Mercury – Exhaust Elbow Gasket | 496 Magnum & 8.1S Series | Composite Marine Gasket | 862356

Overview
When you run a big-block MerCruiser, you get used to the deep, confident rumble that tells you everything is working the way it should. And when something as simple as an exhaust gasket starts to fail, you can feel it in the tone of the engine long before you see it on a gauge. That’s why parts like this matter. The exhaust elbow gasket may not be a flashy component, but it’s one of those small, essential pieces that gives you peace of mind every time you throttle up. Knowing the seal is tight, the exhaust is flowing cleanly, and the engine is protected—that’s the kind of reassurance boaters really value.

Key Features

• Purpose-built gasket for the exhaust elbow on select MerCruiser engines

• Durable composite construction designed for high heat and continuous marine loading

• Precision-cut sealing surfaces for a tight, leak-free fit

• Built to Mercury Marine’s original equipment standards

• Direct replacement for the factory-installed gasket

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits MerCruiser 496 Magnum sterndrives and inboard engines

• Fits MerCruiser 8.1S sterndrives and inboards

• Common on performance cruisers, offshore sport boats, runabouts, and larger recreational vessels

• Designed for boats running sustained RPM ranges or heavy-load conditions

Performance & Practical Benefits
A reliable exhaust seal isn’t something you think about often—until it fails. With the 862356 gasket installed, you’ll notice how steady and smooth your big-block feels when you bring it up on plane. The engine breathes the way it was designed to, without unwanted leaks or temperature inconsistencies. The composite material holds firm even after long runs, repeated heat cycles, and the constant humidity of a marine environment.

This gasket is cut with exact geometry so it fits right the first time, without the fussing or trimming that comes with off-brand hardware. Once installed, it sits tight and secure, helping protect the exhaust elbow and surrounding components from moisture intrusion and exhaust blow-by. The result is an engine that stays healthier for longer, with fewer surprises mid-season. Smooth, stable, and dependable—that’s the experience you get when you stick with Mercury’s original equipment.

Why Buy OEM
Anyone who’s maintained a high-output MerCruiser knows not all gaskets are created equal. The wrong one can warp, leak, or fail early, and that small failure can snowball into much bigger issues. With an OEM Mercury Marine part, you’re getting the exact gasket the engine was designed around. The material, the thickness, the sealing contour—everything matches factory specifications.

Choosing OEM means:

• Reliable long-term sealing performance

• Proper heat handling and material integrity

• Protection for exhaust elbows, manifolds, and internal engine parts

• A smarter investment than rolling the dice with aftermarket products

A gasket may be small, but the peace of mind from choosing the right one is huge—especially with big-block power on the transom.

FAQ

Q1: Which Mercury engines does the Exhaust Elbow Gasket 862356 fit?
It fits 496 Magnum and 8.1S MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard engines.

Q2: What makes this different from aftermarket options?
OEM gaskets use correct composite materials and exact fitment geometry, ensuring long-lasting, leak-free performance.

Q3: How do I confirm if this is the proper gasket for my setup?
Match your engine model and refer to your owner’s or service manual for exact application details.

Q4: Can it be used in both saltwater and freshwater?
Yes—it's engineered for all marine environments and handles varying temperature and moisture conditions.

Q5: Is installation straightforward?
Most boat owners familiar with exhaust service will find it manageable, and the gasket is designed for a clean, direct fit.