For high-performance boat racing, offshore powerboating, and river racing, where engines are subjected to extreme operating conditions, the metal-caged connecting rod roller bearings, a direct replacement for Mercury part number 17514A1 and 8M0082405, provide unmatched durability and reliability.
These bearings are specifically engineered to endure the demands of high-RPM operation, particularly when exceeding 7,000 revolutions per minute (RPM)—where the stock plastic-caged bearings are prone to catastrophic failure due to heat and mechanical stress.
By replacing the stock plastic cages with precision-engineered metal cages, these bearings ensure superior load distribution and minimize wear, even during prolonged high-speed runs.
These Race Metal-Caged Roller Bearings are manufactured in the United States by Koyo Bearings USA, a division of JTEKT North America, ensuring consistent quality and performance. They are produced to exacting standards in facilities that hold industry-leading certifications including ISO 14001 for environmental management and TS 16949 for automotive quality management systems.
These certifications underscore Koyo Bearings' commitment to excellence and make these roller bearings a trusted choice for the most demanding marine applications.
These bearings are fully compatible with a wide range of high-performance Mercury outboard engines, specifically designed for use in Mercury V6 High-Performance models from 1976 to 2005. This includes the 2.0L, 2.4L, and 2.5L V6 configurations, commonly found in Mercury 150 HP, 175 HP, 200 HP, 225 Pro Max, 260 ROS (Race Offshore), 280 HP, and the formidable 300 Drag models.
Additionally, they are compatible with Mercury 30-225 HP 2-Stroke engines, covering a broad spectrum of standard and performance applications. These roller bearings also fit the SportJet series, including 90-240 HP jet-drive engines, as well as Force 40-120 HP outboards, offering broad versatility for performance enthusiasts and professional racers alike.
These bearings are particularly critical for Mercury V6 outboards configured with 6-cylinder, 90-degree V-blocks, where the combination of high horsepower and high RPM—typical of racing setups—places extreme demands on the connecting rod assembly. By providing a reliable metal cage for the needle rollers, these bearings prevent the plastic cage fragmentation seen in high-stress environments, reducing the risk of catastrophic engine failure and ensuring smooth, dependable operation.
Engine builders, race teams, and performance enthusiasts alike choose these Race Metal-Caged Connecting Rod Roller Bearings for their proven ability to deliver high performance, extended lifespan, and superior load-handling capabilities.
By integrating them into powerhead rebuilds and race-prepped Mercury outboards, builders can ensure engines stay together under the harshest conditions, delivering optimal power output and reliability.
For those upgrading or rebuilding Mercury V6 outboards—whether it’s a Mercury Pro Max, a 260 ROS, or the 300 Drag—these bearings are the clear choice for achieving peak performance and engine longevity.
Includes six (6) pairs of Mercury Metal-Caged Race Connecting Rod Bearings.
Mercury OEM Compatable Part Numbers
16200, 17514, 17514A1, 17514A2, 17514B2, 67526, 67526A1, 67526A2, 8M0045428, 8M0045430, 814337A1, 821146A1, 879366, 8M0082405
Contact Mike Hill at +1-714-697-1716 or email mike@buckshotracing77.com for technical support.