Arco 5388 Replacement Starter – Mercury 50–60 HP 3-Cylinder & 45 HP Jet Outboards
Free returns on all eligible orders
You have 30 days to request a return. All sale items are final sale.
Arco 5388 Replacement Outboard Starter Motor
The Arco 5388 is a direct-fit replacement starter for Mercury’s 3-cylinder 50–60 HP outboards and the 45 HP Jet variant from the early-to-mid 1990s. Compact and purpose-built for these smaller Mercury powerheads, it delivers reliable engagement with a 10-tooth drive gear and drops in as a straightforward OEM swap. If your Mercury is cranking slowly or the starter has given out, the 5388 restores confident starting without any modification.
Compatible Applications
- Mercury 50–60 HP 3-cylinder outboard engines
- Mercury 45 HP Jet outboard engines (1991–1996)
- 10-tooth drive gear configuration required
Key Features
- Direct OEM replacement fit — no modifications required
- 10-tooth drive gear for correct flywheel engagement
- Designed for Mercury 3-cylinder powerhead applications
- Built for saltwater and freshwater marine environments
- Corrosion-resistant construction for long service life
- SKU: 57-5388
Parts Desk Insights
The 5388 is the correct starter for Mercury’s 3-cylinder 50–60 HP outboards — a popular engine family found on a wide range of aluminum fishing boats and utility craft from the late 1980s through the 1990s. The 45 HP Jet fitment covers the same powerhead in jet-drive configuration, so confirm your application before ordering. Tooth count (10-tooth) is the key spec to verify against your existing unit. For higher-horsepower Mercury outboard starters, see the Arco 5377 for Mercury 75–115 HP or the Arco 5380 for Mercury 75–115 HP 2-Stroke. When replacing the starter, inspect the solenoid at the same time — the Arco SW275 Mercury Starter Solenoid is the recommended companion for this application.
Shipping information
In-stock and OEM parts: ship same or next business day.
Locally warehoused items: ship within 1-3 business days.
Special-order items: timeline confirmed after order.
Returns & warranty
Returns & Satisfaction Guarantee
We stand firmly behind the quality of every product we sell. Your confidence matters to us — and we back it with a straightforward 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee.
If you are not fully satisfied, you may request a return within 30 days of delivery. All returns must receive pre-approval prior to being sent back. Unauthorized returns will not be accepted.
To qualify for a return:
Item must be in new, unused condition
Product must be in its original packaging
All parts, components, hardware, manuals, and accessories must be included
Packaging must be undamaged and suitable for resale
Important:
Electronics are strictly inspected. No returns on open-box electronics. Exceptions may apply only with prior written approval. Any electronic unit that has been installed, powered, activated, or altered may not be eligible for return.
We are serious about product integrity — and equally serious about taking care of our customers. If there is ever a product issue, contact us immediately so we can make it right.
For return authorization, please contact our support team before shipping anything back.