A strong choice for a Mercury 2-stroke outboard is a plug whose part number matches the engine owner’s manual, with the NGK BU8H options here serving several listed Mercury and Mariner models. This roundup compares ten products, including six-pack BU8H plugs, a Quicksilver semi-surface design, and alternatives listed for other Mercury outboards. Fitment is the first decision: the data gives model-specific coverage for some plugs but only broad compatibility for others.
Pack size and construction can help narrow the choice after you verify the required plug. Do not assume that a plug fits simply because its listing mentions Mercury or outboards; engine model, year, and the manual’s specified part number matter.
Use the product details as a shortlist, not a substitute for checking the exact engine application.
NGK 6431 BU8H is the strongest overall choice for listed Mercury 2-stroke outboards because the product data names Mercury and Mariner applications and supplies six plugs. Its BU8H surface-gap design is also identified for marine outboards. Quicksilver 13686Q is a relevant single-plug alternative with NGK BU8H semi-surface construction, while the Generic BU8H six-pack is another matching part-number option.
Confirm the exact plug in your engine manual before ordering; the listed fitments do not establish compatibility with every Mercury 2-stroke.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallThe six-pack is identified for numerous Mercury and Mariner models, and its BU8H surface-gap design is described for marine outboards.
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Semi-Surface DesignThis Quicksilver plug uses NGK BU8H semi-surface discharge construction and copper core, with guidance to follow the engine manual.
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Six-Plug BU8H SetThe six-plug pre-gapped, non-resistor BU8H kit lists Mercury and Mariner applications, including several outboard horsepower models.
View on Amazon- Broad Two-Stroke Fitment BDFHYK 4495 Iridium
Compare These Mercury Outboard Spark Plug Options
| # | Product | Core Material | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Thread Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. NGK 6431 BU8HBest Overall | Copper | Watercraft | M14 – 1.25 | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Quicksilver 13686Q BU8HSemi-Surface Design | Copper | Watercraft | M14x1.5 | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Generic BU8H 6431Six-Plug BU8H Set | Copper | Watercraft | RM | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. BDFHYK 4495 IridiumBroad Two-Stroke Fitment | Iridium | Watercraft | 20.4mm | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. YUXIVCNE QL78YCQL78YC marine six-pack | Copper | Johnson, Evinrude, Mercury Outboards Inboard… | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. yeeluzan QL78YCEight-plug QL78YC set | Iridium | Outboard Engine | — | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. SYKRSS 4838 IridiumIridium 4838 Mercury range | Iridium | Watercraft | RM | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Quicksilver 827858Q DPR6EA-9Single DPR6EA-9 copper plug | Copper | Watercraft | RM | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Quicksilver 8M0157328 LFR4A-EV-Power LFR4A-E replacement | Copper | Car, Truck | RM | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Micro Traders DCPR6ETwo-plug DCPR6E replacement | — | — | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Spark Plugs For Mercury 2 Stroke Outboard

#1 · Best Overall
1. NGK 6431 BU8H
- Core Material: Copper
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Watercraft
- Thread Size: M14 – 1.25
Best for: Six-plug BU8H marine set.
Why it ranks #1: The six-pack is identified for numerous Mercury and Mariner models, and its BU8H surface-gap design is described for marine outboards.
Surface-gap electrode construction is the defining feature of this six-pack, giving Mercury and Mariner owners a matching set of NGK BU8H plugs for compatible outboards. Its extensive listed engine coverage includes several 2.5L and 3.4L Mercury applications, making it a practical option when those models match your engine.
The surface-gap design is identified for marine outboard use, while the copper core provides the listed core material for this NGK plug. Six plugs arrive together, which supports a multi-cylinder service without assembling a set from individual listings. The stated M14 – 1.25 thread size and named Mercury and Mariner applications help narrow the selection, but the specific engine model still needs to match the supplied compatibility list and owner’s manual.
- Six NGK BU8H plugs in one set
- Surface-gap electrode design
- Copper core
- Lists multiple Mercury and Mariner outboard applications
- The compatibility list does not establish fit for every Mercury 2-stroke model.
Skip it if you need a single replacement plug; Quicksilver 13686Q is sold as one BU8H plug.
