Mercruiser 4.3-5.0 MPI Engine Manual

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NOTE: The following applies to CE marked products only.

Declaration of Conformance Mercury MerCruiser


This sterndrive or inboard engine when installed in accordance to Mercury MerCruisers instructions complies with the requirements of the following directives by meeting the associated standards, as amended: Recreational Craft Directive 94/25/EC; 2003/44/EC
Applicable Requirement Owners manual (A.2.5) Handling characteristics (A.4) Inboard Engine (A.5.1.1) Fuel System (A.5.2) Electrical System (A.5.3) Steering system (A.5.4) Exhaust emission requirements (B.2) Owners manual (B.4) Noise emission levels (C.1) Ignitionprotected equipment (Annex II) ISO 10240 ISO 8665 ISO 15584; ISO 10088; ISO 7840; ISO 10133 ISO 10088; ISO 7840; ISO 8469 ISO 10133; ISO 8846 Applicable portions of: ISO 10592, ISO 8848 and ABYC P17 ISO 8178 ISO 8665 ISO 14509 ISO 8846; SAE J1171; SAE J1191; SAE J 2031 Standards Applied

Mercury MerCruiser declares that our sterndrive or inboard engines without integral exhaust, when installed in a recreational craft, in accordance with the manufacturers supplied instructions, will meet the exhaust emissions requirements of the directive mentioned above. This engine must not be put into service until the recreational craft in which it is to be installed has been declared in conformity, if so required, with the relevant provision of the directive. Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 89/336/EC, 92/31/EEC and 93/68/EEC
Generic emission standard Generic immunity standard EN 500811 EN 500821

Vehicles, boats and internal combustion engine SAE J551 (CISPR 12) driven devices Radio disturbance characteristics Electrostatic discharge testing EN 6100062; EN 6100042; EN6100043

The notified body responsible for surveillance of the quality system under Full Quality Assurance Module H of Directive 2003/44/EC is: Det Norske Veritas Norway Notified Body Number: 0575 This declaration is issued under the sole responsibility of Mercury Marine and Mercury MerCruiser.

Patrick C. Mackey

President Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, WI USA

2007 Mercury Marine

4.3, 5.0 MPI and SeaCore 4.3, 5.0 Models

*899883180*

Openings in Hull, Deck and superstructure (A.3.4) ISO 90931; ISO 90932

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Regulatory contact: Engineering - Regulatory MerCruiser 3003 N. Perkins Rd Stillwater, Oklahoma 74075 USA (405) 377-1200

Identification Record
Please record the following information:
Engine Model and Horsepower Transom Assembly Serial Number (Sterndrive) Transmission Model (Inboard) Propeller Number Hull Identification Number (HIN) Boat Manufacturer Exhaust Gas Emissions Certification Number Boat Model Gear Ratio Gear Ratio Pitch Engine Serial Number Sterndrive Unit Serial Number Transmission Serial Number Diameter Purchase Date Length

The serial numbers are the manufacturers keys to numerous engineering details that apply to your Mercury MerCruiser power package. When contacting your Authorized Mercury MerCruiser Dealer about service, always specify model and serial numbers. The description and specifications contained herein were in effect at the time this guide was approved for printing. Mercury Marine, whose policy is one of continuous improvement, reserves the right to discontinue models at any time, or to change specifications or designs, without notice and without incurring obligation. Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.A. Printed in U.S.A. 2007, Mercury Marine Mercury, Mercury Marine, MerCruiser, Mercury MerCruiser, Mercury Racing, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Mariner, Quicksilver, #1 On The Water, Alpha, Bravo, Pro Max, OptiMax, SportJet, KPlanes, MerCathode, RideGuide, SmartCraft, Zero Effort, M with Waves logo, Mercury with Waves logo, and SmartCraft logo are all registered trademarks of Brunswick Corporation. Mercury Product Protection logo is a registered service mark of Brunswick Corporation.

Welcome
You have selected one of the finest marine power packages available. It incorporates numerous design features to assure operating ease and durability. With proper care and maintenance, you will thoroughly enjoy using this product for many boating seasons. To ensure maximum performance and carefree use, we ask that you thoroughly read this manual.

The Operation, Maintenance and Warranty Manual contains specific instructions for using and maintaining your product. We suggest that this manual remain with the product for ready reference whenever you are on the water. Thank you for purchasing one of our Mercury MerCruiser products. We sincerely hope your boating will be pleasant! Mercury MerCruiser

Warranty Message
The product you have purchased comes with a limited warranty from Mercury Marine; the terms of the warranty are set forth in the Warranty Sections of this manual. The warranty statement contains a description of what is covered, what is not covered, the duration of coverage, how to best obtain warranty coverage, important disclaimers and limitations of damages and other related information. Please review this important information. Mercury Marine products are designed and manufactured to comply with our own high quality standards, applicable industry standards and regulations, as well as certain emissions regulations. At Mercury Marine every engine is operated and tested before it is boxed for shipment to make sure that the product is ready for use. In addition, certain Mercury Marine products are tested in a controlled and monitored environment, for up to 10 hours of engine run time, in order to verify and make a record of compliance with applicable standards and regulations. All Mercury Marine product, sold as new, receives the applicable limited warranty coverage, whether the engine participated in one of the test programs described above or not.

Read This Manual Thoroughly


IMPORTANT: If you dont understand any portion of this manual, contact your dealer for a demonstration of actual starting and operating procedures.

Notice
Throughout this publication, and on your power package, dangers, warnings, cautions, and notices, accompanied by the International Hazard Symbol ! , may be used to alert the installer/user to special instructions concerning a particular service or operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. These safety alerts follow ANSI standard Z535.62006 for product safety information in product manuals, instructions, and other collateral materials. Observe them carefully. These Safety Alerts alone cannot eliminate the hazards that they signal. Strict compliance with these special instructions while performing the service, plus common sense operation, are major accident prevention measures.

! DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

! WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

! CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, could result in engine or major component failure. IMPORTANT: Identifies information essential to the successful completion of the task.

NOTE: Indicates information that helps in the understanding of a particular step or action.

! WARNING
The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation of the boat, the equipment aboard and the safety of all occupants aboard. We strongly recommend that the operator read this Operation, Maintenance and Warranty Manual and thoroughly understand the operational instructions for the power package and all related accessories before the boat is used.

! WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 - Warranty
Warranty Registration: United States and Canada....................................................................2 Warranty Registration: Outside the United States and Canada....................................................................2 Transfer of Warranty................................................ 3 Mercury Product Protection Plan: United States and Canada....................................................................3 Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty (GasolineFueled Products Only) ...........................4 3Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion............6 4Year Limited Corrosion Warranty: SeaCore Sterndrive Models with Gas Engines ...................... 7 Global Warranty Charts...........................................8 Consumer Application Warranty Chart...............8 Commercial Application Warranty Chart.............9 Government Application Warranty Chart..........10 Mercury Installation Quality Certification Program 10 Emission Control Information Label.......................11 Owner Responsibility........................................12

Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package


Identification..........................................................14 Engine Serial Number Decal MPI...................14 Bravo Sterndrive Serial Number and Identification...................................................14 Bravo Transom Serial Number.......................15 Lanyard Stop Switch..............................................16 Instrumentation......................................................17 Digital Gauges..................................................17 Analog Gauges.................................................18 Remote Controls (NonDTS Models).....................18 Remote Controls............................................18 Panel Mount Features..................................19 Console Mount Features..............................20 Remote Controls (DTS Models)............................20 Remote Controls............................................20 Panel Mount Features....................................21 Console Mount Features Single Engine.......22 Slim Binnacle Console Mount Features Single Engine............................................................23 Console Mount Features Dual Engine..........24 Synchronizing Dual Engines..........................25 Dual Helm Station Transfer............................25 Synchronizing Dual Helms Prior To Station Transfer........................................................26 Zero Effort Features.......................................26 Power Trim............................................................27 Single Engine Trim/Trailer................................28 Dual Engine Trim/Trailer...................................28 Electrical System Overload Protection..................28 Audio Warning System..........................................31 Testing The Audio Warning System.................31 Engine Guardian Strategy.....................................31 Warning Horn Signals............................................32

Section 3 - On the Water


Safe Boating Suggestions.....................................34 Be Alert to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning................35 Good Ventilation...............................................35 Poor Ventilation ...............................................36 Basic Boat Operation (NonDTS Models)..............36 Launching and Boat Operation.......................36 Operation Chart............................................36 Starting and Stopping the Engine...................37 Starting the Engine.......................................37 Stopping the Engine.....................................38 Starting the Engine After It Has Been Stopped While In Gear.................................................38 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 ThrottleOnly Operation..................................38 Trailering the Boat..........................................38 Freezing Temperature Operation...................38 Drain Plug and Bilge Pump............................39 Basic Boat Operation (DTS Models).....................39 Launching and Boat Operation.......................39 Operation Chart............................................39 Starting and Stopping the Engine...................39 Starting the Engine.......................................39 Stopping the Engine.....................................40 ThrottleOnly Operation..................................41 Trailering the Boat..........................................41 Page i

Freezing Temperature Operation..................41 Drain Plug and Bilge Pump...........................42 Protecting People in the Water............................. 42 While You Are Cruising....................................42 While Boat Is Stationary.................................. 42 HighSpeed and HighPerformance Operation.... 42 Passenger Safety in Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats.................................................................... 42 Boats Having An Open Front Deck..................43 Boats With FrontMounted, Raised Pedestal Fishing Seats...................................................43 Wave and Wake Jumping.................................... 43 Impact with Underwater Hazards......................... 44 Drive Unit Impact Protection............................45

Operating with Low Water Inlets in Shallow Water....................................................................45 Conditions Affecting Operation............................. 45 Weight Distribution (Passengers and Gear) Inside the Boat.............................................. 45 The Bottom of the Boat................................. 45 Cavitation...................................................... 46 Ventilation..................................................... 46 Elevation and Climate................................... 46 Propeller Selection........................................46 Getting Started..................................................... 47 20Hour BreakIn Period............................... 47 After BreakIn Period.....................................47 End of First Season Checkup....................... 48

Section 4 - Specifications
Fuel Requirements...............................................50 Fuel Ratings.....................................................50 Using Reformulated (Oxygenated) Gasolines (USA Only).......................................................50 Gasolines Containing Alcohol..........................50 Engine Oil.............................................................51 Engine Specifications...........................................51 Fluid Specifications (MPI).....................................52 Fluid Specifications....................................... 52 Engine...........................................................52 Alpha Sterndrive............................................53 Bravo Sterndrives..........................................53 PowerAssisted Steering and Power Trim Fluids.............................................................53 Approved PowerAssisted Steering Fluids.. 53 Approved Power Trim Fluids....................... 53

Section 5 - Maintenance
Owner/Operator Responsibilities.......................... 56 Dealer Responsibilities.........................................56 Maintenance.........................................................56 DoItYourself Maintenance Suggestions.............57 Inspection.............................................................57 Maintenance ScheduleSterndrive Models........ 58 Routine Maintenance.................................... 58 Scheduled Maintenance................................ 58 Maintenance Log..................................................59 Engine Oil.............................................................60 Checking..........................................................60 Filling............................................................... 60 Changing Oil and Filter....................................61 Easy Engine Oil Drain System....................61 Engine Oil Drain Pump............................... 62 Changing the Filter...................................... 62 Power Steering Fluid............................................63 Checking..........................................................63 Filling............................................................... 63 Changing......................................................... 64 Engine Coolant.....................................................64 Checking..........................................................64 Filling............................................................... 65 Page ii Changing ........................................................ 65 Drive Unit Oil........................................................ 66 Checking..........................................................66 Filling............................................................... 66 Changing......................................................... 67 Power Trim Fluid.................................................. 69 Checking..........................................................69 Filling............................................................... 69 Changing......................................................... 70 Battery..................................................................70 Multiple EFI Engine Battery Precautions....... 70 Cleaning the Flame Arrestor................................ 71 Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve (PCV)... 72 Changing..................................................... 72 WaterSeparating Fuel Filter (MPI)...................... 72 WaterSeparating Fuel Filter.........................72 GEN II Models...............................................73 Removal......................................................73 Installation...................................................73 GEN III Models..............................................74 Removal......................................................74 Installation...................................................75 Lubrication............................................................75 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Steering System.............................................75 Throttle Cable.................................................77 Shift Cable Typical.......................................78 Sterndrive Unit and Transom Assembly.........78 Sterndrive Ujoint Shaft Splines And Orings (Sterndrive Unit Removed).............................79 Engine Coupler............................................... 79 Driveshaft Extension Models..........................80 Propellers..............................................................80 Propeller Repair.............................................80 Alpha Propeller Removal................................ 80 Alpha Propeller Installation............................. 81 Bravo One Propeller Removal........................ 82 Bravo One Propeller Installation..................... 82 Bravo Two Propeller Removal........................ 83 Bravo Two Propeller Installation..................... 83 Bravo Three Propeller Removal.....................84 Bravo Three Propeller Installation..................85 Serpentine Drive Belt............................................. 87 Checking...........................................................87

Replacing Belt and/or Adjusting Tension..........87 Corrosion Protection..............................................89 Corrosion Information.....................................89 Maintaining Ground Circuit Continuity............89 Anodes and MerCathode System Locations. .89 Checking the Quicksilver MerCathode System...........................................................90 Power Package Exterior Surfaces.................. 91 Boat Bottom Care...........................................91 Antifouling Paint............................................91 Sterndrive Surface Care.................................93 Flushing the Power Package.................................94 General Information........................................ 94 Flushing Attachments................................... 94 Sterndrive Water Pickups............................. 95 Alternative Water Pickups............................97 SeaCore Power Package Flushing Procedure.......................................................98 Models Using The Sterndrive Water Pickup..........................................................98

Section 6 - Storage
Cold Weather or Extended Storage.....................104 Preparing Power Package for Storage.........104 Engine and Fuel System Preparation........105 Draining the Seawater System............................106 Drain System Identification...........................107 Air Actuated Single Point Drain System.....107 Manual Single Point Drain System.............107 Three Point Manual Drain System.............108 MultiPoint Drain (MPD) System................108 AirActuated SinglePoint Drain System.......109 Boat in the Water.......................................109 Boat out of the Water.................................111 Manual Single Point Drain System...............114 Boat in the Water.......................................114 Boat out of the Water.................................115 Three Point Manual Drain System...............116 Boat in the Water.......................................116 Boat out of the Water.................................117 MultiPoint Drain (MPD) System..................118 Boat out of the Water.................................118 Boat in the Water.......................................120 Battery Storage....................................................122 Power Package Recommissioning......................122

Section 7 - Troubleshooting
Diagnosing EFI Problems....................................124 Diagnosing DTS Problems..................................124 Engine Guardian System.....................................124 Starter Motor Will Not Crank Engine, Or Cranks Slow.....................................................................124 Engine Will Not Start or Is Hard to Start..............125 Engine Runs Rough, Misses, or Backfires..........125 Poor Performance...............................................125 Excessive Engine Temperature...........................125 Insufficient Engine Temperature..........................126 Low Engine Oil Pressure.....................................126 Battery Will Not Recharge...................................126 Remote Control Is Difficult to Move, Has Excessive Play, or Makes Unusual Sounds.........................127 Steering Wheel Jerks or Is Difficult to Turn.........127 Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Does Not Operate)..............................................................127 Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Operates but Sterndrive Unit Does Not Move)..........................127

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Section 8 - Customer Assistance Information


Owner Service Assistance.................................130 Local Repair Service......................................130 Service Away From Home.............................130 Stolen Power Package..................................130 Attention Required after Submersion............130 Replacement Service Parts...........................130 Parts and Accessories Inquiries................131 Resolving a Problem......................................131 Mercury Marine Service Offices.....................131 Ordering Literature.............................................132 United States and Canada............................132 Outside The United States and Canada........132

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Section 1 - Warranty

Section 1 - Warranty
Table of Contents
Warranty Registration: United States and Canada .............................................................................. 2 Warranty Registration: Outside the United States and Canada.......................................................... 2 Transfer of Warranty............................................. 3 Mercury Product Protection Plan: United States and Canada................................................................. 3 Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty (GasolineFueled Products Only) ......................................... 4 3-Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion......... 6 4-Year Limited Corrosion Warranty: SeaCore Sterndrive Models with Gas Engines ................... 7 Global Warranty Charts........................................ 8 Consumer Application Warranty Chart ........... 8 Commercial Application Warranty Chart ........ 9 Government Application Warranty Chart ..... 10 Mercury Installation Quality Certification Program ............................................................................ 10 Emission Control Information Label.................... 11 Owner Responsibility ................................... 12

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Section 1 - Warranty

Warranty Registration: United States and Canada


To ensure that your warranty coverage begins promptly, your selling dealer should fill out the Warranty Registration Card completely and mail it to the factory immediately upon sale of the new product. The Warranty Registration Card identifies the name and address of the original purchaser, product model and serial number(s), date of sale, type of use and selling dealers code, name, and address. The dealer also certifies that you are the original purchaser and user of the product. A temporary Owner Warranty Registration Card will be presented to you when you purchase the product. Upon receipt of the Warranty Registration Card at the factory, Mercury MerCruiser will send you an owner resource guide that includes your warranty registration confirmation. If you do not receive your owner resource guide within 60 days from date of new product sale, please contact your selling dealer. Because of your selling dealers ongoing interest in your satisfaction, the product should be returned to him for warranty service. The product warranty is not effective until the product is registered at the factory.

NOTE: Registration lists must be maintained by the factory and dealer on marine products sold in the United States in the event that a safety recall notification under the Federal Boat Safety Act is required. You may change your address at any time, including at time of warranty claim, by calling Mercury MerCruiser or sending a letter or fax to Mercury MerCruisers warranty registration department with your name, old address, new address, and engine serial number. Your dealer can also process this change of information. United States customers or dealers may contact: Mercury Marine Attn: Warranty Registration Department W6250 Pioneer Road P.O. Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939 920-929-5054 Fax 920-929-5893 Canadian customers or dealers may contact: Mercury Marine Canada Limited 2395 Meadowpine Blvd. Mississauga, ON Canada, L5N 7W6 Fax 1-800-663-8334

Warranty Registration: Outside the United States and Canada


To ensure that your warranty coverage begins promptly, your selling dealer should fill out the warranty registration card completely and mail it to the distributor responsible for administering the warranty registration and claim program for your area.

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Section 1 - Warranty

The warranty registration card identifies your name and address, product model and serial numbers, date of sale, type of use, and the selling distributors and dealers code number, name, and address. The distributor or dealer also certifies that you are the original purchaser and user of the product. A copy of the warranty registration card, designated as the purchasers copy, MUST be given to you immediately after the card has been completely filled out by the selling distributor or dealer. This card represents your factory registration identification. Keep the card; if you ever need warranty service on this product, your dealer may ask you for the warranty registration card to verify date of purchase and to use the information on the card to prepare the warranty claim forms. In some countries, the distributor will issue a permanent (plastic) warranty registration card to you within 30 days after receiving the factory copy of the warranty registration card from your distributor or dealer. If you receive a plastic warranty registration card, you may discard the purchasers copy that you received from the distributor or dealer when you purchased the product. Ask your distributor or dealer if this plastic card program applies to you. For further information concerning the warranty registration card and its relationship to warranty claim processing, refer to the International Warranty. See Table of Contents.

NOTE: Registration lists must be maintained by the factory and dealer on marine products sold in the United States in the event of a safety recall notification under the Federal Boat Safety Act.

Transfer of Warranty
The limited warranty is transferable to a subsequent purchaser, but only for the remainder of the unused portion of the limited warranty. This will not apply to products used for commercial applications. To transfer the warranty to the subsequent owner, send or fax a copy of the bill of sale or purchase agreement, new owners name, address and engine serial number to Mercury Marines warranty registration department. In the United States mail to: Mercury Marine Attn: Warranty Registration Department W6250 W. Pioneer Road P.O. Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939 920-929-5054 Fax 920-929-5893 In Canada mail to: Mercury Marine Canada Limited 2395 Meadowpine Blvd. Mississauga, ON Canada, L5N 7W6 Fax 1-800-663-8334 Upon processing the transfer of warranty, Mercury Marine will send registration verification to the new owner of the product by mail. There is no charge for this service. For products purchased outside the United States and Canada, contact the distributor in your country, or the distributor closest to you.

Mercury Product Protection Plan: United States and Canada


(Certain performance products, triple engine installations, and commercial applications are excluded.) 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 3

Section 1 - Warranty

The Mercury Product Protection Plan provides coverage against unexpected mechanical and electrical breakdowns that may occur beyond the standard limited warranty. The optional Mercury Product Protection Plan is the only Factory Plan available for your engine. One, two, three, four, or five year term plans can be purchased up to 12 months after the original engine registration date. See your participating Mercury MerCruiser dealer for complete program details.

Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty (GasolineFueled Products Only)


Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty (Gasoline-Fueled Products Only) What is Covered Mercury Marine warrants its new products to be free of defects in material and workmanship during the period described following. Duration of Coverage Warranty Period for Recreational Use The warranty period begins on the date the product is first sold to a recreationaluse retail purchaser or the date on which the product is first put into service, whichever occurs first. Products installed by an Installation Quality Certified Installer receive one (1) year of additional warranty coverage. The repair or replacement of parts or the performance of service under this warranty does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration date. The warranty period is specific to the model covered; see your model for the base coverage period: Coverage for Sterndrive Models with Closed Cooling, Inboard Models, Scorpion 377 Models, and Vazer 100 Models The Limited Warranty for Sterndrive Models with Closed Cooling, Inboard Models, Scorpion 377 Models, and Vazer 100 Models is four (4) years when installed by an Installation Quality Certified Installer or three (3) years for noncertified installations. Coverage for SeaCore Sterndrive Models The Limited Warranty for SeaCore Sterndrive Models is four (4) years when installed by an Installation Quality Certified Installer or three (3) years for noncertified installations. Coverage for Standard Models The Limited Warranty for Standard Models, which do not include Sterndrive Models with Closed Cooling, Inboard Models, Scorpion 377 Models, Vazer 100 Models, or SeaCore Sterndrive Models, is two (2) years when installed by an Installation Quality Certified Installer or one (1) year for noncertified installations. Warranty Period for Commercial Use The warranty period begins on the date the product is first sold to a commercialuse retail purchaser or the date on which the product is first put into service, whichever occurs first. Commercial users of these products receive warranty coverage for either one (1) year from the date of first retail sale or the accumulation of 500 hours of operation, whichever occurs first. Commercial use is defined as any workrelated or employmentrelated use of the product, or any use of the product that generates income for any part of the warranty period, even if the product is only occasionally used for such purposes. The repair or replacement of parts or the performance of service under this warranty does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration date. Transfer of Coverage Unexpired warranty coverage can be transferred from one recreationaluse customer to a subsequent recreationaluse customer upon proper reregistration of the product. Unexpired warranty coverage cannot be transferred either to or from a commercialuse customer. Termination of Coverage Warranty coverage is terminated for used product obtained in any of the following ways: Repossession from a retail customer Purchase at auction Purchase from a salvage yard Purchase from an insurance company that obtained the product as a result of an insurance claim

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Section 1 - Warranty
Conditions That Must Be Met in Order to Obtain Warranty Coverage Warranty coverage is available only to retail customers that purchase from a dealer authorized by Mercury Marine to distribute the product in the country in which the sale occurred, and then only after the predelivery inspection process specified by Mercury Marine is completed and documented. Warranty coverage becomes available upon proper registration of the product by the authorized dealer. Inaccurate warranty registration information regarding recreational use or subsequent change of use from recreational to commercial (unless properly reregistered) may void the warranty at the sole discretion of Mercury Marine. Routine maintenance must be performed according to the maintenance schedule in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual in order to obtain warranty coverage. Mercury Marine reserves the right to make any warranty coverage contingent upon proof of proper maintenance. What Mercury Marine Will Do Mercury Marine's sole and exclusive obligation under this warranty is limited to, at our option, repairing a defective part, replacing such part or parts with new or Mercury Marine certified remanufactured parts, or refunding the purchase price of the Mercury Marine product. Mercury Marine reserves the right to improve or modify products from time to time without assuming an obligation to modify products previously manufactured. How to Obtain Warranty Coverage The customer must provide Mercury Marine with a reasonable opportunity to repair and reasonable access to the product for warranty service. Warranty claims shall be made by delivering the product for inspection to a Mercury Marine dealer authorized to service the product. If the purchaser cannot deliver the product to such a dealer, written notice must be given to Mercury Marine. Mercury Marine will then arrange for the inspection and any covered repair. The purchaser in that case shall pay for all related transportation charges and travel time. If the service provided is not covered by this warranty, the purchaser shall pay for all related labor and material and any other expenses associated with that service. The purchaser shall not, unless requested by Mercury Marine, ship the product or parts of the product directly to Mercury Marine. Proof of registered ownership must be presented to the dealer at the time warranty service is requested in order to obtain coverage. What Is Not Covered This limited warranty does not cover the following: Routine maintenance items Adjustments Normal wear and tear Damage caused by abuse Abnormal use Use of a propeller or gear ratio that does not allow the engine to run in its recommended RPM range (see the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual) Operation of the product in a manner inconsistent with the recommended operation and duty cycle section of the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual Neglect Accident Submersion Improper installation (proper installation specifications and techniques are set forth in the installation instructions for the product) Improper service Use of an accessory or part that was not manufactured or sold by Mercury Marine and that damages the Mercury product Jet pump impellers and liners Operation with fuels, oils, or lubricants that are not suitable for use with the product (see the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual) Alteration or removal of parts Water entering the engine through the fuel intake, air intake, or exhaust system or damage to the product from insufficient cooling water caused by blockage of the cooling system by a foreign body Running the engine out of water Mounting the engine too high on the transom Operating the boat with the engine over trimmed

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Section 1 - Warranty
Use of the product for racing or other competitive activity, or operating with a racingtype lower unit at any point, even by a previous owner of the product, voids the warranty. Expenses related to haulout, launch, towing, storage, telephone, rental, inconvenience, slip fees, insurance coverage, loan payments, loss of time, loss of income, or any other type of incidental or consequential damages are not covered by this warranty. Also, expenses associated with the removal or replacement of boat partitions or other material in order to gain access to the product are not covered by this warranty. No individual or entity, including Mercury Marine authorized dealers, has been given authority by Mercury Marine to make any affirmation, representation, or warranty regarding the product, other than those contained in this limited warranty. If such affirmation, representation, or warranty is made, it shall not be enforceable against Mercury Marine. DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED. TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY CANNOT BE DISCLAIMED, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE LIFE OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY. INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARE EXCLUDED FROM COVERAGE UNDER THIS WARRANTY. SOME STATES/COUNTRIES DO NOT ALLOW FOR THE DISCLAIMERS, LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS IDENTIFIED ABOVE. AS A RESULT, THEY MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE AND COUNTRY TO COUNTRY.

3Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion


3-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY AGAINST CORROSION What Is Covered Mercury Marine warrants that each new Mercury, Mariner, Mercury Racing, Sport Jet, M2 Jet Drive, Tracker by Mercury Marine Outboard, MerCruiser Inboard or Sterndrive engine (Product) will not be rendered inoperative as a direct result of corrosion for the period of time described below. Duration of Coverage This limited corrosion warranty provides coverage for three (3) years from either the date the product is first sold, or the date on which the product is first put into service, whichever occurs first. The repair and replacement of parts, or the performance of service under this warranty does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration date. Unexpired warranty coverage can be transferred to subsequent (noncommercial use) purchaser upon proper reregistration of the product. Warranty coverage is terminated for used product repossessed from a retail customer, purchased at auction, from a salvage yard, or from an insurance company that obtained the product as a result of an insurance claim. Condition That Must Be Met in Order to Obtain Warranty Coverage Warranty coverage is available only to retail customers that purchase from a dealer authorized by Mercury Marine to distribute the product in the country in which the sale occurred, and then only after the Mercury Marine specified predelivery inspection process is completed and documented. Warranty coverage becomes available upon proper registration of the product by the authorized dealer. Corrosion prevention devices specified in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual must be in use on the boat, and routine maintenance outlined in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual must be timely performed (including without limitation the replacement of sacrificial anodes, use of specified lubricants, and touchup of nicks and scratches) in order to maintain warranty coverage. Mercury Marine reserves the right to make warranty coverage contingent upon proof of proper maintenance. What Mercury Will Do Mercury's sole and exclusive obligation under this warranty is limited to, at our option, repairing a corroded part, replacing such part or parts with new or Mercury Marine certified remanufactured parts, or refunding the purchase price of the Mercury product. Mercury reserves the right to improve or modify products from time to time without assuming an obligation to modify products previously manufactured. How to Obtain Warranty Coverage The customer must provide Mercury with a reasonable opportunity to repair, and reasonable access to the product for warranty service. Warranty claims shall be made by delivering the product for inspection to a Mercury dealer authorized to service the product. If purchaser cannot deliver the product to such a dealer, written notice must be given to Mercury. We will then arrange for the inspection and any covered repair. Purchaser in that case shall pay for all related transportation charges and/or travel time. If the service provided is not covered by this warranty, purchaser shall pay for all related labor and material, and any other expenses associated with that service. Purchaser shall not, unless requested by Mercury, ship the product or parts of the product directly to Mercury. Proof of registered ownership must be presented to the dealer at the time warranty service is requested in order to obtain coverage. What Is Not Covered

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Section 1 - Warranty
This limited warranty does not cover electrical system corrosion; corrosion resulting from damage, corrosion which causes purely cosmetic damage, abuse or improper service; corrosion to accessories, instruments, steering systems; corrosion to factory installed jet drive unit; damage due to marine growth; product sold with less than a one year limited Product warranty; replacement parts (parts purchased by the Customer); products used in a commercial application. Commercial use is defined as any work or employment related use of the product, or any use of the product which generates income, for any part of warranty period, even if the product is only occasionally used for such purposes.

4Year Limited Corrosion Warranty: SeaCore Sterndrive Models with Gas Engines
4-YEAR LIMITED CORROSION WARRANTY: SEACORE STERNDRIVE MODELS WITH GAS ENGINES What Is Covered Mercury Marine warrants that each new MerCruiser SeaCore engine, transom, and sterndrive package will not be rendered inoperative as a direct result of corrosion for the period of time described below. Duration of Coverage This limited corrosion warranty provides coverage for four (4) years from either the date on which the MerCruiser SeaCore engine, transom, and sterndrive package is first sold or the date on which it is first put into service, whichever occurs first. The repair or replacement of parts or the performance of service under this warranty does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration date. Unexpired warranty coverage can be transferred to a subsequent (noncommercialuse) purchaser upon proper reregistration of the product. Warranty coverage is terminated for used product obtained in any of the following ways: Repossession from a retail customer Purchase at auction Purchase from a salvage yard Purchase from an insurance company that obtained the product as a result of an insurance claim

Condition That Must Be Met in Order to Obtain Warranty Coverage Warranty coverage is available only to retail customers that purchase from a dealer authorized by Mercury Marine to distribute the product in the country in which the sale occurred, and then only after the predelivery inspection process specified by Mercury Marine is completed and documented. Warranty coverage becomes available upon proper registration of the product by the authorized dealer. Corrosionprevention devices specified in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual must be in use on the boat, and routine maintenance outlined in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual must be performed according to the maintenance schedule in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual (including without limitation the replacement of sacrificial anodes, use of specified lubricants, and touchup of nicks and scratches) in order to maintain warranty coverage. Mercury Marine reserves the right to make warranty coverage contingent upon proof of proper maintenance. What Mercury Marine Will Do Mercury's sole and exclusive obligation under this warranty is limited to, at our option, repairing a corroded part, replacing such part or parts with new or Mercury Marine certified remanufactured parts, or refunding the purchase price of the Mercury product. Mercury reserves the right to improve or modify products from time to time without assuming an obligation to modify products previously manufactured. How to Obtain Warranty Coverage The customer must provide Mercury Marine with a reasonable opportunity to repair and reasonable access to the product for warranty service. Warranty claims shall be made by delivering the product for inspection to a Mercury Marine dealer authorized to service the product. If the purchaser cannot deliver the product to such a dealer, written notice must be given to Mercury Marine. Mercury Marine will then arrange for the inspection and any covered repair. The purchaser in that case shall pay for all related transportation charges and/or travel time. If the service provided is not covered by this warranty, the purchaser shall pay for all related labor and material, and any other expenses associated with that service. The purchaser shall not, unless requested by Mercury Marine, ship the product or parts of the product directly to Mercury Marine. Proof of registered ownership must be presented to the dealer at the time warranty service is requested in order to obtain coverage. What Is Not Covered

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 1 - Warranty
This limited warranty does not cover the following: Electrical system corrosion Corrosion resulting from damage Corrosion that causes purely cosmetic damage Abuse or improper service Corrosion to accessories, instruments, and steering systems Corrosion to a factoryinstalled jet drive unit Damage due to marine growth Replacement parts (parts purchased by the customer) Product sold with less than a oneyear limited product warranty Products used in a commercial application. Commercial use is defined as any work or employment related use of the product, or any use of the product which generates income, for any part of warranty period, even if the product is only occasionally used for such purposes.

Global Warranty Charts


IMPORTANT: Please refer to www.mercurymarine.com/global_warranty for the most currant Global Warranty Charts.

Consumer Application Warranty Chart


Consumer Application: Standard Factory Limited Warranty by Region & Boat Brand Non-Certified Boat Brand Certified Boat Brand Limited Corrosion Warranty All Boat Brands

Region

Vazer, Standard Vazer and Vazer and Models, Models Models Scorpion Scorpion and and Standard SeaCore with Standard SeaCore with 377 377 Models Closed Closed with Cooling Cooling Closed Cooling 1 year 1 year 1 year 2 years 1 year 2 years 1 year 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years 1 year 3 years 3 years 3 years 1 year 1 year 2 years 1 year 3 years 1 year 3 years 1 year 1 year 2 years 1 year 3 years all Tow Sports 1 year 2 years 2 years 1 year 3 years 1 year 2 years 1 year 4 years 4 years 4 years 4 years 1 year 3 years 3 years 4 years 2 years 1 year 3 years 1 year 3 years 1 year 4 years 2 years 1 year 3 years 1 year 3 years all Tow Sports 1 year 3 years 3 years 1 year 3 years 1 year 3 years 3 years

SeaCore

USA and Canada Latin America Mexico Europe Japan Australia and New Zealand South Pacific Asia (excluding Japan, South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand)

4 years 4 years 4 years 4 years 1 year 4 years 4 years

2 years

2 years

2 years

3 years all Tow Sports

2 years

2 years

2 years

3 years all Tow Sports

2 years

2 years

NOTE: In regions where the Certified Boat Builder program is not applicable, the regular warranty always applies. NOTE: In regions where TBD (To Be Determined) is listed, check with your local dealer for warranty length and conditions.

Page 8

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Section 1 - Warranty

Commercial Application Warranty Chart


Commercial Application: Standard Factory Limited Warranty by Region & Boat Brand Non-Certified Boat Brand Certified Boat Brand Limited Corrosion Warranty All Boat Brands

Region

Vazer, Standard Vazer and Vazer and Models, Models Models Scorpion Scorpion and and Standard SeaCore with Standard SeaCore with SeaCore 377 377 Models Closed Closed with Cooling Cooling Closed Cooling 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours none none 1 year none none none none none none 1 year none none none none

USA and Canada Latin America Mexico Europe Japan Australia and New Zealand South Pacific

Asia (excluding Japan, South 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or Pacific, 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours Australia, New Zealand)

none

none

NOTE: In regions where the Certified Boat Builder program is not applicable, the regular warranty always applies

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 1 - Warranty

Government Application Warranty Chart


Government Application: Standard Factory Limited Warranty by Region & Boat Brand Non-Certified Boat Brand Certified Boat Brand Limited Corrosion Warranty All Boat Brands

Region

Vazer, Standard Vazer and Vazer and Models, Models Models Scorpion Scorpion and and Standard SeaCore with Standard SeaCore with SeaCore 377 377 Models Closed Closed with Cooling Cooling Closed Cooling 1 year 3 years 3 years 3 years 2 years 4 years 4 years 4 years 3 years none 1 year none none none none 4 years none 1year none none none none

USA and Canada Latin America Mexico Europe Japan Australia and New Zealand South Pacific

1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours

Asia (excluding Japan, South 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or 1 year or Pacific, 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours 500 hours Australia, New Zealand)

none

none

NOTE: In regions where the Certified Boat Builder program is not applicable, the regular warranty always applies

Mercury Installation Quality Certification Program

15502

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Section 1 - Warranty

Mercury MerCruiser products installed by a Mercury Installation Quality Certified Manufacturer are Installation Quality certified products and may receive an additional one (1) year of limited warranty coverage. The Installation Quality Certification program was developed to recognize MerCruiser boatbuilder customers who have achieved higher manufacturing standards. It is the first and only comprehensive manufacturerinstallation certification program in the industry. The program has three goals: 1. To enhance overall product quality. 2. To improve the boat ownership experience. 3. To enhance overall customer satisfaction. The certification process is designed to review all facets of manufacturing and engine installation. The program is composed of design, manufacturing and installation review stages with which builders must comply. Certification applies leadingedge methodologies to create: Efficiencies and best practices specific to engine installation. Worldclass assembly and component specifications. Efficient installation processes. Industry standard endofline test procedures Boat builders that successfully complete the program and meet all certification requirements earn Installation Quality System Certified Manufacturer status and receive an additional one (1) year of Mercury limited factory warranty coverage on all MerCruiserpowered boats that are registered on and after the boat builder's certification date for all worldwide registrations. Mercury has designated a section of our Website to promote the Installation Quality Certification Program and communicate its benefits to consumers. For a current list of MerCruiserpowered boat brands that have earned Installation Quality Certification, visit www.mercurymarine.com/mercruiser_warranty.

Emission Control Information Label


A tamperresistant Emission Control Information label is affixed in a visible location to the engine at time of manufacture by Mercury MerCruiser. In addition to the required emissions statement, the label lists the engine serial number, family, STD (emission standard/level), date of manufacture (month, year), and the engine displacement. Please note that the low emissions certification will not affect the fit, function, or performance of the engines. Boatbuilders and dealers may not remove the label or the part it is affixed to before sale. If modifications are necessary, contact Mercury MerCruiser about the availability of replacement decals before proceeding.

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Section 1 - Warranty

NOTE: When the CE mark is present in the lower right corner of the Emission Control Information Label on the engine, the Declaration of Conformance applies. Refer to the front page of this manual for further information.

EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION


THIS ENGINE CONFORMS TO XXXX CALIFORNIA EMISSION REGULATIONS FOR SPARK IGNITION MARINE ENGINES REFER TO OWNER'S MANUAL FOR MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS SERIAL # XXXXXXXX FAMILY XXXXXXXXXXXX STD. XX.X g/kW-hr D.O.M. DISP
MMM YYYY

X.XL

0575

31656

Emission Control LabelCalifornia EmissionsCompliant "SERIAL#"Engine Serial Number "FAMILY"Engine Family "STD."Emissions Standard "D.O.M."Date of Manufacture "DISP"Piston Displacement

EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION

NOT FOR SALE IN CALIFORNIA


REFER TO OWNER'S MANUAL FOR MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS SERIAL # XXXXXXXX FAMILY XXXXXXXXXXXX STD. XX.X g/kW-hr D.O.M. DISP
MMM YYYY

X.XL
31657

Emission Control LabelNot for Sale in California "SERIAL#"Engine Serial Number "FAMILY"Engine Family "STD."Emissions Standard "D.O.M."Date of Manufacture "DISP"Piston Displacement

Owner Responsibility
The operator must have routine engine maintenance performed to maintain emission levels within prescribed certification standards. The operator may not modify the engine in any manner that alters the horsepower or allows emissions levels to exceed their factory specifications.

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package


Table of Contents
Identification........................................................ 14 Engine Serial Number Decal MPI.................14 Bravo Sterndrive Serial Number and Identification..................................................14 Bravo Transom Serial Number...................... 15 Lanyard Stop Switch........................................... 16 Instrumentation................................................... 17 Digital Gauges .............................................. 17 Analog Gauges ............................................ 18 Remote Controls (Non-DTS Models).................. 18 Remote Controls...........................................18 Panel Mount Features ............................ 19 Console Mount Features ........................ 20 Remote Controls (DTS Models).......................... 20 Remote Controls...........................................20 Panel Mount Features...................................21 Console Mount Features - Single Engine.....22 Slim Binnacle Console Mount Features - Single Engine...........................................................23 Console Mount Features- Dual Engine.........24 Synchronizing Dual Engines.........................25 Dual Helm Station Transfer...........................25 Synchronizing Dual Helms Prior To Station Transfer .................................................. 26 Zero Effort Features......................................26 Power Trim......................................................... 27 Single Engine Trim/Trailer ............................ 28 Dual Engine Trim/Trailer .............................. 28 Electrical System Overload Protection............... 28 Audio Warning System....................................... 31 Testing The Audio Warning System ............. 31 Engine Guardian Strategy.................................. 31 Warning Horn Signals......................................... 32

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Identification
The serial numbers are the manufacture's keys to numerous engineering details which apply to your MerCruiser power package. When contacting MerCruiser about service, always specify model and serial numbers.

Engine Serial Number Decal MPI


The serial number decal is located on the engine cover.

25903

Serial numbers and maintenance color codes decal The engine serial number is also stamped in the engine block.

Bravo Sterndrive Serial Number and Identification


The sterndrive serial number, gear ratio, model number, and bar code is embedded in the ground plate located on the port side of the Bravo sterndrive.

c d

25906

a - Bar code b - Serial Number

c - Gear ratio d - Model number

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

The serial number is also stamped on the sterndrive casting inside the back cover. This is used as a permanent reference for authorized MerCruiser Dealers.

25907

Bravo sterndrive serial number stamping a - Serial number stamping

Bravo Transom Serial Number


The Bravo transom serial number is stamped in the Ubolt plate of the Bravo transom assembly.

25904

Bravo transom assembly Ubolt plate a - Transom assembly serial Number

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

The serial number is also stamped on the gimbal housing. This is used as a permanent reference for authorized MerCruiser Dealers.

25905

Gimbal housing with serial number stamping a - Transom assembly serial Number

Lanyard Stop Switch


The purpose of a lanyard stop switch is to turn off the engine when the operator moves outside the operator's position (as in accidental ejection from the operator's position).

b c

RUN

74608

a - Stop switch b - Lanyard

c - Clips to the operator

Accidental ejections, such as falling overboard, are more likely to occur in: lowsided sport boats bass boats high performance boats Accidental ejections can also occur from: poor operating practices sitting on the seat or gunwale at planing speeds standing at planing speeds operating at planing speeds in shallow or obstacle infested waters releasing your grip on the steering wheel that is pulling in one direction consuming alcohol or drugs high speed boating maneuvers

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The lanyard is a cord usually between 122 and 152 cm (4 and 5 ft) in length when stretched out, with an element on one end made to be inserted into the switch and a snap on the other end for attaching to the operator. The lanyard is coiled to make its atrest condition as short as possible to minimize the likelihood of lanyard entanglement with nearby objects. Its stretchedout length is made to minimize the likelihood of accidental activation should the operator choose to move around in an area close to the normal operator's position. If it is desired to have a shorter lanyard, wrap the lanyard around the operator's wrist or leg, or tie a knot in the lanyard. Activation of the lanyard stop switch will stop the engine immediately, but the boat will continue to coast for some distance depending upon the velocity and degree of any turn at shut down. However, the boat will not complete a full circle. While the boat is coasting, it can cause injury to anyone in the boat's path as seriously as the boat would when under power. We strongly recommend that other occupants be instructed on proper starting and operating procedures should they be required to operate the engine in an emergency (e.g. if the operator is accidentally ejected).

! WARNING
If the operator falls out of the boat, stop the engine immediately to reduce the possibility of serious injury or death from being struck by the boat. Always properly connect the operator to the stop switch using a lanyard. Accidental or unintended activation of the switch during normal operation is also a possibility. This could cause any, or all, of the following potentially hazardous situations: Occupants could be thrown forward due to unexpected loss of forward motion, a particular concern for passengers in the front of the boat who could be ejected over the bow and possibly struck by the propulsion or steering components. Loss of power and directional control in heavy seas, strong current or high winds. Loss of control when docking.

! WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death from deceleration forces resulting from accidental or unintended stop switch activation. The boat operator should never leave the operator's station without first disconnecting the stop switch lanyard from the operator.

Instrumentation
Digital Gauges
A Mercury SmartCraft System instrument package can be purchased for this product. A few of the functions the instrument package will display are engine RPM, coolant temperature, oil pressure, battery voltage, fuel consumption and engine operating hours. The SmartCraft Instrument package will also aid in Engine Guardian diagnostics. The SmartCraft Instrument package will display critical engine alarm data and potential problems. Refer to the manual with your gauge package for the warning functions monitored and basic operation of the SmartCraft Instrument package.

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Analog Gauges
The following is a brief explanation of the instrumentation typically found on some boats. As the owner or operator, you should be familiar with all instruments and their functions. Because of the large variety of instrumentation and manufacturers, you should have your boat dealer explain the particular gauges and normal readings for your boat.
50 40 30 20 10
80 70 60 50 40 30 90

60
100 110 120

5 6 7

70

2 1

KPH 80

10 BATT

16

C TEMP

MPH

X 1000

RPM

OIL

4 FUEL

0 0 0 0 0 CRUISELOG TRIM

f
abcde-

i
fghij-

14671

Speedometer Tachometer Oil pressure gauge Voltmeter Water temperature gauge

Fuel gauge Hour meter Bilge blower switch Ignition switch Power trim gauge

Speedometer: indicates boat speed Tachometer: indicates engine RPM Oil pressure gauge: indicates engine oil pressure Voltmeter: indicates battery voltage Water temperature gauge: indicates engine operating temperature Fuel gauge: indicates quantity of fuel in the tank Hour meter: records engine operating time Bilge blower switch: operates the bilge blower Ignition switch: starts and stops the engine. Power trim gauge: indicates sterndrive unit angle (trim out or in)

Remote Controls (NonDTS Models)


Remote Controls
Your boat may be equipped with a Mercury Precision Parts or Quicksilver remote controls. All controls may not have all features shown. Consult your dealer for a description and/or demonstration of your remote control.

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PANEL MOUNT FEATURES

a f b

c d
mc77019-1

a - Neutral lock button b - Throttle only button c - Lanyard stop switch

d - Control handle tension adjustment screw e - Control handle f - Trim/tilt button

Neutral Lock Button - Prevents accidental shift and throttle engagement. Neutral lock button must be pushed into move the control handle out of neutral. Throttle Only Button - Allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. This is done by disengaging the shift mechanism from the control handle. The throttle only button can be depressed only when the remote control handle is in the neutral position, and should only be used to assist in starting the engine. Lanyard Stop Switch - Turns the ignition off whenever the operator (when attached to the lanyard) moves far enough away from the operator's position to activate the switch. Refer to Lanyard Stop Switch for information on the use of this switch. Control Handle - Operation of the shift and throttle are controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control handle forward from neutral with a quick firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue pushing back to increase speed. Control Handle Tension Adjustment Screw - (not visible) This screw is used to adjust the effort required to move the remote control handle. Refer to instructions provided with remote control for complete adjustment instructions. Trim/Tilt Button - Refer to Power Trim.

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

CONSOLE MOUNT FEATURES

b d c b

a a
a - Throttle Only Button b - Control Handle

d
mc79503-1

c - Power Trim Switch d - Trailer Switch

Throttle Only Button - Allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. This is done by disengaging the shift mechanism from the control handle. The throttle only button can be depressed only when the remote control handle is in the neutral position. Control Handles - Operation of the the shift and throttle are controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control handle forward from neutral with a quick firm motion to the first detent for forward gear and continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue pushing back to increase speed. Control Handle Tension Adjustment Screw - (not visible) This screw is used to adjust the effort required to move the remote control handle. Refer to instructions provided with remote control for complete adjustment instructions. Power Trim Switch - See Power Trim section for detailed power trim operating procedures. Trailer Switch - Used to raise drive unit for trailering, launching, beaching or shallow water operation. See Power Trim for detailed trailer switch operation.

