Seachoice 20981 Fuel Filter Cartridges – 2 Micron | Mercury Verado & OptiMax | Pair
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Seachoice 20981 – Replacement Fuel Filter Cartridges | 2 Micron | Mercury Verado & OptiMax | Pack of 2
Part Number: 20981 | SKU: 50-20981
Brand: Seachoice
Type: Screw-In Fuel Filter Cartridge
Filtration: 2 Micron
Quantity: 2 Filters per Package
Application: Mercury Verado & OptiMax Outboards (selected configurations)
UPC: 719249209814
Seachoice 20981 is a pair of 2-micron screw-in replacement fuel filter cartridges for selected Mercury Verado and OptiMax outboard engines. The fine 2-micron filtration helps remove small particles before they reach fuel pumps, injectors, and other precision fuel-system components — keeping sensitive high-performance fuel systems protected between service intervals.
Compatible Applications
- Mercury Verado outboards – selected engine families using 2-micron screw-in cartridge filters
- Mercury OptiMax outboards – selected engine families using 2-micron screw-in cartridge filters
Fitment Notice: Verado and OptiMax engines use several different fuel filters depending on engine family, serial range, and fuel-system location. Confirm the existing filter part number from your engine’s fuel-system diagram before ordering — matching one of the supported cross-reference numbers below is the most reliable fitment method.
When to Replace
- At each scheduled fuel-system maintenance interval per your engine service manual
- When restricted fuel flow, hard starting, or rough running may indicate filter loading
- When contamination is suspected in the fuel supply
Regular cartridge replacement helps protect fuel pumps, injectors, and other precision components from particulate damage.
Installation Notes
- Depressurize the fuel system before beginning filter service
- Keep the filter area clean to prevent debris from entering the fuel circuit during the swap
- Remove the old cartridges and inspect sealing surfaces and O-rings for wear or damage
- Install the new cartridges securely; do not over-tighten
- Prime the fuel system as required and check carefully for leaks before starting the engine
Cross-Reference Part Numbers
- Seachoice: 20981 / 50-20981
- Mercury: 35-8M0060041
- Mercury: 35-8M0122423
- Mercury: 8M0020349
- Mercury: 884380T
- Sierra: 7981
- Racor / Parker: 31871
- Marpac: FF020100
- UPC: 719249209814
Parts Desk Insights
The three things that identify Seachoice 20981 are 2-micron filtration, screw-in cartridge type, and two filters per package. The most common fitment mistake is selecting by engine name (“Verado” or “OptiMax”) alone without verifying the specific filter part number — both engine families use multiple different filter configurations depending on model year and serial range. Always match the existing Mercury filter number (35-8M0060041, 35-8M0122423, 8M0020349, or 884380T) before ordering to confirm this is the correct cartridge for your 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.