Generic spin-on fuel filter water separator for MerCruiser & Mercury engines — 28-micron, 3-3/4" height

This spin-on water-separating fuel filter is a direct-fit replacement for many MerCruiser engines and Mercury/Mariner/Force outboards, capturing water and particulates with a 28-micron rating to protect your fuel system.

Keeping fuel clean and free of water is essential for reliable marine engine performance. This Generic spin-on fuel filter/water separator is designed to mount on externally mounted water-separating filter bases used across a wide range of Mercury and MerCruiser powerplants. It meets OEM specifications and replaces numerous factory part numbers, offering maintenance compatibility without altering factory plumbing or mounts.

Which engines and applications will this filter fit?

This filter fits all Mercury, Mariner, and Force outboards that use an externally mounted water-separating fuel filter base, and it is compatible with most MerCruiser installations. Note that it does not fit MerCruiser 4.3L Generation II engines that use an inline filter instead of an external spin-on unit.

• Fits MerCruiser V6 and V8 models except 4.3L Gen II with inline filter
• Compatible with Mercury, Mariner, Force outboards with external bases
• Replaces OEM numbers such as 35-802893Q01, 35-807172, and similar
• Physical height approx. 3-3/4" with 28-micron media

How effectively does it remove water and contaminants?

With a 28-micron filtration rating and integrated water-separating design, this spin-on element traps sediment while allowing water to collect and separate out of the fuel before it reaches the engine. It reduces the risk of injector or carburetor fouling by catching common particulates and allowing manual draining where the base permits.

• 28-micron media for balance of protection and flow
• Water-separating construction to help collect free water
• Designed to match OEM flow and pressure characteristics
• Use regular inspections and base drain for water removal

What are the installation and maintenance basics?

Installation is straightforward: thread the spin-on filter onto the existing external filter base, hand-tighten to OEM torque recommendations, and prime according to your engine’s service instructions. Regular replacement at manufacturer-recommended intervals or sooner when fuel contamination is suspected keeps the system operating properly.

• Hand-thread onto compatible external filter base — no modifications
• Replace at scheduled service intervals or if fuel contamination is detected
• Check and drain base bowl where applicable to remove collected water
• Always follow engine manual for priming and torque specs

Which OEM part numbers does this filter replace and what are the specs?

This Generic spin-on filter replaces many factory part numbers and matches OEM specifications for fit and performance. It provides a compact 3-3/4" height and 28-micron filtration, making it a convenient drop-in alternative for service or stocking spare filters.

• Replaces: 35-802893Q01, 35-802893Q, 35-807172, 35-806771, 35-8052691
• Also cross-references: 35-904941, 35-60494A5, 35-802893T
• Filtration rating: 28 microns; overall height: about 3-3/4"
• Manufactured to meet OEM sizing, flow, and sealing requirements

Who is this for? Boat owners, fleet managers, and marine technicians who need a reliable, OEM-spec spin-on water-separating fuel filter for Mercury, Mariner, Force outboards or most MerCruiser engines will find this unit suitable. It’s ideal for those who want a straightforward drop-in replacement that maintains factory fuel system performance and simplifies routine maintenance without custom adapters. If your engine uses an external water-separating filter base and you want to reduce fuel-borne contaminants and free water before they reach the engine, this filter is a practical choice.