First Impressions of Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury
Water in your boat’s fuel system? It’s a boater’s nightmare, conjuring images of sputtering engines, stranded vessels, and a very bad day on the water. That’s why a reliable fuel water separator is as crucial as having a good anchor, and the Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury aims to provide that peace of mind.
My own rude awakening came years ago when a seemingly small amount of water caused my trusty Mercruiser to cough and die miles offshore. Ever since, I’ve been obsessed with finding the perfect solution, one that balances efficiency, durability, and ease of installation. The Sierra kit promises all of that.
The kit arrived well-packaged, containing the filter, bracket, and pipe plug as described. The internal epoxy coating of the filter immediately caught my eye; that’s a feature that speaks to longevity and corrosion resistance in the harsh marine environment. The bracket feels sturdy, made of what appears to be quality aluminum.
Compared to other fuel water separators I’ve used – mostly generic brands from big box stores – the Sierra kit immediately presents itself as a step up in quality. The epoxy coating and robust bracket construction suggest a product built to withstand the test of time and the corrosive nature of saltwater. I considered a Racor unit, but the Sierra kit’s seemingly simpler installation and lower price point swayed me.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. I’m eager to get this installed and see if it lives up to the promise of reliable fuel separation and improved engine performance. I’m particularly interested in the filter’s 10-micron rating and whether it can effectively remove even the smallest contaminants.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit on my 21-foot center console boat, powered by a MerCruiser 5.0L engine. The installation took about an hour, and the included bracket made mounting the separator relatively straightforward. I tested it during a day-long fishing trip in the Gulf of Mexico.
Throughout the day, the engine ran smoothly, even during periods of choppy seas and rough handling. I paid close attention to the engine’s performance, listening for any signs of hesitation or sputtering that might indicate water in the fuel. There were no such issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use – averaging two to three fishing trips per week – the Sierra fuel water separator continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve inspected the filter several times, and it’s clearly trapping contaminants, even though I haven’t seen any significant water accumulation. The external housing and bracket are showing no signs of corrosion, a testament to the quality of the materials and epoxy coating.
Maintenance has been minimal; I simply wipe down the unit after each trip to remove any salt spray. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper separators, which often showed signs of corrosion within a few weeks, the Sierra kit is a clear winner in terms of durability and reliability. The peace of mind it provides, knowing that my engine is protected from water contamination, is well worth the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury
Specifications
The Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury is designed specifically for use with MerCruiser and Mercury engines. The kit includes the Sierra 18-79911 Fuel Water Separator Filter, the Sierra 18-7853-1 Fuel Water Separator Bracket, and the Sierra 18-4256 Pipe Plug.
The filter has a 10-micron rating, meaning it filters out particles as small as 10 microns in size. This is crucial for protecting your engine from damage caused by dirt, rust, and other contaminants, as well as water. The bracket is constructed of 1/4″ aluminum for strength and corrosion resistance. The filter also features an internal epoxy coating to further protect against corrosion from the inside.
Performance & Functionality
The Sierra fuel water separator excels at its primary job: removing water and contaminants from the fuel. During my testing, the engine ran smoothly and reliably, even in rough conditions. The low-pressure drop design of the filter ensures that fuel flow is not restricted, preventing vapor locking and stalling. This is particularly important in older engines that may be more susceptible to fuel delivery issues.
The kit’s performance exceeds my expectations. The engine runs smoother and more reliably than it did with my previous fuel water separator.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit’s design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of installation and maintenance. The bracket is well-designed and positions the filter securely. The filter itself is easy to remove and replace, thanks to its standard thread size.
The weight of the kit is reasonable, and the materials used are clearly of high quality. The unit is compact and doesn’t take up excessive space in the engine compartment.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit is built to last. The aluminum bracket and epoxy-coated filter are highly resistant to corrosion, a major concern in marine environments. Maintenance is straightforward, consisting primarily of inspecting the filter regularly and replacing it as needed.
I anticipate that this kit will provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance. The quality of the materials and construction suggests a long lifespan, even in harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes everything needed for a standard installation. While there are no specific customization options for the kit itself, the filter is a standard size and can be replaced with other compatible filters if desired. Some users may choose to add a fuel pressure gauge to monitor fuel flow.
The Sierra kit is compatible with most standard fuel lines and fittings. This makes it easy to integrate into existing fuel systems without requiring extensive modifications.
Pros and Cons of Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury
Pros
- Reliable water separation: Effectively removes water and contaminants from fuel, protecting the engine.
- Durable construction: Aluminum bracket and epoxy-coated filter resist corrosion.
- Easy installation: Straightforward installation with included bracket and pipe plug.
- Low-pressure drop: Prevents fuel flow restriction, vapor locking, and stalling.
- Improved engine performance: Ensures smooth and reliable engine operation.
Cons
- May require additional fittings: Depending on the boat’s fuel system, some additional fittings may be needed for installation.
- Filter replacement cost: Replacement filters are an ongoing expense, although this is common with all fuel water separators.
Who Should Buy Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury?
This fuel water separator kit is perfect for boat owners with MerCruiser or Mercury engines who want a reliable and durable solution to protect their engines from water contamination. It’s also ideal for those who want a relatively easy installation process.
Those who should skip this product are boat owners with engines from other manufacturers, or those seeking a more high-end, feature-rich fuel water separation system with advanced monitoring capabilities.
A must-have accessory is a supply of replacement Sierra 18-79911 Fuel Water Separator Filters.
Conclusion on Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury
The Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit For MerCruiser/Mercury is a solid investment for any boat owner looking to protect their engine from the harmful effects of water and contaminants in the fuel. Its durable construction, reliable performance, and easy installation make it a standout product in its category.
The price is justified by the quality of the components and the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your engine is protected from potential damage is well worth the cost.
I would personally recommend this kit to any boat owner with a MerCruiser or Mercury engine. It’s a reliable and effective solution that will help keep your engine running smoothly for years to come. Don’t wait until you’re stranded at sea with a sputtering engine. Invest in the Sierra International 1879912 Fuel Water Separator Kit today and enjoy worry-free boating!