Mercury 8 Bigfoot 4-Stroke - Gear Shifting; Stopping the Engine

OPERATION
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2. After the engine has started, release the key.
Gear Shifting
IMPORTANT: Never shift outboard into gear unless engine speed is at idle. Do not shift outboard into reverse
when the engine is not running.
• Your outboard has three gear shift positions to provide operation: Forward (F), Neutral (N), and Reverse
(R).
• Tiller Handle Models ‑ Reduce engine speed to idle before shifting.
a
b
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c
a - (R) Reverse
b - (N) Neutral
c - (F) Forward
• Remote Control Models ‑ When shifting, always stop at neutral position and allow the engine speed to return
to idle.
N
R
F
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• Always shift outboard into gear with a quick motion.
• After shifting outboard into gear, advance the remote control lever or rotate the throttle grip (tiller handle)
to increase speed.
Stopping The Engine
1. Remote Control Models ‑ Reduce engine speed and shift outboard to neutral position. Turn ignition key to
"OFF" position.
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2. Tiller Handle Models ‑ Reduce engine speed and shift outboard to neutral position. Push in the engine stop
button or turn ignition key to "OFF" position.