The swivel pin bushing bearing in many Mercury Racing mids is a wear component that controls steering alignment at the pivot tube. In numerous 2-stroke performance models, this part is supplied as a polymer composite (Mercury 23-847726, often listed as 847726).
Under sustained load, trim angle changes, and transom heat soak, the composite sleeve gradually creeps and deforms, resulting in ovalization. The result is measurable side play at the pin, a dulling of steering response, and the familiar clunk at idle when shifting from forward to neutral to reverse.
Buckshot Racing’s #77 bushing is machined in the United States from oil-impregnated sintered bronze and is dimensioned to install anywhere Mercury 23-847726 is specified.
During sintering, a controlled porosity is created in the bronze; those pores are then charged with PTFE-based synthetic lubricants.
As the pin oscillates, capillary action releases a thin film of lubricant at the interface, which reduces friction, limits dry start conditions, and minimizes adhesive wear. The bronze matrix maintains geometry over a wide thermal envelope—–30°F to +303°F—and resists the thermal softening and creep that can affect polymer sleeves in high-duty, high-temperature use.
In practice, our bushing bearing holds clearance more consistently through long runs and repeated heat cycles. Tighter manufacturing tolerances yield steadier steering effort and reduced lateral motion at the pivot, particularly noticeable when the engine is trimmed out at speed or in quartering chop.
Corrosion resistance of the bronze and the embedded lubricant also reduces maintenance burden relative to conventional sleeves, though routine inspection of the pin and midsection remains necessary in racing service.
Part numbers and compatibility
This bushing replaces Mercury 23-847726 (sometimes labeled “Bushing—Swivel Pin” or “Bearing—Swivel Pin”).
Where Mercury 23-847726 is specified, the #77 serves as a direct substitute across a broad range of two-stroke performance platforms, including 150/200 EFI Pro Max and Super Mag, 2.5 L EFI (including EFI Offshore), 200 EFI Pro Max/Super Mag, 200 HP XS 6-cyl (2.5 L) including ROS, 225 EFI Pro Max/ProMax/Super Mag, 250 HP Sport XS (2.5 L), 250 HP XS (3.0 L), 300 EFI Pro Max, 300 (3.0 L EFI) Super Magnum, 300 HP XS (3.2 L), and the 300X (3.0 L EFI) Pro Max.
Owners should confirm their midsection parts list; many mids use two bushings (upper and lower) on the swivel pin, and best practice is to replace them as a set.
Installation guidance
Preparation is the critical step. Clean the bore, verify the swivel pin surface finish (replace or polish if scored), and check alignment of the pivot tube.
Press the bronze bushing with the correct driver to avoid bell-mouthing; a light film of marine-grade assembly lubricant aids seating but is not a substitute for the bushing’s self-lubricating function.
After installation, torque steering and clamp fasteners to the values specified in the applicable Mercury service manual, and verify free, uniform rotation through the full trim range. Because the media is oil-impregnated, avoid over-greasing that can attract abrasive contamination.
For midsections designed around Mercury 23-847726, the Buckshot Racing #77 provides a bronze, self-lubricating alternative that maintains dimensional stability and steering precision under heat and load.
Generally, fits the Single Ram Swivel Bracket with a 1.625" ID.
Add an Oil Seal, fits top and/or bottom, as needed.
- Large: Mercury OEM Oil Seal Part Numbers: 847729, 26-847729
- Small: Mercury OEM Oil Seal Part Number: 87735, 26-87735
Contact mike@buckshotracing77.com or +1-714-697-1716 with any questions.