A Mercury or Mariner owner with a listed compatible model and a multi-plug service in mind gets a six-piece NGK BU8H set. Treat the named engine coverage as the boundary, rather than assuming universal outboard fit.
Full product details
| Brand | NGK |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Watercraft |
| Core Material | Copper |
| Included Components | NGK 6431 Spark Plug BU8H (6 pack) |
| Manufacturer | NGK |
| Part Number | BU8H |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | See Manufacturer |
| Model Number | BU8H |
| Thread Size | M14 – 1.25 |
Listed on Amazon as: NGK 6431 BU8H Spark Plug – Fits Mariner Mercury Outboard (6 pack)
View on Amazon
#2 · Semi-Surface Design
2. Quicksilver 13686Q BU8H
- Core Material: Copper
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Watercraft
- Thread Size: M14x1.5
Best for: Single BU8H OEM-style plug.
Why it ranks #2: This Quicksilver plug uses NGK BU8H semi-surface discharge construction and copper core, with guidance to follow the engine manual.
A semi-surface discharge design gives this single Quicksilver BU8H plug its specific maintenance focus: the listing says it can burn off carbon before deposits foul the plug. It is an NGK marine outboard plug for buyers whose engine manual calls for this type and application.
Small side electrodes are pre-gapped and do not require gap adjustment, simplifying installation compared with a plug that needs manual adjustment. The copper core aids heat removal, and the trivalent metal plating is described as providing marine corrosion resistance and easier removal through anti-seizing properties. Quicksilver states that its products match Mercury Marine original-equipment performance specifications. The listing supplies one plug, so multi-cylinder maintenance requires additional units.
- Semi-surface discharge design
- Pre-gapped small side electrodes
- Copper core aids heat removal
- Trivalent plating supports corrosion resistance and easier removal
- One plug is included, so a multi-cylinder service needs additional plugs.
Skip it if you need a six-plug BU8H set; NGK 6431 BU8H is listed as a six-pack.
This suits a Mercury or other marine-outboard owner whose manual specifies BU8H and who needs one replacement plug with pre-gapped electrodes. Its single-plug quantity and manual-based fit requirement make it less suited to bulk servicing.
Full product details
| Brand | Quicksilver |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Watercraft |
| Core Material | Copper |
| Included Components | Spark Plug (1) |
| Manufacturer | Quicksilver |
| Part Number | 13686Q |
| Model Number | 13686Q |
| Thread Size | M14x1.5 |
| Top Material Type | Metal |
Listed on Amazon as: Quicksilver 13686Q NGK BU8H Semi-Surface Discharge Spark Plug for Marine Outboard Engines, 1 Pack
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#3 · Six-Plug BU8H Set
3. Generic BU8H 6431
- Core Material: Copper
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Watercraft
- Thread Size: RM
Best for: Pre-gapped BU8H six-pack.
Why it ranks #3: The six-plug pre-gapped, non-resistor BU8H kit lists Mercury and Mariner applications, including several outboard horsepower models.
Pre-gapped, non-resistor BU8H plugs are the defining combination in this six-piece kit for listed Mercury and Mariner outboards. The listing names applications such as Mercury 135 and Mariner 135 Marathon, so buyers can compare the specific engine against a familiar BU8H replacement designation.
The kit supplies six copper-core plugs, supporting a multi-cylinder replacement with one matching set. Its product description identifies the plugs as pre-gapped and non-resistor, potentially simplifying preparation when those specifications match the engine requirement. Compatibility details include selected Mercury and Mariner horsepower applications and model years, rather than a universal claim. The thread specification is listed as RM, so buyers should compare the full plug designation and engine manual before installation.
- Six BU8H plugs included
- Listed as pre-gapped
- Non-resistor specification
- Copper core and named Mercury/Mariner applications
- The supplied fitment details cover selected models rather than every Mercury outboard.
Skip it if you need NGK-branded BU8H plugs; NGK 6431 BU8H offers the same plug designation in a six-pack.
This is a practical choice for owners whose manual calls for a pre-gapped, non-resistor BU8H plug and whose engine appears in the listed applications. Its six-piece quantity is useful for service, while model-specific fit remains essential.
