Mercury – Fuel Pump, Bowl Down | MerCruiser Sterndrive Series | Marine-Grade Fuel System Component | 8M0073435

Overview

If you’ve ever had a sterndrive stumble at the worst possible moment—right when you’re easing away from the dock or pushing through a tight channel—you know how fast a “small” fuel issue can ruin a day. Fuel delivery is one of those behind-the-scenes systems you only notice when it’s not right. When it is right, the boat feels calm. Predictable. Ready.

This fuel pump is the kind of Mercury Marine part that brings that confidence back. It’s built for the bowl-down setup, so you’re not trying to force a mismatched pump into place or hoping the orientation won’t matter. You install it, the engine settles into a steadier rhythm, and you get that familiar feeling of being able to trust the throttle again.

Key Features

• Replacement fuel pump designed for MerCruiser sterndrive fuel delivery
• Bowl-down mounting orientation (filter bowl faces down) for the correct engine configuration
• Built to meet Mercury Marine original equipment manufacturer specifications for fit and performance
• Intended for specific MerCruiser 2.5 liter, 3.0 liter, and 3.7 liter sterndrive engines
• Designed to support steady fuel flow for smoother starts, idle, and acceleration
• Mercury Marine part number 8M0073435

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits select MerCruiser sterndrive engines:
  • 2.5 liter
  • 3.0 liter
  • 3.7 liter
• Correct for applications where the fuel pump filter bowl is mounted facing down
• Common on runabouts, bowriders, small cruisers, and classic sterndrive fishing setups

Performance & Practical Benefits

On the water, a healthy fuel pump doesn’t announce itself. It just delivers. This one is made to restore that smooth, steady feel—especially if your current pump is getting tired and showing it through hard starts, uneven idle, or a hesitation when you bring the throttle up. When the fuel supply is consistent, the engine feels more confident. Starts feel cleaner. Acceleration feels steadier. And you spend less time listening for problems that may or may not be coming.

The bowl-down detail is a bigger deal than it sounds. If you’ve ever compared parts side-by-side and realized the orientation doesn’t match your setup, you know how quickly a “simple swap” turns into frustration. This pump is built specifically for that downward-facing configuration, which helps installation feel straightforward and secure. It fits the way it’s supposed to, lines up the way it should, and reduces the odds of awkward routing or forced connections.

From a maintenance standpoint, replacing a worn fuel pump is one of those smart moves that can prevent bigger headaches later. Fuel issues can lead to lean running, poor performance, and stranded afternoons. A solid replacement pump keeps your day simple, which is the whole point of boating.

Why Buy OEM

When it comes to fuel delivery, “close enough” isn’t a comforting plan. This Mercury Marine part is produced to original equipment manufacturer specifications, which means you’re buying a component designed around the engine it’s meant to serve. That usually translates to better fitment, more reliable performance, and fewer repeat repairs compared to off-brand alternatives that may not match tolerances or orientation correctly.

If you’re trying to keep an older MerCruiser running like it should, OEM-style replacement parts are often the most cost-effective path. You install it once, it works right, and you get back to enjoying the boat instead of chasing fuel gremlins.

FAQ Section

Q1: Which Mercury engines or systems does the Fuel Pump, Bowl Down fit?

It fits select MerCruiser 2.5 liter, 3.0 liter, and 3.7 liter sterndrive engines that use the bowl-down fuel pump configuration.

Q2: What makes this part different from aftermarket alternatives?

It’s built to meet Mercury Marine original equipment manufacturer specifications and matches the correct bowl-down orientation for proper fit and function.

Q3: How do I know if this is the correct replacement for my setup?

Confirm your engine displacement and verify your current pump mounts with the filter bowl facing down. Then match the part number to 8M0073435.

Q4: Can this be used in both saltwater and freshwater applications?

Yes. Fuel pumps are used in both environments. In saltwater, good rinsing habits and routine inspections help everything last longer.

Q5: Is installation straightforward for most boat owners?

For many owners, yes—especially if you’re familiar with basic sterndrive maintenance. If you’re unsure, a marine technician can swap it quickly and safely.