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MerCruiser 4.3L TKS Sterndrive - User Manual

MerCruiser 4.3L TKS Sterndrive
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© 2010 Mercury Marine TKS Sterndrive Models
*8M0053265*
90-8M0053265 1110
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 Standards Applied
Owner’s manual (A.2.5) ISO 10240
Openings in Hull, Deck and superstructure (A.3.4) ISO 9093‑1; ISO 9093‑2
Handling characteristics (A.4) ISO 8665
Inboard Engine (A.5.1.1) ISO 15584; ISO 10088; ISO 7840; ISO 10133
Fuel System (A.5.2) ISO 10088; ISO 7840; ISO 8469
Electrical System (A.5.3) ISO 10133; ISO 8846
Steering system (A.5.4)
Applicable portions of: ISO 10592, ISO 8848 and ABYC
P‑17
Exhaust emission requirements (B.2) ISO 8178
Owner’s manual (B.4) ISO 8665
Noise emission levels (C.1) ISO 14509
Ignition‑protected equipment (Annex II) ISO 8846; SAE J1171; SAE J1191; SAE J 2031
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 EN 50081‑1
Generic immunity standard EN 50082‑1
Vehicles, boats and internal combustion engine driven
devices ‑ Radio disturbance characteristics
SAE J551 (CISPR 12)
Electrostatic discharge testing EN 61000‑6‑2; EN 61000‑4‑2; EN61000‑4‑3
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.
Kevin Grodzki
President ‑ Mercury MerCruiser, Stillwater, OK, USA
Regulatory contact:
Regulations and Product Safety Department
Mercury Marine
W6250 W. Pioneer Road
Fond du Lac, WI 54936
USA
Identification Record
Please record the following information:

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers

  • M
    Mrs. Bonnie JohnsonAug 9, 2025
    What causes poor performance in a MerCruiser Engine?
    • N
      Nathaniel BowmanAug 10, 2025
      Poor performance in your MerCruiser engine can stem from several issues: * Check that the throttle is fully open and inspect the throttle cable and linkages. * A damaged or improper propeller can be the cause, consider replacing it. * Excessive bilge water affects performance, so drain it and find the source of the leak. * An overloaded boat or improper weight distribution will hinder performance, reduce the load or redistribute it evenly. * Clean the flame arrestor. * Clean or repair boat bottom if it is fouled or damaged.
  • S
    Shawn FieldsAug 17, 2025
    Why my MerCruiser 4.3L TKS Sterndrive starter motor will not crank engine, or cranks slow?
    • K
      Kaitlin BarrettAug 17, 2025
      If the starter motor won't crank the engine or cranks slowly, here are some things to investigate: * Ensure the battery switch is turned on. * Confirm the remote control is in the neutral position. * Check for open circuit breakers or blown fuses and reset or replace as needed. * Inspect all electrical connections and wires (especially battery cables) for looseness or damage; clean and tighten any faulty connections. * Test the battery and charge if necessary, replacing it if it's bad. * Check the lanyard stop switch.
  • G
    Gary WilliamsAug 25, 2025
    How to fix a MerCruiser 4.3L TKS Sterndrive Engine that runs rough, misses, or backfires?
    • A
      Amber HannaAug 26, 2025
      If your MerCruiser engine is running rough, missing, or backfiring, consider these potential causes: * Replace the fuel filter if it's clogged. * If the fuel is stale or contaminated, drain the tank and refill with fresh fuel. * Replace kinked fuel lines or clear any obstructions in the fuel line or fuel tank vent line using compressed air. * Clean the flame arrestor.
  • K
    Kathleen HarrisNov 1, 2025
    What to do if my MerCruiser 4.3L TKS Sterndrive Engine will not start or is hard to start?
    • G
      gthompsonNov 1, 2025
      If your MerCruiser Engine won't start or is hard to start, several factors could be the reason. Here's what you can check: * Verify the lanyard stop switch isn't activated. * Ensure you're following the correct starting procedure. * Check for sufficient fuel supply by filling the tank or opening the valve. * If the engine is flooded, turn the key off, wait 5 minutes, push the throttle-only button, move the control handle to the 1/4 throttle position, and try restarting. * Inspect for a blown TKS fuse and replace if necessary. * Make sure that fuel line or tank vent line is not kinked or clogged. Replace kinked lines or blow out lines with compressed air to remove obstruction. * Check wire connections. * Replace fuel filter, if it is clogged. * Drain fuel tank and fill wi...