Remote Controls (DTS Models)


Remote Controls
IMPORTANT: Your boat must be equipped with a Mercury Marine electronic remote control. Start in gear protection is provided by this control system and prevents the engine from starting when the control is actuated in forward or reverse. Refer to the Mercury Precision Parts/Quicksilver Accessories Guide. The Digital Throttle and Shift System (DTS) required to operate this engine package provides start and stop functions, throttle control, shift control, start in gear protection, and emergency lanyard stop functions. The DTS system works with specialized helm components such as a command module kit and electronic remote control. Consult your dealer for a description and/or demonstration of your remote control.

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Panel Mount Features


d c b e f h a g
abcdefghLanyard stop switch Control handle Shift lock Trim/tilt switch Throttle only button Start/stop button Detent tension adjustment screw Control handle friction adjustment screw
3409
+

Lanyard Stop Switch - Turns the ignition off whenever the operator (when attached to the lanyard) moves far enough away from the operator's position to activate the switch. Refer to Lanyard Stop Switch for information on the use of this switch. Control Handle - Operation of the shift and throttle are controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control handle forward from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue pushing back to increase speed. Shift Lock - Pressing the shift lock allows the engine to shift. The shift lock must always be pressed when moving the control handle out of the neutral position. Trim/Tilt Switch (if equipped) - Refer to Power Trim. Throttle Only Button - Allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. The throttle only button can be depressed only when the remote control is in the neutral position, and should only be used to assist in starting or warming up the engine. Start/Stop Button - Allows the boat operator to start or stop the engine without using the ignition key. Detent Tension Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort required to move the control handle out of the detent positions (cover must be removed). Turning the screw clockwise will increase tension. Control Handle Friction Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the tension on the control handle (cover must be removed). This will help prevent unwanted motion of the handle in rough water. Turn the screw clockwise to increase tension and counterclockwise to decrease tension.

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Console Mount Features Single Engine


b a d e h f g i
3410
+

c
abcdefghi-

Control handle Trim/tilt switch Active light Neutral light Select key Arrow trackpad Throttle only/station select key Detent tension adjustment Control handle friction adjustment screw

Control Handle - Operation of the shift and throttle are controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control handle forward from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue pushing back to increase speed. Trim/Tilt Switch (if equipped) - Refer to Power Trim. Active Light - The active light is illuminated to show the remote control is active and ready for use. Neutral Light - The neutral light is illuminated when the engine is in neutral gear position.

NOTE: Gear position is determined by sensing the position of the shift actuator on the engine, not the position of the gear switch. Select Key - Selects System View onscreen options and confirms data entries. Arrow Trackpad - Navigates through System View onscreen function messages. Throttle Only/Station Select Key - Allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. The throttle only/station select button also allows the boat operator to select which remote control is in control of the engine operation when operating with multiple helms. Refer to Dual Helm Station Transfer. Detent Tension Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort required to move the control handle out of the detent positions (cover must be removed). Turning the screw clockwise will increase tension. Control Handle Friction Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the tension on the control handle (cover must be removed). This will help prevent unwanted motion of the handle in rough water. Turn the screw clockwise to increase tension and counterclockwise to decrease tension.

Page 22

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Slim Binnacle Console Mount Features Single Engine


b

START STOP

c
abcdefgh-

h
14637

Control handle Trim/tilt switch Active light Neutral light Start/stop button Throttle only/station select key Detent tension adjustment Control handle friction adjustment screw

Control Handle - Operation of the shift and throttle are controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control handle forward from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue pushing back to increase speed. Trim/Tilt Switch (if equipped) - Refer to Power Trim. Active Light - The active light is illuminated to show the remote control is active and ready for use. Neutral Light - The neutral light is illuminated when the engine is in neutral gear position.

NOTE: Gear position is determined by sensing the position of the shift actuator on the engine, not the position of the gear switch. Stop/Start Button - Allows the boat operator to start or stop the engine without using the ignition key. Throttle Only/Station Select Key - Allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. The throttle only/station select button also allows the boat operator to select which remote control is in control of the engine operation when operating with multiple helms. Refer to Dual Helm Station Transfer. Detent Tension Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort required to move the control handle out of the detent positions (cover must be removed). Turning the screw clockwise will increase tension. Control Handle Friction Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the tension on the control handle (cover must be removed). This will help prevent unwanted motion of the handle in rough water. Turn the screw clockwise to increase tension and counterclockwise to decrease tension.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Console Mount Features Dual Engine


b d i a
ACTIVE
THROTTLE ONLY STATION SELECT

e
SYNC

c h
abcdeTrim/tilt switch Control handles Active light Neutral light Select key

f g
fghij-

3411

Arrow trackpad Sync light Throttle only/station select key Detent tension adjustment Control handle friction adjustment screw

Trim/Tilt Switch (if equipped) - Refer to Power Trim. Control Handle - Operation of the shift and throttle are controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control handle forward from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from neutral with a quick, firm motion to the first detent for reverse gear and continue pushing back to increase speed. Active Light - The active light is illuminated to show the remote control is active and ready for use. Neutral Light - The neutral light is illuminated when the engine is in neutral gear position.

NOTE: Gear position is determined by sensing the position of the shift actuator on the engine, not the position of the gear switch. Select Key - Selects System View onscreen options and confirms data entries. Arrow Trackpad - Navigates through System View onscreen function messages. Sync Light - The sync light is illuminated when the RPM of the two engines are being synchronized by the DTS system. Throttle Only/Station Select Key - Allows engine throttle advancement without shifting the engine. The throttle only/station select button also allows the boat operator to select which remote control is in control of the engine operation when operating with multiple helms. Refer to Dual Helm Station Transfer. Detent Tension Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort required to move the control handle out of the detent positions (cover must be removed). Turning the screw clockwise will increase tension. Control Handle Friction Adjustment Screw - This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the tension on the control handle (cover must be removed). This will help prevent unwanted motion of the handle in rough water. Turn the screw clockwise to increase tension and counterclockwise to decrease tension.

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Synchronizing Dual Engines


The auto synchronizing feature, when engaged, will automatically adjust the port engine speed to match the speed of the starboard engine. Synchronizing of engines will automatically engage when the speed of both engines are over 900 RPM for two seconds and remote control handles are positioned within 5 of each other. Auto Synchronizing will stay engaged up to 95% throttle opening. The Sync light will turn on when the engines are synchronized.

ACTIVE

SYNC
THROTTLE ONLY

STAT ION SELECT

3434

To disengage, move one or both control handles until they are more than 5 apart, reduce engine speed below 900 RPM, or increase engine speed beyond 95%.

Dual Helm Station Transfer


The throttle only/station select button allows the boat operator to select which remote control is in control of the engine operation. The active light is illuminated at the remote control station that is in control of the engine.

! WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death from loss of boat control. The boat operator should never leave the active station while engine is in gear. Helm transfer should only be attempted while both stations are manned. Oneperson helm transfer should only be performed while engine is in neutral.

NOTE: Idle position is preferred when doing a station transfer. If conditions do not allow the remote control to be placed at idle position, a station transfer can be done while in gear. NOTE: Pressing and releasing station select button at new station allows the engine control to be transferred to the new station. The control will automatically start adjusting engine RPM and gear position to match the control handle setting at the new station. Adjust control handles to the desired throttle and gear position. 1. Place active remote control lever to idle position. 2. Proceed to the inactive helm station and position remote control lever to the idle position.

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

3. Press throttle only/station select button once. The "ACTIVE" light will illuminate to indicate the remote control station is in control of the engine.

b
ACTIVE
THROTTLE ONLY

b
ACTIVE SYNC
THROTTLE ONLY

STATION SELECT

STAT ION SELECT

a
a - Active light

3433

b - Throttle only/station select button

4. The active light will switch off at the original remote control station.

SYNCHRONIZING DUAL HELMS PRIOR TO STATION TRANSFER Pressing the station select button and holding it in allows the boat operator 10 seconds to match up the control handle settings at the new station with the handle settings that are at the old (to be inactive) station. If the handles are not matched, the neutral light will flash. The light blinks faster as the handles are nearing match position. Once the light stays on continuously, the handles are matched and the button can be released. Transfer process is complete and the new station is now in control. If the button is held for over 10 seconds, the station transfer is cancelled.

Zero Effort Features


c a b

5656

a - Shift ever b - Throttle lever

c - Trim/tilt switch

Shift Lever - Shift functions are controlled by the movement of the shift lever. Shift into reverse by moving the shift lever to its aft position. Shift into neutral by moving the shift lever to its center position. Shift into forward by moving the shift lever to its forward position. Throttle Lever - Throttle functions are controlled by the movement of the throttle lever. Increase the RPM by moving the throttle lever forward. Achieve Wide Open Throttle (WOT) by placing the throttle lever in its full forward position. Decrease RPM by moving the throttle lever back. Achieve minimum RPM (idle) by placing the throttle lever in its full aft position. Trim/Tilt Switch - Refer to Power Trim. Page 26 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Power Trim
Power trim allows the operator to adjust the sterndrive angle while underway, to provide the ideal boat angle for varying load and water conditions. Also, the trailering feature allows the operator to raise and lower the sterndrive unit for trailering, beaching, launching, low speed (below 1200 RPM engine speed) and shallow water operation.

! WARNING
Excessive trim can cause serious injury or death at high speeds. Use caution when trimming the sterndrive, and never trim out beyond the gimbal ring support flanges while the boat is underway or at engine speeds above 1200 RPM. For best performance trim the sterndrive unit so that the boat bottom is at a 35 angle to the water.

3-5
mc79528

Trimming sterndrive unit up/out can: Generally increase top speed Increase clearance over submerged objects or a shallow bottom Cause boat to accelerate and plane off slower In excess, cause boat porpoising (bouncing) or propeller ventilation Cause engine overheating if trimmed up/out to a point where any cooling water intake holes are above the water line

mc78529

Trimming sterndrive unit down/in can: Help the boat accelerate and plane off quicker Generally improve the ride in choppy water In most cases, reduce boat speed

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

If in excess, lower the bow of some boats to a point at which they begin to plow with their bow in the water while on plane. This can result in an unexpected turn in either direction called bow steering or over steering if any turn is attempted or if a significant wave is encountered.

mc79530

Single Engine Trim/Trailer


Single engine applications will have a button that can be pressed to trim the sterndrive unit up or down. To raise the sterndrive unit for trailering, beaching, launching, low speed (below 1200 rpm), and shallow water operation push the trim button to raise the sterndrive unit to the full up/ out position. Some controls also have a trailer button that trims the sterndrive to a position suitable for trailer purposes only.

NOTE: The DTS control system limits the extent to which the sterndrive unit can be trimmed up/out when engine speed is above 3500 RPM.

Dual Engine Trim/Trailer

NOTICE
If using external tie bars, raising or lowering the drives independently of each other can damage the drive and steering systems. If using an external tie bar, raise and lower all drives together as a unit. Dual engine applications may have a single integral button to operate both sterndrive units simultaneously or may have separate buttons for each sterndrive unit. Some controls also have a trailer button that trims the sterndrives to a position suitable for trailer purposes only.

Electrical System Overload Protection


If an electrical overload occurs, a fuse will blow or the circuit breaker will trip open. The cause must be found and corrected before replacing the fuse or resetting the circuit breaker.

NOTE: In an emergency, when the engine must be operated and the cause for the high current draw cannot be located and corrected, turn off or disconnect all accessories connected to the engine and instrumentation wiring. Reset the circuit breaker. If the breaker remains open, the electrical overload has not been eliminated. Further checks must be made on the electrical system. Contact your authorized dealer.

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1. A circuit breaker provides protection for the engine wiring harness and the instrumentation power lead. The circuit breaker can be tested by pushing the red button. If the circuit breaker is functioning properly, the yellow lever will appear. Reset the yellow lever after testing, or if tripped, by pushing the yellow lever back into the housing.

22529

Yellow lever style circuit breakertypical a - Yellow levershown tripped b - Red test button 2. A 90 amp fuse is located on the large post of the starter solenoid. This fuse is designed to protect the engine wiring harness if an electrical overload occurs.

mc74907-1

3. Four fuses are located on the port side of the engine. These fuses protect the main power, fuel pump, ignition, and accessory circuits.

mc77602-1

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

4. A 20 amp fuse may be located in the ignition switch "I" terminal lead to protect the electrical system. Check for blown fuse if the ignition key is turned to the "START" position and nothing happens (and circuit breaker is not tripped).

mc70525-1

5. The power trim system is protected from overload by a 110 amp fuse and a 20 amp spade fuse on the power trim pump. The trim pump may also have an inline circuit protection device in the power trim positive lead near the battery switch or battery connection.

b
a - 20 amp spade fuse

9208

b - 110 amp fuse

6. The Quicksilver ThreeButton Power Trim Control Panel is further protected by a 20 amp inline fuse.

mc70527-1

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

7. The Quicksilver MerCathode System has a 20 amp inline fuse in the wire which connects to the positive (+) terminal on controller. If the fuse is blown, the system will not operate resulting in a loss of corrosion protection.

mc79977

Audio Warning System


Your Mercury MerCruiser power package may be equipped with an Audio Warning System. The Audio Warning System will not protect the engine from damage. It is designed to warn the operator that a problem has occurred. The audio warning system will sound with a continuous horn if one of the following occurs: Engine oil pressure is too low Engine temperature is too hot Seawater pressure is too low The audio warning system will sound with an intermittent beeping if the following occurs: Sterndrive oil level is too low

NOTICE
A continuous horn indicates a critical fault. Operating the engine during a critical fault can damage components. If the warning horn emits a continuous beep, do not operate the engine unless avoiding a hazardous situation. If the alarm sounds, stop the engine immediately. Investigate cause and correct it, if possible. If you cannot determine the cause, contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Testing The Audio Warning System


1. Turn the ignition switch to the "ON" position without cranking the engine. 2. Listen for the audio alarm. The alarm will sound if the system is functioning correctly.

Engine Guardian Strategy


IMPORTANT: Boat speed could be reduced to idle and may not respond to the throttle. Engine Guardian Strategy is designed to help reduce the potential for engine damage by reducing engine power when a potential problem is sensed by the ECM. Engine Guardian monitors: Oil pressure Coolant temperature Seawater pressure Engine overspeed Exhaust Manifold Temperature (8.1 and 496 models only)

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Section 2 - Getting to Know Your Power Package

Also the Engine Guardian Strategy will reduce engine power to 90 percent of maximum if any sensor on the power package fails. For example, if the water inlet becomes partially blocked, Engine Guardian Strategy will reduce the available power level of the engine to help prevent damage from decreased water flow to the engine. If the debris passes through and full water flow is restored, engine power levels are restored to normal. To avoid a possible recurrence of the problem you should contact an authorized dealer. The ECM stores the fault and with this information the technician will be able to more rapidly diagnose problems.

Warning Horn Signals


Most faults will cause the warning horn circuit to activate. How the warning horn activates depends on how serious the problem is. There are four warning horn states: Caution horn signal varies with product line and calibration. Minimal guardian. Warning horn signal varies with product line and calibration. Severe horn is beeping constantly. Critical horn is beeping constantly and guardian will be at forced idle. In addition, depending on the gauge package, there will be warning icons and fault messages on the dash mounted gauges.

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Section 3 - On the Water

Section 3 - On the Water


Table of Contents
Safe Boating Suggestions.................................. 34 Be Alert to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning............. 35 Good Ventilation ........................................... 35 Poor Ventilation ........................................... 36 Basic Boat Operation (Non-DTS Models)........... 36 Launching and Boat Operation.....................36 Operation Chart ...................................... 36 Starting and Stopping the Engine.................37 Starting the Engine ................................. 37 Stopping the Engine ............................... 38 Starting the Engine After It Has Been Stopped While In Gear................................................38 Throttle-Only Operation.................................38 Trailering the Boat.........................................38 Freezing Temperature Operation..................38 Drain Plug and Bilge Pump...........................39 Basic Boat Operation (DTS Models)................... 39 Launching and Boat Operation.....................39 Operation Chart ...................................... 39 Starting and Stopping the Engine.................39 Starting the Engine ................................. 39 Stopping the Engine ............................... 40 Throttle-Only Operation.................................41 Trailering the Boat.........................................41 Freezing Temperature Operation..................41 Drain Plug and Bilge Pump...........................42 Protecting People in the Water........................... 42 While You Are Cruising ................................ 42 While Boat Is Stationary ............................... 42 High-Speed and High-Performance Operation ............................................................................ 42 Passenger Safety in Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats ............................................................................ 42 Boats Having An Open Front Deck .............. 43 Boats With Front-Mounted, Raised Pedestal Fishing Seats ............................................... 43 Wave and Wake Jumping................................... 43 Impact with Underwater Hazards........................ 44 Drive Unit Impact Protection ........................ 45 Operating with Low Water Inlets in Shallow Water ............................................................................ 45 Conditions Affecting Operation........................... 45 Weight Distribution (Passengers and Gear) Inside the Boat..............................................45 The Bottom of the Boat.................................45 Cavitation......................................................46 Ventilation.....................................................46 Elevation and Climate...................................46 Propeller Selection........................................46 Getting Started.................................................... 47 20-Hour Break-In Period...............................47 After Break-In Period.....................................47 End of First Season Checkup.......................48

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Section 3 - On the Water

Safe Boating Suggestions


To safely enjoy the waterways, familiarize yourself with local and all other governmental boating regulations and restrictions and consider the following suggestions. Know and obey all nautical rules and laws of the waterways. We recommend that all powerboat operators complete a boating safety course. In the US, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Power Squadron, the Red Cross, and your state or provincial boating law enforcement agency provide courses. For more information in the US, call the Boat U.S. Foundation at 1800336BOAT (2628). Perform safety checks and required maintenance. Follow a regular schedule and ensure that all repairs are properly made. Check safety equipment on board. Here are some suggestions of the types of safety equipment to carry when boating: Approved fire extinguishers Signal devices: flashlight, rockets or flares, flag and whistle or horn Tools necessary for minor repairs Anchor and extra anchor line Manual bilge pump and extra drain plugs Drinking water Transistor radio Paddle or oar Spare propeller, thrust hubs, and an appropriate wrench First aid kit and instructions Waterproof storage containers Spare operating equipment, batteries, bulbs and fuses Compass and map or chart of the area Personal flotation device (1 per person on board) Watch for signs of weather change and avoid foul weather and rough-sea boating. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Passenger boarding. Stop the engine whenever passengers are boarding, unloading or are near the back (stern) of the boat. Shifting the drive unit into neutral is not sufficient. Use personal flotation devices. Federal Law requires that there be a U. S. Coast Guard approved life jacket (personal flotation device), correctly sized and readily accessible for every person on board, plus a throwable cushion or ring. We strongly advise that everyone wear a life jacket at all times while in the boat. Prepare other boat operators. Instruct at least 1 person on board in the basics of starting and operating the engine and boat handling in case the driver becomes disabled or falls overboard. Do not overload your boat. Most boats are rated and certified for maximum load (weight) capacities (refer to your boat capacity plate). Know your boat's operating and loading limitations. Know if your boat will float if full of water. When in doubt, contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer or the boat manufacturer. Ensure that everyone in the boat is properly seated. Page 34 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 3 - On the Water

Do not allow anyone to sit or ride on any part of the boat that was not intended for such use. This includes the backs of seats, gunwales, transom, bow, decks, raised fishing seats and any rotating fishing seat; anywhere that sudden unexpected acceleration, sudden stopping, unexpected loss of boat control or sudden boat movement could cause a person to be thrown overboard or into the boat. Ensure that all passengers have a proper seat and are in it before any boat movement. Never be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while boating (it is the law). They impair your judgment and greatly reduce your ability to react quickly. Know your boating area and avoid hazardous locations. Be alert. The operator of the boat is responsible by law to maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing. The operator must have an unobstructed view particularly to the front. No passengers, load or fishing seats should block the operators view when the boat is above idle or planing transition speed. Watch out for others, the water and your wake. Never drive your boat directly behind a water skier in case the skier falls. As an example, your boat traveling at 40 km/h (25 MPH) will overtake a fallen skier who was 61 m (200 ft.) in front of you in 5 seconds. Watch fallen skiers. When using your boat for water skiing or similar activities, always keep a fallen or down skier on the operator's side of the boat while returning to attend to the skier. The operator should always have the down skier in sight and never back up to the skier or anyone in the water. Report accidents. Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident Report with their state boating law enforcement agency when their boat is involved in certain boating accidents. A boating accident must be reported if 1) there is loss of life or probable loss of life, 2) there is personal injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, 3) there is damage to boats or other property where the damage value exceeds $500.00 or 4) there is complete loss of the boat. Seek further assistance from local law enforcement.

Be Alert to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning


Carbon monoxide is present in the exhaust fumes of all internal combustion engines including the outboards, sterndrives and inboard engines that propel boats, as well as the generators that power various boat accessories. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that is odorless, colorless and tasteless. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which should not be confused with seasickness or intoxication, include headache, dizziness, drowsiness and nausea.

! WARNING
Carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage, or death. Keep the boat well ventilated while at rest or underway and avoid prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide.

Good Ventilation
Ventilate the passenger area, open the side curtains or forward hatches to remove fumes.

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Section 3 - On the Water

1. Example of desired air flow through the boat.

mc79553-1

Poor Ventilation
Under certain conditions, permanently enclosed or canvas enclosed cabins or cockpits with insufficient ventilation may draw in carbon monoxide. Install one or more carbon monoxide detectors in your boat. Although the occurrence is rare, on a very calm day, swimmers and passengers in an open area of a stationary boat that contains or is near an operating engine may be exposed to a hazardous level of carbon monoxide. 1. Examples of poor ventilation while a boat is stationary:

a
a - Operating the engine when the boat is moored in a confined space

mc79554-1

b - Mooring close to another boat with its engine operating

2. Examples of poor ventilation while a boat is moving:

a
a - Operating the boat with the trim angle of the bow too high

mc79556-1

b - Operating the boat with no forward hatches open (station wagon effect)

Basic Boat Operation (NonDTS Models)


Launching and Boat Operation
IMPORTANT: Install bilge drain plug prior to launching boat.

OPERATION CHART
Operation Chart BEFORE STARTING AFTER STARTING Observe all gauges to check condition of engine. If not normal, stop engine. Check for fuel, oil, water, fluid and exhaust leaks. WHILE UNDERWAY AFTER STOPPING

Install bilge drain plug.

Observe all gauges to check condition of Turn ignition key to the engine. If not "OFF" position. normal, stop engine. Listen for the audio alarm. Turn battery switch to the "OFF" position.

Open engine hatch.

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Operation Chart BEFORE STARTING Turn battery switch on. Operate bilge blowers. Open fuel shut off valve. Open seacock, if equipped. Close the drain system. Place sterndrive unit in full down/in position. Check the engine oil. Perform all other checks specified by your dealer and/or boat builder. Listen for Audio Warning Alarm to sound when the ignition switch is in the "ON" position. AFTER STARTING Check shift and throttle control operation. Check steering operation. WHILE UNDERWAY AFTER STOPPING Close fuel shut off valve. Close seacock, if equipped. Flush cooling system if in saltwater. Drain bilge.

Starting and Stopping the Engine


NOTE: Only perform those functions applicable to your power package. STARTING THE ENGINE 1. Check all items listed in the Operation Chart. 2. Place the remote control handle in neutral.

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation.

! WARNING
Explosive fumes contained in the engine compartment can cause serious injury or death from fire or explosion. Before starting the engine, operate the bilge blower or vent the engine compartment for at least five minutes. 3. Turn ignition key to "START". Release key when engine starts and allow switch to return to "ON" position. Allow engine to warm up (610 minutes on first start of the day). 4. If engine does not start after 3 attempts: a. Push the throttle only button and position the remote control handle/throttle lever to the 1/4 throttle position. b. Turn ignition key to "START". Release key when engine starts and allow switch to return to "ON" position. 5. If engine does not start after step 4: a. Move the remote control handle/throttle lever to full throttle position, then return to 1/4 throttle. b. Turn ignition key to "START". Release key when engine starts and allow switch to return to "ON" position. 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 37

Section 3 - On the Water

6. Inspect the power package for fuel, oil, water and exhaust leaks. 7. Move control handle with a firm, quick motion forward to shift to forward gear, or backward to shift to reverse. After shifting, advance throttle to desired setting.

