The Fascinating History of Mercury Marine

For more than 75 years, Mercury Marine has been crafting top-of-the-line outboard and sterndrive engines. They're one of the largest makers of boat propulsion systems in the world, and their products can be found in boats around the globe. Read on to learn about the fascinating history of this ground-breaking company. Then, if you'd like more information, visit us at our location in Campbell River, British Columbia, also serving Courtenay and Nanaimo, British Columbia.

When Did Mercury Marine Get Started?

Mercury Marine started in 1939, when its founder, E. Carl Kiekhaefer, purchased a bankrupt manufacturing company. The company wasn't far from his family farm, and that wasn't the only perk he received with his purchase. Inside the building were 300 outboard engines that hadn't been sold due to defects in their design. 

Rather than selling the old engines as scrap metal, Kiekhaefer decided to use them as a starting point to create a better engine. The defective engines underwent an overhaul that included switching out the original crankshafts for better-quality ones. The enhanced engines were then sold under a different brand name, and Kiekhaefer used the funds as startup money for his new outboard motors business.

In just a few short months, the company released a new engine line called the Thor outboard. They've been in the business of fine craftsmanship ever since.

The Innovative History of Mercury Marine® Boats

The company has had a lot of success in the decades that have passed since 1939, so let's go over some of the highlights.

• In 1947, they released full-jeweled power in an outboard engine, including an anti-friction ball plus roller and needle bearings in all major bearing locations to improve reliability and efficiency.
• In 1952, the company eliminated the need for a shear pin by creating the first splined propeller shaft.
• A year later, they released their first four-cylinder, two-cycle outboard.
• In 1957, they released the Mercury jet prop.
• A few decades later, in 1996, they became the first company to produce direct fuel injection.
• As recently as 2013, Mercury Marine released an engine that was the most powerful on the market.

These are just a few accomplishments the company has celebrated in its life, but they give you a good picture of what Mercury Marine is all about.

What Does Mercury Marine Make Today?

So, fast forward to today. The company has grown through the years, and they have a wide variety of products available. Those products include high-quality engines, propellers, gauges, controls, and other parts and accessories you need for your vessel.

The company is still well-known for its attention to detail, and you can't go wrong by choosing this brand. To check out some quality Mercury Marine boats, stop by Bill Howich RV & Marine in Campbell River, British Columbia, also serving Courtenay and Nanaimo, British Columbia.