Water Pump Impeller – Fits Mercury 3.9-9.8 HP Outboards (Replaces 47-89981)
This aftermarket water pump impeller is designed for Mercury 1-cylinder outboards, including 4 HP (1982-1985), 4.5 HP (1980-1985), 7.5 HP (1979-1986), and 9.8 HP (1979-1985) 2-Stroke models. It is built specifically for engines that use a 0.456" diameter driveshaft.
It serves as a direct replacement for Mercury OEM parts 47-89981, 47-89981Q1, 47-89981T1, and 47-89981T2, as well as other aftermarket equivalents, ensuring reliable performance for your engine's cooling system.
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Material: Constructed from durable neoprene rubber with a solid brass hub to resist corrosion in marine environments.
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Critical Fitment: Intended only for models with the 0.456" outer diameter driveshaft. Please verify your engine's requirements before purchase.
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Package Includes: 1 x Water Pump Impeller.
Part Number Cross-Reference
Use this table to confirm equivalent part numbers across OEM and aftermarket brands.
Brand |
Part Number |
Mercury |
47-89981 |
Mercury |
47-89981Q1 |
Mercury |
47-89981T1 |
Mercury |
47-89981T2 |
Sierra |
18-3039 |
GLM |
12270 |
GLM |
89810 |
Mallory |
9-45305 |
SEI Marine |
96-260-03B |
Compatible Engine Models
Confirm your engine model/year in the table below. For Mercury owners, here’s a guide to help you identify your engine’s serial/model: Mercury Serial Number Guide. You can also review exploded diagrams to verify part numbers: Mercury Parts Diagrams & Catalog.
Brand |
Model |
Rated HP |
Stroke |
Years |
OEM Part No. |
Notes |
Mercury |
1-cylinder |
4 |
2-Stroke |
1982-1985 |
47-89981 |
S/N 2498136-4107219 |
Mercury |
- |
4.5 |
2-Stroke |
1980-1985 |
47-89981 |
S/N 4107220 and up |
Mercury |
- |
7.5 |
2-Stroke |
1979-1986 |
47-89981 |
S/N 4131610 and up |
Mercury |
(Model 110) |
9.8 |
2-Stroke |
1979-1985 |
47-89981 |
S/N 1865779 and up |
Technical Specifications
Specification |
Value |
Product Type |
Water Pump Impeller |
Material |
Neoprene rubber with brass hub |
Number of Blades |
6 |
Impeller Height |
11.6 mm (0.456 inch) |
Overall Diameter |
32 mm (1.260 inch) |
Shaft Diameter |
14.4 mm (0.567 inch) |
Driveshaft Size |
0.456 inch outer diameter |
Weight |
10 g (0.022 lb) |
Warranty |
1 Year (aftermarket) |
Package Contents
- 1 x Water Pump Impeller (Replaces 47-89981)
Installation Guide
- Disconnect the negative battery cable and shift the outboard into the neutral position.
- Locate and unbolt the lower unit (gearcase) from the engine's driveshaft housing.
- Carefully lower and separate the gearcase to expose the water pump assembly.
- Remove the bolts on the water pump housing cover to access the old impeller.
- Take note of the blade orientation of the old impeller before pulling it off the driveshaft.
- Clean any dirt or corrosion from the pump housing and inspect the wear plate and housing for damage.
- Slide the new impeller onto the driveshaft, ensuring the blades are bent in the correct rotational direction (usually clockwise).
- Reinstall the water pump housing cover and its gasket, tightening the bolts to the specified torque.
- Reattach the lower unit to the upper engine casing, ensuring the driveshaft and water tube align correctly.
Troubleshooting & FAQ
Q: How do I know if this impeller fits my Mercury engine?
A: This impeller is specifically for Mercury models from 3.9 HP to 9.8 HP that have a 0.456-inch diameter driveshaft. Please measure your driveshaft or verify your OEM part number is 47-89981 before ordering. It is crucial to confirm this dimension, as a different impeller exists for other models.
Q: Will this fit my 5 HP Mercury outboard?
A: No, this part will not fit 5 HP Mercury/Mariner engines, which typically require part number 47-16154-3.
Q: What are the signs that my water pump impeller needs replacing?
A: Common signs include a weak or non-existent water stream from the "telltale" outlet, engine overheating alarms, or visible damage such as cracked, stiff, or broken blades on the existing impeller.
Q: OEM vs. Aftermarket?
A: This listing is an aftermarket replacement part (not an OEM component). We build to OEM specifications using comparable-grade materials. Production is done in an ISO9002-certified facility, and each batch is inspected for consistent performance.
Q: How fast do you ship and how much does it cost?
A: We offer fast global shipping—typically 5–15 days worldwide—and standard shipping is free. Expedited options are available at checkout depending on your location.
Q: What is your warranty and return policy?
A: This product includes a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects under normal use. If something goes wrong, contact our support team with your order details. Returns are accepted within our standard return window (unused & in original condition); please see our policy page or reach out for instructions.
Important Notes
- Verify that the product images and specifications match your original part. If discrepancies exist—even if your model is listed—do not proceed with the purchase.
- This product is an aftermarket replacement part and is not an OEM component.
- Professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Why Choose JLM MARINE?
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Quality Assured: As a trusted manufacturer for over 20 years, we supply top marine brands globally.
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Fast Global Shipping: Free delivery worldwide in 5–15 days.
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Direct from Manufacturer: Competitive pricing without compromising quality.