NOTICE
Shifting into gear at engine speeds above idle will damage the drive system. Shift the drive into gear only when the engine is operating at idle.

STOPPING THE ENGINE 1. Move the remote control handle to neutral/idle and allow the engine to slow to idle speed. If engine has been operated at high speed for a long period of time, allow the engine to cool at idle speed for 3 to 5 minutes. 2. Turn ignition key to the "OFF" position.

Starting the Engine After It Has Been Stopped While In Gear


IMPORTANT: Avoid stopping the engine if the sterndrive unit is in gear. If the engine does stop, refer to the following procedure: 1. Push and pull repeatedly on the remote control handle until handle returns to the neutral/idle position. This may take several tries if the power package was operating above idle RPM when the engine stopped. 2. After the handle returns to the neutral/idle position, resume normal starting procedures.

ThrottleOnly Operation
1. Refer to Remote Controls section for remote control features. 2. Move the control lever to the idle/neutral position. 3. Depress and hold the throttle only button, and move the control lever to the idle/forward or idle/reverse position. 4. Advancing the control lever beyond the idle/forward or idle/reverse position will cause engine speed to increase. IMPORTANT: Moving the control lever back to the idle/neutral position will disengage the throttle only button and allow the engine to shift into gear. 5. Throttle only mode is deactivated by moving the control lever to the idle/neutral position. Moving the control lever from the idle/neutral position to the idle/forward or idle/reverse position without pressing the throttle only button will shift the unit into the chosen gear.

Trailering the Boat


Your boat can be trailered with the sterndrive unit in the up or down position. Adequate clearance is required between the road and sterndrive when transporting. If adequate road clearance is a problem, place the sterndrive unit in full trailer position and support it with an optional trailer kit which is available from your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Freezing Temperature Operation


IMPORTANT: If the boat is operated during periods of freezing temperature, precautions must be taken to prevent freeze damage to the power package. Damage caused by freezing is not covered by Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.

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Drain Plug and Bilge Pump


The engine compartment in your boat is a natural place for water to collect. For this reason, boats are normally equipped with a drain plug and/or a bilge pump. It is very important to check these items on a regular basis to ensure that the water level does not come into contact with your power package. Components on your engine will be damaged if submerged. Damage caused by submersion is not covered by the Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.

Basic Boat Operation (DTS Models)


Launching and Boat Operation
IMPORTANT: Install bilge drain plug prior to launching boat.

OPERATION CHART
Operation Chart BEFORE STARTING AFTER STARTING Observe all gauges to check condition of engine. If not normal, stop engine. Check for fuel, oil, water, fluid and exhaust leaks. Check shift and throttle control operation. Check steering operation. WHILE UNDERWAY AFTER STOPPING

Install bilge drain plug.

Observe all gauges to check condition of Turn ignition key to the engine. If not "OFF" position. normal, stop engine. Listen for the audio alarm. Turn battery switch to the "OFF" position. Close fuel shut off valve. Close seacock, if equipped. Flush cooling system if in saltwater. Drain bilge.

Open engine hatch.

Turn battery switch on. Operate bilge blowers. Open fuel shut off valve. Open seacock, if equipped. Close the drain system. Place sterndrive unit in full down/in position. Check the engine oil. Perform all other checks specified by your dealer and/or boat builder. Listen for Audio Warning Alarm to sound when the ignition switch is in the "ON" position.

Starting and Stopping the Engine


NOTE: Perform only those functions applicable to your power package. STARTING THE ENGINE 1. Check all items listed in the Operation Chart. 2. Place the remote control handle in neutral.

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Section 3 - On the Water

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation.

! WARNING
Explosive fumes contained in the engine compartment can cause serious injury or death from fire or explosion. Before starting the engine, operate the bilge blower or vent the engine compartment for at least five minutes.

NOTE: MerCruiser DTS models are equipped with SmartStart. The SmartStart feature incorporates push button starting. Rather than holding the start button or key switch to start the engine and then releasing it when the engine starts, SmartStart completely controls the starting process. When the start button is pushed, the DTS system signals the engine PCM to start the engine. If the engine does not start, the starting process times out after a few seconds or when the engine reaches 400 RPM. Attempting to start the engine with the engine already running will turn the engine off. 3. Turn ignition key to "RUN" position. 4. Turn the ignition key switch to the "START" position then release, or depress the start/ stop button and release. If the engine is cold, allow the engine to operate at idle for 6 10 minutes or until the engine temperature reaches 60 C (140 F). 5. If the engine does not start after three attempts: a. Push the throttleonly button and position the remote control handle or throttle lever to the 1/4 throttle position. b. Turn the ignition key to "start." Release key when the engine starts and allow the switch to return to the "on" position. 6. If the engine does not start after step 5: a. Move the remote control handle.throttle lever to the full throttle position, then return to 1/4 throttle. b. Turn the ignition key to "START." Release key when the engine starts and allow the switch to return to the "on" position. 7. Inspect the power package for fuel, oil, water, and exhaust leaks. 8. Move the control handle with a firm, quick motion forward to shift to forward gear, or backward to shift to reverse. After shifting, advance throttle to desired setting.

NOTICE
Shifting into gear at engine speeds above idle will damage the drive system. Shift the drive into gear only when the engine is operating at idle.

STOPPING THE ENGINE 1. Move the remote control handle to neutral/idle and allow the engine to slow to idle speed. If engine has been operated at high speed for a long period of time, allow the engine to cool at idle speed for 3 to 5 minutes. 2. The engine can be stopped by any one of the following 4 methods: a. Move the ignition key switch to the "ACCESSORY" or "OFF" position. The engine will stop and the control system will be deactivated. b. Depress the start/stop button, if equipped. The engine will stop and the control system will remain active.
Page 40 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 3 - On the Water

c.

d.

Momentarily move the ignition key switch to the "START" position, then release immediately. The control system will recognize that the engine is running and will stop the engine. The control system will remain active. Moving the ignition key switch to the "START" position again will issue a start request to the control system and the control system will start the engine, if appropriate. Activate the lanyard stop switch, if equipped. The engine will stop, but the control system will remain active. The control system will not allow the engine to start if the lanyard stop switch is activated.

ThrottleOnly Operation
NOTE: When operating in throttle only (neutral) mode, the DTS Control System will not allow the engine speed to increase above 3500 RPM. Zero effort remote controls: Zero effort remote controls have seperate throttle control and shift control levers. Advancing the throttle control lever beyond the idle position while the shift control lever is in the neutral position will cause engine speed to increase, but only up to the maximum neutral engine speed of 3500 RPM.

! WARNING
The Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Zero Effort control can shift the engine or transmission at speeds greater than idle, causing unexpected boat movement, which may result in injury, death, or property damage due to loss of boat control. Always place the throttle control lever in the idle position before moving the shift control lever into forward or reverse gear position. Panel Mount and Console Mount Remote Controls: Panel mount and console mount remote controls are equipped with a throttle only button. To activate throttle only mode: 1. Refer to Remote Controls section for remote control features. 2. Move the control lever to the idle/neutral position. 3. Depress the throttle only button, and move the control lever to the idle/forward or idle/ reverse position. The DTS control system will sound two beeps on the audio warning horn to indicate throttle only mode is active. On console mount remote controls, the neutral light will begin to blink. 4. Advancing the control lever beyond the idle/forward or idle/reverse position will cause engine speed to increase. IMPORTANT: Moving the control lever back to the idle/neutral position will deactivate the throttle only mode and allow the engine to shift into gear. 5. Throttle only mode is deactivated by moving the control lever to the idle/neutral position. Moving the control lever from the idle/neutral position to the idle/forward or idle/reverse position without pressing the throttle only button will shift the unit into the chosen gear.

Trailering the Boat


Your boat can be trailered with the sterndrive unit in the up or down position. Adequate clearance is required between the road and sterndrive when transporting. If adequate road clearance is a problem, place the sterndrive unit in full trailer position and support it with an optional trailer kit which is available from your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Freezing Temperature Operation


IMPORTANT: If the boat is operated during periods of freezing temperature, precautions must be taken to prevent freeze damage to the power package. Damage caused by freezing is not covered by Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty. 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 41

Section 3 - On the Water

Drain Plug and Bilge Pump


The engine compartment in your boat is a natural place for water to collect. For this reason, boats are normally equipped with a drain plug and/or a bilge pump. It is very important to check these items on a regular basis to ensure that the water level does not come into contact with your power package. Components on your engine will be damaged if submerged. Damage caused by submersion is not covered by the Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.

Protecting People in the Water


While You Are Cruising
It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in their direction, even at slow speeds.

21604

Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where there might be people in the water. Whenever a boat is moving (even coasting) and the gear shift is in neutral, there is sufficient force by the water on the propeller to cause the propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller rotation can cause serious injury.

While Boat Is Stationary


! WARNING
A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to the boat can cause serious injury or death to swimmers. Stop the engine immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your boat. Shift into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to swim or be in the water near your boat.

HighSpeed and HighPerformance Operation


If your boat is considered a highspeed or highperformance boat with which you are unfamiliar, we recommend that you never operate it at its high speed capability without first requesting an initial orientation and demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator experienced with your boat. For additional information, refer to Hi-Performance Boat Operation booklet (90849250R2) from your dealer, distributor or Mercury Marine.

Passenger Safety in Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats


Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all passengers. Do not allow any passengers to stand or use seats other than those designated for traveling faster than idle speed. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as plunging into a large wave or wake, a sudden throttle reduction, or a sharp change of boat direction, could throw them over the front of boat. Falling over the front of the boat between the two pontoons will position them to be run over. Page 42 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 3 - On the Water

Boats Having An Open Front Deck


No one should ever be on the deck in front of the fence while the boat is in motion. Keep all passengers behind the front fence or enclosure. Persons on the front deck could easily be thrown overboard or persons dangling their feet over the front edge could get their legs caught by a wave and pulled into the water.

mc79555-1

! WARNING
Sitting or standing in an area of the boat not designed for passengers at speeds above idle can cause serious injury or death. Stay back from the front end of deck boats or raised platforms and remain seated while the boat is in motion.

Boats With FrontMounted, Raised Pedestal Fishing Seats


Elevated fishing seats are not intended for use when the boat is traveling faster than idle or trolling speed. Sit only in seats designated for traveling at faster speeds. Any unexpected, sudden reduction in boat speed could result in the elevated passenger falling over the front of the boat.

mc79557-1

Wave and Wake Jumping


! WARNING
Wave or wake jumping can cause serious injury or death from occupants being thrown within or out of the boat. Avoid wave or wake jumping whenever possible.

mc79680-1

Operating recreational boats over waves and wakes is a natural part of boating. However, when this activity is done with enough speed to force the boat hull partially or completely out of the water, certain hazards arise, particularly when the boat reenters the water. The primary concern is the boat changing direction while in the midst of the jump. In such cases the landing may cause the boat to violently veer in a new direction. Such a sharp change in direction or turn can cause occupants to be thrown out of their seats or out of the boat.

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Section 3 - On the Water

There is another less common hazardous result from allowing your boat to launch off of a wave or wake. If the bow of your boat pitches down far enough while airborne, upon water contact it may penetrate under the water surface and submarine for an instant. This will bring the boat nearly to a stop in an instant and can send the occupants flying forward. The boat may also veer sharply to one side.

Impact with Underwater Hazards


Reduce speed and proceed with caution whenever you're driving a boat in shallow water or in areas where the waters are suspected of having underwater obstacles that could be struck by the underwater drive components, rudder or the boat bottom.

mc79679-1

IMPORTANT: The most important thing you can do to help reduce injury or impact damage from striking a floating or underwater object is control the boat speed. Under these conditions, boat speed should be kept to a maximum speed of 24 to 40 km/h (15 to 25 mph). Striking a floating/underwater object may result in an infinite number of situations. Some of these situations could result in the following: The boat could move suddenly in a new direction. Such a sharp change in direction or turn can cause occupants to be thrown out of their seats or out of the boat. A rapid reduction in speed. This will cause occupants to be thrown forward, even out of the boat. Impact damage to the underwater drive components, rudder and/or boat. Keep in mind, one of the most important things you can do to help reduce injury or impact damage in these situations is control the boat speed. Boat speed should be kept to a minimum planing speed when driving in waters known to have underwater obstacles. After striking a submerged object, stop the engine as soon as possible and inspect the drive system for any broken or loose parts. If damage is present or suspected, the power package should be taken to an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer for a thorough inspection and necessary repair. The boat should be checked for hull fractures, transom fractures and water leaks. Operating with damaged underwater drive components, rudder or boat bottom could cause additional damage to other parts of the power package, or could affect control of the boat. If continued operation is necessary, do so at greatly reduced speeds.

! WARNING
Operating a boat or engine with impact damage can result in product damage, serious injury, or death. If the vessel experiences any form of impact, have an authorized Mercury Marine dealer inspect and repair the vessel or power package.

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Section 3 - On the Water

Drive Unit Impact Protection


The power trim hydraulic system is designed to provide impact protection for the sterndrive unit. If a submerged object is struck while the boat is moving forward, the hydraulic system will cushion the kickup of the sterndrive unit as it clears the object, reducing damage to the unit. After the sterndrive unit has cleared the object, the hydraulic system allows the sterndrive unit to return to its original operating position, preventing loss of steering control and engine overspeed. Use extreme caution when operating in shallow water or where underwater objects are known to be present. No impact protection is provided in reverse; use extreme care to prevent striking submerged objects while operating in reverse. IMPORTANT: Impact protection system cannot be designed to ensure total protection from impact damage under all conditions.

Operating with Low Water Inlets in Shallow Water

a
a - Low Water Inlets

mc75827-1

NOTICE
Operating in shallow water can cause severe engine damage due to clogged water inlets. Ensure that the water inlets on the gearcase do not ingest sand, silt, or other debris, which can restrict or stop cooling water supply to the engine. Extreme care should be exercised when operating a boat equipped with low water inlets while maneuvering in shallow water. Also, avoid beaching a boat with the engine operating.

Conditions Affecting Operation


Weight Distribution (Passengers and Gear) Inside the Boat
Shifting weight to rear (stern): Generally increases speed and engine RPM Causes bow to bounce in choppy water Increases danger of following wave splashing into the boat when coming off plane At extremes, can cause the boat to porpoise Shifting weight to front (bow): Improves ease of planing Improves rough water ride At extremes, can cause the boat to veer back and forth (bow steer)

The Bottom of the Boat


To maintain maximum speed, the boat bottom should be: 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 45

Section 3 - On the Water

Clean, free of barnacles and marine growth Free of distortion; nearly flat where it contacts the water Straight and smooth, fore and aft Marine vegetation may accumulate when the boat is docked. This growth must be removed before operation; it may clog the water inlets and cause the engine to overheat.

Cavitation
Cavitation occurs when water flow cannot follow the contour of a fastmoving underwater object such as a gear housing or a propeller. Cavitation increases propeller speed while reducing boat speed. Cavitation can seriously erode the surface of the gear housing or the propeller. Common causes of cavitation are: Weeds or other debris snagged on the propeller Bent propeller blade Raised burrs or sharp edges on the propeller

Ventilation
Ventilation is caused by surface air or exhaust gases that are introduced around the propeller resulting in propeller speedup and a reduction in boat speed. Air bubbles strike the propeller blade and cause erosion of the blade surface. If allowed to continue, eventual blade failure (breakage) will occur. Excessive ventilation is usually caused by: Drive unit trimmed out too far. A missing propeller diffuser ring. A damaged propeller or gear housing, which allows exhaust gases to escape between propeller and gear housing. Drive unit installed too high on transom.

Elevation and Climate


Elevation and climate changes will affect the performance of your power package. Loss of performance can be caused by: Higher elevations Higher temperatures Low barometric pressures High humidity For you to have optimum engine performance under changing weather conditions, it is essential that the engine be propped to allow the engine to operate at or near the top end of the specified maximum RPM range with a normal boat load during your normal boating weather conditions. In most cases, recommended RPM can be achieved by changing to a lower pitch propeller.

Propeller Selection
IMPORTANT: The engines covered in this manual are equipped with an RPM revlimiter that is set to an upper RPM limit. This limit, which is slightly above the normal operating range of the engine, helps prevent damage from excessive engine RPM. Once the RPM returns to the recommended operating RPM range, normal engine operation resumes. The boat manufacturer and the selling dealer are responsible for equipping the power package with the correct propeller. Refer to Mercury Marine's web page http:// www.mercurymarine.com/everything_you_need_to_know_about_propellers6. Select a propeller that will allow the engine power package to operate at or near the top end of the recommended WOT operating RPM range with a normal load. Page 46 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 3 - On the Water

If fullthrottle operation is below the recommended range, the propeller must be changed to prevent loss of performance and possible engine damage. On the other hand, operating an engine above the recommended operating RPM range will cause higher than normal wear and damage. After initial propeller selection, the following common problems may require that the propeller be changed to a lower pitch. Warmer weather and greater humidity cause a loss of RPM. Operating in a higher elevation causes a loss of RPM. Operating with a dirty boat bottom causes a loss of RPM. Operating with increased load (additional passengers, pulling skiers) causes a loss of RPM. For better acceleration, such as is needed for water skiing, use the next lower pitch propeller. When not pulling skiers, do not operate at full throttle when using the lower pitch propeller.

Getting Started
20Hour BreakIn Period
IMPORTANT: The first 20 hours of operation is the engine breakin period. Correct breakin is essential to obtain minimum oil consumption and maximum engine performance. During this breakin period, the following rules must be observed: Do not operate below 1500 RPM for extended periods of time for the first 10 hours. Shift into gear as soon as possible after starting and advance the throttle above 1500 rpm if conditions permit safe operation. Do not operate at one speed consistently for extended periods. Do not exceed 3/4 throttle during the first 10 hours. During the next 10 hours, occasional operation at full throttle is permissible (5 minutes at a time maximum). Avoid full throttle acceleration from idle speed. Do not operate at full throttle until the engine reaches normal operating temperature. Frequently check engine oil level. Add oil as needed. It is normal for oil consumption to be high during the breakin period.

After BreakIn Period


To help extend the life of your Mercury MerCruiser power package, the following recommendations should be considered; Ensure that propeller allows the engine to operate at or near the top of the specified WOT RPM range (Refer to Specifications and Maintenance) when at full throttle with a normal boat load. Operation at 3/4 throttle setting or lower is recommended. Refrain from prolonged operation at WOT RPM. Change the engine oil and oil filter. Refer to Maintenance. Change the transmission oil and filter. Refer to Maintenance (ZF Transmission models).1.

1. Require fluid and filter change after the first 25 hours and then every 100 hours.

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Section 3 - On the Water

End of First Season Checkup


At the end of the first season of operation, contact an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer to discuss and/or perform scheduled maintenance items. If you are in an area where the product is operated continuously, yearround, you should contact your dealer at the end of the first 100 hours of operation or once yearly, whichever occurs first.

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Section 4 - Specifications

Section 4 - Specifications
Table of Contents
Fuel Requirements............................................. 50 Fuel Ratings ................................................. 50 Using Reformulated (Oxygenated) Gasolines (USA Only) ................................................... 50 Gasolines Containing Alcohol ...................... 50 Engine Oil........................................................... 51 Engine Specifications......................................... 51 Fluid Specifications (MPI)................................... 52 Fluid Specifications.......................................52 Engine...........................................................52 Alpha Sterndrive............................................53 Bravo Sterndrives..........................................53 Power-Assisted Steering and Power Trim Fluids ......................................................................53 Approved Power-Assisted Steering Fluids ...................................................... 53 Approved Power Trim Fluids .................. 53

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Section 4 - Specifications

Fuel Requirements
IMPORTANT: Use of improper gasoline can damage your engine. Engine damage resulting from the use of improper gasoline is considered misuse of the engine, and damage caused thereby will not be covered under the limited warranty.

Fuel Ratings
Mercury MerCruiser engines will operate satisfactorily when using a major brand of unleaded gasoline meeting the following specifications: USA and Canadahaving a posted pump Octane Rating of 87 (R+M)/2 minimum. Premium gasoline [92 (R+M)/2 Octane] is also acceptable. Do not use leaded gasoline. Outside USA and Canadahaving a posted pump Octane Rating of 90 RON minimum. Premium gasoline (98 RON) is also acceptable. If unleaded gasoline is not available, use a major brand of leaded gasoline.

Using Reformulated (Oxygenated) Gasolines (USA Only)


This type of gasoline is required in certain areas of the USA. The 2 types of oxygenates used in these fuels is Alcohol (Ethanol) or Ether (MTBE or ETBE). If Ethanol is the oxygenate that is used in the gasoline in your area, refer to Gasolines Containing Alcohol. These Reformulated Gasolines are acceptable for use in your Mercury MerCruiser engine.

Gasolines Containing Alcohol


If the gasoline in your area contains either methanol (methyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol), you should be aware of certain adverse effects that can occur. These adverse effects are more severe with methanol. Increasing the percentage of alcohol in the fuel can also worsen these adverse effects. Some of these adverse effects are caused because the alcohol in the gasoline can absorb moisture from the air, resulting in a separation of the water/alcohol from the gasoline in the fuel tank. The fuel system components on your Mercury MerCruiser engine will withstand up to 10% alcohol content in the gasoline. We do not know what percentage your boat's fuel system will withstand. Contact your boat manufacturer for specific recommendations on the boat's fuel system components (fuel tanks, fuel lines, and fittings). Be aware that gasolines containing alcohol may increase: Corrosion of metal parts Deterioration of rubber or plastic parts Fuel permeation through rubber fuel lines Difficulty starting and operating the engine

! WARNING
Fuel leakage is a fire or explosion hazard, which can cause serious injury or death. Periodically inspect all fuel system components for leaks, softening, hardening, swelling, or corrosion, particularly after storage. Any sign of leakage or deterioration requires replacement before further engine operation. Because of possible adverse effects of alcohol in gasoline, we recommend only alcoholfree gasoline when possible. If the only fuel available contains alcohol or if you do not know whether the fuel contains alcohol, inspect for leaks and abnormalities more frequently.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 4 - Specifications

IMPORTANT: When operating a Mercury MerCruiser engine on gasoline containing alcohol, do not store the gasoline in the fuel tank for long periods. Whereas cars normally consume alcoholblend fuels before they can absorb enough moisture to cause trouble, boats often sit idle long enough for phase separation to take place. In addition, internal corrosion may take place during storage if alcohol has washed protective oil films from internal components.

Engine Oil
To maintain optimum engine performance and to provide maximum protection, we recommend the following oil:
Application All MerCruiser engines with Emissions Control Recommended Oil Mercury MerCruiser FullSynthetic Engine Oil, 20W40, NMMA FCW rated

IMPORTANT: Lubrication requirements for catalyzed engines differ from the requirements for noncatalyzed engines. Some marinegrade lubricants contain high levels of phosphorus, which can damage the catalyst system on MerCruiser engines. Although these highphosphorus lubricants may allow for acceptable engine performance, exposure over time will damage the catalyst. Catalysts damaged by lubricants containing high levels of phosphorus may not be covered by the MerCruiser Limited Warranty. If the Mercury MerCruiser FullSynthetic, 20W40 oil is unavailable, you can use the following lubricants, listed in order of recommendation, for short periods of time: 1. Mercury/Quicksilver 25W40 Synthetic Blend, NMMA FCW rated 4cycle oil 2. Other recognized brands of NMMA FCWrated oils

NOTE: We do not recommend nondetergent oils, multiviscosity oils (other than as specified), non FCWrated synthetic oils, lowquality oils, or oils that contain solid additives.
Mercury MerCruiser Full-Synthetic Engine Oil, 20W-40, NMMA FC-W rated

ORDER OF PREFERENCE

MerCruiser/Quicksilver 25W-40 Synthetic Blend, NMMA FC-W rated 4-cycle oil Other recognized brands of NMMA FC-W rated oils

SAE40W
SAE30W

SAE 20W

0 C (32 F)

10 C (50 F)
31655

AIR TEMPERATURE

Engine Specifications
NOTE: Performance ratings are obtained and corrected in accordance with SAE J1228/ ISO 8665 Crankshaft Power. NOTE: All measurements are taken with the engine at normal operating temperature.

