Quicksilver – Exhaust Manifold Kit | MerCruiser 3.0L Engines | Cast Iron Coated Finish | 860235A03

Overview

If you’ve ever pulled an old exhaust manifold off a sterndrive, you know how important a solid replacement really is. It’s not glamorous work, but it’s the kind of maintenance that keeps your boat running strong for years. This Quicksilver exhaust manifold kit brings back that sense of reassurance — the feeling that your engine is breathing the way it should and that you’re setting it up for long, trouble-free days on the water. When the foundation components are strong, everything else feels smoother.

Key Features

• Complete exhaust manifold kit for MerCruiser 3.0L L and LX engines
• Includes gaskets, lifting eye, fuel line, bushings, connectors, drain plug, washers, and fittings
• Cast iron construction with corrosion-resistant coating
• Designed for model years 1990 and newer
• Quicksilver part number 860235A03

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits MerCruiser 3.0L L and LX sterndrive engines
• Common in runabouts, small cruisers, family bowriders, and sport boats
• Suitable for freshwater or saltwater boats with proper maintenance
• Ideal for full exhaust replacement or engine restoration projects

Performance & Practical Benefits

A new exhaust manifold immediately changes the way a 3.0L engine feels. You’ll notice smoother exhaust flow, steadier idle, and cleaner acceleration — all subtle, but all meaningful when you’re pushing off for a full day on the water. The cast iron structure is built to handle heat cycles and moisture far better than worn components, giving your cooling passages a cleaner, more controlled environment.

The corrosion-resistant coating is a real advantage for coastal boaters. It helps protect the manifold from the inside out, reducing the chances of internal scaling or premature wear. The included hardware and fittings make installation more predictable, allowing you to replace old components with parts that match Mercury Marine specifications exactly. Once everything is bolted down and sealed, you’ll feel the difference in the engine’s tone — tight, steady, and confident.

Why Buy OEM

With exhaust systems, precision matters. Aftermarket manifolds often fall short in casting consistency, cooling passage layout, or hardware quality. Using a genuine Mercury Marine part ensures that everything fits correctly, cools correctly, and lasts longer under real marine use. This is one of those repairs where cutting corners usually costs more later. A proper OEM kit keeps your engine healthy and your boating days trouble-free.

FAQ

Q1: Which engines does this manifold kit fit?

It fits MerCruiser 3.0L L and LX sterndrive engines built from 1990 onward.

Q2: Why choose OEM over aftermarket?

The casting quality, cooling flow design, and included hardware match Mercury’s exact engineering standards, ensuring long-term reliability.

Q3: How do I confirm this is the right manifold kit?

Check your engine tag or service manual. If it calls for part number 860235A03, this is the correct replacement.

Q4: Is it suitable for saltwater use?

Yes — the coated cast iron provides strong protection when properly maintained.

Q5: Is installation straightforward?

For experienced DIY boaters and technicians, the included hardware and fittings make the job much easier and more predictable.