Full product details
| Brand | Generic |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Watercraft |
| Core Material | Copper |
| Included Components | 6 BU8H Spark Plugs |
| Manufacturer | JSI |
| Part Number | BU8H-6PK-01 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Unspecified |
| Model Number | BU8H-6PK-01 |
| Thread Size | RM |
| Top Material Type | Copper |
Listed on Amazon as: (6x) BU8H (6431) Non-Resistor Spark Plug Pre-Gapped Compatible With Mercury & Mariner
View on Amazon
#4 · Broad Two-Stroke Fitment
4. BDFHYK 4495 Iridium
- Core Material: Iridium
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Watercraft
- Thread Size: 20.4mm
Best for: Iridium 4495 replacement set.
Why it ranks #4: Its compatibility list explicitly includes Mercury 2-stroke engines and many horsepower classes; the plugs have iridium cores and a listed 1-millimeter gap.
Iridium is the central material feature of this four-pack, which lists Mercury outboard compatibility for a broad range of engine sizes and named families. The seller describes faster, more sensitive ignition jumps, offering buyers seeking a 4495 replacement an application-specific alternative to conventional plug materials.
The 1-millimeter gap and 20.4-millimeter thread size provide concrete specifications to compare against the required plug, while the iridium core and top identify the electrode material. BDFHYK lists compatibility across Mercury 2-stroke engines including 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 115, and 125, along with Jet and Sea Pro variants. Four plugs make this a set for servicing more than one cylinder, but compatibility should follow the complete listing and engine requirements.
- Four iridium spark plugs
- 1-millimeter gap specification
- Lists Mercury 2-stroke applications
- Identifies 4495 replacement compatibility
- The listing supplies a broad fitment summary and directs buyers to its images or details for the complete list.
Skip it if you need six BU8H plugs; NGK 6431 BU8H supplies a six-piece set.
Choose this set if your Mercury outboard calls for the listed 4495 replacement and iridium plugs, and the 20.4-millimeter thread and stated gap suit the application. Its four-piece quantity is the practical limit for larger service needs.
Full product details
| Brand | BDFHYK |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Watercraft |
| Core Material | Iridium |
| Gap Size | 1 millimeters |
| Included Components | Comes with housing |
| Manufacturer | BDFHYK |
| Part Number | BD-05-10838-4-SP |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 year warranty |
| Model Number | BD-05-10838-4-SP |
| Thread Size | 20.4mm |
| Top Material Type | Iridium |
Listed on Amazon as: BDFHYK 4 Pack Iridium Spark Plugs Replacement for 4495 BPZ8HN10
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#5
5. YUXIVCNE QL78YC
- Core Material: Copper
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Johnson, Evinrude, Mercury Outboards Inboard…
Best for: QL78YC marine six-pack.
Why it ranks #5: The six-pack lists Mercury outboards and replacement number BPZ8HS10, plus detailed horsepower and year coverage for several other marine brands.
A six-plug QL78YC set with copper cores targets marine-engine owners looking for replacements across selected Johnson, Evinrude, and Mercury applications. Its listing also identifies BPZ8HS10 and several other replacement numbers, giving buyers multiple reference points when matching a plug to an existing specification.
The copper core and nickel top are the listed materials, while the six-piece quantity supports servicing a multi-cylinder engine with a single set. Compatibility facts specify several Johnson and Evinrude horsepower ranges and identify Mercury outboards among supported applications. That broad marine scope can help buyers comparing replacement numbers, but the supplied Mercury details do not name a complete model-by-model range. Match QL78YC or its listed equivalents to the engine’s required plug.
- Six spark plugs in the set
- Copper core with nickel top
- Lists QL78YC and BPZ8HS10 replacement references
- Covers named marine-engine brands
- Mercury compatibility is not detailed with a complete model-by-model list.
Skip it if you need named Mercury horsepower applications; yeeluzan QL78YC lists specific Mercury sizes and models.
This set fits buyers whose marine engine specifies QL78YC or a listed replacement number and who want six plugs together. Its Johnson and Evinrude coverage is more specifically detailed than its Mercury fitment, so verify the required designation.
