Mercury – Vented Splash Cover | Verado Series | Black Polysoft II Fabric | 8M0228526

Overview

When you’re running a big 400 horsepower Verado, you’re not just cruising around the lake. You’re covering water, taking spray over the stern, and trusting your rig to stay composed when conditions get a little rude. And even if you’re not precious about cosmetics, you still want your engine to look like it’s been cared for. That’s where a good splash cover earns its spot onboard.

This Mercury vented splash cover is one of those things you start using and immediately wonder why you waited. It slips into your routine without drama. You’ll feel that steady comfort of knowing the cowling is protected while you’re actually running—not just when the boat’s parked and quiet.

Key Features

• Protects the outboard cowling finish while operating on the water
• Made from marine-grade Polysoft II fabric for durable, reliable coverage
• Black finish for a clean, low-glare look that hides everyday grime well
• Water-resistant, breathable, and ultraviolet-stable material helps fight sun fade and moisture buildup
• Side vents support airflow while the engine is running
• Exhaust ports designed for practical running use
• Switch access included to keep normal controls easy and reachable
• Custom fit for Mercury 5.7 liter V10 400 horsepower Verado outboard engines
• Includes one cover
• Mercury Marine part number 8M0228526

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits Mercury Verado 5.7 liter V10 400 horsepower outboard models
• Designed for high-horsepower offshore and nearshore use
• Common on offshore center consoles, large bay boats, performance fishing boats, and family cruisers

Performance & Practical Benefits

In real-world use, this cover feels secure—tight where it should be, smooth where it needs to glide over the cowling. You’re not wrestling with it at the ramp. You’re not constantly adjusting edges once you’re underway. It sits steady when the wind picks up and the stern starts throwing mist, which is exactly when cheap covers start flapping and wearing out.

The Polysoft II fabric is built for the realities of boating: ultraviolet exposure, water spots, and that salt haze that likes to settle in and linger. The exterior holds up to spray and sun, while the breathable design helps prevent that clammy, trapped-moisture feeling you get with heavier, less thoughtful materials. After a long run, you’ll appreciate how the engine area feels less “sealed up” and more balanced.

And because it’s a vented splash cover, it’s made to be used while you’re running. Side vents support airflow, exhaust ports keep operation sensible, and switch access means you don’t have to pull the whole cover off just to do normal boat-owner things. It’s protection that stays out of your way—quiet, steady, and practical.

Why Buy OEM

This is the kind of part where OEM matters more than people think. A genuine Mercury Marine part is shaped and tested for the exact engine it’s meant to protect. That means cleaner fitment, better long-term wear, and fewer annoying issues like corners stretching, seams splitting, or the cover shifting at speed.

Aftermarket covers can be fine until they aren’t—especially on larger engines where airflow and access points matter. If you want something that fits right the first time and keeps doing its job season after season, OEM is the smart, cost-effective move.

FAQ Section

Q1: Which Mercury engines or systems does the Mercury Vented Splash Cover fit?

It fits Mercury Verado 5.7 liter V10 400 horsepower outboard engines. Matching your engine model to the part number is the best way to confirm.

Q2: What makes this part different from aftermarket alternatives?

OEM design details. You get a secure, engine-specific fit plus vents, exhaust ports, and switch access built for running use.

Q3: How do I know if this is the correct replacement for my setup?

Confirm you have a 5.7 liter V10 400 horsepower Verado, then match the part number to 8M0228526.

Q4: Can this be used in both saltwater and freshwater applications?

Yes. It’s designed for both. A quick rinse after saltwater runs helps keep it cleaner and lasting longer.

Q5: Is installation straightforward for most boat owners?

Yes. Most boat owners can slip it on quickly without special tools, and it becomes part of your pre-run routine.