Mercury Outboard Hard Parts

Mercury Marine Engine Hard Parts Resources and Information

Buy genuine OEM replacement Mercury Marine outboard hard parts for your Mercury outboard from PartsVu, including crankshafts, bearings, pistons, rings, cams, lifters, pushrods, valves, and other valve-train components for your boat. 

We also regularly publish helpful resources to help you maintain your Mercury outboard motor, such as:

• Mercury Outboard Specs & Capacities Chart
• Mercury Outboard Serial Number Lookup
• Mercury Outboard Engine Schematics

Mercury Outboard Hard Parts FAQs

How do I select the right parts for my Mercury outboard motor?

PartsVu’s Mercury Outboard Maintenance Parts Library is the perfect reference when you need to replace common parts. That’s because these parts charts make it simple to find the right parts for your particular engine to perform regularly-scheduled maintenance. 

For Mercury outboard motors, perform maintenance after 100 hours of service or one year of operation (whichever comes first). More extensive service is recommended after 300 hours of service or three years.

After this period, maintenance is often more regular as the engine ages and parts wear out. For example, 1,000 hours generally requires an in-depth assessment by a qualified mechanic. Also, if you’re usually running your Mercury outboard in a more demanding manner, the manufacturer recommends more frequent servicing.

When selecting the correct Mercury Outboard Parts, there are some essential things every boater must keep in mind before purchasing and installing parts:

• Choosing Mercury OEM parts (original equipment manufacturer) over after-market parts often yields better long-term results for your engine as these components and products are specifically designed to meet the precise tolerances of Mercury engines.

• Check (and recheck) to ensure that you have the exact part number that matches your Mercury outboard engine. It’s important to do this because Mercury has many engine models that look very similar but contain slight differences in performance. Therefore, unmatched parts may not fit uniformly, leading to malfunctions, underperformance, and severe engine damage.

• Proper maintenance is essential when it comes to extending the life of your Mercury outboard motor and should always be mandatory to retain the value of your outboard motor. While Mercury outboards are built to last, hazards like salt water, humidity, excessive heat, electrolysis, and demanding usage eventually take their toll on your motor.

• Proper storage for your Mercury outboard is required to preserve your motor for the long term. Failure to properly winterize your Mercury outboard can cause components to degrade while the engine sits and is exposed to the elements. Therefore, properly store your outboard when it is not in use.

PartsVu offers more than 54,000 genuine Mercury OEM parts and products and other boating essentials at affordable prices. With same business day shipping on in-stock items, PartsVu is always by your side to find the right parts every time. Enjoy optimal performance and lifespan from your Mercury outboard motor today!

How often should I grease my Mercury outboard grease points?

You must grease all points at regular service intervals—minimally, annually. Saltwater boaters need to lubricate much more frequently as saltwater breaks down grease, and saltwater on non lubricated surfaces causes a great deal of damage.

Refer to your owner’s manual to locate all the grease fittings on your specific engine. Most will be easy to find, but a couple are likely tucked away and are not quite as visible. While you must familiarize yourself with the grease fittings on your specific engine, common grease fitting points include:

• Steering friction adjustment shaft (tiller handle models) 
• Swivel bracket
• Tilt tube
• Steering cable grease fitting

To add grease, first wipe off the grease fitting before attaching the grease gun nozzle to avoid pumping dirt and debris into the grease point. Also, you may have to remove rust and other debris clogging/blocking grease fittings. 

Pump grease into the fitting until grease begins oozing out of the exit points of the area being greased. The old grease will be pushed out as it is being dislocated by the new grease. Wipe off the old grease with your rag.

When a given grease point is full, leave a bit of grease on top of the grease fitting to keep rust and other debris from accumulating. Wipe off any excess grease with your rag, then move to the next grease fitting.

While not needed for all scenarios, it is worth noting that Mercury’s High Performance Extreme Grease is formulated for high temperature and high load applications and 100% compatible with lithium-based greases.

Will doing maintenance void my Mercury outboard engine warranty?

Any warranty work done on your engine needs to be done by an authorized Mercury dealer. Your dealer will perform the work on your engine and file the claim with Mercury for you.

Your Mecury’s warranty does not apply to damage or failures caused by use of an accessory or part not manufactured or sold by Mercury. See the appropriate Mercury or MerCruiser warranty policy for your product or in your Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual. In other words, if you modify your engine with non-Mercury parts and those parts cause damage, you will likely have a problem.