Full product details
| Brand | YUXIVCNE |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Johnson, Evinrude, Mercury Outboards Inboard Marine Engines |
| Core Material | Copper |
| Included Components | 6 Pack Spark Plugs QL78YC |
| Manufacturer | YUXIVCNE |
| Part Number | QL78YC |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer |
| Model Number | QL78YC 938M |
| Top Material Type | Nickel |
Listed on Amazon as: YUXIVCNE 6 Pack Spark Plugs QL78YC 938M Replacement for Johnson Evinrude for Mercury Outboards Inboard Marine Engines Parts Replace BPZ8HS10
View on Amazon
#6
6. yeeluzan QL78YC
- Core Material: Iridium
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Outboard Engine
Best for: Eight-plug QL78YC set.
Why it ranks #6: This eight-pack lists Mercury compatibility for selected engines and QL78YC-related replacement numbers, though the Mercury application list is limited.
Eight iridium plugs make this QL78YC replacement set notable for buyers servicing several compatible engines or cylinders at once. Its listing names Mercury applications including 9.9 HP, 10 HP Magnum Marathon, 20 HP, 20 Jet, and 50 HP, alongside specified Johnson and Evinrude models.
The iridium core and iridium top material identify the plug construction, while the eight-piece quantity supplies a larger set than many individual replacement listings. QL78YC is tied to a long list of replacement numbers, including 0437929 and BPZ8HS10, which can help buyers compare against an existing plug specification. Mercury coverage is limited to the specific engine applications named here; the wider Johnson and Evinrude list does not establish fit across other Mercury 2-strokes.
- Eight iridium spark plugs
- Lists QL78YC replacement numbers
- Names several Mercury outboard applications
- Also lists Johnson and Evinrude compatibility
- Mercury coverage names only a limited set of engine applications.
Skip it if you need a BU8H plug for a listed Mercury 135 or 150; NGK 6431 BU8H names those models.
Consider this set when the engine calls for QL78YC or a listed replacement number and is among the named applications. The eight-piece quantity suits broader servicing, but the Mercury fitment list is narrower than its other-brand coverage.
Full product details
| Brand | yeeluzan |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Outboard Engine |
| Core Material | Iridium |
| Included Components | 8 x Iridium Spark Plugs |
| Item Weight | 15.04 ounces |
| Manufacturer | yeeluzan |
| Part Number | QL78YC |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 year |
| Model Number | QL78YC |
| Top Material Type | Iridium |
Listed on Amazon as: 8PCS Iridium Spark Plugs Replaces QL78YC For Mercury Outboard Engines
View on Amazon
#7
7. SYKRSS 4838 Iridium
- Core Material: Iridium
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Watercraft
- Thread Size: RM
Best for: Iridium 4838 Mercury range.
Why it ranks #7: The four-pack lists compatibility across Mercury and Mariner horsepower ranges and identifies replacement numbers 4838 and BP8H-N-10.
Iridium construction and a four-plug quantity define this SYKRSS 4838 set for Mercury and Mariner outboard owners. Its compatibility listing spans named horsepower applications from 6.0 to 125 hp and identifies 4838 and BP8H-N-10 as replacement references for buyers matching an existing plug.
The iridium core and top material distinguish this plug, while the stated 1-millimeter gap and RM thread provide specifications to check against the engine’s required plug. Four plugs support a multi-cylinder service, and the Mercury and Mariner list includes applications such as 25, 40, 60, 80, 115, and 125 hp. The listing directs buyers to further fitment details, so the broad horsepower range should not replace checking the exact engine and plug requirement.
- Four iridium plugs
- Lists 4838 and BP8H-N-10 replacement references
- 1-millimeter gap specification
- Names a broad Mercury and Mariner horsepower range
- The listing directs buyers to additional details for complete fitment information.
Skip it if you need six BU8H plugs for a Mercury 150; NGK 6431 BU8H names 150 hp applications and comes in six.
This suits a Mercury or Mariner owner whose engine matches the listed 4838 applications and calls for the stated iridium plug. The four-piece quantity and need to verify exact fitment set its practical boundaries.
