OPERATION
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Pre‑Starting Check List
• Operator knows safe navigation, boating, and operating procedures.
• An approved personal flotation device of suitable size for each person aboard and readily accessible (it is
the law).
• A ring type life buoy or buoyant cushion designed to be thrown to a person in the water.
• Know the boats maximum load capacity. Look at the boat capacity plate.
• Fuel supply OK.
• Oil supply (oil injection) OK.
• Arrange passengers and load in the boat so the weight is distributed evenly and everyone is seated in a
proper seat.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Know the waters and area you will be boating; tides, currents, sand bars, rocks, and other hazards.
• Make inspection checks listed in Maintenance ‑ Inspection and Maintenance Schedule.
Operating In Freezing Temperatures
When using your outboard or having your outboard moored in freezing or near freezing temperatures, keep the
outboard tilted down at all times so the gearcase is submerged. This prevents trapped water in gearcase from
freezing and causing possible damage to the water pump and other components.
If there is a chance of ice forming on the water, the outboard should be removed and drained completely of water.
If ice should form at the water level inside the outboard driveshaft housing, it will block water flow to the engine
causing possible damage.
Operating In Salt Water Or Polluted Water
We recommend that you flush the internal water passages of your outboard with fresh water after each use in salt
or polluted water. This will prevent a buildup of deposits from clogging the water passages. Refer to Maintenance ‑
Flushing The Cooling System.
If you keep your boat moored in the water, always tilt the outboard so the gearcase is completely out of water
(except in freezing temperatures) when not in use.
Wash the outboard exterior and flush out the exhaust outlet of the propeller and gearcase with fresh water after
each use. Each month, spray Mercury Precision or Quicksilver Corrosion Guard on external metal surfaces. Do
not spray on corrosion control anodes as this will reduce the effectiveness of the anodes.
Operating at High Elevations
Your engine automatically compensates for high elevation changes. A different pitch propeller may help reduce
some normal performance loss resulting from reduced oxygen in the air. Consult your dealer.
Setting Trim Angle While Running Engine at Idle Speed
The exhaust relief hole on the outboard may become submerged if the outboard is trimmed full‑in while running at
idle speed. This will cause exhaust restriction, rough idle, excessive smoke, and fouled spark plugs. If this condition
exists, trim the outboard up until the exhaust relief hole is out of the water. The outboard should be lowered for
accelerating from a standing start or from idle speed.
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