Mercury – 816296A3 Fuel Filter Kit | 5–15HP Carbureted FourStroke Outboards | Inline Filter & Hoses | 816296A3

Overview

Even small outboards need clean fuel to perform their best. The Mercury 816296A3 Fuel Filter Kit helps keep your 5–15HP carbureted FourStroke outboard running smooth by trapping moisture and debris before they reach the engine. A dirty or clogged filter can rob power, foul plugs, and shorten engine life — this simple kit protects against all that with an easy-to-install OEM setup.

Built to Mercury’s standards, this filter offers clear visibility so you can spot contamination early and replace it before it causes problems. It’s a small upgrade that pays off big in reliability.

Key Features

• Purpose: Filters fuel to protect your outboard from water, dirt, and other harmful contaminants.
• Fitment: Designed for Mercury 5–15HP carbureted FourStroke outboards.
• Kit Contents: Includes inline fuel filter, two fuel hoses, and two cable ties for a complete installation.
• Filter Design: 149-micron neutral-colored element lets you easily see debris or moisture buildup.
• OEM Quality: Built to Mercury Marine factory specifications for consistent flow and long service life.

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Mercury 5HP, 8HP, 9.9HP, and 15HP FourStroke carbureted outboards
• Ideal for small fishing boats, tenders, inflatables, and dinghies

Performance & Practical Benefits

Fuel contamination is one of the leading causes of small-engine problems. The 816296A3 filter keeps your fuel supply clean and steady, helping your engine start easier and run smoother across all RPM ranges. The transparent filter body makes it easy to check fuel quality at a glance — if you see debris or cloudiness, it’s time to replace it.

Installation takes just a few minutes, and the included hoses and ties make it straightforward for any boat owner. Once installed, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your motor’s getting clean fuel every time you hit the water.

Why Buy OEM

Mercury’s OEM fuel filters are engineered specifically for their engines. The flow rate, micron rating, and materials are all matched to your outboard’s fuel system — something generic filters rarely get right. An aftermarket filter might restrict flow or let fine particles slip through, both of which can hurt performance or damage the carburetor.

With a genuine Mercury filter, you know it’s made to fit perfectly, protect completely, and last longer in the marine environment. It’s a small investment that helps your engine stay strong for the long run.

FAQ

Q1: What engines use the Mercury 816296A3 kit?
A: It’s designed for Mercury 5–15HP carbureted FourStroke outboards.

Q2: What comes in the box?
A: The kit includes one inline fuel filter, two fuel hoses, and two cable ties for installation.

Q3: How fine is the filter element?
A: It’s a 149-micron filter, ideal for marine carbureted systems.

Q4: How can I tell when it’s time to replace the filter?
A: When you see visible debris or discoloration inside the filter body, it’s time to swap it out.

Q5: Is it ethanol-safe?
A: Yes. The filter and hoses are made from materials compatible with modern ethanol-blended fuels.