Mercury – Quicksilver Engine Starter | Direct-Drive Ignition Series | Marine-Grade Construction | 8M6007297

Overview

If you’ve spent any amount of time around older OMC Cobra sterndrives or classic Ford-based marine inboards, you know how crucial a dependable starter really is. When your boat’s sitting at the dock in the early morning quiet, you want that engine to fire instantly—no hesitation, no grinding, no prayer required. The Quicksilver 8M6007297 Engine Starter is built for exactly those moments. It’s engineered to deliver confident starts season after season, giving you the assurance that your boat will be ready to move when you are, whether you’re cruising a calm inlet or pushing away from the ramp ahead of weather.

Key Features

• Built for Ford marine engines used in OMC Cobra sterndrive and inboard applications
• Direct-drive, 12-volt configuration with clockwise rotation and 9-tooth gear
• High-temperature epoxy armatures for wire protection and long service life
• Permanent magnet design for strong torque and reliable starts
• Constructed with 90/10 copper bushings or heavy-duty needle bearings
• Meets Marine SAE J1171 ignition protection standards
• Replacement for OEM starters including LESTER 3159 / 3159A, OMC 984536-8013, and J&N 410-14096
• Built to strict Mercury OEM manufacturing specifications

Engine & Boat Compatibility

The 8M6007297 starter is compatible with:

• Ford-based OMC Cobra sterndrive engines
• Ford-based inboard power packages used across multiple marine brands
• Engines commonly found in:
  • Runabouts
  • Mid-size cruisers
  • Ski and tow boats
  • Vintage or repowered Ford-based inboards

If your vessel runs an OMC Cobra setup with a Ford block, there’s a strong chance this is the correct starter—just check your manual or part numbers to confirm.

Performance & Practical Benefits

With this starter installed, you’ll feel:

• Smooth, tight engagement that prevents premature wear on the flywheel
• Strong, fast cranking even in cold morning starts or heat-soaked engine compartments
• Reliable, steady operation thanks to bushings and bearings built for harsh marine use
• Long-term durability supported by epoxy-sealed internal components
• Consistent performance whether you’re launching after winterization or firing up between coves

This is the kind of starter that makes owning an older sterndrive easier. Turn the key, hear the engine catch immediately, and know your boat’s ready for the day.

Why Buy OEM

Choosing an OEM Quicksilver starter means you’re picking reliability over guesswork.

• Exact fit engineered for Ford-based marine platforms
• Better longevity than bargain aftermarket options that often fail early
• Marine-rated construction designed for vibration, heat, and moisture
• Tested to Mercury Marine’s strict OEM standards
• Designed to perform right the first time so you can stay on the water—not fixing your boat on the trailer

For something as vital as ignition, OEM simply delivers more peace of mind.

FAQ Section

Q1: Which engines does the 8M6007297 starter fit?

It fits select Ford-made marine engines used in OMC Cobra sterndrive and inboard applications.

Q2: What makes this better than aftermarket options?

It’s built with marine-specific materials, better bearings, and epoxy-sealed internals—giving it longer life and more reliable starts.

Q3: How do I confirm this is my correct replacement?

Match your engine’s OEM starter number or review your service manual for exact compatibility.

Q4: Can this be used in saltwater and freshwater?

Yes—its marine-specific construction is designed to handle both environments.

Q5: Is installation straightforward?

Most boat owners comfortable with tools can install it by following their engine’s service manual.