thickness and a smooth surface finish. It felt robust and well-made, assuring me of its ability to withstand the stresses within the stern drive.
Similar products from other manufacturers, like those offered directly by Volvo Penta or aftermarket brands like GLM, exist. I chose the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in because of Sierra’s reputation for producing quality replacement parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications, and the appealing price point. The product’s interchangeability with various OEM part numbers further solidified my decision.
I was cautiously optimistic. Could such a small, seemingly inexpensive part really make a noticeable difference in the performance and smoothness of my boat’s outdrive? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test of the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in took place on my 21-foot cabin cruiser, powered by a Volvo Penta 5.0L engine. The boat was launched into the choppy waters of the Chesapeake Bay, a frequent proving ground for my nautical experiments. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic hand tools and a service manual for reference.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The persistent vibration that had been plaguing my boating experience was significantly reduced. The outdrive felt tighter and more responsive, and the engine seemed to run smoother overall.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and nearly 50 hours of boating, the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in continues to perform flawlessly. There are no new vibrations, no signs of increased play, and no indications of premature wear. The shim is performing as expected and appears to be holding up well under regular operating conditions.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent; the shim is a fit-and-forget component. Its durability, however, will be fully tested over years of use. So far, the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in is definitely outperforming my expectations, especially considering its relatively low cost.
Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in
Specifications
- Thickness: The Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in measures exactly 0.015 inches thick. This precise thickness is critical for achieving the correct thrust bearing clearance within the stern drive.
- Material: The material appears to be a high-quality steel alloy, chosen for its durability and resistance to wear. This is vital for withstanding the constant thrust loads encountered in a marine environment.
- Interchangeability: This shim is designed to be interchangeable with various OEM part numbers, including OMC Stern Drive 3852563, 911839, and Volvo Penta 3589522, 3589524, and 3852563. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile option for a wide range of stern drive models.
- Application: Specifically designed for use in OMC stern drive and Volvo Penta applications. This ensures proper fit and function within these specific outdrive systems.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in is to restore proper thrust bearing clearance within the stern drive. This reduces vibration, prevents premature wear on other components, and ensures smooth, efficient power transfer. The Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in performs its job exceptionally well.
Its strength lies in its precision and compatibility. I haven’t found any weaknesses so far. The Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and ease of installation.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The material is precisely cut to the correct dimensions, guaranteeing a snug fit and optimal performance. There’s no ergonomic consideration with a shim; it’s purely a functional component.
It is a straightforward, drop-in replacement part, meaning that it requires no special tools or skills to install. The process is made simpler by consulting a service manual.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from a durable steel alloy, the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in should last for many years under normal operating conditions. The shim should last as long as the surrounding components.
Maintenance is minimal, only needing inspection during routine stern drive servicing. No cleaning or special care is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no accessories that come with the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in. This product is meant to be a direct replacement part and requires no modifications. The key customization aspect is using the correct thickness of shim to achieve the optimal thrust bearing clearance, which may require using multiple shims of varying thicknesses.
It is compatible with any outdrive system that accepts the aforementioned OEM part numbers. No additional accessories are needed.
Pros and Cons of Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in
Pros
- Provides a cost-effective solution to restore proper thrust bearing clearance.
- Interchangeable with multiple OEM part numbers, offering broad compatibility.
- Reduces vibration and wear, improving stern drive performance and longevity.
- Easy to install with basic hand tools.
- Sierra’s reputation for quality ensures a reliable replacement part.
Cons
- Requires proper diagnosis of the problem to ensure it’s the correct solution.
- May require the use of multiple shims to achieve optimal clearance.
Who Should Buy Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in?
The Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in is perfect for boat owners and marine mechanics working on OMC and Volvo Penta stern drives. Anyone experiencing excessive vibration or play in their outdrive will find this to be a valuable and affordable solution. It is an essential part for those looking to maintain or repair their stern drive systems.
Those who are unfamiliar with stern drive maintenance and repair, or who lack the proper tools and service manuals, should skip this product. Professional assistance is necessary in such cases. The proper diagnostic tools and knowledge is required to properly install and make sure there is not more significant damage in the outdrive system.
A service manual specific to the boat’s stern drive model is a must-have accessory. Having the right measuring tools such as calipers or micrometers is important.
Conclusion on Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in
The Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in is a small but mighty component that can make a significant difference in the performance and longevity of OMC and Volvo Penta stern drives. Its precise construction, broad compatibility, and affordable price make it an excellent value for anyone looking to maintain or repair their outdrive system. The price of $16.12 is justified considering the improved performance and reduced wear it offers.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Sierra International 181713 Thrust Plate Shim 0.015in to any boat owner experiencing outdrive vibration or play. Give your boat the care it deserves and experience the difference a properly functioning stern drive can make! Take control of your boat’s performance and enjoy smooth, reliable operation on the water.