Full product details
| Brand | SYKRSS |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Watercraft |
| Core Material | Iridium |
| Gap Size | 1 millimeters |
| Manufacturer | SYKRSS |
| Part Number | SY07927-4-SP |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 Year Manufacturer |
| Thread Size | RM |
| Top Material Type | iridium |
Listed on Amazon as: Iridium Spark Plug 4838 4 Pack for Mercury Outboard
View on Amazon
#8
8. Quicksilver 827858Q DPR6EA-9
- Core Material: Copper
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Watercraft
- Thread Size: RM
Best for: Single DPR6EA-9 copper plug.
Why it ranks #8: This copper-core NGK standard plug meets Mercury Marine specifications, but the data does not specify a 2-stroke outboard application.
Pre-gapping to the engine manufacturer’s specifications is the practical feature of this single Quicksilver DPR6EA-9 plug. Its listing says it meets Mercury Marine original-equipment specifications and identifies a copper core, making it a focused option when the engine manual specifies this exact plug.
The factory-specified pre-gap can reduce setup work before installation, while the copper core promotes heat dissipation and efficient plug operation, according to the listing. A threaded terminal completes the described construction. Quicksilver states that its products match Mercury Marine original-equipment performance specifications, adding a brand-specific reference for buyers comparing replacements. Only one plug is included, so owners servicing multiple cylinders need to obtain additional units; the owner’s manual remains the stated guide to the correct plug.
- Pre-gapped to engine manufacturer specifications
- Copper core promotes heat dissipation
- Threaded terminal
- Meets stated Mercury Marine OEM specifications
- Only one plug is included, requiring additional units for multi-cylinder service.
Skip it if you need one BU8H plug rather than DPR6EA-9; Quicksilver 13686Q is the single-plug BU8H option.
Choose this single plug when the Mercury or MerCruiser engine manual calls for DPR6EA-9 and a pre-gapped copper-core replacement is appropriate. Its exact plug designation and one-piece quantity define the fit and service boundary.
Full product details
| Brand | Quicksilver |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Watercraft |
| Core Material | Copper |
| Included Components | Spark Plug (1) |
| Item Weight | 1.44 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Quicksilver |
| Part Number | 827858Q |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Includes manufacturer provided warranty |
| Model Number | 827858Q |
| Thread Size | RM |
| Top Material Type | Metal |
Listed on Amazon as: Quicksilver 827858Q NGK DPR6EA-9 Standard Copper Core Spark Plug for Mercury Marine and MerCruiser Engines, 1 Pack
View on Amazon
#9
9. Quicksilver 8M0157328 LFR4A-E
- Core Material: Copper
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Car, Truck
- Thread Size: RM
Best for: V-Power LFR4A-E replacement.
Why it ranks #9: The listing says it meets Mercury Marine specifications and comes pre-gapped, but it provides no specific 2-stroke outboard fitment.
NGK’s V-shaped center-electrode cut is the defining feature of this LFR4A-E plug; the listing says it directs the spark toward the electrode edge to aid spark development and ignitability. It is identified as a Quicksilver plug meeting Mercury Marine OEM specifications.
The listed copper core and V-Power electrode design connect the plug’s material and shape to the stated ignition function. It comes pre-gapped to the engine manufacturer’s specification, although the description recommends checking the gap before installation. Quicksilver states that its products match Mercury Marine original-equipment performance specifications, but the supplied vehicle-type field says car and truck. Use the engine manual’s exact plug designation as the fitment authority before selecting this item for an outboard.
- V-shaped center-electrode cut
- Copper core
- Pre-gapped to engine manufacturer specifications
- States Mercury Marine OEM specification compliance
- The supplied vehicle-type specification lists car and truck rather than watercraft.
Skip it if you want a plug explicitly categorized for watercraft; Quicksilver DPR6EA-9 lists watercraft compatibility.
This may suit an owner whose manual specifically calls for LFR4A-E and who values the V-Power electrode and pre-gap. The car-and-truck vehicle-type entry makes manual-based confirmation particularly important for outboard use.
