Mercury – Quicksilver 816761Q10 Spark Plug Wire Kit | V8 GM MerCruiser Engines (454 & 482 CID) | Points & Thunderbolt Ignition | 816761Q10

Overview

When you turn the key, you want instant ignition — not hesitation. The Quicksilver 816761Q10 Spark Plug Wire Kit keeps your classic V8 GM-based MerCruiser engine (454 and 482 CID) firing strong and running smooth. Designed for both conventional points ignition systems (1977–1985) and Thunderbolt systems (1969–1981), this OEM set delivers clean spark and dependable performance for vintage marine powerplants.

Each wire is built to Mercury’s standards, cut to the exact length for your engine, and fitted with molded boots that seal out moisture. Whether you’re maintaining an old-school cruiser or keeping a big-block tow boat alive, these wires ensure the strong ignition your motor was built for.

Key Features

• Purpose: Restores reliable spark delivery for consistent ignition and performance.
• Fitment: For V8 GM-based MerCruiser engines (454 & 482 CID) using points (1977–1985) or Thunderbolt ignition (1969–1981).
• Kit Contents: Complete set of eight spark plug wires with molded plug-end boots.
• Design: Each wire is custom-length for the correct plug location and clean routing.
• Durability: Built for marine heat, vibration, and moisture resistance to prevent cracking or arcing.

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• GM-based MerCruiser 454 CID and 482 CID V8 engines
• Conventional points and early Thunderbolt ignition systems
• Common on older sport boats, cruisers, and classic inboard/outboards

Performance & Practical Benefits

The 816761Q10 kit brings back the reliable spark your classic MerCruiser needs. With low-resistance cores and snug-fitting boots, these wires deliver a strong, even spark to every cylinder — reducing misfires, improving throttle response, and making cold starts easier.

Marine-grade insulation helps protect against moisture and heat, keeping the spark focused where it belongs. The result? A smoother idle, better mid-range power, and a dependable engine that responds when you ask for it.

Why Buy OEM

Vintage engines deserve precision parts. Mercury’s OEM plug wires are engineered for marine use — not automotive adaptation — with exact lengths, proper resistance, and durable insulation that can handle marine conditions.

Aftermarket wire sets can look similar, but they often don’t match Mercury’s quality or fit. Using Quicksilver OEM wires ensures perfect fitment, factory-level performance, and long-lasting reliability — so your classic engine keeps running like it did the day it was built.

FAQ

Q1: What engines fit the Quicksilver 816761Q10 kit?
A: It fits V8 GM-based MerCruiser engines (454 and 482 CID) with points ignition (1977–1985) or Thunderbolt systems (1969–1981).

Q2: How many wires come in the kit?
A: The kit includes eight spark plug wires, each with molded plug-end boots.

Q3: Can these be used in saltwater?
A: Yes. They’re built with corrosion-resistant materials for both salt and freshwater operation.

Q4: Are they easy to install?
A: Very. The wires are cut to factory lengths — just replace them one at a time to keep the firing order correct.

Q5: Why use OEM wires instead of automotive ones?
A: Marine engines face constant heat, vibration, and moisture — OEM wires are built for those conditions and will last longer.