Precision, reliability, and material integrity are critical in high-performance marine propulsion. For Mercury Racing 2.5L V6 two-stroke outboards with the Alien-style cowling, the cowl pan plate—also known as the cowl base or lower cowl plate—is a key structural component, securing the cowling to the powerhead and midsection.
The OEM Mercury Racing Alien Cowl Plate (part number 849480T) was originally manufactured in mild steel and listed with an MSRP of $349.51. Our upgraded version, priced at just $149, is fabricated from marine-grade stainless steel, offering a direct replacement with improved durability and corrosion resistance.
This replacement plate fits all Mercury 2.5L Alien-style cowls across key models, including the 2.5 EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), 2.5 Drag, and 2.5L ROS Offshore. These engines, producing between 200 to 300 horsepower in stock form, are widely used in drag, circuit, and tunnel boat racing where structural components endure high vibration and environmental exposure.
Known for their aggressive airflow profile, Mercury's Alien cowls—introduced in the late 1990s—remain a standard for performance outboards. However, the stock 849480T steel plate is prone to rust and fatigue, especially in saltwater conditions, often leading to sealing issues, vibration, or structural failure.
Our stainless steel replacement solves these problems. It resists corrosion, maintains dimensional stability under heat and load, and aligns precisely with the powerhead skirt, exhaust plate, and latch system.
It's machined to exact OEM specs for a seamless fit on Mercury Racing 2.5 midsections, whether 15" or 20" center sections, and compatible with Sport Master, CLE, and Offshore gearcases.
Search terms such as “849480T cowl plate,” “Mercury Alien lower pan,” “Mercury Racing 2.5 Alien cowl base,” or “Merc 2.5 drag cowl plate” all refer to this same essential part.
Whether restoring a carbureted 2.5, old-school Bridgeport, or rebuilding a Pro Max, 260, 280 EFI, or prepping a race-tuned outboard using an Alien Cowl, this stainless plate ensures reliable cowling support and aerodynamic integrity.
Offered below the OEM price, this stainless Mercury Racing 2.5 Alien cowl plate is a direct-fit, no-modification upgrade for any Alien-style cowling setup. It delivers superior resistance to corrosion and long-term structural reliability—critical for any high-output Mercury 2.5L outboard application.
Contact Mike Hill at mike@buckshotracing77.com or +1-714-697-1716 for tech support