Full product details
| Brand | NGK |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, Truck |
| Core Material | Copper |
| Included Components | Quicksilver 8M0157328 |
| Item Weight | 40 g |
| Manufacturer | Quicksilver |
| Part Number | LFR4A-E |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Manufacturer Warranty |
| Model Number | 8M0157328 |
| Thread Size | RM |
| Top Material Type | Ceramic, Nickel |
Listed on Amazon as: Quicksilver 8M0157328 NGK LFR4A-E Standard Spark Plug (6499)
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #10: The two-plug listing broadly mentions Mariner and Mercury outboards but gives no engine models or 2-stroke-specific fitment.
The DCPR6E designation, also listed as DCPR6-E and 3481, is the key matching detail in this two-plug set for selected Mariner and Mercury outboards. Its stated 12-millimeter thread and 75.5-millimeter overall length give buyers measurements to compare with their engine specifications.
Two plugs make this a small replacement set, while the named model references help identify the intended plug family. The listing describes ignition for marine environments and connects it with efficient fuel combustion and smoother engine operation. Thread size and overall length offer concrete checks before installation, but the provided information does not identify specific Mercury horsepower models. Match the DCPR6E designation and dimensions to the engine’s requirements rather than relying on brand-level compatibility alone.
- Two spark plugs included
- Lists DCPR6E, DCPR6-E, and 3481 designations
- 12-millimeter thread specification
- 75.5-millimeter overall length specification
- The listing does not name specific Mercury horsepower applications.
Skip it if you need named Mercury horsepower fitment; NGK 6431 BU8H lists specific Mercury and Mariner models.
This is for buyers whose outboard specifications call for DCPR6E, DCPR6-E, or 3481 and match the listed dimensions. Its two-plug quantity and lack of named horsepower applications make exact specification matching especially important.
Full product details
| Brand | Micro Traders |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.82 ounces |
| Package Dimensions | 4.29 x 2.68 x 0.98 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: 2pcs Spark Plug DCPR6E DCPR6-E 3481 for Outboard Engine Compatible with Mariner Mercury Models
View on AmazonAvoiding a plug-fitment mismatch
A Mercury or outboard mention alone does not confirm that a spark plug fits your engine. The listings illustrate why: NGK 6431 BU8H names a long set of Mercury and Mariner applications, while Micro Traders DCPR6E only says it is compatible with Mariner and Mercury models without naming them. Other listings identify replacement numbers such as QL78YC, BPZ8HS10, 4495, or 4838, but those numbers are not interchangeable just because the same listing also mentions Mercury.
Start with the engine owner’s manual and match its specified plug number and application details. Check the engine model and year as well as horsepower, particularly where a product lists coverage for only selected engines.
If the manual’s number is absent from a listing, do not infer fit from a broad compatibility claim; verify with the seller or manufacturer before ordering.
What surface-gap listings do and do not tell you
A surface-gap or semi-surface label describes plug design, not universal compatibility with Mercury two-strokes. The NGK 6431 BU8H product is described as a premium surface-gap plug and lists numerous Mercury and Mariner applications; Quicksilver 13686Q is described as an NGK BU8H semi-surface discharge plug. Its listing says the design can help burn off carbon before it builds up to foul the plug, but it also explicitly instructs buyers to use the plug recommended in the owner’s manual.
The data does not establish that these designs improve every engine, nor that they can replace a conventional plug specified by Mercury. Treat design as a secondary comparison after confirming the part number.
The Quicksilver listing also cautions that an incorrect plug can reduce performance or fuel economy or cause damage, making manual-based selection especially important.
How to Choose Mercury Outboard Spark Plugs
Exact engine and plug-number fit
Look first for a product that names your engine application or matches the plug number in its manual. NGK 6431 BU8H lists numerous Mercury and Mariner models, while Quicksilver 13686Q is also a BU8H plug; the Generic BU8H kit lists Mercury and Mariner applications as well. By contrast, Micro Traders DCPR6E gives no engine models, and some alternatives name only broad horsepower ranges or replacement numbers.
Buyers with a confirmed BU8H specification can focus on the first three listings. If your engine manual names another plug, compare its exact number and application rather than choosing by brand, horsepower alone, or a general Mercury claim.
