The best outboard motor starter solenoid depends on your engine brand and the replacement part number listed in its service information. The QKEEDSN is aimed at Johnson and Evinrude engines, BlueStars targets specified Mercury and Force applications, and Quicksilver is a Mercury/Mariner option for starter or trim systems. Compare part numbers and terminal details before ordering; similar-looking solenoids may serve different circuits.
| Product | Best suited for | Key detail |
|---|---|---|
| QKEEDSN | Johnson and Evinrude | 12V, four terminals; listed for engines after 1967 |
| YIXIN | OMC applications | 12V relay with insulated ground |
| BlueStars | Listed Mercury and Force models | Specific Mercury replacement numbers and application details |
| Qonsy | Cross-referenced Johnson, Evinrude, and Mercury engines | Four terminals; insulated ground |
| Quicksilver | Mercury and Mariner systems | Can serve starter or power-trim systems on listed applications |
QKEEDSN Johnson Evinrude Solenoid
This 12-volt, four-terminal replacement is listed for Johnson and Evinrude outboard engines after 1967. Its listed replacement references include 383622, 380095, 395419, 582708, and 586180.
Best for: Owners of a Johnson or Evinrude engine whose existing solenoid matches the listed voltage, terminal count, and replacement numbers. It was selected for its clear brand and engine-era description.
Check before buying: “After 1967” is a broad application statement, not confirmation of fit for every engine. Match the exact part number and wiring layout.
YIXIN OMC Marine Starter Solenoid
YIXIN describes this as a 12V relay with four terminals and an insulated ground. Its cross-reference list includes OMC and Johnson/Evinrude numbers such as 3217124, 383622, 395419, 582708, and 586180. It also lists Sierra Marine 18-5808 and Mercury Marine 47886 and 47886T.
Best for: Buyers comparing a replacement against several common OMC-related and cross-brand reference numbers. The broad part-number list makes it useful when identifying an older replacement.
Check before buying: Cross-references alone do not establish fit. Confirm the exact number and insulated-ground configuration for the engine.
BlueStars Mercury Starter Solenoid
This 12V solenoid is listed as a replacement for Mercury numbers 89-817109A1, 89-817109A2, and 89-817109A3, among other references. The application information names selected Force and Mercury engines and includes serial-number ranges for some models.
Best for: Mercury or Force owners who can verify an exact replacement number or application against the product’s detailed fit list. Its model and serial-number references offer more specific comparison points than a brand-only description.
Check before buying: The application list is not universal for Mercury engines. Confirm the model, serial number, and terminal arrangement before ordering.
Qonsy Four-Terminal Starter Relay
Qonsy lists compatibility references for Mercury 47886 and 47886T, Johnson and Evinrude OMC numbers 383622, 395419, 582708, 586180, and 3217124, plus Sierra Marine 18-5808. The relay is described as 12V with four terminals and an insulated ground.
Best for: Buyers whose existing solenoid matches one of the listed part numbers and who want a cross-referenced option for several outboard brands. The terminal and ground details help narrow the comparison.
Check before buying: The description calls it a “Trim Solenoid” while also listing starter-relay references. Verify that the intended circuit is the starter circuit, not the power-trim system.
Quicksilver Mercury And Mariner Solenoid
Quicksilver describes this stepped-mounting-plate solenoid for starter or power-trim use on a wide range of Mercury and Mariner outboards and MerCruiser sterndrives. The product information says it is produced to meet Mercury Marine original equipment manufacturer specifications and advises checking the owner’s or service manual for application and replacement instructions.
Best for: Mercury or Mariner owners seeking a Quicksilver-branded option, especially when the manual confirms this stepped-plate solenoid for the intended system.
Check before buying: The broad application description does not identify every compatible model or part number. Confirm the application in the relevant manual.
Buying Guide: How To Choose An Outboard Starter Solenoid
Does the part number match?
Start with the number printed on the old solenoid or listed in the engine’s service information. Compare it with the replacement numbers supplied for the product. Brand names and general engine descriptions are useful clues, but an exact reference is more useful for confirming a match.
Is it a starter or a power-trim solenoid?
Starter solenoids switch power to the starter circuit. Power-trim solenoids operate the trim system. Some products are described for both uses, while others have trim-focused wording. Do not assume that two solenoids are interchangeable because they share a voltage or brand application.
Do voltage and terminals match?
Check the specified voltage, number of terminals, ground style, mounting plate, and terminal sizes where listed. The products here include four-terminal designs, but terminal count alone does not prove that wiring or mounting will match your engine.
What application details should you verify?
Use the owner’s or service manual to check the engine model, year, and serial number when available. This is particularly important for listings with specific model ranges or serial-number cutoffs. If the listing does not resolve an application question, confirm the correct replacement using reliable engine documentation before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an outboard motor starter solenoid do?
It switches electrical power from the battery to the starter when the starting circuit is activated. The solenoid disengages after the engine starts.
Can I use a trim solenoid as a starter solenoid?
Not automatically. Some products are specified for both systems, but you must verify the exact application, part number, and terminal arrangement.
Are all 12V outboard solenoids interchangeable?
No. Voltage is only one specification. Part number, terminal layout, grounding, mounting, and engine application also matter.
How can I confirm which solenoid fits my engine?
Check the existing part number and consult the engine owner’s or service manual. Compare the listed application, voltage, and connection details before purchasing.