This is the latest version of the Mercury Racing OEM ignition trigger, part numbers 96455A10 and 96455A11, designed for use with 1976–1999 Mercury and Mariner V6 2-stroke outboard motors.
It is compatible with a wide range of high-performance Mercury outboards, including the 135 HP, 150 HP, Black Max, XR2, XR4, XR6, 175 HP, 200 HP, XRi, 225 ProMax, 260 HP, SST-120, SST-140, S3000, and 300 Drag models. It also functions effectively with the 280 ROS variant equipped with a CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) system.
This OEM trigger replaces several earlier and superseded part numbers, including 68162A1, 68162A5, 68162A8, 96454, 96455A6, 96455A10, 96455A11, and CDI Electronics 134-6456. It includes one brand-new Mercury OEM trigger sourced from current production stock.
The Mercury 96455-series trigger (covering variants A1 through A11) is a critical ignition system component in Mercury V6 2-stroke outboards. It plays a key role in the operation of the CDI ignition system by generating a precise signal that indicates crankshaft position. This is achieved via three internal coils within the trigger that interact with two reverse-polarity magnets embedded in the flywheel hub.
This signal is sent to the switch boxes, which discharges stored energy from a capacitor to the ignition coils. This process precisely times the spark plug firing sequence, enabling high-RPM efficiency, fast throttle response, and optimal ignition timing—essential for performance outboard applications.
A common method for diagnosing trigger issues involves checking whether the firing pairs are activating as expected. Refer to the appropriate service manual ignition test chart for verification and diagnostics.
Contact Mike Hill at mike@buckshotracing77.com or +1-714-697-1716