Quicksilver Diesel Fuel Filter Element for MerCruiser 3.0L/3.6L/4.2L – #35-19486

MerCruiser diesel engines (often co-branded as Cummins MerCruiser Diesel) with 3.0L, 3.6L, and 4.2L displacements rely on robust fuel filtration to maintain the high pressure and precise fuel delivery of diesel injection. The Quicksilver 35-19486 filter element is the genuine part that fits into these engines’ filter housings, neutralizing contaminants in the diesel before they reach the sensitive pumps and injectors. Many of these engines (VM Motori-based 5- and 6-cylinder diesels) were used in sport cruisers and small yachts during the 1990s and early 2000s. Over time, your fuel tank can accumulate rust, microbial “diesel bug” deposits, or water through condensation. This filter is designed to tackle such challenges – its special media catches both solid particles and water droplets. Replacing the filter regularly (typically once a year or per engine-hour guidelines) will prevent issues like clogged injectors, uneven engine running, or hard starting. If your MerCruiser diesel is the heart of your boat’s propulsion, investing in this OEM filter means fewer headaches down the line and optimal performance every time you fire it up.

• Engine Models: This filter covers several generations of MerCruiser diesels: from the 5-cylinder 3.0L (also known as D183) to the 6-cylinder 3.6L (D219) and 4.2L (D254). These engines powered boats in the 6–10 m range, including cruising powerboats, RHIBs for patrol use, etc. Often, twin 4.2L engines were installed in larger boats. In all cases, clean fuel is crucial for synchronized twin-engine operation.
• Preventing Issues: Changing the diesel filter often cures symptoms like loss of power under heavy load, surging at constant RPM, or excessive black smoke – which can be caused by restricted fuel flow. This filter restores full flow to the pump, normalizing the air-fuel ratio and combustion.
• Long Voyages: For owners of motor-sailors or cruisers with MerCruiser diesels who undertake long passages, carrying a spare 35-19486 filter on board is wise. It can be replaced if needed even on open water, as the filter housing is usually accessible. This provides extra peace of mind that even if you get a bad batch of fuel or stir up sludge from the tank bottom, you won’t be left dead in the water.
• Cross-Compatibility: Quicksilver 35-19486 crosses with numerous part numbers from VM Motori and other brands (Mahle, MANN, etc.) used in industrial applications and even automobiles. This underscores its reliability – it meets filtration standards for automotive engines (with cross references to BMW/Ford filters), meaning it handles high requirements. However, for marine use, we always recommend the genuine Quicksilver version, which is tested against vibration and salt exposure.
• Protecting Your Investment: Fuel system components (pump, injectors) in diesel engines are expensive. Regularly changing this relatively low-cost filter protects those components, whose repairs can cost thousands. So this is a small but extremely important investment in the reliability and economy of your engine – clean diesel burns better, yields more power, and leaves fewer deposits.