Johnson PL4 User Manual

Operation - 33
IMPACT DAMAGE
Your engine has a shock absorption system de-
signed to help withstand damage from impact with
underwater objects at low to moderate speeds.
However, high speed impacts with rigid underwater
objects like pilings or boulders can be beyond the
capability of the absorption system. Such impacts
can result in serious damage to your engine and in-
jury to boat occupants from the engine or its parts
entering the boat. Occupants can also be ejected or
injured by falling against portions of the boat as a
result of rapid deceleration following impacts. When
boating in unfamiliar, shallow, or debris-laden wa-
ters, seek information on safe boating areas and
navigation hazards from a reliable local source. Re-
duce your speed and keep a sharp lookout!
The engine’s shock absorption system does not
work while operating in reverse. If you back into an
object, either in the water or while trailering, your
boat and engine can be seriously damaged.
If you hit any object, stop immediately and examine
the engine for loosening of attaching hardware and
clamp screws, if equipped. Inspect for damage to
swivel and stern brackets, steering components,
and components in the area of impact. Also, exam-
ine the boat for structural damage. Tighten any
loosened hardware. If the collision occurred in the
water, proceed slowly to harbor. Before boating
again, have your Dealer thoroughly inspect all com-
ponents.
STORING
To avoid difficulty when restarting, never run the
engine with the fuel hose disconnected or run the
engine out of fuel.
If you must tilt the motor to remove it from the water,
lower it and allow the cooling system to drain com-
pletely as soon as you clear the launch area.
Between uses, store your motor in a vertical posi-
tion.
For recommendations on extended periods of stor-
age, refer to Off-Season Storage.
WARNING
Failure to inspect for damage could result in
sudden, unexpected component failure,
loss of boat control, and personal injury.
Unrepaired damage could reduce your boat
and engine’s ability to resist future impacts.

Johnson PL4 Specifications

General

Brand	Johnson
Model	PL4
Category	Outboard Motor
Language	English

Summary

GENERAL INFORMATION

SAFETY — THE RIGHT PLACE TO GET STARTED

Essential information to prevent injury and equipment damage.

SAFETY MEASURES - Operation

Operator responsibility for passenger safety and emergencies.

SAFETY MEASURES - Installation and Maintenance

Correct installation and maintenance ensure safety and function.

BRP US INC. LIMITED WARRANTY

SCOPE OF THE LIMITED WARRANTY

Warranty covers defects in material or workmanship.

WARRANTY COVERAGE PERIOD

Details warranty duration for private and commercial use.

EXCLUSIONS - Not Warranted

Lists conditions and parts not covered by warranty.

FEATURES

Component Identification

Identifies key external components of the outboard motor.

Instrument and Control Components

Identifies dashboard instruments and control components.

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Performance and Technical Data

Details specifications like displacement, power, RPM, and fuel.

REMOTE CONTROL

Remote Control Operation

Explains operation of binnacle, side, and concealed mount controls.

ENGINE MONITORING

SystemCheck Gauge and Warnings

Overview of SystemCheck gauge, NO OIL, and HOT warnings.

FUEL AND OIL

FUEL Safety and Requirements

Guidelines for safe fueling and acceptable gasoline types.

ENGINE OIL Recommendations

Recommends specific oil and its benefits for the engine.

ENGINE STARTING

BEFORE START-UP Checks

Pre-start checks including oil level, break-in, and water supply.

Engine Start-up Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for starting the engine.

OPERATION

POWER TRIM AND TILT System

Explanation of the power trim and tilt system and its functions.

Shallow Water Precautions

Precautions to avoid gearcase damage in shallow water.

ENGINE OVERHEATING

Symptoms, causes, and corrective actions for engine overheating.

MAINTENANCE

10-HOUR INSPECTION

What to expect during the initial 10-hour inspection by a dealer.

OFF-SEASON STORAGE

Detailed steps for preparing the outboard for long-term storage.

CRANKCASE OIL AND FILTER

Procedures for checking and changing engine oil and filter.

TROUBLE CHECK CHART

A guide to diagnosing and resolving common engine problems.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION SCHEDULE

Operator Performed Service Schedule

Maintenance tasks the owner can perform and their frequencies.

Dealer Performed Service Schedule

Maintenance tasks recommended for dealer service and their frequencies.

Readiness Test and a Final Word to the Owner/Operator

Operator Readiness Test

A self-assessment test for the owner.

Final Safety Advice

Final safety advice for the owner/operator.