Solenoid switches and relays for Mercury outboard engines
Magnetic switches and relays are components of the electrical starting and control system of an outboard engine. They switch high currents via electromagnetic contacts and connect the battery, starter motor or other electrical components as required.
The starter solenoid transfers the current from the battery to the starter motor when starting. This turns the engine over and initiates the starting process. The starter motor cannot be activated without a functioning magnetic switch.
Components in the starting system
The electric starting system of an outboard motor includes several components:
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Starter solenoid (starter solenoid)
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Starter motor
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battery
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ignition switch
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Electrical wiring
The solenoid switch works as an electromagnetic switch that activates a significantly larger circuit with a small control current.
Starter relay and trim relay
Different relays are used for Mercury and Mariner engines:
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Starter relay / solenoid - activates the starter motor
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Trim relay - controls the power trim hydraulics
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Other relays - for additional electrical functions
Many solenoids are used in several engine series and are therefore compatible across several model years.
Suitable solenoid switches for Mercury / Mariner
The correct solenoid switch is selected via:
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Engine series
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Engine power (hp)
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Year of manufacture
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Mercury part number
Some starter solenoids are used in various Mercury and Mariner engines from around 40 hp to over 200 hp, provided the part number matches.