Summary

Identification Record

Safety Alert Symbol Definitions

Mercury MerCruiser Warranty Information

Warranty Registration Process

Details how to register your product for warranty coverage.

Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty

Outlines coverage, duration, and terms for gasoline-fueled products.

Limited Corrosion Warranty

Details coverage for corrosion protection on MerCruiser engines and packages.

Installation Quality Certification Program

Explains the certification program and its warranty benefits.

California Emissions Limited Warranty

Details the warranty for emission control systems in California.

MerCruiser Power Package Components

MerCruiser Component Identification

Explains how to identify engine and sterndrive serial numbers.

Lanyard Stop Switch Operation

Describes the function and operation of the lanyard stop switch.

MerCruiser Instrumentation Overview

Explains the function of various boat gauges and remote controls.

MerCruiser Remote Control Operation

Details the operation of different types of remote control systems.

Power Trim System Function

Details the operation of the power trim system for boat performance.

Safe Boating and Operation

Safe Boating Practices

Provides suggestions for safe and enjoyable boating.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Awareness

Warns about the dangers of carbon monoxide and how to avoid it.

Basic Boat Operation Procedures

Covers launching, starting, stopping, and general boat handling.

High-Speed Operation Safety

Advises on safe operation of high-speed and high-performance boats.

Wave and Wake Jumping Safety

Warns about hazards associated with wave and wake jumping.

Getting Started and Break-In Period

Guides through the initial engine break-in and first season checks.

MerCruiser Engine and Fluid Specifications

Fuel Requirements and Ratings

Specifies required gasoline types, octane ratings, and alcohol content.

Engine Oil Recommendations

Lists recommended oils for optimal engine performance and protection.

Engine Specifications Details

Provides key technical data for different engine models.

Fluid Specifications for Sterndrives and Engine

Lists capacities and types for sterndrive gear lube and engine fluids.

MerCruiser Maintenance Procedures

Maintenance Responsibilities

Clarifies responsibilities for maintenance between owner and dealer.

MerCruiser Maintenance Schedule

Outlines routine and scheduled maintenance tasks for sterndrive models.

Engine Oil and Filter Maintenance

Details procedures for checking, filling, and changing engine oil and filter.

Sterndrive and Engine Lubrication

Ensures smooth operation through proper lubrication of key components.

Propeller Maintenance and Installation

Provides instructions for propeller removal, installation, and repair.

Corrosion Protection Measures

Explains systems and procedures to prevent galvanic corrosion.

MerCruiser Power Package Storage

Cold Weather and Extended Storage Procedures

Details steps for preparing the engine and boat for storage.

Engine and Fuel System Storage Preparation

Outlines preparation steps for the engine and fuel system before storage.

Draining the Seawater Cooling System

Prevents freeze damage by providing instructions for draining cooling systems.

Drain System Identification and Operation

Explains how to identify and operate different cooling system drain methods.

MerCruiser Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting Engine Starting Issues

Lists causes and remedies for engine start or cranking problems.

Troubleshooting Engine Performance Issues

Addresses issues like rough running, misses, backfires, and poor performance.

Troubleshooting Temperature and Oil Pressure

Addresses engine temperature and oil pressure indicators.

Troubleshooting Battery and Electrical Issues

Covers battery recharge issues and potential electrical system faults.

Troubleshooting Control and Trim System Issues

Addresses issues with remote controls, steering, and power trim systems.

MerCruiser Customer Assistance and Support

Owner Service Assistance

Guides owners on how to get local repair service and assistance.

Parts and Accessories Inquiries

Explains how to inquire about or order replacement parts and accessories.

Ordering Technical Literature

Provides information on how to order additional manuals and literature.

MerCruiser 4.3L TKS Sterndrive Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandMerCruiser
Model4.3L TKS Sterndrive
CategoryEngine
LanguageEnglish

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