Mercury – Fuel Filter Screen | Jet Drive Fuel System | Cloth Mesh Construction | F438653

Overview

When you run a jet drive outboard, you depend on clean, steady fuel more than most boaters. There’s nothing quite like the comfort you feel when your engine fires right up, smooth and sure, even after a long week sitting in the driveway. A dependable fuel screen is one of those little parts that quietly keep everything running right. With the Mercury Marine part F438653, you get that same sense of confidence every time you push off—knowing your engine is protected before the fuel even reaches it.

Key Features

• Helps stop debris before it enters the fuel system
• Cloth-mesh construction designed to handle harsh marine environments
• Precise fit for select Mercury Jet Drive engines
• One fuel filter screen included
• Engineered for consistent, long-term fuel protection

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits Mercury 120 and 120XR Jet Drive (serial numbers 0E080400–0E344999)
• Fits Mercury 35 horsepower outboards (1986–1989)
• Fits Mercury 90 horsepower Jet Drive outboards (1993–1995)
• Fits Mercury 90 horsepower outboards (1990–1994)
• Fits Mercury 95XR Jet Drive outboards (1996–1997)
• Ideal for jon boats, river boats, jet-pump fishing rigs, and shallow-water setups

Performance & Practical Benefits

A good fuel filter screen is something you rarely see, but you definitely feel. The F438653 keeps your engine’s fuel clean by catching grit before it moves deeper into the system. You will notice fewer hiccups at idle, smoother acceleration, and more reliable cold starts. That steady, predictable performance is especially important in jet-drive applications, where debris-heavy water is just part of the experience.

Installation is straightforward, and once it is in place, it quietly protects your engine with every gallon that passes through. The cloth mesh is tough yet precise, built to handle the vibration, moisture, and constant fuel flow that come with running a jet drive. Whether you are carving through a narrow river channel or easing across a shallow flat, the engine feels more secure, more responsive, and noticeably steadier.

Why Buy OEM

When it comes to fuel system parts, fitment is everything. A genuine Mercury Marine part like the F438653 ensures the screen sits exactly where it should, without gaps or loose tolerances that can lead to engine trouble. Aftermarket screens may look similar, but they often sacrifice material quality and flow accuracy. Choosing OEM means you are investing in reliability and saving money long-term by avoiding clogged lines, poor idle performance, or unexpected breakdowns. It is the kind of choice boaters make when they want their gear to simply work—every time.

FAQ

Q1: Which engines does this fuel filter screen fit?

It fits select Mercury Jet Drive and conventional outboards ranging from 35 to 120 horsepower, including several 90 horsepower models.

Q2: What sets this apart from aftermarket filters?

OEM construction, precise cloth mesh, and engineering built for Mercury fuel systems give you dependable filtration and proper fitment.

Q3: How can I confirm compatibility?

Check your engine’s manual or verify your serial number range matches the listed models.

Q4: Can this be used in both fresh and saltwater?

Yes. It is built to handle debris, moisture, and harsh marine conditions in either environment.

Q5: Is installation simple for most boat owners?

Most owners can replace it with basic tools and a little patience. It is a quick upgrade that makes a real difference.