Mercury – Water Inlet Screen | V12 Cooling System | Composite Marine Finish | 8M0207396

Overview

When you run a V12 outboard, you’re trusting a level of power most boaters only dream about. Every push of the throttle, every long run offshore, every moment when the seas get a little unpredictable — you depend on a cooling system that never hesitates. That’s why the water inlet screen matters more than most folks realize. With Mercury Marine part 8M0207396, you get that quiet confidence that comes from knowing your engine is pulling in clean, steady cooling water no matter what the day throws your way. It’s one of those parts that works behind the scenes, but you feel the difference every time the engine stays cool, smooth, and ready for more.

Key Features

• Direct replacement water inlet screen for Mercury 7.6-liter V12 outboards.
• Drillable design lets you fine-tune water flow for your specific operating conditions.
• Durable marine-grade construction built for high-speed offshore environments.
• Designed to maintain consistent water intake and protect the cooling system.
• Mercury Marine part number 8M0207396.

Engine & Boat Compatibility

This water inlet screen is made for:

• Mercury 7.6-liter V12 600 horsepower Verado outboards.
• Mercury 7.6-liter V12 500 horsepower SeaPro outboards.

Ideal for:

• Offshore center consoles running long distances at high speed.
• Commercial vessels powered by V12 SeaPro engines.
• Luxury cruisers and multi-engine setups demanding flawless cooling.
• Heavy boats that operate in warm waters, sandy bays, or debris-prone inlets.

Performance & Practical Benefits

Cooling is everything on a big V12. When the water flow is steady, the whole boat feels different — the idle settles, the power delivery stays strong, and the engine doesn’t run hot even when the seas are rolling. This inlet screen helps keep that balance. Its drillable design gives you control, letting you adjust the flow based on how and where you run. Maybe you boat in cleaner deep-water areas and want maximum flow, or maybe your home waters kick up sand and debris. Either way, you can dial it in.

The screen installs securely and sits tight against the housing, keeping the water path smooth and clean. You’ll notice fewer temperature spikes, steadier performance during long cruising stretches, and an overall sense that the engine is breathing the way it should. It’s a small part with a big job, and it quietly protects one of the most advanced marine powerplants ever built.

Why Buy OEM

When you’re dealing with a V12 outboard, using genuine parts isn’t just smart — it’s essential. Mercury engineers these cooling components to match the exact demands of the Verado and SeaPro platforms. Aftermarket alternatives may look similar, but they often miss critical details like flow geometry, material durability, and long-term fitment reliability.

With an OEM Mercury Marine part, you’re getting the peace of mind that the screen fits perfectly, protects your cooling system, and maintains your engine’s performance the way Mercury intended. It’s the kind of choice seasoned boaters make because it saves time, trouble, and money down the line.

FAQ

Q1: Which Mercury engines does Water Inlet Screen 8M0207396 fit?

It fits Mercury 7.6-liter V12 600 horsepower Verado and 500 horsepower SeaPro outboards.

Q2: What makes this screen better than aftermarket versions?

It’s built to Mercury’s cooling specifications and designed to work seamlessly with the V12 intake system.

Q3: How do I know it’s the right replacement for my engine?

Match your engine model and horsepower rating, or confirm using your owner’s manual and part number.

Q4: Can it be used in both freshwater and saltwater?

Yes. It’s engineered for reliable cooling in any marine environment.

Q5: Is installation straightforward?

Most boat owners familiar with basic maintenance will find it simple, especially with access to the lower unit.