Plug construction and material
Choose construction only after confirming the required part number; the listings range from copper-core plugs to iridium alternatives and surface-gap designs. NGK 6431 BU8H and Quicksilver 13686Q list copper cores, while BDFHYK 4495, yeeluzan QL78YC, and SYKRSS 4838 list iridium cores. The NGK BU8H and Quicksilver BU8H descriptions identify surface-gap or semi-surface discharge designs, unlike the more general descriptions for several alternatives.
Buyers whose manuals specify BU8H should prioritize that exact match, not assume an iridium listing is an upgrade or substitute. The iridium options may suit an engine only when their listed replacement number and fitment agree with the manufacturer’s specification.
Quantity and gap information
Match the package quantity to the number of plugs your service requires, and do not infer a correct gap from a listing that omits it. The NGK 6431 BU8H and Generic BU8H products include six plugs; YUXIVCNE also lists six, yeeluzan lists eight, SYKRSS lists four, and Quicksilver 13686Q is a single plug. BDFHYK lists a 1-millimeter gap, while several other products do not provide a gap measurement in the supplied data.
A buyer needing several BU8H plugs can consider the six-packs, while a buyer replacing one confirmed plug may prefer a single. Follow the manual’s gap instruction; a package count or stated gap does not establish correct fit by itself.
Which Mercury Outboard Plug Should You Choose?
For a Mercury or Mariner engine whose manual specifies BU8H, choose NGK 6431 BU8H first: it lists broad model coverage and comes as a six-pack. Quicksilver 13686Q BU8H is a single-plug alternative with semi-surface construction, while Generic BU8H 6431 offers another six-plug set with listed Mercury and Mariner fitment. If the manual instead specifies 4495 and the engine is covered by that listing, BDFHYK 4495 Iridium explicitly lists Mercury 2-stroke compatibility.
Consider YUXIVCNE QL78YC or yeeluzan QL78YC only when their replacement numbers and engine applications match. Do not select Quicksilver 827858Q DPR6EA-9, Quicksilver 8M0157328 LFR4A-E, or Micro Traders DCPR6E for a 2-stroke based only on broad Mercury wording.
Verify the manual’s plug number first.
Related Buying Guides
- Best Spark Plugs For Mercury 4 Stroke Outboard
- Best 2 Stroke Oil For Mercury Outboard
- Best 2 Stroke Oil Outboard
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I confirm which spark plug fits my exact Mercury outboard model and year?
Use the plug number specified in your engine’s manual, checking the exact model and year information for your outboard. Compare that number with the product listing’s replacement numbers and stated applications. A listing that mentions Mercury or Mariner does not establish compatibility with every 2-stroke engine, so confirm before ordering.
Should I replace all spark plugs together on a multi-cylinder outboard?
Replacing the plugs together is a practical way to keep the set consistent, provided every plug matches the manual’s specification. Check how many plugs your engine uses and compare that with the package quantity. If only one plug needs replacement, make sure the replacement matches the installed plugs and the manual.
Can an iridium replacement be used when the Mercury manual specifies a different plug type?
Use an iridium replacement only if its part number or listed replacement number matches the manual’s specification for your engine. Iridium construction alone does not confirm fit. For example, the BDFHYK listing explicitly names 4495 and Mercury 2-stroke compatibility, but that does not make it suitable for engines specified for another plug.
What should I do if a listing says Mercury but shows a different plug number?
Follow the manual’s plug number rather than relying on broad Mercury wording. Compare the listing’s stated replacement number and engine applications with your exact engine. If they do not match, do not assume the plug fits; confirm the correct part before ordering.
How should I compare package quantity and plug construction?
First confirm the correct plug number and application; then compare the package quantity with the number of plugs your engine needs. Construction can help distinguish options, such as BU8H surface-gap or semi-surface designs, but it should not override the manual’s specified plug. Choose a multi-pack only when its listed plug matches.
Final Words
Start with the plug number in your Mercury engine manual. If it specifies BU8H and the listed engine application matches, NGK 6431 BU8H is the strongest overall choice here; Quicksilver 13686Q and Generic BU8H are alternatives. For a manual specifying 4495, consider BDFHYK only when the engine is covered by its listing.
Treat broad Mercury wording as insufficient proof of fit, and verify the exact application before ordering.



