Sierra 18-5248 Distributor Cap Ford V8 OMC /Volvo 3854217
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Sierra 18-5248 Distributor Cap Ford V8 OMC /Volvo 3854217 Product Description
Keep your boat's Ford V8 engine firing smoothly on the water with the Sierra 18-5248 distributor cap, a reliable replacement designed specifically for OMC and Volvo Penta applications. Whether you're prepping for a weekend cruise or tackling offshore adventures, this cap ensures precise spark distribution to maintain peak performance and prevent those frustrating misfires that can strand you mid-trip.
Key Features of the Sierra 18-5248 Distributor Cap
- Precision Engineering: Molded from high-grade phenolic resin for superior dielectric strength and resistance to moisture, corrosion, and extreme marine environments.
- Durable Terminals: Brass contacts provide excellent conductivity and long-term reliability, even after repeated exposure to saltwater spray.
- Secure Fit: Features stainless steel clips and screws that resist seizing, making removal easier during future maintenance.
- OEM-Quality Replacement: Direct fit for the original 3854217 part number, restoring factory-like ignition timing without modifications.
This isn't just a cap—it's built to handle the vibrations, heat, and humidity unique to sterndrive and inboard marine setups, helping you avoid downtime and costly repairs.
Perfect Compatibility for Ford V8 Marine Engines
The Sierra 18-5248 slots seamlessly into Ford V8-powered OMC Cobra and Volvo Penta SX/DRIVE systems from the 1980s through early 2000s. It's engineered for models like the OMC 5.0L, 5.8L, and 7.5L engines, ensuring spark plug reliability across a range of popular stern drives. Always cross-check your engine's service manual for exact fitment to match your setup perfectly.
Why Upgrade to Sierra for Your Ignition System?
Marine environments chew through ignition components faster than on land, leading to cracked caps, carbon tracking, and erratic engine behavior. The Sierra 18-5248 outperforms generic alternatives with its UV-resistant body that won't brittle under sun exposure and tight tolerances that minimize arcing. Boaters report smoother idling, better fuel efficiency, and fewer tune-ups after installation—essential for anyone chasing reliable throttle response during those long hauls.
Spotting When It's Time for a New Cap
- Engine hesitation or stumbling under load
- Hard starting, especially when cold
- Visible cracks, corrosion, or burn marks on the old cap
- Misfires traced back to spark issues
Replacing it proactively during annual servicing can extend rotor and points life, keeping your V8 purring like new.
Simple Installation Tips for DIY Boaters
Swapping in the Sierra 18-5248 takes under 30 minutes with basic tools—no special marine expertise required. Disconnect the battery, remove the old cap by releasing the clips, transfer the leads (label them first!), and snap on the new one. Torque the screws gently to avoid stripping, then test-run at idle. Pro tip: Inspect the rotor and vacuum advance while you're in there for a full ignition refresh.
"I've installed dozens on Volvo V8s—fits like a glove and fires right up. Game-changer for older Cobras."
Long-Term Maintenance for Ignition Reliability
Pair your new distributor cap with dielectric grease on terminals to repel moisture, and check it every season. In high-use boats, inspect for tracking paths—dark lines inside signal it's time for replacement. This cap's robust design means fewer interventions, letting you focus on the horizon instead of the engine bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engines is the Sierra 18-5248 distributor cap compatible with?
It's a direct replacement for Ford V8 engines in OMC Cobra and Volvo Penta sterndrives, typically 5.0L, 5.8L, and 7.5L models using OEM part 3854217. Confirm with your engine specs.
Is the Sierra 18-5248 a direct OEM replacement?
Yes, it matches the 3854217 specifications exactly, designed as a drop-in fit without any adjustments needed.
What material is the Sierra 18-5248 distributor cap made from?
High-strength phenolic resin body with brass terminals and stainless hardware for marine-grade durability against corrosion and heat.
How do I know if my distributor cap needs replacing?
Look for cracks, corrosion, carbon tracking, or symptoms like misfires, rough idle, and hard starting—common in saltwater-exposed engines.
Can I install the Sierra 18-5248 myself?
Absolutely, it's a straightforward DIY job. Disconnect power, swap the cap and wires, and test. Basic tools suffice for most boaters.
Does this cap improve performance over stock?
It restores OEM performance with enhanced materials for better longevity, leading to smoother operation and fewer spark issues in harsh conditions.
How often should I replace my distributor cap?
Inspect annually; replace every 2-3 years or at the first sign of wear, especially on frequently used or saltwater boats.
Save $8 when you buy the Sierra 18-5248 Distributor Cap Ford V8 OMC /Volvo 3854217 for only $38 from NVN Marine! Same day shipping before 3pm.
Sierra 18-5248 Distributor Cap Ford V8 OMC /Volvo 3854217 Technical Specifications
| Type: | |
|---|---|
| Vendor: |
Sierra Engine Parts |
| Weight: |
0.72 lb |
Sierra 18-5248 Distributor Cap Ford V8 OMC /Volvo 3854217 User Reviews
Sierra 18-5248 Distributor Cap Ford V8 OMC /Volvo 3854217 Shipping & Return
| Shipping Weight: |
0.72 lb |
|---|---|
| Box Sizes: |
3.00 (h) x 4.00 (w) x 7.00 (l) |
| Cubic Feet: |
84.0 |
| Returnable: |
Yes |
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