The Mercury High-Performance Throttle Return Spring (OEM Part Number 24-8484702) and Retainer Clip (OEM Part Number 53-78201) are key parts in the throttle system of Mercury V6 outboards, especially high-performance engines built by Mercury Racing. Our replacement kit gives racers, performance boaters, and bass boat owners a reliable solution now that these OEM parts are scarce or no longer available.
Designed for Mercury V6 Performance, Recreational, and Bass Boats
This extension spring is used in the throttle assembly of 1976–2005 Mercury V6 outboards and came stock on engines such as the SST-120, SST-140, 225 HP Pro Max, 225 Super Magnum, 245 HP Carb, 260 EFI, 280 ROS, 300 Drag, F1, and S3000.
It is also commonly used as a foot throttle (hot foot) return spring. Because many recreational and bass boats use similar Mercury V6 throttle layouts and cable-operated pedals, this spring and retainer kit can also be fitted or adapted to most recreational and bass boats that need a positive return-to-idle spring.
Why the Throttle Return Spring Matters
The replacement 24-8484702 throttle return spring pulls the throttle linkage back to idle when the foot or hand throttle is released. That automatic return helps keep engine speed under control and adds a real safety margin by preventing the throttle from hanging open.
On race boats, a strong return spring is essential to avoid unintended acceleration and to let the driver back out instantly if water or traffic changes. On recreational and bass rigs, the same function makes docking, loading, and fishing around other boats safer and more predictable. When the return spring weakens, rusts, or breaks, the throttle may not close fully, which is why this small part is treated as a safety component, not just a convenience.
USA-Made 302 Stainless Steel Construction
Our replacement for Mercury 24-8484702 is built from 302 stainless steel with precision-formed hooks. It is Made in the USA by a spring manufacturer with roots going back to the early 1900s. The 302 stainless material resists corrosion in freshwater and saltwater, maintains a stable spring rate, and delivers a firm, consistent return even under vibration and high RPM.
Direct Replacement for 24-8484702 and NLA Retainer Clip 53-78201
The kit is designed to replace the original Mercury pieces one-for-one. The spring substitutes for Mercury 24-8484702, while the included retainer clip ring washer replaces Mercury 53-78201, which is now NLA (No Longer Available).
In the stock setup, the spring hooks on one end to the head-bolt-mounted retainer clip ring washer and on the other to the throttle arm, usually by drilling a small 1/8" hole in the arm. By supplying both the spring and the retainer clip ring, the kit eliminates the need to chase obsolete hardware or fabricate custom brackets and lets you restore the original style return system quickly.
Complete Throttle Return Spring + Retainer Clip Kit
Each Throttle Return Spring + Retainer Clip Kit for Mercury V6 includes one 302 stainless throttle return spring and one retainer clip ring, replacing the original Mercury layout.
Together, they restore a positive, reliable return-to-idle action on high-performance, recreational, and bass boats using Mercury V6 power. The result is a cleaner, safer throttle feel and a boat that responds exactly as it should every time you come off the throttle.
For technical inquiries or customization options, contact Mike Hill at +1-714-697-1716 or mike@buckshotracing77.com