Fuels containing up to 10 percent ethanol are considered acceptable for use in Mercury engines. Fuels containing higher levels of ethanol are not considered acceptable for use, and can void the warranty.

Using the serial number of your engine, your local authorized Mercury dealer can quickly check your warranty coverage. They can verify that your engine is registered with Mercury, whether it is covered by Mercury’s standard factory warranty, if there is any additional promotional coverage, or if it is covered by a Mercury Product Protection plan.

How do I protect my Mercury outboard motor?

Cover it with Corrosion Guard. This rust inhibitor forms a water-resistant barrier on both painted and unpainted surfaces. We recommend using it at every service interval with a liberal application to all metal engine surfaces. You can also use it on outdrives, lower units, and power trim motors.

The marine environment is one of the harshest on the planet. This is why protecting your boat from corrosion is extremely important. For premium defense against rust, we highly recommend this product.

In order to maximize your engine’s performance, use this complete fuel treatment at every fill-up with any grade of gasoline. Quickare is an excellent defense against the problems associated with ethanol-blended fuels, including its corrosive effects on metals as well as the gum and varnish that result from fuel oxidation. See PartsVu’s Knowledge Center for our article on the problems of ethanol gasoline.

This product can also be used to clean up existing deposits in untreated fuel lines, tanks, carburetors, injectors, intake valves, and spark plugs. It will keep your fuel fresh for up to three months and can be used in all 2 and 4 cycle carbureted and fuel-injected gasoline engines. Use one ounce to treat every 10 gallons of fuel.

How do I troubleshoot my Mercury outboard engine?

If your Mercury outboard cranks, but won’t start, there may be an issue that needs correcting. 

Most likely, the cause is a low and dying battery. Remove the battery from its housing by first disconnecting the black (negative) cable, and then the red (positive). You can then check the voltage using a voltmeter– it should be at about 12.6 volts. Inspect the battery for damage and clean off any corrosion or other buildup with a wire bristle brush. 

Some types of residue can be removed with a mixture of water and baking soda at a ratio of 1 cup:1 tablespoon, respectively. Apply and scrub the mixture over the affected parts. If you choose to do this, be sure to very thoroughly dry the battery before reattaching the cables. Finally, if the voltmeter resulted in a low reading, charge the battery. 

In cases where your battery won’t hold a charge, it will of course need to be replaced. In the meantime, you may be able to start the engine manually.

Which Mercury outboard fuel system parts need fogging oil before winterization?

When winterizing your Mercury outboard engine, it's important to take steps to prevent fuel system components from corrosion. Fogging oil is typically used to protect metal parts by providing a protective barrier against moisture and other corrosive elements. While fogging oil is essential for some parts, not all fuel system parts require it.

The most important parts of the fuel system that need fogging oil are the carburetor and the fuel pump. These parts are susceptible to corrosion and gumming up during winter storage. Fogging oil provides a protective layer that prevents moisture from getting into these parts and causing damage.

Other parts of the fuel system, such as the fuel tank and fuel lines, do not require fogging oil as they are not as susceptible to corrosion. However, it's still important to ensure that these parts are properly prepared for winter storage. This includes draining the fuel tank and fuel lines and adding a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel.

Which Mercury outboard carburetor parts are the most time-intensive to maintain?

Carburetors are an essential part of the fuel system on Mercury outboard engines, regulating the flow of fuel and air to the engine. Due to their complex design, they can be quite challenging to maintain. Here are some of the most time-intensive carburetor parts to maintain on a Mercury outboard engine:

1. Carburetor float: The carburetor float regulates the amount of fuel that enters the carburetor. It's a small part that can become stuck or damaged, causing the carburetor to malfunction.
2. Carburetor jets: The carburetor jets control the fuel flow to the engine. Over time, these jets can become clogged with debris or varnish, which can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all.
3. Carburetor diaphragm: The carburetor diaphragm helps regulate the fuel flow to the engine. It's a delicate part that can become damaged or worn over time, causing the engine to run poorly or not start at all.
4. Carburetor gaskets: The carburetor gaskets seal the carburetor to the engine block, preventing air leaks and ensuring proper fuel flow. Over time, these gaskets can become brittle or cracked, causing air leaks and poor engine performance.
5. Carburetor throttle shaft: The throttle shaft controls the throttle valve in the carburetor, regulating the engine's speed. Over time, this shaft can become worn or damaged, causing the throttle to stick or become difficult to operate.