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Section 4 - Specifications
Models Power Number of cylinders Displacement Bore and stroke Compression ratio Idle RPM in neutral Specified WOT RPM range Minimum oil pressure at idle Thermostat (seawatercooled models) Thermostat (closed cooling models) Timing at idle Firing order Electrical system Alternator rating Recommended minimum battery rating (NonDTS models) Recommended minimum battery rating (DTS models) Spark plug type Spark plug gap 165432 65 A 750 CCA, 950 MCA, or 180 Ah 800 CCA, 1000 MCA, or 190 Ah AC Platinum (AC 41993) 1.5 mm (0.060 in.) 44004800 41 kPa (6 psi) 71 C (160 F) 77 C (170 F) Not adjustable 18436572 12 V negative () ground 4.3 MPI and SeaCore 4.3 164 kW (220 hp) 6 4.3 L (262 cid) 9.2:1 600 46005000 5.0 MPI and SeaCore 5.0 194 kW (260 hp) 8 5.0 L (305 cid) 9.4:1

101.6 88.39 mm (4.012 3.48 in.) 94.89 88.39 mm (3.735 3.48 in.)

Fluid Specifications (MPI)


Fluid Specifications
IMPORTANT: All capacities are approximate fluid measures.

Engine
IMPORTANT: It may be necessary to adjust oil levels depending on installation angle and cooling systems (heat exchanger and fluid lines). Always use the dipstick to determine the exact quantity of oil or fluid required.
Description Engine oil (with filter) Seawater cooling system (winterization use only) 4.3 MPI and SeaCore 4.3 Models 3.8 L (4 US qt) 5.0 MPI and SeaCore 5.0 Models 4.25 L (4.5 US qt) Fluid Type Mercury MerCruiser FullSynthetic Engine Oil, 20W40 Propylene glycol and purified water Mercury Extended Life Coolant Antifreeze or extendedlife ethylene glycol 5/100 antifreeze mixed 50/50 with purified water

20 L (21 US qt)

Closed cooling system 19 L (20 US qt)

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Section 4 - Specifications

Alpha Sterndrive
NOTE: Oil capacity includes gear lube monitor.
Model Alpha One Capacity 1892 mL (64 oz) Fluid Type High Performance Gear Lubricant

Bravo Sterndrives
NOTE: Oil capacity includes gear lube monitor.
Model Bravo One Bravo Two Bravo Three (single seawater pickup) Bravo Three (dual seawater pickup) Capacity 2736 mL (921/2 oz) 3209 mL (1081/2 oz) 2972 mL (1001/2 oz) 2736 mL (921/2 oz) High Performance Gear Lubricant Fluid Type

PowerAssisted Steering and Power Trim Fluids


APPROVED POWER-ASSISTED STEERING FLUIDS
Description Power Trim and Steering Fluid Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid Part Number 92858074K01 Obtain locally

APPROVED POWER TRIM FLUIDS


Description Power Trim and Steering Fluid SAE Engine Oil 10W30 SAE Engine Oil 10W40 Part Number 92858074K01 Obtain locally

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Section 4 - Specifications

Notes:

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Section 5 - Maintenance
Table of Contents
Owner/Operator Responsibilities........................ 56 Dealer Responsibilities....................................... 56 Maintenance....................................................... 56 Do-It-Yourself Maintenance Suggestions........... 57 Inspection........................................................... 57 Maintenance ScheduleSterndrive Models...... 58 Routine Maintenance....................................58 Scheduled Maintenance................................58 Maintenance Log................................................ 59 Engine Oil........................................................... 60 Checking ...................................................... 60 Filling ............................................................ 60 Changing Oil and Filter ................................ 61 Easy Engine Oil Drain System ............... 61 Engine Oil Drain Pump ........................... 62 Changing the Filter ................................. 62 Power Steering Fluid.......................................... 63 Checking ...................................................... 63 Filling ............................................................ 63 Changing ...................................................... 64 Engine Coolant................................................... 64 Checking ...................................................... 64 Filling ............................................................ 65 Changing ..................................................... 65 Drive Unit Oil....................................................... 66 Checking ...................................................... 66 Filling ............................................................ 66 Changing ...................................................... 67 Power Trim Fluid................................................. 69 Checking ...................................................... 69 Filling ............................................................ 69 Changing ...................................................... 70 Battery................................................................ 70 Multiple EFI Engine Battery Precautions.......70 Cleaning the Flame Arrestor............................... 71 Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve (PCV) ........................................................... 72 Changing ................................................ 72 Water-Separating Fuel Filter (MPI)..................... 72 Water-Separating Fuel Filter.........................72 GEN II Models...............................................73 Removal ................................................. 73 Installation .............................................. 73 GEN III Models..............................................74 Removal ................................................. 74 Installation .............................................. 75 Lubrication.......................................................... 75 Steering System............................................75 Throttle Cable................................................77 Shift Cable - Typical......................................78 Sterndrive Unit and Transom Assembly........ 78 Sterndrive U-joint Shaft Splines And O-rings (Sterndrive Unit Removed)............................79 Engine Coupler.............................................79 Driveshaft Extension Models.........................80 Propellers............................................................ 80 Propeller Repair............................................80 Alpha Propeller Removal..............................80 Alpha Propeller Installation...........................81 Bravo One Propeller Removal......................82 Bravo One Propeller Installation...................82 Bravo Two Propeller Removal......................83 Bravo Two Propeller Installation...................83 Bravo Three Propeller Removal....................84 Bravo Three Propeller Installation.................85 Serpentine Drive Belt.......................................... 87 Checking ...................................................... 87 Replacing Belt and/or Adjusting Tension ..... 87 Corrosion Protection........................................... 89 Corrosion Information....................................89 Maintaining Ground Circuit Continuity...........89 Anodes and MerCathode System Locations ......................................................................89 Checking the Quicksilver MerCathode System ......................................................................90 Power Package Exterior Surfaces................91 Boat Bottom Care..........................................91 Anti-fouling Paint...........................................91 Sterndrive Surface Care................................93 Flushing the Power Package.............................. 94 General Information......................................94 Flushing Attachments ............................. 94 Sterndrive Water Pickups ....................... 95 Alternative Water Pickups ...................... 97 SeaCore Power Package Flushing Procedure ......................................................................98 Models Using The Sterndrive Water Pickup .................................................... 98

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Owner/Operator Responsibilities
It is the operator's responsibility to perform all safety checks, to ensure that all lubrication and maintenance instructions are complied with for safe operation and to return the unit to an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer for a periodic checkup. Normal maintenance service and replacement parts are the responsibility of the owner/ operator and as such, are not considered defects in workmanship or material within the terms of the warranty. Individual operating habits and usage contribute to the need for maintenance service. Proper maintenance and care of your power package will ensure optimum performance and dependability and will keep your overall operating expenses at a minimum. See your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer for service aids.

Dealer Responsibilities
In general, a dealer's responsibilities to the customer include predelivery inspection and preparation such as: Ensure that the boat is properly equipped. Prior to delivery, make certain that the Mercury MerCruiser power package and other equipment are in proper operating condition. Make all necessary adjustments for maximum efficiency. Familiarize the customer with the onboard equipment. Explain and demonstrate the operation of the power package and boat. Provide you with a copy of a Predelivery Inspection Checklist. Your selling dealer should fill out the Warranty Registration Card completely and mail it to the factory immediately upon sale of the new product.

Maintenance
! WARNING
Performing service or maintenance without first disconnecting the battery can cause product damage, personal injury, or death due to fire, explosion, electrical shock, or unexpected engine starting. Always disconnect the battery cables from the battery before maintaining, servicing, installing, or removing engine or drive components.

! WARNING
Fuel vapors trapped in the engine compartment may be an irritant, cause difficulty breathing, or may ignite resulting in a fire or explosion. Always ventilate the engine compartment before servicing the power package. IMPORTANT: Refer to the maintenance schedule for complete listing of all scheduled maintenance to be performed. Whereas you can perform some items, others should be performed only by an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. Before attempting maintenance or repair procedures not covered in this manual, we recommend that you purchase a Mercury MerCruiser service manual and read it thoroughly.

NOTE: Maintenance points are color coded for ease of identification. See the decal on engine for identification.

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Section 5 - Maintenance
Maintenance Point Color Codes Blue Yellow Orange Black Brown Coolant Engine oil Fuel Gear lube oil (sterndrive models only) Transmission (inboard models only)

DoItYourself Maintenance Suggestions


Present day marine equipment, such as your Mercury MerCruiser power package, are highly technical pieces of machinery. Electronic ignition and special fuel delivery systems provide greater fuel economies, but also are more complex for the untrained mechanic. If you are one of those persons who likes to do it yourself, here are some suggestions for you. Do not attempt any repairs unless you are aware of the Cautions, Warnings and procedures required. Your safety is our concern. If you attempt to service the product yourself, we suggest you order the service manual for that model. The service manual outlines the correct procedures to follow. It is written for the trained mechanic, so there may be procedures you don't understand. Do not attempt repairs if you do not understand the procedures. There are special tools and equipment that are required to perform some repairs. Do not attempt these repairs unless you have these special tools and/or equipment. You can cause damage to the product in excess of the cost a dealer would charge you. Also, if you partially disassemble an engine or drive assembly and are unable to repair it, the dealer's mechanic must reassemble the components and test to determine the problem. This will cost you more than taking it to the dealer immediately upon having a problem. It may be a very simple adjustment to correct the problem. Do not telephone the dealer, service office or the factory to attempt for them to diagnose a problem or to request the repair procedure. It is difficult for them to diagnose a problem over the telephone. Your authorized dealer is there to service your power package. They have qualified factory trained mechanics. It is recommended you have the dealer do periodic maintenance checks on your power package. Have them winterize it in the fall and service it before the boating season. This will reduce the possibility of any problems occurring during your boating season when you want trouble free boating pleasure.

Inspection
Inspect your power package often, and at regular intervals, to help maintain its top operating performance and correct potential problems before they occur. The entire power package should be checked carefully, including all accessible engine parts. Check for loose, damaged or missing parts, hoses and clamps; tighten or replace as necessary. Check plug leads and electrical leads for damage. Remove and inspect the propeller. If badly nicked, bent or cracked, contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. Repair nicks and corrosion damage on power package exterior finish. Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 57

Section 5 - Maintenance

Maintenance ScheduleSterndrive Models


Routine Maintenance
NOTE: Only perform maintenance that applies to your particular power package.
Task Interval Each day start Each day end Weekly Every two months or 50 hours Maintenance to Be Performed Check the engine oil level. (You can extend this interval based on experience with the product.) Check the sterndrive gear lube level. Check the trim pump oil level. Check the powerassisted steering pump or the compact hydraulic steering fluid level, depending on the steering system of your model. If operating in saltwater, brackish water, or polluted water, flush the seawater section of the cooling system after each use. Check the water inlets for debris or marine growth. Check and clean the seawater strainer, if equipped. Check the coolant level. Inspect the sterndrive anodes and replace if 50% eroded. Lubricate the propeller shaft and retorque the nut. (If operating only in freshwater, you can extend the interval to every four months.) If operating in saltwater, brackish water, or polluted water, apply Corrosion Guard to the power package. Check the battery connections and the fluid level. Ensure that the gauges and the wiring connections are secure. Clean the gauges. (If operating in saltwater, reduce this interval to every 25 hours or 30 days, whichever occurs first.)

Scheduled Maintenance
NOTE: Only perform maintenance that applies to your particular power package.
Task Interval After the initial 20hour breakin period Maintenance to Be Performed Change the engine oil and filter. Every 100 hours or annually (whichever occurs first) Touch up the paint on the power package. Change the engine oil and filter. Change the sterndrive gear lube. Tighten the connection of the gimbal ring to the steering shaft to specifications. Replace the waterseparating fuel filter element. Check the steering system and the remote control for loose, missing, or damaged parts. Lubricate the cables and the linkages. Check the continuity circuit for loose or damaged connections. If the package is equipped with a MerCathode, test the MerCathode unit output. Clean the flame arrestor, IAC muffler (MPI engines), and the crankcase ventilation hoses. Inspect the PCV valve, if equipped.

NOTE: On MerCruiser V6 models, the PCV valve is a nonserviceable, internal component of the valve cover assembly. Inspect the condition and the tension of the belts. Check the coolant level and antifreeze concentration for adequate freeze protection. Correct if necessary. Refer to the Specifications section.
On driveshaft extension models, lubricate the driveshaft Ujoints and tailstock input and output bearings.

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Section 5 - Maintenance
Task Interval Every 200 hours or 3 years Maintenance to Be Performed Inspect the Ujoints, the splines, and the bellows. Check the clamps. Check the engine alignment. Lubricate the Ujoint splines and cross bearing, if equipped with grease fittings. Lubricate the gimbal bearing and the engine coupler.

NOTE: Lubricate the engine coupler every 50 hours if operated at idle for prolonged periods of time.
Every 300 hours or 3 years Every 5 years Check the engine mounts for tightness and tighten to specifications if necessary. Check the electrical system for loose, damaged, or corroded fasteners. Check the cooling system and the exhaust system hose clamps for tightness. Inspect both systems for damage or leaks. Disassemble and inspect the seawater pump and replace worn components. Clean the seawater section of the closedcooling system. Clean, inspect, and test the pressure cap. Inspect the exhaust system components. If the package was equipped with water shutters (flapper valves), verify that they are not missing or worn. Replace the coolant/anitifreeze. Replace every two years if not using extendedlife coolant/antifreeze.

Maintenance Log
Record all maintenance performed on your power package here. Be sure to save all work orders and receipts.
Date Maintenance Performed Engine Hours

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Engine Oil
NOTICE
Discharge of oil, coolant, or other engine/drive fluids into the environment is restricted by law. Use caution not to spill oil, coolant, or other fluids into the environment when using or servicing your boat. Be aware of the local restrictions governing the disposal or recycling of waste, and contain and dispose of fluids as required.

Checking
1. Stop the engine. Allow approximately five minutes for the oil to drain into the oil pan. The boat must be at rest in the water. 2. Remove the dipstick. Wipe clean and reinstall fully into the dipstick tube. Wait 60 seconds to allow trapped air to vent.

NOTE: Ensure that dipstick is installed with oil level indication marks facing the rear of the engine (flywheel end).

a
a - Dipstick tube

6095

IMPORTANT: Add the specified engine oil to bring the level up to, but not over, the full or OK range mark on the dipstick. 3. Remove the dipstick and observe the oil level. Oil level must be between full or OK range and add. Reinstall the dipstick into the dipstick tube.

Filling
IMPORTANT: Do not overfill the engine with oil. IMPORTANT: Always use the dipstick to determine the exact quantity of oil or fluid required.

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Section 5 - Maintenance

1. Remove oil fill cap.

6065

IMPORTANT: Add the specified engine oil to bring the level up to, but not over, the full or OK range mark on the dipstick. 2. Add the specified engine oil to bring the level up to, but not over, the full or OK range mark on the dipstick. Recheck oil level. 3. Replace the fill cap.
Engine Model 4.3 MPI and SeaCore 4.3 5.0 MPI and SeaCore 5.0 Engine Oil Capacity 3.8 L (4 US qt) 4.25 L (4.5 US qt) Fluid type Mercury MerCruiser FullSynthetic Engine Oil, 20W40

Changing Oil and Filter


Refer to the Maintenance schedule for the change interval. Engine oil should be changed before placing the boat in storage. IMPORTANT: Change engine oil when the engine is warm from operation. Warm oil flows more freely, carrying away more impurities. Use only recommended engine oil (refer to Specifications).

EASY ENGINE OIL DRAIN SYSTEM NOTE: Boat must be out of water to perform this procedure. 1. Loosen the oil filter to vent the system.

a b

f c

d
a - Bilge drain plug b - Tether c - Clip

e
d - Oil drain hose plug e - Oil drain hose f - Bilge drain flange

7284

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Section 5 - Maintenance

2. Remove the bilge drain plug. 3. Pull tether through the bilge drain. 4. Place the oil drain hose in a suitable container. 5. Remove the drain plug from the oil drain hose. 6. After oil has drained completely, install the drain plug in the oil drain hose. 7. Push the hose through bilge drain and install the plug. ENGINE OIL DRAIN PUMP 1. Loosen the oil filter to vent the system. 2. Remove the dipstick. 3. Install the oil pump onto the dipstick tube.

a b
a - Typical oil pump b - Dipstick tube

c
mc70571-1

c - Oil drain hose

4. Insert the hose end of the crankcase oil pump onto an appropriate container and, using the handle, pump until the crankcase is empty. 5. Remove the pump. 6. Install the dipstick. CHANGING THE FILTER 1. Remove and discard the oil filter.

a
a - Oil filter

6068

2. Coat the sealing ring on the new filter with engine oil and install. 3. Tighten the oil filter securely (following filter manufacturer's instructions). Do not overtighten. 4. Remove oil fill cap. Page 62 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

IMPORTANT: Use dipstick to determine exactly how much oil is required. 5. Add recommended engine oil to bring the level up to the bottom of the OK range on the dipstick. 6. With the boat at rest in the water, check the oil level and add specified fluid to bring the oil level up to, but not over, the full or OK range.

NOTE: Adding 0.95 L (1 qt) of engine oil will raise the level from the add mark to the top of the OK range.
Engine Model 4.3 MPI and SeaCore 4.3 5.0 MPI and SeaCore 5.0 Engine Oil Capacity 3.8 L (4 US qt) 4.25 L (4.5 US qt) Fluid type Mercury MerCruiser FullSynthetic Engine Oil, 20W40

7. Start the engine, run the engine for three minutes, and check for leaks. Stop the engine. Allow approximately 5 minutes for the oil to drain into the oil pan. The boat must be at rest in the water.

Power Steering Fluid


Checking
1. Stop the engine and center the sterndrive unit. 2. Remove the fill cap/dipstick and observe the level. a. Proper fluid level with engine at normal operating temperature should be within the warm range. b. Proper fluid level with engine cold should be within the cold range.

b a

c
6100

a - Power steering pump b - Cold range

c - Warm range

3. Fill to full line with specified fluid. IMPORTANT: If fluid is not visible in pump, contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Filling
1. Remove the fill cap/dipstick and observe the level. 2. Add Quicksilver Power Trim and Steering Fluid or Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) to bring the fluid level up to the proper level.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance
Tube Ref No.
114

Description Power Trim and Steering Fluid

Where Used Power steering system

Part No. 92-858074K01

3. Reinstall the fill cap/dipstick.

Changing
Power steering fluid does not require changing unless it becomes contaminated with water or debris. Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Engine Coolant
Checking
! CAUTION
A sudden loss of pressure can cause hot coolant to boil and discharge violently resulting in serious injury from burns. Allow the engine to cool down before removing the coolant pressure cap. 1. Remove the cap from the heat exchanger and observe the fluid level.

6101

a - Heat exchanger cap 2. The coolant level in the heat exchanger should be at the bottom of the filler neck. If the coolant level is low, contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. 3. Install the cap onto the heat exchanger. IMPORTANT: When reinstalling the pressure cap, be sure to tighten it until it seats on the filler neck. 4. With the engine at normal operating temperature, check the coolant level in the coolant recovery bottle.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

5. The coolant level should be between the "ADD" and "FULL" marks.

6102

6. Add the specified fluid as necessary.


Tube Ref No.
122

Description Extended Life Antifreeze/ Coolant

Where Used Closed Cooling System

Part No. 92-877770K1

Filling

NOTICE
Using propylene glycol antifreeze in the closed cooling system can damage the cooling system or the engine. Fill the closed cooling system with an ethylene glycol antifreeze solution suitable to the lowest temperature to which the engine will be exposed.

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation.

NOTICE
Air trapped in the closed cooling system can cause the engine to overheat, resulting in engine damage. Minimize the possibility of trapping air when initially filling the closed cooling system by positioning the boat so that the front of the engine is higher than the rear of the engine.

NOTE: Add coolant only when engine is at normal operating temperature. 1. Remove the fill cap from the coolant recovery bottle. 2. Fill to the "FULL" line with the specified coolant.
Tube Ref No.
122

Description Extended Life Antifreeze/ Coolant

Where Used Closed Cooling System

Part No. 92-877770K1

3. Install the fill cap onto the coolant recovery bottle.

Changing
Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Drive Unit Oil


NOTICE
Discharge of oil, coolant, or other engine/drive fluids into the environment is restricted by law. Use caution not to spill oil, coolant, or other fluids into the environment when using or servicing your boat. Be aware of the local restrictions governing the disposal or recycling of waste, and contain and dispose of fluids as required.

Checking
NOTE: Oil level will fluctuate during operation. Oil level should be checked with the engine cold, before starting. 1. Check the gear lube oil level. Keep the oil level within the recommended operating range. If any water is visible at the bottom of the monitor or appears at the oil fill/drain plug and/or if oil appears discolored, contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer immediately. Both conditions may indicate a water leak somewhere in the sterndrive unit.

6107

6105

Seawater cooled models a - Gear lube monitor

Closed cooled models

Filling
IMPORTANT: If more than 59 mL (2 fl oz) of High Performance Gear Lubricant is required to fill the monitor, a seal may be leaking. Damage to the sterndrive unit may occur due to lack of lubrication. Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. 1. Remove the gear lube monitor cap. 2. Fill the monitor with the specified fluid so that the oil level is in the operating range. Do not overfill.
Tube Ref No.
87

Description High Performance Gear Lubricant

Where Used Gear lube monitor

Part No. 92-858064K01

3. Replace the cap.

NOTE: When filling the entire sterndrive unit refer to Changing.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

Changing
1. Remove the gear lube monitor from the bracket.

6109

a - Gear lube monitor 2. Empty the contents into a suitable container. 3. Install the gear lube monitor in the bracket. 4. Bravo One Models: Remove the propeller, lower the sterndrive unit to the full down/ in position, remove the oil fill/drain screw and sealing washer and drain the oil.

b
a - Oil fill/drain screw

mc79506-1

b - Sealing washer

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

5. All Other Models: Place the sterndrive unit in full trim limit out position, remove the oil fill/drain screw and sealing washer and drain the oil.

b a
mc79507-1

a - Oil fill/drain screw

b - Sealing washer

6. Remove the oil vent screw and sealing washer. Allow the oil to drain completely.

a b

mc77106-1

a - Oil vent screw

b - Sealing washer

IMPORTANT: If any water drained from the oil fill/drain hole, or if the oil appears milky, the sterndrive unit is leaking and should be checked immediately by your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. 7. Lower the sterndrive unit so that the propeller shaft is level. Fill the sterndrive unit, through the oil fill/drain hole, with specified gear lubricant until an airfree stream of lubricant flows from oil vent hole.
Tube Ref No.
87

Description High Performance Gear Lubricant

Where Used Sterndrive unit

Part No. 92-858064K01

IMPORTANT: Use only Mercury/Quicksilver High Performance Gear Lubricant in sterndrive unit. 8. Install the oil vent screw and sealing washer. 9. Continue to pump gear lubricant into the gear lube monitor circuit until the gear lubricant appears in the gear lube monitor. 10. Fill the monitor so that the oil level is in the operating range. Do not overfill. Ensure that the rubber gasket is inside the cap and install. Do not overtighten.

NOTE: Oil capacity includes gear lube monitor.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance
Model Alpha One Bravo One Bravo Two Bravo Three Capacity 1892 mL (64 oz) 2736 mL (921/2 oz) 3209 mL (1081/2 oz) 2972 mL (1001/2 oz) High Performance Gear Lubricant Fluid Type

11. Remove the pump from the oil fill/drain hole. Quickly install the sealing washer and oil fill/drain screw. Tighten securely. 12. Reinstall the propeller. Refer to Propellers. 13. Recheck the oil level after the first use. IMPORTANT: Oil level in the gear lube monitor will rise and fall during sterndrive operation. Check the oil level only when the sterndrive is cool and the engine is shut down.

