First Impressions of Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set
The Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set might not sound like the sexiest piece of gear, but for anyone maintaining a classic GM 4 or 6 cylinder engine with a Delco conventional ignition system, it’s a critical component. Maintaining older engines is often more affordable than purchasing new ones. But only if you can find the right parts. Manufactured by Sierra International, this contact set promises to be a direct replacement for several OEM parts, including Chris-Craft, GLM, Mallory, Mercruiser, and OMC. This cross-compatibility is a huge selling point, potentially saving time and money on the hunt for the right replacement.
My foray into the world of ignition contact sets began with a sputtering engine on my grandfather’s old fishing boat. After trying a few other generic parts that failed quickly, I decided to give the Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set a try. Upon opening the package, the immediate impression was of solid, no-frills construction. It wasn’t flashy, but the materials appeared robust.
Compared to a cheaper, no-name contact set I previously purchased, the Sierra International offering felt noticeably more substantial. It seemed more similar to the original Delco part that had finally worn out. While the cheap part felt flimsy, this one felt like it was built to last. It also seemed comparable to a GLM contact set I had used in the past. However, the Sierra part was available at a better price point. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – a good balance of quality and affordability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set to the Test
First Use Experience
The true test of any replacement part is how it performs under pressure. I installed the Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set in my grandfather’s boat’s engine at the marina. The conditions were typical for a day on the water. It was a little humid with a slight chop on the lake. Installation was straightforward. The contact set fit perfectly into the Delco distributor without any need for modification.
After installation, the engine started almost immediately, a significant improvement over the hesitant starts I’d been experiencing. During the first few hours of use, the engine ran smoothly. There were no unexpected stalls or misfires. This was a vast improvement compared to my experience with other cheaper replacement parts.
Extended Use & Reliability
Now, several months later, the Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set continues to perform flawlessly. The boat has seen regular use throughout the fishing season, and the engine has consistently started without issue. I’ve noticed no signs of premature wear or corrosion on the contact points.
Maintaining the contact set has been minimal; just a quick inspection and a dab of distributor cam lubricant every few weeks. This is a common practice for these older ignition systems. Compared to the previous generic set, which began to show signs of pitting and corrosion within a month, the Sierra International set has proven to be far more durable and reliable. It’s exceeding my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set
Specifications
- The Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set is designed as a direct replacement for Delco conventional ignition systems found in GM 4 & 6 cylinder engines. This is a key specification, as it dictates compatibility with specific engine types.
- It is interchangeable with Chris-Craft 16.69-00049, GLM 70020, Mallory 9-29006, Mercruiser 34235, 34235T, 35637, and OMC 380538 part numbers. Cross-compatibility with these various OEM part numbers dramatically expands the application range of this contact set.
- The set is designed to meet or exceed the original equipment quality. This is not just marketing hyperbole. It is a claim that Sierra International makes to assure customers that their products are as good, or better, than the parts they are replacing.
These specifications are crucial because they determine whether the contact set will properly fit and function in your engine. Incorrect parts can lead to poor performance, engine damage, or even complete failure. It’s always important to verify the part number against your engine’s requirements.
Performance & Functionality
The Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set performs its job admirably. The engine starts reliably, runs smoothly, and maintains consistent performance across different operating conditions. There are no noticeable weaknesses in its functionality. It does exactly what it’s supposed to do, providing a consistent spark for reliable combustion.
For an affordable aftermarket part, it exceeds expectations. The quality of the spark is consistent, leading to better fuel efficiency and overall engine performance. It’s a simple component, but a critical one, and this set handles its job flawlessly.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set is functional and straightforward. It’s a basic contact set, mirroring the design of the original Delco parts it replaces. The materials used seem to be of good quality, contributing to the overall durability and reliability of the product.
Installation is relatively simple. Anyone with basic mechanical skills and access to a service manual should be able to replace the contact set without too much difficulty. There’s no learning curve; if you’ve worked on distributors before, this will be familiar territory.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the apparent build quality, the Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set should last for a reasonable amount of time. With proper maintenance, including periodic inspection and lubrication, it should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning and lubricating the distributor cam is the main maintenance needed.
The set is also easily replaceable. Should it eventually wear out, swapping it out for a new one is a quick and simple process. This ease of maintenance contributes to its overall value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set is a self-contained replacement part. It doesn’t require any additional accessories or customization options. Its purpose is to restore the ignition system to its original functionality, rather than to enhance or modify it.
While there are no direct customization options, it’s worth noting that the contact set is compatible with a range of aftermarket distributors and ignition components designed for these engines. Upgrading other parts of the ignition system, such as the coil or spark plugs, could further improve performance.
Pros and Cons of Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set
Pros
- Direct replacement for multiple OEM part numbers, simplifying the search for the correct component.
- Affordable price point, offering excellent value for the performance and durability provided.
- Reliable performance, ensuring consistent engine starting and smooth operation.
- Relatively easy installation, even for those with limited mechanical experience.
- Durable construction, promising a longer lifespan than cheaper alternatives.
Cons
- Designed for specific engine types only. This limits its applicability to GM 4 & 6 cylinder engines with Delco conventional ignition systems.
- Requires periodic maintenance (lubrication) for optimal performance.
Who Should Buy Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set?
The Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set is perfect for boat owners, mechanics, and anyone else maintaining a classic GM 4 or 6 cylinder engine with a Delco conventional ignition system. It is an ideal solution for restoring reliable ignition performance at an affordable price. Those who value dependability and ease of installation will find this product particularly appealing.
However, if you have a different type of engine or ignition system, this product is not for you. Always double-check the part number and engine specifications to ensure compatibility.
Conclusion on Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set
The Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set is a reliable, affordable, and easy-to-install replacement part for classic GM engines with Delco ignition systems. Its cross-compatibility with multiple OEM part numbers makes it a versatile solution for a range of applications.
The price is certainly justified, considering the performance and durability it offers. Compared to cheaper alternatives that often fail quickly, the Sierra International set represents a smart investment.
I would definitely recommend the Sierra International 185311 185311 Contact Set to anyone in need of a replacement for their Delco ignition system. It’s a solid product that delivers on its promises. If your engine is sputtering and you suspect the contact set, don’t hesitate to give this one a try – it might just save you a lot of headaches and money in the long run. Give it a try and get your engine running smoothly again!