The 31-piece Titanium Powerhead Stud Kit developed for the Mercury 135 HP, 150 HP, 175 HP, XRi, XR2, XR4, XR6, 225 Pro Max, 2.0, 2.4, and 2.5 liter V6 outboards is engineered specifically for standard or stock mid-sections, often referred to as fishing bass mids.
 
The Buckshot Racing #77 kit offers a reliable and performance-focused solution for securing the powerhead, reducing weight, and enhancing long-term durability in high-stress marine conditions.
 
Complete Kit Configuration
Each 31-piece kit is tailored to match the geometry of Mercury V6 mid-sections and includes a balanced selection of titanium and stainless steel hardware.
 
Six (6) short (2.00") titanium studs are provided for the front and rear of the block
Two (2) long (5.75") titanium studs support the mid-side positions
Two (2) longer (6.75") titanium studs reinforce the front sides
Eight (8) case-hardened extra-thick Mercury washers
Eight (8) stainless Nylock nuts for side and rear studs
Two (2) stainless flat washers for the front studs
Two (2) thin stainless Nylock jam nuts for the front studs
 One (1) Allen key wrench allows easy installation and removal
 
Replaces Mercury Marine OEM part numbers: 8M0034437, 847532, 96910, 8M0034443, 847530, 97008, 78438, 784384, 784385, 8M0034454, 12-70833, 12-45175, 12-F1778, 2550W23059, F1778, 45175, 70833, 856774, 12-856774, 8M0214963
 
Aerospace-Grade Titanium Construction
 
At the core of the kit’s performance is Ti-6Al-4V, an aerospace-grade titanium alloy known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. This material is widely used in aerospace applications and Formula 1 racing, where weight reduction and structural integrity are critical.
 
Compared to stainless steel, titanium provides a 45% weight reduction, and it is 55% lighter than alloy steel. Despite its lighter weight, the material achieves roughly 30% greater strength than stainless steel, allowing the studs to withstand extreme stress loads in competitive boat racing environments.
 
The combination of reduced weight and improved strength not only contributes to overall engine efficiency but also minimizes stress on critical components during high-performance operation.
 
Engineering for Efficiency and Serviceability
Installation and maintenance have been simplified through the use of a broached US SAE 5/32-inch hex key head design.
 
This feature allows the studs to be easily inserted or removed using a standard 5/32-inch Allen wrench, significantly reducing the risk of damaged knuckles and cutting down on rebuild time.
 
The broached Allen head ends further enhance serviceability by ensuring quick removal and replacement during routine engine maintenance or complete powerhead rebuilds.
 
Corrosion Resistance and Surface Treatment
Marine racing and performance boating environments expose engine hardware to constant stress, high temperatures, and corrosive conditions.
 
To address this, each titanium stud receives a Rainbow PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating, an advanced surface treatment that provides superior hardness and resistance. With hardness values between 2000–3000 HV, the coating is up to ten times harder than standard electroplated finishes.
 
This ultra-thin layer, measuring between 0.5 and 5 microns, reduces wear by 30–70% and increases corrosion resistance by 30–50%, even under saltwater exposure. The coating also delivers stable performance at temperatures up to 500°C (932°F), ensuring reliability during sustained high-load operation.
 
With a low friction coefficient, as low as 0.1, the PVD finish allows precise torque application while minimizing thread wear, contributing to both accuracy and long-term durability.
 
Advancing Marine Performance Engineering
The Titanium Powerhead Stud Kit represents a convergence of aerospace materials, precision engineering, and marine-specific design considerations.
 
By combining lightweight construction, enhanced strength, ease of installation, and advanced surface treatments, the kit supports both reliability and performance in Mercury V6 engines.
 
For competitive racers and performance boating enthusiasts, this approach ensures that critical hardware is as advanced as the engines it supports.
 
Contact Mike Hill at +1-714-697-1716 or email mike@buckshotracing77.com for technical support.