Sierra 18-5838 Marine Starter Solenoid, Replaces Mercury Marine 33261, 89902, 12 Volt, Mercruiser Stern Drive

The Sierra 18-5838 is a 12 volt marine starter solenoid built as a direct replacement switch for Mercruiser stern drive starters. It functions as the high-current switch that engages the starter motor when the ignition key is turned, carrying the heavy load from the battery to the starter while isolating that current from the low-amperage ignition circuit. This solenoid is designed to pair with specific Mercruiser starter assemblies, including starter numbers 1108755, 1109484, 1109485, and 1109486 used on 1977-82 12 volt applications, as well as 12 volt starters used across 1971-78 applications.

Built to withstand the vibration, heat, and moisture exposure typical of a marine engine compartment, the 18-5838 is a straightforward bolt-on replacement for a worn or failed OEM solenoid, restoring reliable starter engagement without requiring a full starter rebuild. It is sold as a single unit ready to install in place of the original switch.

Specifications

• Brand: Sierra
• Manufacturer Part Number: 18-5838
• Product Type: Starter Solenoid
• Voltage: 12 Volt
• Application: Mercruiser Stern Drive
• Compatible Starter Model Numbers: 1108755, 1109484, 1109485, 1109486 (1977-82); ALL 12 volt starters (1971-78)
• Wattage: 1.2 kilowatts
• Phase Type: Single Phase
• Product Dimensions: 7 x 3.5 x 5 inches
• Weight: 2.18 pounds
• UPC: 030999320063
• Warranty: Limited Warranty
• OEM Cross Reference: Delco 1114356, Delco 1114458, Mercury Marine 33261, Mercury Marine 89902

Fitment

• Mercruiser stern drive starters, starter numbers 1108755, 1109484, 1109485, 1109486, 12 volt, 1977-82
• Mercruiser stern drive starters, 12 volt, all starter numbers, 1971-78

Replaces (OEM)

• Delco 1114356
• Delco 1114458
• Mercury Marine 33261
• Mercury Marine 89902

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Sierra 18-5838 solenoid do? The Sierra 18-5838 is a 12 volt starter solenoid that switches high-amperage battery current to the starter motor when the ignition key is turned, letting a low-current ignition circuit control a heavy-duty starting load on Mercruiser stern drive engines.

Will the 18-5838 fit my Mercruiser starter? It is designed for Mercruiser stern drive starters with starter numbers 1108755, 1109484, 1109485, or 1109486 on 12 volt, 1977-82 applications, and for 12 volt Mercruiser starters (all starter numbers) on 1971-78 applications. Confirm your existing starter number before ordering.

What OEM part numbers does the 18-5838 cross-reference to? The 18-5838 cross-references to Delco 1114356 and 1114458, and to Mercury Marine 33261 and 89902, so it can be used as a direct replacement for those OEM solenoids.

Is the Sierra 18-5838 a genuine Sierra part or an aftermarket copy? The 18-5838 is manufactured and sold under the Sierra brand as an aftermarket replacement solenoid engineered to OEM specifications for Mercruiser stern drive starters, rather than a Delco or Mercury Marine branded original.

How much does the 18-5838 solenoid weigh? The Sierra 18-5838 starter solenoid weighs 2.18 pounds.

What are the dimensions of the 18-5838 solenoid? The 18-5838 measures 7 x 3.5 x 5 inches.

What voltage is the Sierra 18-5838 solenoid rated for? This solenoid is rated for 12 volt marine starting systems.

Is installation of the 18-5838 a simple bolt-on job? Yes, the 18-5838 is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement for the original solenoid on compatible Mercruiser starters, using the same mounting and terminal configuration as the OEM switch.

What is included when I order the Sierra 18-5838? The order includes one Sierra 18-5838 starter solenoid, sold individually as a single replacement unit.

Does the 18-5838 come with a warranty? The Sierra 18-5838 solenoid is backed by a limited warranty.

What is the wattage rating of the 18-5838 solenoid? The 18-5838 is rated at 1.2 kilowatts and operates on a single phase circuit.