Power Trim Fluid


Checking
IMPORTANT: Check the oil level with the sterndrive unit in the full down/in position only. 1. Place the sterndrive unit in full down/in position. 2. Observe the oil level. Level must be between the "MIN" and "MAX" lines on the reservoir.

a
a - Reservoir

b
7876

b - "MIN" and "MAX" lines

3. Fill as necessary with the specified fluid.


Tube Ref No.
114

Description Power Trim and Steering Fluid

Where Used Power trim pump

Part No. 92-858074K01

Filling
1. Remove the fill cap from the reservoir.

NOTE: Fill cap is vented. 2. Add lubricant to bring level to the within the "MIN" and "MAX" lines on the reservoir.
Tube Ref No.
114

Description Power Trim and Steering Fluid

Where Used Power trim pump

Part No. 92-858074K01

3. Install the cap.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Changing
Power trim fluid does not require changing unless it becomes contaminated with water or debris. Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Battery
Refer to specific instructions and warnings accompanying your battery. If this information is not available, observe the following precautions when handling a battery.

! WARNING
Recharging a weak battery in the boat, or using jumper cables and a booster battery to start the engine, can cause serious injury or product damage from fire or explosion. Remove the battery from the boat and recharge in a ventilated area away from sparks or flames.

! WARNING
An operating or charging battery produces gas that can ignite and explode, spraying out sulfuric acid, which can cause severe burns. Ventilate the area around the battery and wear protective equipment when handling or servicing batteries.

Multiple EFI Engine Battery Precautions


Alternators: Alternators are designed to charge the battery that supplies electrical power to the engine that the alternator is mounted on. When batteries for 2 different engines are connected, one alternator will supply all of the charging current for both batteries. Normally, the other engine's alternator will not be required to supply any charging current. EFI Electronic Control Module (ECM): The ECM requires a stable voltage source. During multiple engine operation, an onboard electrical device may cause a sudden drain of voltage at the engine's battery. The voltage may go below the ECM's minimum required voltage. Also, the alternator on the other engine may now start charging. This could cause a voltage spike in the engine's electrical system. In either case, the ECM could shut off. When the voltage returns to the range that the ECM requires, the ECM will reset itself, and the engine will operate normally. The ECM shuts off and resets itself so quickly that the engine may only seem to have an ignition miss. Batteries: Boats with multiengine EFI power packages require each engine be connected to its own battery. This ensures that the engine's ECM has a stable voltage source. Battery Switches: Battery switches should always be positioned so each engine is operating off of its own battery. Do not operate engines with switches in both or all position. In an emergency, another engine's battery can be used to start an engine with a dead battery. Battery Isolators: Isolators can be used to charge an auxiliary battery used for powering accessories in the boat. They should not be used to charge the battery of another engine in the boat unless the type of isolator is specifically designed for this purpose. Generators: The generators battery should be considered another engine's battery.

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Cleaning the Flame Arrestor


! WARNING
Fuel is flammable and explosive. Ensure the key switch is off and the lanyard is positioned so that the engine cannot start. Do not smoke or allow sources of spark or open flame in the area while servicing. Keep the work area well ventilated and avoid prolonged exposure to vapors. Always check for leaks before attempting to start the engine and wipe up any spilled fuel immediately. 1. Remove the engine cover. 2. Disconnect and remove the crankcase ventilation hose from the fitting on the flame arrestor and valve cover. 3. Remove the flame arrestor.

a b

d e
6110

f
a - Engine cover knob b - Engine cover c - Nuts, flame arrestor 4. 5. 6. 7. d - Cover mount bracket e - Flame arrestor f - Crankcase ventilation hose

Clean the flame arrestor with warm water and a mild detergent. Inspect the flame arrestor for holes, cracks or deterioration. Replace if necessary. Allow the flame arrestor to air dry completely before use. Clean the crankcase ventilation hose with warm water and a mild detergent. Dry with compressed air or allow to air dry completely. 8. Inspect the crankcase ventilation hose for cracks or deterioration. Replace if necessary. 9. Install the flame arrestor and flame arrestor bracket. Torque the flame arrestor bracket nuts.
Description Flame arrestor bracket nut Nm 12 lb. in. 106 lb. ft.

10. Connect the crankcase ventilation hose to the fitting on the flame arrestor and valve cover. 11. Install the engine cover.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve (PCV)


CHANGING
IMPORTANT: Use only Mercury MerCruiser replacement parts to ensure compliance with emission regulations.

NOTE: On V6 models the PCV valve is nonserviceable and is an internal component of the valve cover. 1. Remove the PCV valve from the port valve cover.

a
a - PCV valve

mc71925-1

b - Hose

2. Disconnect the PCV valve from the hose and discard the valve. 3. Install a new PCV valve in the valve cover and reconnect the hose. 4. Ensure that the PCV valve is tightly seated in the valve cover.

WaterSeparating Fuel Filter (MPI)


WaterSeparating Fuel Filter
! WARNING
Fuel is flammable and explosive. Ensure the key switch is off and the lanyard is positioned so that the engine cannot start. Do not smoke or allow sources of spark or open flame in the area while servicing. Keep the work area well ventilated and avoid prolonged exposure to vapors. Always check for leaks before attempting to start the engine and wipe up any spilled fuel immediately.

! CAUTION
Failure to release pressure from the fuel system will result in fuel spraying out, which can cause a fire or explosion. Allow the engine to cool completely and release all fuel pressure before servicing any part of the fuel system. Always protect eyes and skin from pressurized fuel and vapors.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

GEN II Models
a b c
6527

a - Fuel filter mounting bracket b - Sealing ring

c - Fuel filter

REMOVAL
1. Allow the engine to cool down.

NOTE: Mercury MerCruiser recommends that the engine be shut off for 12 hours prior to filter removal. 2. Close the fuel supply valve, if equipped. 3. Wrap the waterseparating fuel filter with a cloth to help catch any fuel spills or spray. 4. Remove and discard the waterseparating fuel filter and sealing ring from the mounting bracket.
INSTALLATION
1. Coat the sealing ring on the new filter with engine oil.
Tube Ref No.
80

Description SAE Engine Oil 30W

Where Used Water-separating fuel filter sealing ring

Part No. Obtain Locally

2. Thread filter onto the mounting bracket and tighten securely by hand. Do not use a filter wrench. 3. Open fuel supply valve, if equipped. 4. Ensure that the engine compartment is properly ventilated.

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation. 5. Supply cooling water to the engine. 6. Start the engine. Check for gasoline leaks around the fuel filter assembly. If leaks exist, stop the engine immediately. Recheck the filter installation, wipe up any spilled fuel, and properly ventilate the engine compartment. If leaks continue, stop the engine immediately and contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

GEN III Models


d c e b f g h

a
8837

abcd-

Cool Fuel Module Cool Fuel Module harness Filter cap Filter assembly retaining screw

efgh-

Fuel filter element Filter cup Cool Fuel Module filter reservoir Oring

REMOVAL
1. Allow the engine to cool down.

NOTE: Mercury MerCruiser recommends that the engine be shut off for 12 hours prior to filter removal. 2. Close fuel supply valve, if equipped. 3. Disconnect the Cool Fuel Module harness from the engine wiring harness. 4. Turn the key switch to the start position and allow the starter to operate for 5 seconds. 5. Turn key switch to off position. 6. Loosen each filter assembly retaining screw until the screw is disengaged from the Cool Fuel Module. Do not remove the filter assembly retaining screws from the filter cap. 7. Unseat the filter assembly by grasping the filter assembly handle and pulling upward. Do not remove the filter assembly from the Cool Fuel Module at this time. 8. Allow any fuel that may be in the filter assembly to drain out through the bottom of the filter assembly and into the Cool Fuel Module filter reservoir. 9. Remove the filter cup from the filter cap by grasping the filter cap and rotating it in a clockwise direction while holding the filter cup stationary. 10. Remove the used waterseparating fuel filter element from the filter cup, place it in a clean, approved container. 11. Dispose of any water or debris that may be in the filter cup.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

INSTALLATION
1. Install a new waterseparating fuel filter element into the filter cup. Push the element into the cup until completely seated. 2. Install new Oring on the filter cup. 3. Attach the filter cap to the filter cup by grasping the filter cap and rotating it in a counter clockwise direction while holding the filter cup stationary, until the filter cap locks securely into place. 4. Install the fuel filter assembly slowly into the Cool Fuel Module to prevent spilling fuel, and align the screws retained in the filter cap with the screw holes in the Cool Fuel Module. Tighten the filter assembly retaining screws until hand tight. 5. Ensure that the filter cap is firmly seated against the Cool Fuel Module and torque each filter assembly retaining screw.
Description Filter assembly retaining screw Nm 6 lb. in. 53 lb. ft.

6. Open fuel supply valve, if equipped. 7. Reconnect the Cool Fuel Module harness to the engine wiring harness. 8. Properly ventilate the engine compartment.

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation. 9. Supply cooling water to the engine. 10. Start the engine. Check for gasoline leaks around the fuel filter assembly. If leaks exist, stop the engine immediately. Recheck the filter installation, clean spilled fuel and properly ventilate the engine compartment. If leaks continue, stop engine immediately and contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Lubrication
Steering System
! WARNING
Incorrect cable lubrication can cause hydraulic lock, leading to serious injury or death from loss of boat control. Completely retract the end of the steering cable before applying lubricant.

NOTE: If steering cable does not have grease fitting, inner wire of cable cannot be greased.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

1. If Steering Cable Has Grease Fittings: Turn steering wheel until steering cable is fully retracted into cable housing. Apply approximately 3 pumps of grease from a typical handoperated grease gun.

6221

a - Steering cable grease fitting


Tube Ref No.
34

Description Special Lubricant 101

Where Used Steering cable grease fitting

Part No. 92-802865Q02

2. Turn steering wheel until steering cable fully extended. Lightly lubricate the exposed part of cable.

6222

a - Extended steering cable


Tube Ref No.
34

Description Special Lubricant 101

Where Used Steering cable

Part No. 92-802865Q02

Page 76

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

3. Lubricate the steering pin.

a
mc71904-1

a - Steering pin
Tube Ref. No. Description Synthetic Blend MerCruiser Engine Oil SAE25W40 Where Used Steering pin Part No. 92883725K01

4. On dual engine boats: Lubricate the tie bar pivot points.


Tube Ref. No. Description Synthetic Blend MerCruiser Engine Oil SAE25W40 Where Used Tie bar pivot points Part No. 92883725K01

5. Upon first starting engine, turn steering wheel several times to starboard and then port to ensure that the steering system operates properly before getting underway.

Throttle Cable
1. Lubricate the pivot points and the guide contact surfaces.

a a

5577

a - Pivot points
Tube Ref. No. Description Synthetic Blend MerCruiser Engine Oil SAE25W40

b - Guide contact surfaces


Where Used Throttle cable pivot points & guide contact surfaces Part No. 92883725K01

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Shift Cable Typical


1. Lubricate the pivot points and the guide contact surfaces.

a
mc79736

a - Pivot points
Tube Ref. No. Description

b - Guide contact surfaces


Where Used Part No. 92883725K01

Synthetic Blend MerCruiser Engine Shift cable pivot points & guide Oil SAE25W40 contact surfaces

Sterndrive Unit and Transom Assembly


1. Lubricate gimbal bearing by applying approximately 810 pumps of grease from a typical handoperated grease gun.

mc77068-1

a - Gimbal bearing grease fitting


Tube Ref No.
42

Description U-joint and Gimbal Bearing Grease

Where Used Gimbal bearing

Part No. 92-802870A1

2. For propeller shaft lubrication, refer to Propellers.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

Sterndrive Ujoint Shaft Splines And Orings (Sterndrive Unit Removed)


1. Coat sterndrive Ujoint Orings and driveshaft splines with grease.

8591

a - Driveshaft splines
Tube Ref No.
91

b - Ujoint Orings (3)


Where Used Driveshaft splines and U-joint O-rings Part No. 92-802869A1

Description Engine Coupler Spline Grease

2. For propeller shaft lubrication, refer to Propellers.

Engine Coupler
1. Lubricate engine coupler splines through grease fittings on coupler by applying approximately 810 pumps of grease from a typical handoperated grease gun.

NOTE: If the boat is operated at idle for prolonged periods of time, coupler should be lubricated Bravo Models every 50 hours; Alpha Models every 150 hours.

a a
Alpha drive coupler a - Grease fitting
Tube Ref No.
91
6213 6212

Bravo drive coupler

Description Engine Coupler Spline Grease

Where Used Coupler

Part No. 92-802869A1

NOTE: Alpha Models Your power package is equipped with a sealed engine coupler and PermaLube Ujoints. The sealed coupler and shaft splines can be lubricated without removing the sterndrive unit. The PermaLube Ujoints do not require lubrication.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

NOTE: Bravo Models The coupler and shaft splines can be lubricated without removing the sterndrive unit. Apply lubricant from a typical handoperated grease gun until a small amount of grease begins to push out. The PermaLube Ujoints do not require lubrication.

Driveshaft Extension Models


1. Lubricate the transom end grease fitting and engine end grease fitting by applying approximately 10 12 pumps of grease from a typical handoperated grease gun. 2. Lubricate the driveshaft grease fittings by applying approximately 3 4 pumps of grease from a typical handoperated grease gun.

c b

a
a - Driveshaft grease fittings b - Transom end grease fitting
Tube Ref No.
42

17014

c - Engine end grease fitting

Description U-joint and Gimbal Bearing Grease

Where Used Transom end grease fitting, engine end grease fitting, driveshaft grease fittings

Part No. 92-802870A1

Propellers
Propeller Repair
Some damaged propellers can be repaired. Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Alpha Propeller Removal


! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the antiventilation plate. 1. Place wood block between propeller blade and antiventilation plate to prevent rotation. Straighten bent tabs on tab washer. 2. Turn propeller shaft nut counterclockwise to remove nut. 3. Slide tab washer, drive sleeve, propeller and thrust hub off propeller shaft.

Page 80

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

Alpha Propeller Installation

NOTICE
Operating the engine with a loose propeller can damage the propeller, the drive, or drive components. Always tighten the propeller nut or nuts to specification and check for tightness periodically and at the required maintenance interval. IMPORTANT: If reusing tab washer, carefully inspect tabs for cracks or other damage. Replace tab washer if condition is questionable.

a b c

e f

6215

g
abcdPropeller shaft Thrust hub FloTorq II drive hub Propeller e - Drive sleeve f - Locking tab washer g - Propeller nut

1. Apply a liberal coat of one of the following lubricants to the propeller shaft.
Tube Ref No.
34 94 95

Description Special Lubricant 101 Anti-Corrosion Grease 2-4-C Marine Lubricant with Teflon

Where Used Propeller shaft Propeller shaft Propeller shaft

Part No. 92-802865Q02 92-802867Q 1 92-802859A1

2. Slide thrust hub onto propeller shaft, with stepped side toward propeller hub. 3. Install FloTorq II Drive Hub into propeller.

NOTE: The drive sleeve is tapered and will slide fully into the propeller as the nut is tightened and properly torqued. 4. Align splines and place propeller on propeller shaft. 5. Install drive sleeve and locking tab washer. 6. Install and torque the propeller nut.
Description Propeller nut (minimum) Nm 75 lbin. lbft 55

7. Bend three tabs on the tab washer down into the grooves in spline washer. After the first use, bend the three tabs straight and retorque the propeller nut. Bend tabs back down into spline washer. Check propeller at least after 20 hours of operation. Do not operate with loose propeller. 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 81

Section 5 - Maintenance

Bravo One Propeller Removal


! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the antiventilation plate. 1. Place wood block between propeller blade and antiventilation plate to prevent rotation. Straighten bent tabs on tab washer. 2. Turn propeller shaft nut counterclockwise to remove nut. 3. Slide tab washer, drive sleeve, propeller and thrust hub off propeller shaft.

Bravo One Propeller Installation

NOTICE
Operating the engine with a loose propeller can damage the propeller, the drive, or drive components. Always tighten the propeller nut or nuts to specification and check for tightness periodically and at the required maintenance interval. IMPORTANT: If reusing tab washer, carefully inspect tabs for cracks or other damage. Replace tab washer if condition is questionable.

a b c

e f

6215

g
abcdPropeller shaft Thrust hub FloTorq II drive hub Propeller e - Drive sleeve f - Locking tab washer g - Propeller nut

1. Slide thrust hub onto propeller shaft, with stepped side toward propeller hub. 2. Apply a liberal coat of one of the following lubricants to the propeller shaft.
Tube Ref No.
34 94 95

Description Special Lubricant 101 Anti-Corrosion Grease 2-4-C Marine Lubricant with Teflon

Where Used Propeller shaft Propeller shaft Propeller shaft

Part No. 92-802865Q02 92-802867Q 1 92-802859A1

3. Install FloTorq II Drive Hub into propeller. Page 82 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

NOTE: The drive sleeve is tapered and will slide fully into the propeller as the nut is tightened and properly torqued. 4. Align splines and place propeller on propeller shaft. 5. Install drive sleeve and locking tab washer. 6. Install and torque the propeller nut.
Description Propeller nut (minimum) Nm 75 lbin. lbft 55

IMPORTANT: The propeller torque stated is a minimum torque value. Some special use propellers may have a different torque value. Use the installation information provided with the propeller to determine if another torque value is appropriate to your propeller. 7. Bend three tabs on the tab washer down into the grooves in spline washer. After the first use, bend the three tabs straight and retorque the propeller nut. Bend tabs back down into spline washer. Check propeller at least after 20 hours of operation. Do not operate with loose propeller.

Bravo Two Propeller Removal


! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the antiventilation plate. 1. Place wood block between propeller blade and antiventilation plate to prevent rotation. Straighten bent tabs on tab washer. 2. Turn propeller shaft nut counterclockwise to remove nut. 3. Slide tab washer, spline washer, propeller and thrust hub off propeller shaft.

Bravo Two Propeller Installation

NOTICE
Operating the engine with a loose propeller can damage the propeller, the drive, or drive components. Always tighten the propeller nut or nuts to specification and check for tightness periodically and at the required maintenance interval. IMPORTANT: If reusing tab washer, carefully inspect tabs for cracks or other damage. Replace tab washer if condition is questionable.

c e d a b f
a - Propeller shaft b - Thrust hub c - Propeller
14946

d - Propeller nut e - Spline washer f - Tab washer

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Page 83

Section 5 - Maintenance

1. Slide thrust hub into propeller hub with stepped side toward propeller hub. 2. Apply a liberal coat of one of the following lubricants to the propeller shaft.
Tube Ref No.
34 94 95

Description Special Lubricant 101 Anti-Corrosion Grease 2-4-C Marine Lubricant with Teflon

Where Used Propeller shaft Propeller shaft Propeller shaft

Part No. 92-802865Q02 92-802867Q 1 92-802859A1

3. Align splines and place propeller on propeller shaft. 4. Install spline washer and tab washer. 5. Install and torque the propeller nut.
Description Propeller nut (minimum) Nm 81 lbin. lbft 60

6. Bend 3 tabs on the tab washer down into the grooves in spline washer. After the first use, bend the 3 tabs straight and retorque the propeller nut. Bend tabs back down into spline washer. Check propeller at least after 20 hours of operation. Do not operate with loose propeller.

Bravo Three Propeller Removal


! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the antiventilation plate. 1. Place wood block between propeller blades and antiventilation plate to prevent rotation. 2. Remove the bolt and washers securing the propeller shaft anode. 3. Remove the propeller shaft anode.

c d

5303

a - Propeller b - Propeller shaft nut c - Propeller shaft anode

d - Propeller shaft anode screw e - Flat washer f - Star washer

4. Turn aft propeller shaft nut 37 mm (17/16 in.) counterclockwise to remove nut. 5. Slide propeller and thrust hub off propeller shaft. Page 84 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

6. Turn front propeller shaft nut 70 mm (23/4 in.) counterclockwise to remove nut. 7. Slide propeller and thrust hub off propeller shaft.

NOTE: Some damaged propellers can be repaired. Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

e f b a j
5304

i g h
abcde-

Rear propeller nut Rear propeller Rear propeller thrust hub Front propeller nut Front propeller

fghij-

Front propeller thrust hub Propeller shaft anode screw Flat washer Star washer Propeller shaft anode

Bravo Three Propeller Installation

NOTICE
Operating the engine with a loose propeller can damage the propeller, the drive, or drive components. Always tighten the propeller nut or nuts to specification and check for tightness periodically and at the required maintenance interval.

e f b a j
5304

i g h
abcde-

Rear propeller nut Rear propeller Rear propeller thrust hub Front propeller nut Front propeller

fghij-

Front propeller thrust hub Propeller shaft anode screw Flat washer Star washer Propeller shaft anode

1. Slide forward thrust hub onto propeller shaft with tapered side toward propeller hub (toward end of shaft). 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 85

Section 5 - Maintenance

2. Apply a liberal coat of one of the following lubricants to the propeller shaft.
Tube Ref No.
34 94 95

Description Special Lubricant 101 Anti-Corrosion Grease 2-4-C Marine Lubricant with Teflon

Where Used Propeller shaft Propeller shaft Propeller shaft

Part No. 92-802865Q02 92-802867Q 1 92-802859A1

3. Align splines and place propeller on propeller shaft. 4. Install and torque the propeller nut. Check propeller at least every 20 hours of operation and retorque as needed.
Description Forward propeller nut Nm 136 lbin. lbft 100

5. Slide aft thrust hub onto propeller shaft, with tapered side toward propeller hub (toward end of shaft). 6. Align splines and place propeller on propeller shaft. 7. Install and torque the propeller nut. Check propeller at least every 20 hours of operation and retorque as needed.
Description Aft propeller nut Nm 81 lbin. lbft 60

8. Install the propeller shaft anode over the propeller shaft nut. 9. Place the flat washer onto the propeller shaft anode screw. 10. Place the star washer onto the propeller shaft anode screw. 11. If a propeller shaft anode is reinstalled, apply Loctite Threadlocker 271 to the threads of the propeller shaft anode screw.

c d

5303

a - Propeller b - Propeller shaft nut c - Propeller shaft anode


Tube Ref No.
7

d - Propeller shaft anode screw e - Flat washer f - Star washer


Where Used Propeller shaft threads Part No. 92-809819

Description Loctite 271 Threadlocker

12. Secure the propeller shaft anode to the propeller shaft using the propeller shaft anode screw and washers. Torque the screw.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance
Description Propeller shaft anode screw 38 mm (0.312518 x 1.5 in.) long Nm 27 llbin. lbft 20

Serpentine Drive Belt


! WARNING
Inspecting the belts with the engine running may cause serious injury or death. Turn off the engine and remove the ignition key before adjusting tension or inspecting belts.

a b d b

a f c e
6116

f
6117

c
Without a seawater pump d - Alternator pulley e - Seawater pump pulley f - Power steering pump pulley

With a seawater pump a - Idler pulley b - Water circulating pump pulley c - Crankshaft pulley

Checking
1. Inspect the drive belt for proper tension and for the following: Excessive wear Cracks

NOTE: Minor, transverse cracks (across the belt width) may be acceptable. Longitudinal cracks (in the direction of belt length) that join transverse cracks are NOT acceptable. Fraying Glazed surfaces Proper tension 13 mm (1/2 in.) deflection, with moderate thumb pressure, on the belt at the location that has the longest distance between two pulleys.

mc75130-1

Replacing Belt and/or Adjusting Tension


IMPORTANT: If a belt is to be reused, it should be installed in the same direction of rotation as before. 90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 87

Section 5 - Maintenance

NOTE: Belt deflection is to be measured on the belt at the location that has the longest distance between two pulleys. 1. Loosen the 16 mm (5/8 in.) locking nut on the adjustment stud. 2. Turn the adjustment stud and loosen the belt. 3. If a new serpentine drive belt is required, remove the old belt and install a new belt onto the pulleys. 4. Put a wrench on the adjustment stud 16 mm (5/8 in.) locking nut. 5. Use a 8 mm (5/16 in.) socket and tighten adjusting the stud to adjust the belt deflection. 6. Using one of the 2 methods following, check for correct deflection. a. Push down with moderate thumb pressure on the longest stretch of belt. Proper deflection is 13 mm (1/2 in.). b. Attach the Kent Moore Belt Tension Gauge to the belt. The gauge has different ranges for new and used belts.

a
14980

a - Kent Moore Tension Gauge

b - Serpentine belt

7. While holding the adjustment stud at the correct belt tension, tighten the 16 mm (5/8 in.) locking nut.

6119

a - 16 mm (5/8 in.) locking nut

b - 8 mm (5/8 in.) adjusting stud

8. Operate the engine for a short period of time and recheck the belt adjustment.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

IDE

NEWTONE

NT PATE918 2.83

W TO

R GU COLO for

Section 5 - Maintenance

Corrosion Protection
Corrosion Information
Whenever two or more dissimilar metals are submerged in a conductive solution, such as saltwater, polluted water or water with a high mineral content, a chemical reaction takes place causing electrical current to flow between metals. The electrical current flow causes the metal that is most chemically active, or anodic, to erode. This is known as galvanic corrosion. For more information contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer and refer to the Mercury Precision Parts / Marine Corrosion Protection Guide (90881813003).

