Mercury 250 Pro XS OptiMax

eng i
Thank You
for your purchase of one of the finest outboards available.
You have made a sound investment in boating pleasure.
Your outboard has been manufactured by Mercury Marine, a
world leader in marine technology and outboard
manufacturing since 1939. These years of experience have
been committed to the goal of producing the finest quality
products. This led to Mercury Marine's reputation for strict
quality control, excellence, durability, lasting performance,
and being the best at providing after the sale support.
Please read this manual carefully before operating your
outboard. This manual has been prepared to assist you in
the operation, safe use, and care of your outboard.
All of us at Mercury Marine took pride in building your
outboard and wish you many years of happy and safe
boating.
Again, thank you for your confidence in Mercury Marine.
EPA Emissions Regulations
Outboards sold by Mercury Marine in the United States are
certified to the United States Environmental Protection
Agency as conforming to the requirements of the regulations
for the control of air pollution from new outboard motors.
This certification is contingent on certain adjustments being
set to factory standards. For this reason, the factory
procedure for servicing the product must be strictly followed
and, wherever practicable, returned to the original intent of
the design. Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the
emission control devices and systems may be
performed by any marine engine repair establishment or
individual.
Engines are labeled with an Emission Control Information
decal as permanent evidence of EPA certification.
!
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
© 2012 Mercury Marine 200/225/250 Pro XS OptiMax 90-8M0050073 710

Mercury 250 Pro XS OptiMax Specifications

General

Brand	Mercury
Model	250 Pro XS OptiMax
Category	Outboard Motor
Language	English

Summary

Thank You

EPA Emissions Regulations

WARNING

Describes hazards of engine exhaust chemicals.

Warranty Information

Warranty Registration

Explains the process for registering the product for warranty.

Transfer of Warranty

Details how to transfer the limited warranty to a new owner.

Outboard Limited Warranty

Outlines the coverage and conditions for the limited warranty.

3 Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion

Covers warranty for corrosion damage on specific engine parts.

Warranty Coverage and Exclusions

Clarifies what is and is not covered under the warranty.

General Information

Boaters Responsibilities

Outlines the operator's duties for safe operation.

Before Operating Your Outboard

Advises on essential pre-operation checks and reading.

Boat Horsepower Capacity

Warns against exceeding the boat's maximum horsepower rating.

Propeller Selection

Guides on choosing the correct propeller for optimal performance.

Lanyard Stop Switch

Explains the function and importance of the lanyard stop switch.

Specifications

Provides technical details and performance data for the engine models.

Exhaust Emissions

Alerts about carbon monoxide poisoning risks from exhaust.

Wave and Wake Jumping

Hazards associated with operating a boat at high speeds over waves.

Fuel and Oil

Fuel Requirements

Specifies acceptable types of gasoline and octane ratings.

Oil Recommendation

Recommends specific types of 2-cycle engine oil.

Features and Controls

Remote Control Features

Describes the components and functions of the remote control.

Warning System

Explains the horn signals and the Engine Guardian System.

Power Trim and Tilt

Explains the operation and benefits of the power trim and tilt system.

Operation

Engine Break-in

Procedures for breaking in a new engine to ensure longevity.

Starting the Engine

Step-by-step guide for starting the engine.

Gear Shifting

Instructions on how to safely shift gears and stop the engine.

Maintenance

Inspection and Maintenance Schedule

Lists routine checks and maintenance tasks based on usage intervals.

Flushing the Cooling System (Powerhead)

Procedure for flushing the engine's cooling passages.

Propeller Replacement

Procedure for replacing boat propellers on the shaft.

Gearcase Lubrication

Instructions for draining, refilling, and checking gearcase lubricant.

Storage

Storage Preparation

Steps to prepare the outboard for long-term storage.

Battery Storage

Guidelines for storing the boat battery properly.

Troubleshooting

Engine Will Not Start

Troubleshooting steps for an engine that fails to start.

Performance Loss

Reasons for reduced engine performance.

Battery Will Not Hold Charge

Causes for a battery failing to retain charge.

Owner Service Assistance

Local Repair Service

Recommends using authorized local dealers for service.

Mercury Marine Service Offices

Contact information for various Mercury Marine service locations.

Outboard Installation

Fuel Requirements

Specifies required fuel types for the engine.

Boat Horsepower Capacity

Warning about exceeding the boat's maximum horsepower.

Lifting the Outboard

Safety instructions for properly lifting the outboard engine.

Steering Link Rod Fasteners

Importance of using correct fasteners for steering link rod safety.

Determining Recommended Outboard Mounting Height

Guidance on selecting the optimal mounting height for the outboard.

Fastening the Outboard to the Transom

Steps for securely attaching the outboard to the boat transom.

BATTERY INFORMATION

Guidelines for battery selection and connection.

INSTALLING THE SHIFT CABLE

Instructions for installing the shift cable for specific models.

INSTALLING THE THROTTLE CABLE

Instructions for installing the throttle cable for specific models.

Filling the Fuel System

Process for filling and priming the fuel system.

Trim In Pin

How to adjust the trim limit using a pin.