Mercury – Quicksilver 8M0176524 Lower Shift Cable | MerCruiser MC-I / MR / Alpha Series | Durable Cable Assembly | 8M0176524

Overview

Every boater knows that a smooth, predictable shift can make or break the feel of a day on the water. When your sterndrive slips effortlessly from neutral to forward, or when you ease it back into reverse while docking, there’s a certain quiet confidence that settles in. The Quicksilver 8M0176524 Lower Shift Cable helps preserve that confidence. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes parts that rarely gets attention — until the day it starts sticking or lagging. Once replaced, the difference is immediate. Everything feels tighter, cleaner, and more in sync with what your hands are telling the helm.

Key Features

• Precision-built lower shift cable for MerCruiser sterndrives
• Designed for long-term strength in harsh marine environments
• Built to remain flexible and reliable even in below 0°F weather
• Layered construction delivers smooth, consistent shifting
• Direct OEM replacement — no modifications required
• Engineered to Mercury Marine’s original equipment standards

Engine & Boat Compatibility

The Quicksilver 8M0176524 fits:

• MerCruiser MC-I sterndrives
• MerCruiser MR sterndrives
• MerCruiser Alpha One sterndrives
• MerCruiser Alpha One Gen II sterndrives (1978 and newer)

Commonly found in:

• Sport runabouts
• Classic cruisers
• Fishing boats with sterndrive setups
• Family boats and older MerCruiser-powered models

Performance & Practical Benefits

A shift cable may be simple, but it plays a huge role in how a boat behaves. When the cable ages, internal friction builds up. That leads to stiff shifting, hesitation, or even grinding — all things that take the joy out of boat handling. With the 8M0176524, the motion becomes smooth again. You’ll feel the difference the moment you ease the control forward. It’s that steady, “locked-in” sensation that tells you the drive is engaging cleanly.

The cable is engineered using layered materials that resist moisture, corrosion, cold, heat, and the constant flexing that comes with normal operation. Whether you run your boat hard on summer weekends or only fire it up a few times a season, this part is built to last. And because it’s manufactured to Mercury’s OEM specifications, the fitment is exact — meaning fewer surprises, fewer adjustments, and a much easier installation.

Why Buy OEM

With shift cables, the temptation to choose an aftermarket option is always there. But the truth is, shifting precision depends heavily on the quality of the cable’s internal construction. OEM Mercury Marine cables are engineered to match the original geometry, material specifications, and friction characteristics of your sterndrive’s control system.

Choosing OEM gives you:

• Long-term reliability under real-world boating conditions
• Better control feel and more predictable shifting
• Materials that meet strict Mercury durability testing
• A part that installs cleanly and performs right the first time

When your control system is on the line, OEM simply delivers better peace of mind.

FAQ

Q1: Which engines or systems does this shift cable fit?

It fits MerCruiser MC-I, MR, Alpha One, and Alpha One Gen II sterndrives.

Q2: What makes this cable better than aftermarket versions?

OEM cables match Mercury’s original friction and durability standards, ensuring consistent shifting and longer service life.

Q3: How can I confirm this is the right cable?

Match your sterndrive model and year with the specifications in your owner’s manual.

Q4: Can this part be used in both freshwater and saltwater?

Yes — it’s designed to perform reliably in either environment.

Q5: Is installation straightforward for most owners?

If you’re comfortable with basic mechanical work, replacing a shift cable is manageable with standard shop tools.