Sierra International Solenoid Review

First Impressions of Sierra International Solenoid

The Sierra International Solenoid might not be the sexiest piece of gear in your boat or engine, but it’s arguably one of the most crucial. Without it, you’re dead in the water (literally!). As someone who’s spent years troubleshooting marine engines, I know a reliable solenoid is worth its weight in gold. The Sierra International Solenoid, manufactured by Sierra, promises to be a direct replacement for a wide range of engines, boasting compatibility with several brands.

My introduction to solenoids wasn’t exactly glamorous; it involved a frustrating afternoon stranded on a lake because of a faulty one. This personal experience is why I immediately pay attention to the features and reputation of solenoids. The promise of the Sierra International Solenoid to meet or exceed original equipment specifications appealed to me. I was looking for a reliable and readily available replacement part that wouldn’t leave me stranded again.

Upon unboxing, the Sierra International Solenoid looks like a standard solenoid – which is reassuring. It’s compact and feels solid, a positive first impression. The construction appears robust, indicating a decent level of build quality.

Compared to a generic, no-name solenoid I once used, the Sierra International Solenoid feels significantly more substantial. I also considered a GLM solenoid, but the broader compatibility list of the Sierra International Solenoid swayed my decision. The fact that it’s interchangeable with Mercruiser, OMC, and Johnson/Evinrude models gives it a clear advantage.

My first impression is cautiously optimistic. I was looking for a reliable replacement, and the Sierra International Solenoid seems promising, however, only real-world testing will reveal its true capabilities.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra International Solenoid to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Sierra International Solenoid on my father’s older Mercruiser stern drive, which had been exhibiting intermittent starting issues. The setting was our local lake – a perfect testing ground for marine equipment. Installation was straightforward, a testament to its direct replacement design.

The solenoid performed flawlessly even under slightly damp conditions when there was some light rain, quickly resolving the starting issues. There was no noticeable lag or hesitation. It started the engine right up every time during the initial tests.

No issues or surprises after the first use. The engine started reliably, which was a relief after dealing with the previous solenoid’s erratic behavior.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of regular use, the Sierra International Solenoid continues to perform without a hitch. My father uses the boat several times a week, so it’s getting consistent use. It has started reliably every time.

There are no signs of wear and tear so far. The connections are still solid and corrosion-free, which is critical in a marine environment. Cleaning is minimal; just a quick wipe down to remove any accumulated grime or salt spray.

This Sierra International Solenoid has significantly outperformed the previous aftermarket solenoid I installed a few years back. That one failed within a year. So far, this has been a noticeable improvement.

Breaking Down the Features of Sierra International Solenoid

Specifications

• The Sierra International Solenoid is designed for use in all engines with flat solenoid brackets. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of marine engines.
• It is interchangeable with Arco SW394, GLM 72360, Indmar 755005, Johnson/Evinrude Outboard 0586730, 0985064, 586842, Mallory 9-15105, Mercruiser Stern Drive 89-76416A1, MES 3364M, OMC Stern Drive 0586730, 0586842, 981703, 982189, 985064, and Pleasurecraft R130001. This broad compatibility list is a major selling point, making it a versatile replacement option.
• The package includes one solenoid. This is standard for replacement solenoids.
• Sierra states that each Sierra product meets or exceeds the original equipment part it replaces. This is a crucial claim that speaks to the quality and reliability of the product.

These specifications matter because they ensure the Sierra International Solenoid fits and functions correctly in a variety of engines. The interchangeability with multiple brands and models simplifies the replacement process and reduces the risk of compatibility issues. Meeting or exceeding OEM specifications provides confidence in its performance and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Sierra International Solenoid performs its job perfectly. It reliably closes the circuit to start the engine. The connection is consistent, and there’s no noticeable delay or hesitation during the starting process.

Its greatest strength is reliability. So far, it has proven to be consistently reliable. A potential weakness is its standard design; there are no advanced features.

The solenoid meets my expectations for a standard replacement part. It does what it’s supposed to do, reliably and consistently.

Design & Ergonomics

The Sierra International Solenoid has a standard design and a familiar look. Its weight is normal for a solenoid. The build quality appears solid, suggesting it can withstand the harsh marine environment.

The solenoid is user-friendly, with no learning curve. It is a straight replacement. The connections are easy to access and secure.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on the first three months of use, I expect it to last for several years. It is important to keep the connections clean and protected from corrosion. Other than that, there’s minimal maintenance required.

It is easily replaceable with basic tools, and requires no special skills to install. The Sierra International Solenoid is a typical engine part with limited repair options.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Sierra International Solenoid does not come with accessories beyond the solenoid itself. There aren’t any customization options, as it is a standard replacement part. It is compatible with standard wiring and connectors found in most marine engines. The compatibility with the multitude of engine models serves as a key feature itself.

Pros and Cons of Sierra International Solenoid

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Who Should Buy Sierra International Solenoid?

The Sierra International Solenoid is perfect for boat owners, marine mechanics, and anyone who needs a reliable replacement solenoid for their marine engine. It’s especially beneficial for those who want a direct replacement part that’s compatible with various brands and models.

Those looking for advanced features or diagnostic capabilities should skip this product.

Must-have accessories include dielectric grease to protect the connections from corrosion and a basic set of tools for installation.

Conclusion on Sierra International Solenoid

The Sierra International Solenoid is a reliable and cost-effective solution for replacing a faulty solenoid in your marine engine. Its wide compatibility, ease of installation, and consistent performance make it a solid choice. The Sierra International Solenoid is a functional, no-frills component that gets the job done reliably.

At $37.99, the price is justified by its performance and broad compatibility. It is peace of mind that you can trust when you’re out on the water.

I would personally recommend the Sierra International Solenoid to anyone in need of a replacement solenoid. It’s a dependable product that offers great value for the money. Don’t let a faulty solenoid ruin your day on the water – invest in the Sierra International Solenoid and enjoy worry-free boating!