Maintaining Ground Circuit Continuity


The transom assembly and sterndrive are equipped with a ground wire circuit to ensure good electrical continuity between the engine, transom assembly, and sterndrive components. Good continuity is essential for the MerCathode System to function effectively.

Anodes and MerCathode System Locations


IMPORTANT: Replace sacrificial anodes if eroded 50 percent or more. The following sacrificial anodes are installed at different locations on your power package. These anodes help protect against galvanic corrosion by sacrificing its metal to be slowly eroded instead of the metal components on the power package. MerCathode System Electrode assembly replaces the Anode block. System should be tested to ensure adequate output. The test should be performed where boat is moored, using Quicksilver Reference Electrode and Test Meter.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance
Description Location Figure

Gearcase anode plate

Mounted on the underside of the lower gearcase.


20336

Ventilation plate anode

Mounted on the front of the gearcase.


20338

MerCathode System

The MerCathode electrode is mounted to the underside of the gimbal housing. The MerCathode controler is mounted on the engine or on the boat transom. The controler harness connects to the electrode harness.

20340

Anode kit (if equipped)

Mounted to the boat transom.


20341

Trim cylinder anodes

Mounted on each of the trim cylinders.


20342

Bearing carrier anode (Bravo One)

Located in front of the propeller, between the front side of the propeller and the gear housing.
20343

Propshaft anode (Bravo Three)

Located behind the aft propeller.


20344

Checking the Quicksilver MerCathode System


The MerCathode system should be tested to ensure adequate output. Perform the test where boat is moored, using the reference electrode and test meter. Contact your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer for service and information .

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Section 5 - Maintenance
Reference Electrode 9176675T 1

Senses and electrical current in the water when testing the MerCathode system. Use to check hull potential.
9188

Power Package Exterior Surfaces


1. Spray the entire power package at recommended intervals with Corrosion Guard. Follow the instructions on the can for proper application.
Tube Ref No.
120

Description Corrosion Guard

Where Used Painted surfaces

Part No. 92-802878 55

2. Clean the entire power package. External surfaces that have become bare should be repainted with the recommended primer and spray paint at recommended intervals.
Description Mercury Light Gray Primer Mercury Phantom Black Painted surfaces Part Number 92802878 52 92802878Q 1

Boat Bottom Care


To achieve maximum performance and fuel economy, the boat bottom must be kept clean. Accumulation of marine growth or other foreign matter can greatly reduce boat speed and increase fuel consumption. To ensure best performance and efficiency, periodically clean the boat bottom in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations. In some areas, it may be advisable to paint the bottom to help prevent marine growth. Refer to the following information for special notes about the use of antifouling paints.

Antifouling Paint
IMPORTANT: Corrosion damage that results from the improper application of antifouling paint will not be covered by the limited warranty. You may apply antifouling paint to the boat hull and boat transom but you must observe the following precautions: IMPORTANT: Do not paint or pressurewash the anodes or the MerCathode System reference electrode and anode. Doing so will render them ineffective as inhibitors of galvanic corrosion.

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Section 5 - Maintenance

IMPORTANT: If antifouling protection is required for the boat hull or boat transom, you can use copperbased paint if it is not prohibited by law. If you are using copper based antifouling paint, observe the following precaution: Avoid an electrical interconnection between the Mercury MerCruiser Product, Anodic Blocks, or MerCathode System and the paint by allowing a minimum of 40 mm (11/2 in.) UNPAINTED area on transom of the boat around these items.

b
8107

a - Painted boat transom

b - Minimum 40 mm (11/2 in.) unpainted area around transom assembly

NOTE: Sterndrive and transom assembly can be painted with a good marine paint or an antifouling paint that DOES NOT contain copper or any other material that could conduct electrical current. Do not paint drain holes, anodes, the MerCathode system or items specified by the boat manufacturer.

NOTICE
Washing the MerCathode assembly can damage components and lead to rapid corrosion. Do not use any cleaning equipment such as brushes or highpressure washers to clean the MerCathode assembly.

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Section 5 - Maintenance

Do not powerwash a sterndrive that has a MerCathode assembly. Doing so can damage the coating on the reference wire of the MerCathode assembly and increase corrosion.

b
21563

a - Reference electrode

b - Anode plate

Sterndrive Surface Care


c d a e f

g b

21083

abcd-

Standard Bravo sterndrive Sacrificial trim cylinder anode e - Stainless steel hoses Sacrificial anodic plate f - Ground wire between the gimbal housing and trim cylinder Steering lever ground wire g - Ground wire between the gimbal Ground wire between the gimbal ring and gimbal housing ring and bell housing

We recommend the following maintenance items to help keep your sterndrive corrosionfree: Maintain a complete paint covering on the sterndrive. Check the finish regularly. Prime and paint nicks and scratches using Mercury enamel paint and touch up paint. Use only tinbased antifouling paint or its equivalent on or near aluminum surfaces below the waterline. If bare metal is showing, apply 2 coats paint.

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Section 5 - Maintenance
Description Mercury Phantom Black Where used Bare metal Part number 92 8028781

Spray all electrical connections with sealant.


Tube Ref No.
25

Description Liquid Neoprene

Where Used All electrical connections

Part No. 92- 25711 3

Inspect the sacrificial trim tab or anode plate if equipped, at regular intervals and replace it before it is half gone. If a stainless steel propeller is installed, additional anodes or a MerCathode System will be required. Inspect the propeller shaft for fishing line, which can cause corrosion on a stainless steel shaft. Remove the propeller at least every 60 days and lubricate the propeller shaft. Do not use lubricants containing graphite on or near the aluminum in saltwater. Do not paint trim tabs or the mounting surface.

Flushing the Power Package


General Information
Your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer can explain how to properly flush your power package. The boat can be equipped with a combination of any of three different types of water pickups: through the hull, through the transom, and through the sterndrive. The flushing procedures for these systems are separated into two categories: sterndrive water pickups and alternative water pickups. IMPORTANT: Engines that require dual water pickups require a throughthehull or throughthetransom pickup in addition to the sterndrive water inlets. IMPORTANT: Engines with the sterndrive water inlet blocked off at the gimbal housing and using a throughthehull or throughthetransom pickup need a supply of cooling water available to both the sterndrive and to the engine during operation.

FLUSHING ATTACHMENTS

c
21514
21515

Flushing attachments for dual water pickup a - Flushing device b - Hose attachment

Flushing attachments for side water pickup c - Dual water pickup flush gearcase seal kit

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance
Flushing Device 9144357Q 2

Attaches to the water intakes; provides a fresh water connection when flushing the cooling system or operating the engine.

9192

Dual Water Pickup Flush Gearcase Seal Kit

91881150K 1

Blocks off the front water inlet holes on the dual water inlet gearcases.
9194

STERNDRIVE WATER PICKUPS There are two types of water pickups available on Mercury MerCruiser sterndrives: dual water, and side water pickups. Dual water pickups require the flushing attachment (44357Q 2) and the flush seal kit (881150K 1), and side water pickups require the flushing attachment (44357Q 2).

5752

5773

Dual water pickup

Side water pickup

NOTE: Flushing is needed only for salty, brackish, mineral laden or polluted water applications. Flushing is recommended after each outing for best results.

NOTICE
Flushing the engine with the boat in the water can cause seawater to flow into the engine, resulting in engine damage. Close the seacock before flushing the engine. Keep the seacock closed until starting the engine. 1. On seawater cooled models: Proceed to Step 4. or Step 5. 2. On models with the sterndrive seawater inlet blocked, supply water to the sterndrive and to the engine. See Alternative Water Pickups.

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Section 5 - Maintenance

3. On models using the sterndrive seawater inlet and a throughhull or throughtransom alternative water pickup, supply water to only the sterndrive by taking the following steps to block, or disconnect and block, the hose from the alternative seawater pickup pump inlet Yfitting. a. If equipped with a seacock, close the seacock in the hose from the alternative water pickup. b. If not equipped with a seacock, disconnect the hose from the alternative water pickup and plug both ends. c. If there is not a hose running to the transom, refer to Alternative Water Pickups. 4. If flushing the cooling system with the boat in the water: a. Raise sterndrive to trailer position. b. Install the appropriate flushing attachment over the water inlet holes in the gear housing. c. Lower sterndrive to full down (in) position. 5. If flushing the cooling system with the boat out of the water: a. Lower sterndrive to full down (in) position.

! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the antiventilation plate. Remove propeller. Install the appropriate flushing attachment over the water inlet holes in the gear housing. 6. Connect hose between flushing attachment and water source. 7. With sterndrive in normal operating position, open the water source fully. 8. Place the remote control in the neutral idle speed position and start engine. b. c.

NOTICE
Operating the engine out of the water at high speeds creates suction, which can collapse the water supply hose and overheat the engine. Do not operate the engine above 1400 RPM out of the water and without sufficient cooling water supply. 9. Depress the throttleonly button and slowly advance the throttle until the engine reaches 1300 RPM ( 100 RPM). 10. Observe the water temperature gauge to ensure that the engine is operating in the normal range. 11. Operate engine with sterndrive in neutral for about 10 minutes or until discharge water is clear. 12. Slowly return throttle to idle speed position. 13. Stop engine. 14. Shut off water and remove flushing attachment. 15. Remove the seawater inlet hose from the seawater pump and plug the hose to prevent water from siphoning into the engine.

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Section 5 - Maintenance

16. Tag the ignition switch with an appropriate tag requiring the seawater inlet hose to be reconnected prior to operating engine.

ALTERNATIVE WATER PICKUPS IMPORTANT: Two water sources are needed for this procedure. NOTE: Flushing is needed only for salty, brackish, mineral laden or polluted water applications. Flushing is recommended after each outing for best results. IMPORTANT: Models with the sterndrive water inlet blocked off at the gimbal housing and using a throughhull water inlet need a supply of cooling water available to both the sterndrive and to the engine during operation. 1. If flushing the cooling system with the boat in the water: a. Raise sterndrive to trailer position. b. Install the appropriate flushing attachment over the water inlet holes in the gear housing. c. Lower sterndrive unit to full down (in) position. 2. If flushing the cooling system with the boat out of the water: a. Lower sterndrive to full down (in) position.

! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the antiventilation plate. Remove propeller. Install the appropriate flushing attachment over the water inlet holes in the gear housing. 3. Connect hose between flushing attachment and water source. 4. Close the seacock, if equipped, to prevent water from siphoning into the engine or boat. 5. Remove the seawater inlet hose from the seawater pump and plug the hose to prevent water from siphoning into the engine or boat. b. c.

6147

6. Using a suitable adapter, connect the flushing hose from the water source to the water inlet of the seawater pump.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 5 - Maintenance

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation. 7. With sterndrive in normal operating position, open the water source fully. 8. Place the remote control in neutral idle speed position and start engine.

NOTICE
Operating the engine out of the water at high speeds creates suction, which can collapse the water supply hose and overheat the engine. Do not operate the engine above 1400 RPM out of the water and without sufficient cooling water supply. 9. Slowly advance throttle until engine reaches 1300 RPM (+/100 RPM). 10. Observe the water temperature gauge to ensure that the engine is operating in the normal range. 11. Operate engine with sterndrive in neutral for about 10 minutes or until discharge water is clear. 12. Slowly return throttle to idle speed position. 13. Stop engine. 14. Shut off the water and remove flushing attachments. 15. If the boat is out of the water: Install the water inlet hose to the aft side of the seawater pump. Tighten the hose clamp securely. 16. If the boat is in the water: Tag the ignition switch with an appropriate tag requiring the seawater inlet hose to be reconnected prior to operating engine.

SeaCore Power Package Flushing Procedure


NOTE: Flushing is needed only for salt, brackish, mineral laden or polluted water applications. Flushing is recommended after each outing for best results. IMPORTANT: Flushing the SeaCore power package with the boat and sterndrive in the water is less effective. Flushing the SeaCore power package is most effective when performed with the boat and sterndrive out of the water, such as on a boat lift or trailer. MODELS USING THE STERNDRIVE WATER PICKUP IMPORTANT: The system is designed to flush the Bravo sterndrive and the engine with one water source. Do not block or remove the inlet water hose from the sterndrive to the engine. NOTE: Engines with the sterndrive water inlet blocked off at the gimbal housing: Refer to Alternative Water Pickups.

! WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the antiventilation plate. IMPORTANT: Do not allow the engine to pull air or seawater from alternative water pickup sources during the flushing procedure. If equipped, ensure that all alternative water inlet hoses are plugged at both ends. 1. Remove the boat from the water.

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 5 - Maintenance

2. Close the seacock, if equipped.

c a b

For visual clarity, the secock shown is not installed a - Hose fitting to engine c - Handle (closed position) b - Seacock d - To water source pickup attachment 3. If equipped with an alternative water pickup and not equipped with a seacock, disconnect the water hose from the alternative water pickup and plug both ends, excluding the Bravo sterndrive. 4. Ensure that the inlet water hose from the sterndrive to the engine is connected. 5. Remove the quickconnect fitting from the parts bag supplied with the engine. 6. Attach the quickconnect fitting to a water hose.

18510

18487

a - Quick connect fitting (water hose end)

b - Water hose

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Section 5 - Maintenance

7. Snap the quickconnect fitting with the water hose into the flush socket on the engine.

a b

18489

a - Water hose b - Quickconnect fitting (water hose end)

c - Flush socket

8. Open the water source of the water hose to a full flow. 9. Allow the water to flush the sterndrive for 30 seconds. 10. Place the remote control in neutral idle speed position and start engine.

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation. 11. Operate the engine at idle speed in neutral gear. Do not exceed 1200 RPM. 12. Monitor the engine temperature while operating the engine. 13. Flush the engine for 5 to 10 minutes or until discharge water is clear. 14. Shut off the engine. 15. Allow the water to flush the sterndrive for 10 seconds. 16. Turn off the water source.

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Section 5 - Maintenance

17. Disconnect the quickconnect fitting and water hose from the flush socket on the engine by pressing the release button on the flush socket.

a b

18488

a - Quickconnect fitting (water hose end)

b - Flush socket release button

18. Remove the quickconnect fitting from the water hose.

18487

a - Quickconnect fitting (water hose end)

b - Water hose

19. Retain the quickconnect fitting with the water hose end for repeated use by storing it separately in a storage compartment on the boat for easy access. IMPORTANT: Do not store the quickconnect fitting in the flush socket on the engine. Doing so would allow the seawater pump to suck air during engine operation causing an overheating problem. Damages due to engine overheating are not covered by Mercury MerCruiser Warranty.

25900

Quickconnect fitting stored in the boat a - Quickconnect fitting (water hose end)

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Section 5 - Maintenance

20. Insert the dust cover in the flush socket on the engine.

a b

18490

Dust cover installed in the flush socket a - Dust cover b - Flush socket IMPORTANT: If the unit is to be stored in the water, the seacock should remain closed until time of usage. If unit is to be stored out of the water, open the seacock. 21. Open the seacock, if equipped, or reconnect the alternative water inlet source prior to operating the engine.

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Section 6 - Storage

Section 6 - Storage
Table of Contents
Cold Weather or Extended Storage.................. 104 Preparing Power Package for Storage........104 Engine and Fuel System Preparation . . 105 Draining the Seawater System......................... 106 Drain System Identification.........................107 Air Actuated Single Point Drain System ............................................................. 107 Manual Single Point Drain System ....... 107 Three Point Manual Drain System ....... 108 Multi-Point Drain (MPD) System .......... 108 Air-Actuated Single-Point Drain System.....109 Boat in the Water ................................. 109 Boat out of the Water ........................... 111 Manual Single Point Drain System..............114 Boat in the Water ................................. 114 Boat out of the Water ........................... 115 Three Point Manual Drain System..............116 Boat in the Water ................................. 116 Boat out of the Water ........................... 117 Multi-Point Drain (MPD) System.................118 Boat out of the Water ........................... 118 Boat in the Water ................................. 120 Battery Storage................................................. 122 Power Package Recommissioning................... 122

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Section 6 - Storage

Cold Weather or Extended Storage


IMPORTANT: Mercury MerCruiser strongly recommends that this service should be performed by an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. Damage caused by freezing temperatures IS NOT covered by the Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.

NOTICE
Water trapped in the seawater section of the cooling system can cause corrosion or freeze damage. Drain the seawater section of the cooling system immediately after operation or before any length of storage in cold weather. If the boat is in the water, keep the seacock closed until restarting the engine to prevent water from flowing back into the cooling system. If the boat is not fitted with a seacock, leave the water inlet hose disconnected and plugged.

NOTE: As a precautionary measure, attach a tag to the key switch or steering wheel of the boat reminding the operator to open the seacock or unplug and reconnect the water inlet hose before starting the engine. IMPORTANT: Mercury MerCruiser requires that propylene glycol antifreeze, mixed to the manufacturers instructions, be used in the seawater section of the cooling system for freezing temperatures or extended storage. Make sure that the propylene glycol antifreeze contains a rust inhibitor and is recommended for use in marine engines. Be certain to follow the propylene glycol manufacturer's recommendations.

Preparing Power Package for Storage


1. Fill the fuel tanks with fresh gasoline (that does not contain alcohol) and a sufficient amount of Quicksilver Gasoline Stabilizer for Marine Engines to treat the gasoline. Follow instructions on the container. 2. If the boat is to be placed in storage with fuel containing alcohol in fuel tanks (if fuel without alcohol is not available): Fuel tanks should be drained as low as possible and Mercury/Quicksilver Gasoline Stabilizer for Marine Engines added to any fuel remaining in the tank. Refer to Fuel Requirements for additional information. 3. Flush the cooling system. Refer to the Maintenance section. IMPORTANT: In order to run the engine as required in the remainder of the storage preparation procedure, water must be supplied to the engine as described in the flushing procedure. 4. Provide cooling water to the engine as done in the previous step. 5. Operate the engine sufficiently to bring it up to normal operating temperature and allow fuel with Mercury/Quicksilver Gasoline Stabilizer to circulate through the fuel system. Shut off the engine. 6. Change the oil and oil filter. 7. Prepare the engine and fuel system for storage. Refer to Engine and Fuel System Preparation. 8. Drain the engine seawater cooling system. Refer to Draining the Seawater System.

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NOTICE
Water trapped in the seawater section of the cooling system can cause corrosion or freeze damage. Drain the seawater section of the cooling system immediately after operation or before any length of storage in cold weather. If the boat is in the water, keep the seacock closed until restarting the engine to prevent water from flowing back into the cooling system. If the boat is not fitted with a seacock, leave the water inlet hose disconnected and plugged. 9. Ensure that the sterndrive vent holes and water drain holes and passages are unobstructed and open (refer to Draining Instructions). 10. For additional assurance against freezing and rust, after draining, fill the cooling system with propylene glycol mixed to the manufacturer's recommendation to protect engine to the lowest temperature to which it will be exposed during freezing temperatures or extended storage.

NOTICE
The universal joint bellows may develop a set when stored in a raised or up position, causing the bellows to fail when returned to service and allowing water to enter the boat. Store the sterndrive in the full down position. 11. Store boat with drive unit in full down/in position. 12. Store the battery according to the manufacturer's instructions.

ENGINE AND FUEL SYSTEM PREPARATION

! WARNING
Fuel is flammable and explosive. Ensure the key switch is off and the lanyard is positioned so that the engine cannot start. Do not smoke or allow sources of spark or open flame in the area while servicing. Keep the work area well ventilated and avoid prolonged exposure to vapors. Always check for leaks before attempting to start the engine and wipe up any spilled fuel immediately.

! WARNING
Fuel vapors trapped in the engine compartment may be an irritant, cause difficulty breathing, or may ignite resulting in a fire or explosion. Always ventilate the engine compartment before servicing the power package. 1. In a 23 L (6 U.S. gal.) remote fuel tank mix: a. 19 L (5 U.S. gal) regular unleaded 87 octane (90 RON) gasoline b. 1.89 L (2 U.S. qts.) Premium Plus 2Cycle TCW3 Outboard Oil c. 150 mL (5 ounces) Fuel System Treatment and Stabilizer or 30 mL (1 ounce) Fuel System Treatment and Stabilizer Concentrate
Tube Ref No.
115 124

Description Premium Plus 2-cycle TC-W3 Outboard Oil Fuel System Treatment & Stabilizer

Where Used Fuel system Fuel system

Part No. 92-858026K01 858071K01

2. Allow the engine to cool down. IMPORTANT: Immediately wipe up any fuel spills or sprays.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 6 - Storage

3. Close the fuel shut off valve, if equipped. Disconnect and plug the fuel inlet fitting if not equipped with a fuel shut off valve. 4. Connect the remote fuel tank (with the fogging mixture) to the fuel inlet fitting. IMPORTANT: Supply cooling water to the engine. 5. Start and operate the engine at 1300 rpm for 5 minutes. 6. After specified operating time is complete, slowly return throttle to idle rpm and shut engine off. IMPORTANT: Ensure that some fogging mixture remains in the engine. Do not allow the engines fuel system to become completely dry. 7. Replace the water separating fuel filter element. Refer to Section 5 for proper procedure.

Draining the Seawater System


! CAUTION
Water can enter the bilge when the drain system is open, damaging the engine or causing the boat to sink. Remove the boat from the water or close the seacock, disconnect and plug the seawater inlet hose, and ensure the bilge pump is operational before draining. Do not operate the engine with the drain system open.

! CAUTION
Water can enter the bilge when the drain system is open, damaging the engine or causing the boat to sink. Remove the boat from the water or close the seacock, disconnect and plug the seawater inlet hose, and ensure the bilge pump is operational before draining. Do not operate the engine with the drain system open. IMPORTANT: Only drain the seawater section of the closedcooling system. IMPORTANT: The boat must be as level as possible to ensure complete draining of the cooling system. Your power package is equipped with a drain system. Refer to Drain System Identification to determine which instructions apply to your power package. IMPORTANT: The engine must not be operating at any point during the draining procedure. IMPORTANT: Mercury MerCruiser requires that propylene glycol antifreeze, mixed to the manufacturer's instructions, be used in the seawater section of the cooling system for freezing temperatures or extended storage. Make sure that the propylene glycol antifreeze contains a rust inhibitor and is recommended for use in marine engines. Be certain to follow the propylene glycol manufacturer's recommendations.