Which Mercury outboard ignition parts are the most expensive?

The cost of Mercury outboard ignition parts can vary depending on the specific model and year of the engine. However, some of the most expensive ignition parts can include the ignition coils, ignition switch, and the distributor assembly.

Ignition coils can range in price from around $50 to $200 each, depending on the number of cylinders in the engine. Ignition switches can cost anywhere from $20 to $100, depending on the features and quality. The distributor assembly, which includes the distributor cap and rotor, can range from around $100 to $300.

It's important to note that these price

How long do Mercury outboard propeller parts last in freshwater versus salt water environments?

The lifespan of Mercury outboard propeller parts can vary depending on several factors, including the type of environment they are used in. Propellers used in freshwater environments typically last longer than those used in saltwater environments. The reason for this is that saltwater is more corrosive than freshwater, and over time, the salt can cause damage to the propeller.

In freshwater environments, Mercury outboard propellers can last several years with proper maintenance and care. However, in saltwater environments, they may need to be replaced more frequently, especially if they are not properly cared for. It's recommended to inspect the propeller regularly for signs of damage or wear, such as dings, cracks, or bent blades.

To extend the life of Mercury outboard propeller parts in saltwater environments, it's important to take certain precautions. One of the most effective ways to prevent corrosion is to apply anti-fouling paint to the propeller blades. This will help to prevent marine growth and reduce the risk of damage from saltwater. It's also important to rinse the propeller with freshwater after each use to remove any salt or other debris that may have accumulated on the surface.

Which parts are most likely to experience corrosion first in a Mercury outboard engine?

When it comes to Mercury outboard engines, the parts that are most likely to experience corrosion first are those that are constantly exposed to water. This includes parts of the cooling system, such as the thermostat housing, the heat exchanger, and the water pump, as well as the propeller and lower unit. Electrical components such as the starter motor and alternator are also prone to corrosion due to their exposure to moisture.

In a Mercury inboard engine, what are the parts that are most likely to corrode first?

In a Mercury inboard engine, the parts that are most likely to experience corrosion first are those that are exposed to water, such as the cooling system components and exhaust system parts. The exhaust manifold and riser are especially susceptible to corrosion due to the constant exposure to salt water and high temperatures. The raw water pump and heat exchanger are also prone to corrosion, as they come into contact with salt water. Proper maintenance and regular replacement of these components can help prevent corrosion and prolong the life of your Mercury inboard engine.

Which parts in the powerhead of a Mercury outboard engine are most likely to experience corrosion?

The powerhead of a Mercury outboard engine contains several parts that are prone to corrosion. The cylinder walls and pistons are particularly susceptible due to the high temperatures and pressures they are exposed to. The cylinder head and intake manifold can also experience corrosion, especially if the engine is used in saltwater environments. Regular maintenance and inspection of these components can help prevent corrosion and keep your Mercury outboard engine running smoothly.

Are Mercury OEM replacement hard parts covered by a warranty?

Yes, Mercury OEM replacement hard parts are covered by a warranty. The length and terms of the warranty will vary depending on the specific part and the country in which it was purchased. In general, most Mercury OEM replacement hard parts come with a one-year limited warranty, although some parts may have longer warranties or additional coverage options available.

It's important to note that in order to be eligible for warranty coverage, the part must have been installed by a qualified technician and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, any defects or failures must be due to a manufacturing or material defect - normal wear and tear or damage caused by misuse or improper installation will not be covered under the warranty.

What are Mercury marine outboard hard parts?

Mercury Marine outboard hard parts are replacement parts for Mercury outboard engines that are designed to replace the original parts that have worn out or failed. These hard parts include items such as water pumps, impellers, pistons, rings, bearings, seals, gaskets, fuel pumps, starters, alternators, and ignition coils, among others. These parts are manufactured to meet the specifications and quality standards set by Mercury Marine, ensuring that they are of high quality and will perform as expected in the outboard engine.

What are the different types of Mercury outboard engine parts available and where can I find them?

