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Most boat owners have heard the phrase, "Buy once, cry once." It means spending a little more upfront on quality products that last longer, perform better, and save money over time. Not every upgrade falls into that category. Some expensive accessories simply aren't worth the extra cost. But there are a few investments that consistently pay off, whether you fish every weekend or simply enjoy cruising with family. Here are a few upgrades we'd gladly buy again. A Quality Propeller A propeller doe …

If you've shopped for marine parts before, you've probably noticed that some products carry the Mercury name while others are branded Quicksilver. It's a common question we hear from boat owners: Are they the same, and does it matter which one I buy? The short answer is yes, they're closely related, but there are a few important differences that can help you choose the right part for your engine. The Same Company, Different Purpose Both Mercury and Quicksilver are brands owned by Mercury Marine …

Not every boat maintenance task requires a trip to the shop. There are several basic service items most boat owners can safely handle themselves with the right tools, parts, and a little guidance. Staying on top of routine maintenance can help extend the life of your engine and reduce the chances of unexpected problems on the water. The key is knowing which jobs are DIY-friendly and which ones are better left to experienced marine technicians. Changing Engine Oil and Filters Routine oil changes …

What Is Mercury SmartCraft Connect?  If you already have a Garmin, Raymarine, or compatible Simrad display at the helm, you may not need a separate Mercury display to see detailed engine information. Mercury SmartCraft Connect links a compatible Mercury engine to select multifunction displays, allowing you to access the VesselView interface and live engine data on a screen you're already using. That can mean fewer separate gauges and better access to what your engine is doing. What Does S …

The lower unit, also called the gearcase, is the bottom section of an outboard that sits partially underwater and connects the engine's power to the propeller. When the engine runs, power travels down the driveshaft into the lower unit. Inside the gearcase, gears redirect that rotation to the propshaft, which turns the propeller. In simple terms: Engine → Driveshaft → Gearcase → Propshaft → Propeller But transferring power isn't the lower unit's only job. What's Inside an Ou …