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Section 6 - Storage

Drain System Identification


AIR ACTUATED SINGLE POINT DRAIN SYSTEM

c a b c a b d d
6124 6125

Closed Cooled Models a - Blue drain plug location b - Blue air pump

Seawater Cooled Models c - Air manifold d - Green indicators

a b c

d d
Scorpion Models a - Blue air pump b - Air manifold c - Green indicators d - Blue drain plug locations
21125

MANUAL SINGLE POINT DRAIN SYSTEM

a b
6128

a - Blue handle

b - Blue drain plug location

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Section 6 - Storage

THREE POINT MANUAL DRAIN SYSTEM

a
a - Blue drain plug

a
6126

MULTI-POINT DRAIN (MPD) SYSTEM

b a
93235672

b a

10226

M110050

6129

a - Side of cylinder block

b - Bottom of exhaust manifolds

b a
6130

a - Water circulating pump hose

b - Fuel cooler to thermostat housing

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 6 - Storage

6131

a - Check valve (if equipped)

AirActuated SinglePoint Drain System


BOAT IN THE WATER NOTE: This procedure is written for the air pump that is attached to the engine. However, any air source can be used. 1. Close the seacock (if equipped) or remove and plug the water inlet hose. 2. Remove the air pump from the engine. 3. Ensure that the lever on top of the pump is flush with the handle (horizontal). 4. Install the air pump on the actuator fitting. 5. Pull lever on air pump (vertical) to lock pump on the fitting.

b
a - Actuator fitting b - Green indicators c - Manual release valve

8293

d - Air pump e - Lever (locking)

6. Pump air into the system until both green indicators extend and water drains from both sides of the engine. The port side will begin draining before the starboard side.

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Section 6 - Storage

7. Immediately remove the blue drain plug from the side of the thermostat housing or the heat exchanger. This must be removed within 30 seconds to properly vent the cooling system.

c a b c a b d d
6124 6125

Closed Cooled Models a - Blue drain plug location b - Blue air pump

Seawater Cooled Models c - Air manifold d - Green indicators

a b c

d d
Scorpion Models a - Blue air pump b - Air manifold c - Green indicators d - Blue drain plug locations
21125

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Section 6 - Storage

8. Verify that water is draining from each opening. If not, use the Three Point Manual Drain System instructions.

a
a - Port side drain location

6133

b - Starboard side drain location

9. Allow the system to drain for a minimum of five minutes. Pump air as necessary to keep the green indicators extended. 10. Crank the engine over slightly with the starter motor to purge any water trapped in the seawater pump. Do not allow engine to start. 11. Reinstall the blue drain plug in the thermostat housing or heat exchanger. 12. Remove the air pump from the air manifold and return it to the mounting bracket. 13. Mercury MerCruiser recommends leaving the drain system open while transporting the boat or while performing other maintenance. This helps ensure that all water is drained. 14. Before launching the boat, pull up on the manual release valve. Verify that the green indicators are no longer extended.

a
6135

a - Green indicators 15. Open the seacock, if equipped, or unplug and reconnect the water inlet hose prior to operating the engine.

BOAT OUT OF THE WATER NOTE: This procedure is written for the air pump that is attached to the engine. However, any air source can be used. 1. Place the boat on a lever surface to ensure complete draining of system. 2. Remove the air pump from the engine.
90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007 Page 111

Section 6 - Storage

3. Ensure that the lever on top of the pump is flush with the handle (horizontal). 4. Install the air pump on the actuator fitting. 5. Pull lever on air pump (vertical) to lock pump on the fitting.

b
a - Actuator fitting b - Green indicators c - Manual release valve

8293

d - Air pump e - Lever (locking)

6. Pump air into the system until both green indicators extend and water drains from both sides of the engine. The port side will begin draining before the starboard side.

c a b c a b d d
6124 6125

Closed Cooled Models a - Blue drain plug location b - Blue air pump

Seawater Cooled Models c - Air manifold d - Green indicators

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 6 - Storage

a b c

d d
Scorpion Models a - Blue air pump b - Air manifold c - Green indicators d - Blue drain plug locations
21125

7. Verify that water is draining from each opening. If not, use the Three Point Manual Drain System instructions.

a
a - Port side drain location

6133

b - Starboard side drain location

8. Allow the system to drain for a minimum of five minutes. Pump air as necessary to keep the green indicators extended. 9. Crank the engine over slightly with starter motor to purge any water trapped in the seawater pump. Do not allow engine to start. 10. Remove the air pump from the air manifold and return it to the mounting bracket. 11. Mercury MerCruiser recommends leaving the drain system open while transporting the boat or while performing other maintenance. This helps ensure that all water is drained.

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 6 - Storage

12. Before launching the boat, pull up on the manual release valve. Verify that the green indicators are no longer extended.

a
6135

a - Green indicators

Manual Single Point Drain System


BOAT IN THE WATER 1. Close the seacock (if equipped) or remove and plug the water inlet hose. 2. Rotate the blue handle counterclockwise until it stops (approximately two turns). The red on the handle shaft indicates that the drain system is open. Do not force the handle as this will create new threads. 3. Immediately remove the blue drain plug from the side of the thermostat housing. This must be removed within 30 seconds to properly vent the cooling system.

b a

6136

a - Blue handle

b - Blue drain plug location

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Section 6 - Storage

4. Visually verify that water is draining. If water does not drain, remove the blue drain plug from the distribution housing and drain manually.

b a
a - Drain location orange or red
6137

b - Blue drain plug

5. Allow the system to drain for a minimum of five minutes. Mercury MerCruiser recommends leaving the drain system open while transporting the boat or while performing other maintenance. 6. Reinstall the blue drain plug in the thermostat housing. 7. Close the drain system by rotating the blue handle clockwise until it stops and install the blue drain plug, if removed. The handle is fully seated when no red is visible. Do not overtighten the handle as this will create new threads. 8. Open the seacock (if equipped) or unplug and reconnect the water inlet hose prior to operating the engine.

BOAT OUT OF THE WATER 1. Place the boat on a level surface to ensure complete draining of system. 2. Rotate the blue handle counterclockwise until it stops (approximately two turns). The red on the handle shaft indicates that the drain system is open. Do not overtighten the handle as this will create new threads.

6141

a - Blue handle

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 6 - Storage

3. Visually verify that water is draining. If water does not drain, remove the blue drain plug from the distribution housing and drain manually.

b a
a - Drain location orange or red
6137

b - Blue drain plug

4. Allow the system to drain for a minimum of five minutes. Mercury MerCruiser recommends leaving the plugs out while transporting the boat or while performing other maintenance to ensure that all water is drained. 5. Close the drain system by rotating the blue handle clockwise until it stops or installing the blue drain plug. The handle is fully seated when no red is visible. Do not overtighten handle as this will create new threads.

Three Point Manual Drain System


BOAT IN THE WATER NOTE: Use this procedure if your engine is not equipped with an air actuated single point drain system or if the air actuated single point drain system fails. 1. Close the seacock (if equipped) or remove and plug the water inlet hose. 2. Remove the blue drain plug from the distribution housing (lower front, port side).

6138

a - Blue drain plug

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Section 6 - Storage

3. To properly vent the cooling system, remove the blue drain plug from the side of the thermostat housing within 30 seconds.

6139

a - Blue drain plug location 4. Remove the two blue drain plugs from the seawater pickup pump (front, starboard side).

a
a - Blue drain plugs

6140

5. Verify that water is draining from each opening. 6. Allow the system to drain for a minimum of five minutes. Mercury MerCruiser recommends leaving the drain system open while transporting the boat or while performing other maintenance to ensure that all water is drained. 7. Crank the engine over slightly with starter motor to purge any water trapped in the seawater pickup pump. Do not allow the engine to start. 8. Prior to launching the boat or starting the engine, close the drain system by installing the four blue drain plugs. 9. Open the seacock, if equipped, or unplug and reconnect the water inlet hose prior to operating the engine.

BOAT OUT OF THE WATER NOTE: Use this procedure if your engine is not equipped with an air actuated single point drain system or if the single point drain system fails. 1. Place the boat on a level surface to ensure complete draining of the system.

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Section 6 - Storage

2. Remove three blue drain plugs: one from the distribution housing (lower front, port side) and two from the seawater pickup pump (front, starboard side).

a
6142

a - Blue drain plug 3. Verify that water is draining from each opening. 4. Allow the system to drain for a minimum of five minutes. Mercury MerCruiser recommends leaving the drain system open while transporting the boat or while performing other maintenance to ensure that all water is drained. 5. Crank the engine over slightly with starter motor to purge any water trapped in the seawater pickup pump. Do not allow the engine to start. 6. Prior to launching the boat or starting the engine, close the drain system by installing the three blue drain plugs.

MultiPoint Drain (MPD) System


BOAT OUT OF THE WATER 1. Place the boat on a level surface to ensure complete draining of the system. 2. Remove the blue drain plugs from the following locations. If necessary, clean out the drain holes using a stiff piece of wire. Do so until the entire system is drained. a. Port and starboard side of cylinder block b. Bottom of exhaust manifolds

b a
93235672

b a

10226

M110050

6129

a - Cylinder block drain plug

b - Exhaust manifold drain plug

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 6 - Storage

c.

Watercirculating pump hose

a
6143

a - Drain plug d. Fuelcoolertothermostathousing hose

6144

a - Drain plug e. Check valve

6131

a - Drain plug (if equipped)

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 6 - Storage

3. On models with a seawater pickup pump, remove the two blue drain plugs. If the seawater pickup pump does not have blue drain plugs, or you are unable to access them, loosen the clamps and remove both hoses.

a
6145

b
a - Hose clamps b - Blue drain plugs 4. Crank the engine over slightly with the starter motor to purge any water trapped in the seawater pickup pump. Do not allow the engine to start. 5. After the cooling system has been drained completely, install the drain plugs, reconnect the hoses, and tighten all hose clamps securely.

BOAT IN THE WATER 1. Close the seacock (if equipped) or remove and plug the water inlet hose. 2. Remove the blue drain plugs from the following locations. If necessary, clean out the drain holes using a stiff piece of wire. Do so until the entire system is drained. a. Port and starboard side of cylinder block b. Bottom of exhaust manifolds

b a
93235672

b a

10226

M110050

6129

a - Cylinder block drain plug

b - Exhaust manifold drain plug

Page 120

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 6 - Storage

c.

Watercirculating pump hose

a
6143

a - Drain plug d. Fuelcoolertothermostathousing hose

6144

a - Drain plug e. Check valve

6131

a - Drain plug (if equipped)

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 6 - Storage

3. On models with a seawater pickup pump, remove the two blue drain plugs. If the seawater pickup pump does not have blue drain plugs, or you are unable to access them, loosen the clamps and remove both hoses.

a
6145

b
a - Hose clamps b - Blue drain plugs 4. Crank the engine over slightly with the starter motor to purge any water trapped in the seawater pickup pump. Do not allow the engine to start. 5. Before launching the boat or starting the engine, close the drain system by installing the blue drain plugs. 6. Open the seacock, if equipped, or unplug and reconnect the water inlet hose before operating the engine.

Battery Storage
Whenever the battery will be stored for an extended period of time, be sure the cells are full of water and the battery is fully charged and in good operating condition. It should be clean and free of leaks. Follow the battery manufacturer's instructions for storage.

Power Package Recommissioning


1. Ensure that all cooling system hoses are connected properly and hose clamps are tight.

! CAUTION
Disconnecting or connecting the battery cables in the incorrect order can cause injury from electrical shock or can damage the electrical system. Always disconnect the negative () battery cable first and connect it last. 2. Install a fully charged battery. Clean the battery cable clamps and terminals and reconnect cables. Tighten each cable clamp securely when connecting. 3. Coat the terminal connections with a battery terminal anticorrosion agent. 4. Perform all the checks in the before starting column of the Operation Chart.

NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation. 5. Start the engine and closely observe instrumentation to ensure that all systems are functioning correctly. 6. Carefully inspect the engine for fuel, oil, fluid, water and exhaust leaks. 7. Inspect the steering system, shift and throttle control for proper operation.

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Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Section 7 - Troubleshooting
Table of Contents
Diagnosing EFI Problems................................. 124 Diagnosing DTS Problems............................... 124 Engine Guardian System.................................. 124 Starter Motor Will Not Crank Engine, Or Cranks Slow.................................................................. 124 Engine Will Not Start or Is Hard to Start........... 125 Engine Runs Rough, Misses, or Backfires....... 125 Poor Performance............................................. 125 Excessive Engine Temperature........................ 125 Insufficient Engine Temperature....................... 126 Low Engine Oil Pressure.................................. 126 Battery Will Not Recharge................................ 126 Remote Control Is Difficult to Move, Has Excessive Play, or Makes Unusual Sounds....................... 127 Steering Wheel Jerks or Is Difficult to Turn...... 127 Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Does Not Operate)............................................................ 127 Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Operates but Sterndrive Unit Does Not Move)....................... 127

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Page 123

Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Diagnosing EFI Problems


Your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer has the proper service tools for diagnosing problems on Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Systems. The Electronic Control Module (ECM) on these engines has the ability to detect some problems with the system when they occur, and store a Trouble Code in the ECM's memory. This code can then be read later by a service technician using a special diagnostic tool.

Diagnosing DTS Problems


Your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer has the proper service tools for diagnosing problems on Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Systems. The Electronic Control Module (ECM)/Propulsion Control Module (PCM) on these engines has the ability to detect some problems with the system when they occur, and store a Trouble Code in the ECM/PCM's memory. This code can then be read later by a service technician using a special diagnostic tool.

Engine Guardian System


The Engine Guardian System monitors the critical sensors on the engine for any early indications of problems. The system will respond to a problem by emitting a continuous beep and/or reducing engine power in order to provide engine protection. If Guardian System has been activated, reduce throttle speed. The horn will turn off when throttle speed is within the allowable limit. Consult an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer for assistance.

Starter Motor Will Not Crank Engine, Or Cranks Slow


Possible Cause Battery switch turned off. Remote control not in neutral position. Open circuit breaker or blown fuse. Loose or dirty electrical connections or damaged wiring. Bad battery or low battery voltage. Lanyard stop switch activated. Turn the switch on. Position the control lever in neutral. Check and reset the circuit breaker or replace fuse. Check all electrical connections and wires (especially battery cables). Clean and tighten all faulty connections. Test the battery and charge if necessary; replace if bad. Check the lanyard stop switch. Remedy

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Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Engine Will Not Start or Is Hard to Start


Possible Cause Lanyard stop switch activated. Improper starting procedure. Insufficient fuel supply. Faulty ignition system component. Clogged fuel filter. Stale or contaminated fuel. Fuel line or tank vent line kinked or clogged. Faulty wire connections. EFI system fault. Remedy Check the lanyard stop switch. Read the starting procedure. Fill fuel tank or open valve. Service the ignition system. Replace fuel filter. Drain fuel tank. Fill with fresh fuel. Replace kinked lines or blow out lines with compressed air to remove obstruction. Check wire connections. Have EFI System checked by an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer.

Engine Runs Rough, Misses, or Backfires


Possible Cause Clogged fuel filter. Stale or contaminated fuel. Kinked or clogged fuel line or fuel tank vent line. Flame Arrestor dirty. Faulty ignition system component. Idle speed too low. EFI System fault. Replace filter. If contaminated, drain tank. Fill with fresh fuel. Replace kinked lines or blow out lines with compressed air to remove obstruction. Clean Flame Arrestor. Service ignition system. Have EFI system checked by an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. Have EFI System checked by an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. Remedy

Poor Performance
Possible Cause Throttle not fully open. Damaged or improper propeller. Excessive bilge water. Boat overloaded or load improperly distributed. Flame arrestor dirty. Boat bottom fouled or damaged. Ignition problem. Engine overheating. EFI System fault Replace the propeller. Drain and check for cause of entry. Reduce load or redistribute load more evenly. Clean the flame arrestor. Clean or repair as necessary. See Engine Runs Rough, Misses or Backfires. See Excessive Engine Temperature. Have EFI System checked by an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. Remedy Inspect the throttle cable and linkages for proper operation.

Excessive Engine Temperature


Possible Cause Water inlet or seacock closed. Open. Remedy

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Section 7 - Troubleshooting
Possible Cause Drive belt loose or in poor condition. Seawater pickups or sea strainer obstructed. Faulty thermostat. Coolant level (if equipped) low in closed cooling section. Replace or adjust belt. Remove obstruction. Replace. Check for cause of low coolant level and repair. Fill system with proper coolant solution. Remedy

Heat Exchanger or Fluid Cooler plugged with foreign Clean Heat Exchanger, Engine Oil Cooler, and material Transmission Oil Cooler (if equipped). Loss of pressure in closed cooling section. Faulty seawater pickup pump. Seawater discharge restricted or plugged. Check for leaks. Clean, inspect and test pressure cap. Repair. Clean exhaust elbows.

Insufficient Engine Temperature


Possible Cause Faulty thermostat. Replace. Remedy

Low Engine Oil Pressure


Possible Cause Insufficient oil in crankcase. Excessive oil in crankcase (causing it to become aerated). Diluted or improper viscosity oil. Check and add oil. Check and remove required amount of oil. Check for cause of excessive oil (improper filling). Change oil and oil filter, using correct grade and viscosity oil. Determine cause for dilution (excessive idling). Remedy

Battery Will Not Recharge


Possible Cause Excessive current draw from battery. Alternator drive belt loose or in poor condition. Unacceptable battery condition. Loose or dirty electrical connections or damaged wiring. Faulty alternator Remedy Turn off nonessential accessories. Replace and/or adjust. Test battery, replace if necessary. Check all associated electrical connections and wires (especially battery cables). Clean and tighten faulty connections. Repair or replace damaged wiring. Test alternator output, replace if necessary.

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Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Remote Control Is Difficult to Move, Has Excessive Play, or Makes Unusual Sounds
Possible Cause Insufficient lubrication on shift and throttle linkage fasteners. Obstruction in shift or throttle linkages. Loose or missing shift and throttle linkages. Lubricate. Remove obstruction. Check all throttle linkages. If any are loose or missing, see authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer immediately. Straighten cable or have authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer replace cable if damaged beyond repair. Remedy

Shift or throttle cable kinked.

Steering Wheel Jerks or Is Difficult to Turn


Possible Cause Low power steering pump fluid level. Drive belt loose or in poor condition. Replace and/or adjust. Check all parts and fasteners if any are loose or missing, see authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer immediately. See authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. Remedy Check for leak. Refill system with fluid.

Insufficient lubrication on steering components. Lubricate. Loose or missing steering fasteners or parts. Contaminated power steering fluid.

Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Does Not Operate)


Possible Cause Blown fuse. Remedy Replace fuse. Fuses may be located near the dash trim switch, at the trim pump, in the positive (red) power trim battery lead near the battery switch, or a combination of these. Check all associated electrical connections and wires (especially battery cables). Clean and tighten faulty connection. Repair or replace wiring.

Loose or dirty electrical connections or damaged wiring.

Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Operates but Sterndrive Unit Does Not Move)
Possible Cause Trim pump oil level low. Drive unit binding in gimbal ring. Fill pump with oil. Check for obstruction. Remedy

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 7 - Troubleshooting

Notes:

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

Section 8 - Customer Assistance Information

Section 8 - Customer Assistance Information


Table of Contents
Owner Service Assistance................................ 130 Local Repair Service .................................. 130 Service Away From Home ......................... 130 Stolen Power Package ............................... 130 Attention Required after Submersion ......... 130 Replacement Service Parts ........................ 130 Parts and Accessories Inquiries ........... 131 Resolving a Problem .................................. 131 Mercury Marine Service Offices ................. 131 Ordering Literature............................................ 132 United States and Canada ......................... 132 Outside The United States and Canada .... 132

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 8 - Customer Assistance Information

Owner Service Assistance


Local Repair Service
If you need service for your Mercury MerCruiserpowered boat, take it to your authorized dealer. Only authorized dealers specialize in Mercury MerCruiser products and have factorytrained mechanics, special tools and equipment, and genuine Quicksilver parts and accessories to properly service your engine.

NOTE: Quicksilver parts and accessories are engineered and built by Mercury Marine specifically for Mercury MerCruiser sterndrives and inboards.

Service Away From Home


If you are away from your local dealer and the need arises for service, contact the nearest authorized dealer. Refer to the Yellow Pages of the telephone directory. If, for any reason, you cannot obtain service, contact the nearest Regional Service Center. Outside the United States and Canada, contact the nearest Marine Power International Service Center.

Stolen Power Package


If your power package is stolen, immediately advise the local authorities and Mercury Marine of the model and serial numbers and to whom the recovery is to be reported. This information is maintained in a database at Mercury Marine to aid authorities and dealers in recovery of stolen power packages.

Attention Required after Submersion


1. Before recovery, contact an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer. 2. After recovery, immediate service by an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer is required to reduce the possibility of serious engine damage.

Replacement Service Parts


! WARNING
Avoid fire or explosion hazard. Electrical, ignition, and fuel system components on Mercury Marine products comply with federal and international standards to minimize risk of fire or explosion. Do not use replacement electrical or fuel system components that do not comply with these standards. When servicing the electrical and fuel systems, properly install and tighten all components. Marine engines are expected to operate at or near full throttle for most of their life. They are also expected to operate in both fresh and saltwater environments. These conditions require numerous special parts. Exercise care when replacing marine engine parts, because specifications are different from those of the standard automotive engine. For example, one of the most important special replacement parts, is the cylinder head gasket. Marine engines cannot use steeltype automotive head gaskets because saltwater is highly corrosive. A marine engine head gasket uses special materials to resist corrosion. Because marine engines must be capable of running at or near maximum RPM much of the time, they also have special valve springs, valve lifters, pistons, bearings, camshafts and other heavyduty moving parts. Mercury MerCruiser marine engines have other special modifications to provide long life and dependable performance.

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Section 8 - Customer Assistance Information

PARTS AND ACCESSORIES INQUIRIES Direct any inquiries concerning Quicksilver replacement parts and accessories to your local authorized dealer. The dealer has the necessary information to order parts and accessories for you if they are not in stock. Only authorized dealers can purchase genuine Quicksilver parts and accessories from the factory. Mercury Marine does not sell to unauthorized dealers or retail customers. When inquiring on parts and accessories, the dealer requires the engine model and serial numbers to order the correct parts.

Resolving a Problem
Satisfaction with your Mercury MerCruiser product is very important to your dealer and to us. If you ever have a problem, question or concern about your power package, contact your dealer or any authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealership. If you need additional assistance: 1. Talk with the dealership's sales manager or service manager. Contact the owner of the dealership if the sales manager and service manager have been unable to resolve the problem. 2. If your question, concern, or problem cannot be resolved by your dealership, please contact Mercury Marine Service Office for assistance. Mercury Marine will work with you and your dealership to resolve all problems. The following information will be needed by the Service Office: Your name and address Daytime telephone number Model and serial numbers for your power package The name and address of your dealership Nature of problem Mercury Marine Service Offices are listed on the next page.

Mercury Marine Service Offices


For assistance, call, fax or write. Please include your daytime telephone number with mail and fax correspondence.
Telephone (405) 743 6566 Fax (405) 743 6570 Mail Mercury MerCruiser 3003 N. Perkins Rd. Stillwater, OK 74075 Mercury Marine Ltd. 2395 Meadowpine Blvd. Mississauga, Ontario L5N 7W6 Canada Mercury Marine Australia 132-140 Frankston Road Dandenong, Victoria 3164 Australia Marine Power - Europe, Inc. Parc Industriel de Petit-Rechain B-4800 Verviers, Belgium

(905) 567 MERC (6372)

(905) 567 8515

(61) (3) 9791 5822

(61) (3) 9793 5880

(32) (87) 32 32 11

(32) (87) 31 19 65

90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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Section 8 - Customer Assistance Information


Telephone (954) 744 3500 Fax (954) 744 3535 Mail Mercury Marine - Latin America & Caribbean 11650 Interchange Circle North, Miramar, FL 33025 U.S.A. Mercury Marine - Japan 283-1 Anshin-cho Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 435-0005 Japan Mercury Marine Singapore 72 Loyang Way , 508762 Singapore

(81) 53 423 2500

(81) 53 423 2510

(65) 6546 6160

(65) 6546 7789

Ordering Literature
Before ordering literature, please have the following information about your power package available: Model Serial Number Horsepower Year built

United States and Canada


For information on additional literature that is available for your particular Mercury MerCruiser power package and how to order that literature contact your nearest dealer or contact Mercury Marine Publications P.O. Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939 (920) 929-5110 Fax (920) 929-4894

Outside The United States and Canada


Contact your nearest dealer or Marine Power Service Center for information on additional literature that is available for your particular Mercury MerCruiser power package and how to order that literature. Please return with payment to: Mercury Marine Attn: Publications Department W6250 West Pioneer Road P.O. Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939 Ship To: (Please Print Or Type - This Is Your Shipping Label) Name Address City State ZIP

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90-899883180 OCTOBER 2007

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