Mercury outboard engines are made up of a wide variety of parts that work together to ensure optimal performance. These parts can be broadly categorized into the following categories:

1. Fuel System Parts: These parts are responsible for delivering fuel from the gas tank to the engine. Common fuel system parts include fuel filters, fuel pumps, carburetors, and injectors.
2. Ignition Parts: These parts are responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. Common ignition parts include spark plugs, ignition coils, and distributors.
3. Lower Unit Parts: The lower unit is responsible for propelling the boat forward and backward. Common lower unit parts include gears, shafts, seals, and bearings.
4. Propeller Parts: The propeller is responsible for turning the engine's power into forward motion. Common propeller parts include blades, hubs, and washers.
5. Electrical Parts: These parts are responsible for powering and controlling various systems in the engine. Common electrical parts include alternators, starters, and batteries.
6. Cooling System Parts: These parts are responsible for keeping the engine cool during operation. Common cooling system parts include water pumps, thermostats, and impellers.
7. Gearcase Parts: The gearcase is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the propeller. Common gearcase parts include gears, bearings, and seals.
8. Powerhead Parts: The powerhead is the main engine block that houses the combustion chambers. Common powerhead parts include pistons, rings, and cylinders.
9. Water Pump Parts: The water pump is responsible for circulating water through the engine to keep it cool. Common water pump parts include impellers, gaskets, and housings.
10. Trim Parts: These parts are responsible for adjusting the angle of the propeller. Common trim parts include trim motors, trim cylinders, and trim tabs.

Mercury marine parts are available from a variety of authorized dealers, distributors, and online retailers. It's important to ensure that you are purchasing genuine Mercury parts to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. You can find Mercury outboard engine parts by visiting the official Mercury Marine website, or by searching for authorized dealers and distributors near you.

Where can I learn more about Mercury Marine Hard Parts?

PartsVu understands that boaters want to learn how to perform their own Mercury outboard maintenance. From maintaining your Mercury outboard, Mercury sterndrive, and MerCruiser engines, there’s always something new to learn and save money. That’s why PartsVu offers our comprehensive blog, The PartsVu Xchange. 

Read up on the latest developments in boating, as well as search for everything you need to know about Mercury engine maintenance.

To get you off to a good start, these are some of the most important articles on Mercury Marine Outboard Hard Parts and much more:

• How to Select the Right MerCruiser Parts
• Mercury Outboard Grease Points – Here's How
• Why Your Mercury Outboard Motor Stopped Working
• Maintaining Your Mercury Outboard Water Pump

How do I know which hard parts I need for my Mercury outboard?

The best way to determine which hard parts you need for your Mercury outboard is to consult the engine manual or contact a certified Mercury dealer or service center. They will be able to identify the correct part numbers for the specific model and year of your engine.

Can I replace Mercury outboard hard parts myself?

While it is possible to replace some hard parts yourself if you have the necessary knowledge and tools, it is generally recommended that you have a certified technician or dealer perform the replacement. This ensures that the work is done correctly and that the new parts are properly installed.

Are Mercury outboard hard parts expensive?

The cost of Mercury outboard hard parts can vary depending on the specific part and the model and year of the engine. Some parts may be relatively inexpensive, while others can be quite expensive. It is important to shop around and compare prices to find the best deal.

Where can I purchase Mercury outboard hard parts?

Mercury outboard hard parts can be purchased from a variety of sources, including Mercury dealers, marine supply stores, and online retailers. It is important to ensure that you purchase genuine Mercury parts to ensure proper fit and performance.

How often do I need to replace Mercury outboard hard parts?

The lifespan of Mercury outboard hard parts varies depending on the specific part and how frequently the engine is used. Some parts may need to be replaced every year, while others may last several years. It is important to regularly inspect the engine and replace any parts that show signs of wear or damage. Consult the engine manual for recommended replacement intervals.

What should I do if I can't find the hard part I need?

If you are having difficulty finding the hard part you need for your Mercury outboard, contact a certified Mercury dealer or service center. They may be able to special order the part for you or provide recommendations for alternative parts that will work with your engine.

How do I replace the water pump impeller for my Mercury outboard motor?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace the water pump impeller for a Mercury outboard motor:

1. Before starting, make sure the outboard motor is in neutral and the battery is disconnected.
2. Locate the water pump on the lower unit of the outboard motor. The water pump is usually located under the engine cowling, behind the propeller.
3. Remove the bolts that secure the water pump housing to the lower unit. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts and set them aside.
4. Once the bolts are removed, gently pull the water pump housing away from the lower unit. Be careful not to damage the impeller blades.
5. Locate the impeller inside the water pump housing. The impeller is a rubber piece with several blades that help pump water through the engine to keep it cool.