🚰 Gates 44082 Engine Water Pump | Premium Quality for Optimal Performance Review

Compared to other Chinese pump manufacturers, this OEM looks pretty decent. The casting was fine and I suspected he would have done a great job. However, I spent extra time looking for a European pump for this purpose.

On the plus side, it's a good casting with smooth mating surfaces. The vanes of the pump itself are cast, not stamped. The downsides are you have to cut two threads and the nested gasket sucks. It is made from a type of pressed felt material and will fall apart when wet and removed. The original gasket that you must order has a metal layer.

Delivered on time but the packaging was damaged with holes in the sides of the box. Deeply disappointed as the item is fragile and even the slightest damage can render it unusable or result in even more damage to the car. The water pump was visible, protruding slightly from the holes. I bought a CLK 320 for my 03 Merc. The seal itself is of lower quality. The fit is correct but the packaging is an issue.