Mercury – Water Separating Fuel Filter | Fuel System Protection | Marine Coated Steel | 866594Q01

Overview

Ask any boater who’s been stranded because of bad fuel, and they’ll tell you — a good water-separating filter is worth its weight in gold. When you’re miles from the dock and the wind starts to shift, you don’t want to wonder what’s lurking in your fuel lines. That’s why this Mercury Marine part feels like such a solid piece of insurance. The Quicksilver 866594Q01 Water Separating Fuel Filter quietly handles the job you never see but always feel: steady, clean fuel flow that keeps your engine running the way it was built to run. It’s the kind of part that gives you confidence when you turn the key, no matter if you’re headed out for a quick sunset cruise or a long day of fishing.

Key Features

• Ten-micron filtration removes water and fuel-borne debris
• Epoxy-coated interior and painted exterior resist marine corrosion
• Designed specifically for gasoline fuel systems
• Built to Mercury Marine OEM specifications
• Made for reliable protection in real-world boating environments

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits MerCruiser 1.6L Vazer sterndrive engines
• Fits MerCruiser 3.0L MPI EC sterndrive engines
• Suitable for runabouts, bowriders, sport boats, pontoons, and small cruisers
• Works in both freshwater and saltwater applications

Performance & Practical Benefits

The real value of this filter shows up when conditions get less than ideal — after a choppy run, during a long day of trolling, or when you happen to fill up from a marina that hasn’t turned over its tanks in a while. The ten-micron element inside captures water droplets and contaminants before they have a chance to move deeper into the engine. That means fewer misfires, fewer stumbles at idle, and a smoother, more predictable throttle response.

You’ll notice the difference in how the engine starts, too. Instead of coughing or hesitating after a few days of sitting, it fires right up because the fuel reaching your injectors is clean and dry. The corrosion-resistant shell and internal coating help the filter hold up in the humid, constantly shifting environment under the cowl. Even after a full season of saltwater use, it threads off cleanly without flaking or seizing, which is something every boater appreciates during annual maintenance.

Why Buy OEM

With filtration, there’s no substitute for precision. Aftermarket filters often cut corners with cheaper media, looser construction, or inconsistent coatings. This Mercury Marine part is engineered specifically for the demands of marine gasoline systems — higher moisture presence, longer run times, and constant vibration. When you choose OEM, you’re choosing long-term reliability and fitment you never have to second-guess. It’s the choice I’d recommend to any fellow boater who values peace of mind.

FAQ

Q1: Which engines does this filter fit?

It fits MerCruiser 1.6L Vazer and 3.0L MPI EC engines.

Q2: What separates it from aftermarket filters?

Better moisture separation, stronger construction, and OEM-grade coatings.

Q3: How do I confirm it’s correct for my setup?

Match your exact engine model and confirm it uses a ten-micron Mercury filter.

Q4: Can it be used in saltwater?

Absolutely — it’s designed for full marine corrosion resistance.

Q5: Is installation straightforward?

Yes, it replaces cleanly with a filter wrench and basic tools.