Mercury – Inline Fuel Filter Element | Under-Cowl Fuel System | Fine Mesh Polymer | 87946Q04

Overview

If you’ve ever had a great day on the water cut short by a sputtering engine, you know just how much clean fuel matters. Those quiet moments at sunrise, the slow push out of the harbor, the long run back across choppy water—all of it depends on your outboard breathing a steady, clean stream of gasoline. The Mercury 87946Q04 Inline Fuel Filter Element is one of those small, behind-the-scenes parts that keeps everything running smooth without asking for much attention. You’ll feel the difference in the way your engine idles, responds, and holds power when you know the fuel flowing into it is protected from the junk that doesn’t belong there.

Key Features

• Replacement inline fuel filter element for Mercury and Mariner outboards
• Removes harmful fuel-borne contaminants before they reach the engine
• Fits inside screw-on under-cowl inline fuel filter bowl assemblies
• Updated design replaces older white plastic filter elements
• Includes filter element and rubber gaskets for proper installation
• Built to Mercury Marine’s exact factory filtration specifications

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits Mercury and Mariner outboards from 6 to 60 horsepower
• Compatible with under-cowl, screw-on style inline fuel filter bowls
• Common on many small and mid-range models used for:
  • Jon boats
  • Pontoon boats
  • Aluminum fishing rigs
  • Inshore tiller setups
  • Lightweight runabouts

Performance & Practical Benefits

Fuel contamination sneaks up on you—water droplets, sediment flakes, varnish from old fuel, all of it drifting through the line toward components that cost far more than a filter element. With the 87946Q04 installed, you’ll notice a tighter, more consistent feel from your engine. Starts feel confident instead of hesitant. Idle sounds smoother and steadier. Acceleration becomes crisp because the engine isn’t fighting through debris.

The filter element seats securely inside the bowl, and installation is straightforward even if you’re doing it dockside between trips. Once in place, it builds a reliable barrier between your tank and your carburetor or injection components, keeping the fuel flow clean and predictable. The updated material holds its shape well under vibration and temperature swings, maintaining proper filtration even during long days of trolling, exploring, or running wide-open across a quiet lake.

This is one of those maintenance items that pays you back immediately and quietly—every hour, every trip, every season.

Why Buy OEM

Aftermarket filters may fit, but fit isn’t the same as function.

• Mercury OEM elements match your engine’s fuel flow requirements exactly
• Proper seal ensures contaminants don’t bypass the filter
• Longer-lasting filtration media designed specifically for marine conditions
• Reduces long-term repair costs by protecting critical engine components
• Designed to install cleanly and perform right the first time

For something as critical as fuel filtration, choosing OEM is the kind of decision seasoned boaters make without thinking twice.

FAQ

Q1: Which Mercury engines does the 87946Q04 filter element fit?

It fits Mercury and Mariner outboards from 6 to 60 horsepower with screw-on under-cowl inline fuel filter assemblies.

Q2: What makes this filter different from aftermarket options?

It’s engineered to Mercury’s exact filtration specs, ensuring proper flow, reliable sealing, and consistent long-term performance.

Q3: How do I confirm it’s the right replacement?

If your engine uses a screw-on inline fuel filter bowl under the cowl, this element is the direct replacement.

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

Absolutely. The materials are resistant to corrosion and designed for any gasoline marine environment.

Q5: Is installation simple?

Yes. It drops into the filter bowl and seals with the included gaskets—an easy job for most boat owners.