Mercury – Upper Driveshaft Bearing Cup Cone | Multi-Series Drivetrain Component | Marine Alloy | 8M0146566

Overview

Anyone who has spent enough time on the water knows that the smoothness of an outboard is something you can feel through the entire boat. When the drivetrain is healthy, everything just responds the way it should — clean shifts, steady thrust, no surprises. The Quicksilver 8M0146566 Upper Driveshaft Bearing Cup Cone is one of those hidden-but-critical parts that keeps that feeling alive. It supports the heart of the gearcase, helping the driveshaft stay aligned and running true, so you can focus on the water ahead instead of worrying about what is happening below the surface.

Whether you are easing away from the dock or punching the throttle on open water, this is the kind of part that gives you confidence every single outing.

Key Features

• Supports the upper driveshaft for smooth, stable gearcase operation
• Built from durable marine-grade alloy to withstand heat, load, and constant motion
• Designed for precise, factory-spec fitment in a wide range of Mercury outboards and sterndrive systems
• Helps maintain proper alignment and reduces wear in the drivetrain
• Straightforward installation using standard shop tools

Engine & Boat Compatibility

• Fits select Mercury 115-450hp FourStroke outboards
• Compatible with Mercury Racing engines, including Sport XS and Pro Max models
• Works with Verado, Jet, EFI, and Direct Fuel Injection outboards
• Also fits select IA, IB, IC, EZ Shift, 120, 140, 160, MR, Alpha One, and Alpha One Gen II sterndrive platforms (serial No. 0K999999 and below)
• Ideal for fishing boats, performance hulls, pontoons, and family runabouts needing reliable drivetrain support

Performance & Practical Benefits

A worn or poorly fitted bearing cup can create all sorts of issues — vibration, sloppy shifting, even premature gear wear. With the 8M0146566 bearing cup cone installed properly, the driveshaft stays tight, centered, and steady inside the gearcase. You will notice the difference the moment you drop into gear: shifts feel more controlled, acceleration feels smoother, and the whole engine runs with that solid, confident tone you want from a Mercury Marine powerplant.

Marine environments are unforgiving, which is why this part is engineered with materials that stand up to corrosion, heavy load, and constant rotation. Once it is installed, it provides long-lasting stability so you can rely on your engine season after season without second-guessing the drivetrain.

Why Buy OEM

With drivetrain components, precision is everything. The difference between an OEM component and an aftermarket substitute is not just material quality — it is the exactness of the fit. This Mercury Marine part number 8M0146566 is built to match original engineering specifications down to the thousandth, which means it installs correctly the first time and performs consistently under real-world loads.

Choosing OEM also means choosing durability, proper alignment, and long-term reliability. When fellow boaters ask what to use inside the gearcase, this is the kind of part you recommend because you know it has been tested in the same tough conditions you run in.

FAQ Section

Q1: Which Mercury engines does this bearing cup cone fit?

It fits select 115-450hp Mercury FourStroke outboards and a wide range of Mercury Racing, Verado, Jet, EFI, and DFI engines.

Q2: What sets this apart from aftermarket parts?

It meets Mercury’s original specifications, ensuring perfect alignment, long-term durability, and smooth drivetrain performance.

Q3: How do I confirm it fits my exact setup?

Check your owner’s or service manual; compatibility varies by serial number and engine family.

Q4: Can this part handle saltwater?

Yes — it is made from corrosion-resistant marine alloy and is fully suited for both freshwater and saltwater use.

Q5: Is installation simple?

Most owners familiar with lower-unit work can install it using common shop tools, though many prefer a technician for drivetrain components.