Mercury – Idle Air Control Valve Gasket | MPI Engines | 8M0119616

Overview

Most boaters don’t think twice about idle quality—until it starts acting up. A steady, confident idle is one of those small comforts that sets the tone for your whole day on the water. When your engine settles into a smooth rhythm at the dock or when you’re easing through a no-wake zone, that calm steadiness comes from a handful of small but crucial components working perfectly together. The Mercury 8M0119616 Idle Air Control Valve Gasket is one of those unsung heroes. It creates the tight seal your idle air control valve needs to keep everything predictable, stable, and worry-free.

Key Features

• Replacement gasket for the idle air control valve on select MerCruiser MPI engines.
• Designed for MerCruiser 3.0L MPI and V6/V8 305, 350, and 496 cid engines with ECM 555.
• Provides the proper seal required for consistent idle air management.
• Durable gasket material supports long-term reliability in harsh marine environments.
• Helps maintain correct idle rpm by ensuring an accurate flow of air into the engine.

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits MerCruiser 3.0L MPI engines.
• Fits select MerCruiser V6 and V8 multi-port injection engines (305, 350, 496 cid).
• Compatible with sterndrive and inboard configurations using ECM 555 systems.
• Common applications include runabouts, cruisers, small sport boats, and family bowriders.

Performance & Practical Benefits

A small leak at the idle air control valve can feel like the start of a headache—stumbling idle, inconsistent rpm, or that faint vibration that wasn’t there last season. This OEM gasket ensures the valve receives and meters air exactly the way the engine expects, keeping your idle tight and stable. You’ll feel the difference when shifting into gear or when you’re drifting near the shoreline with the motor quietly running behind you.

Its precision cut and durable construction mean a proper fit the first time, with no guesswork or trimming. Even in hot, humid, or salt-laden conditions, it holds its seal and resists breakdown. For anyone maintaining a MerCruiser MPI engine, replacing this gasket during IAC valve service is one of the simplest ways to preserve smooth operation and prevent avoidable issues down the line.

Why Buy OEM

When it comes to gaskets, the wrong material or thickness can cause all sorts of subtle problems. OEM Mercury parts are engineered to match exact tolerances, ensuring the idle air control valve works as intended. An aftermarket option might look similar, but “close enough” often leads to air leaks, poor idle, or extra time troubleshooting.

With OEM, you get:

• Guaranteed compatibility with ECM 555-equipped engines
• Long-term reliability and heat resistance
• A perfect fit that installs cleanly
• Protection for engine performance and fuel efficiency

It’s the kind of part you replace once and trust for seasons.

FAQ

Q1: Which engines does the 8M0119616 gasket fit?

It fits MerCruiser 3.0L MPI engines and select V6/V8 MPI engines (305, 350, and 496 cid) using ECM 555.

Q2: What makes this OEM gasket better than aftermarket options?

It’s engineered to Mercury’s exact specifications, ensuring a proper seal, correct airflow, and long-term durability.

Q3: How do I confirm this is the right gasket for my setup?

Check your engine’s manual or match your engine model and ECM type. If your engine uses an ECM 555 system, this is likely the correct gasket.

Q4: Is it suitable for both saltwater and freshwater?

Yes—the materials are tested to handle heat, moisture, and varying environments.

Q5: Is installation straightforward?

Most boat owners can replace it with basic tools, especially when already servicing the idle air control valve.