Sierra 18-5437 Ignition Coil - Replaces 3854161 - for 1996 OMC Sterndrive/Cobra Stern Drive Applications

The Sierra 18-5437 is a metal-encased 12 volt ignition coil built to deliver reliable spark energy in marine stern drive ignition systems. It uses an external resistor for all applications, a design that protects the coil winding from excess current draw once the engine is running and helps extend service life in the demanding marine environment. This coil is engineered to meet or exceed the performance of the original equipment part it replaces, making it a straightforward like-for-like replacement rather than a compromise substitute.

Electrically, the 18-5437 is rated at 1.45 ohms (+/-15%) primary resistance and 8.5 ohms (+/-20%) secondary resistance, values that determine correct spark timing and voltage output for the ignition system it serves. It is finished in a metal housing for durability and terminates in a male connector for straightforward wiring during installation. Sierra supplies this part to OEM engine manufacturers and boat builders, so it is manufactured to the same quality standards as factory-installed coils.

This coil is built for 1996 model-year applications, specifically OMC Sterndrive/Cobra stern drive setups. Always confirm your engine and ignition system before ordering to ensure correct fitment.

Specifications

• Brand: Sierra
• Manufacturer Part Number: 18-5437
• Product Type: Ignition Coil
• Voltage: 12 Volt
• Housing: Metal Encased
• Resistor Type: Uses External Resistor (For All Applications)
• Primary Resistance: 1.45 ohms (+/-15%)
• Secondary Resistance: 8.5 ohms (+/-20%)
• Connector Gender: Male
• Dimensions: 5 x 3.5 x 5.5 inches
• Weight: 1.38 pounds
• UPC: 030999236715

Fitment

• 1996 model-year applications
• OMC Sterndrive/Cobra stern drive

Replaces (OEM)

• 3854161

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Sierra 18-5437 ignition coil replace? The Sierra 18-5437 replaces OEM cross-reference number 3854161, so any part carrying that number can be crossed to this coil.

Is the 18-5437 a 12 volt coil? Yes, the 18-5437 is a metal-encased 12 volt ignition coil designed for marine stern drive ignition systems.

Does this coil need an external resistor? Yes, the 18-5437 uses an external resistor for all applications rather than an internally resisted design.

What are the primary and secondary resistance values of the 18-5437? Primary resistance is 1.45 ohms (+/-15%) and secondary resistance is 8.5 ohms (+/-20%) on the Sierra 18-5437 ignition coil.

What are the dimensions and weight of the 18-5437 ignition coil? The coil measures 5 x 3.5 x 5.5 inches and weighs 1.38 pounds.

What is the housing material of the 18-5437? It has a metal-encased housing, which protects the internal windings in a marine environment.

What type of connector does the 18-5437 use? The Sierra 18-5437 terminates in a male connector for wiring into the ignition harness.

What applications is the 18-5437 built for? This coil is built for 1996 model-year applications on OMC Sterndrive/Cobra stern drives.

Is the Sierra 18-5437 an OEM part or aftermarket? The 18-5437 is a Sierra-manufactured replacement engineered to meet or exceed the performance of the original equipment coil it replaces (OEM cross-reference 3854161), rather than a genuine OEM-branded part.

What is included when I order the 18-5437? You receive one Sierra 18-5437 ignition coil, ready for installation in place of the coil it replaces.

How do I know if the 18-5437 fits my stern drive? Confirm your ignition system uses OEM cross-reference 3854161 or matches a 1996 OMC Sterndrive/Cobra stern drive application before ordering the 18-5437.