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If a Mercury parts diagram does not match what is physically on your engine, it usually means the serial number does not reflect all installed components. This commonly happens due to running production changes, replaced brackets, aftermarket parts, or prior owner repairs. Verifying fitment before ordering prevents wrong parts and returns. This issue is one of the most common reasons people order incorrect outboard parts. It is also one of the most preventable. The diagrams shown in the Mercury …

The most accurate way to find the correct parts for a Mercury outboard is by using the engine’s serial number. Parts diagrams and listings are organized by serial number ranges, not just by model year. Starting with assumptions instead of the serial number is the most common reason people order the wrong part. Ordering the wrong outboard part almost always comes down to one issue. The lookup process started with an assumption instead of a serial number. If you want to find the correct part …

SAE 90 vs 80W 90 Marine Gear Lube SAE 90 and 80W 90 marine gear lubes can have similar viscosity at operating temperature, but they are not always interchangeable. The correct choice depends on the lower unit design, manufacturer guidance, and whether the oil is specifically formulated for marine use. Lower units operate in harsh conditions. They are submerged, exposed to water intrusion risk, and experience high load at low speeds. Using the wrong gear lube can lead to accelerated wear, corrosi …

Fuel water separator filters remove water and debris from marine fuel systems. The correct micron rating and flow capacity protect the engine without restricting fuel delivery. Choosing the wrong filter can cause power loss, hard starting, or stalling. Fuel contamination is one of the most common causes of outboard performance problems. Water, debris, and degraded fuel can damage injectors, carburetors, and internal engine components. A fuel water separator filter is designed to remove these con …

An annual outboard service checklist focuses on oil and filters, spark plugs, gear lube, fuel system components, cooling system maintenance, and corrosion prevention. Replacing wear items every season and inspecting key systems prevents breakdowns and costly repairs. Most outboard problems do not start suddenly. They build slowly from missed maintenance items. An annual service routine keeps your engine reliable, extends its lifespan, and prevents the kind of failures that leave people stuck at …