STORAGE
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Storage Preparation
The major consideration in preparing the outboard for storage is to protect it from rust, corrosion, and damage
caused by freezing of trapped water.
The following storage procedures should be followed to prepare outboard for out of season storage or prolonged
storage (two months or longer).
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Gasoline containing alcohol (ethanol or methanol) can cause a formation of acid during storage and
can damage the fuel system. If the gasoline being used contains alcohol, it is advisable to drain as much of the
remaining gasoline as possible from the fuel tank, remote fuel line, and engine fuel system.
Fill the fuel tank and engine fuel system with treated (stabilized) fuel to help prevent formation of varnish and gum.
Proceed with following instructions.
• Portable Fuel Tank - Pour the required amount of gasoline stabilizer (follow instructions on container) into
fuel tank. Tip fuel tank back and forth to mix stabilizer with the fuel.
• Permanently Installed Fuel Tank - Pour the required amount of gasoline stabilizer (follow instructions on
container) into a separate container and mix with approximately one quart (one liter) of gasoline. Pour this
mixture into fuel tank.
• Place the outboard in water or connect flushing attachment for circulating cooling water. Run the engine for
ten minutes to fill the engine fuel system.
Protecting External Outboard Components
• Lubricate all outboard components listed in Maintenance - Inspection and Maintenance Schedule.
• Touch up any paint nicks. See your dealer for touch-up paint.
• Spray Quicksilver or Mercury Precision Lubricants Corrosion Guard on external metal surfaces (except
corrosion control anodes).
Protecting Internal Engine Components
NOTE: Make sure the fuel system has been prepared for storage. Refer to Fuel System, preceeding.
IMPORTANT: Refer to Maintenance - Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement for correct procedure for removing
spark plug boots.
• Place the outboard in water or connect flushing attachment for circulating cooling water. Start the engine and
let it run in neutral to warm up.
• With engine running at fast idle, stop the fuel flow by disconnecting the remote fuel line. When engine begins
to stall, quickly spray Quicksilver or Mercury Precision Lubricants Storage Seal into carburetor until engine
stops from lack of fuel.
• Remove the spark plugs and inject a five second spray of storage seal around the inside of the cylinder.
• Rotate the flywheel manually several times to distribute the storage seal in the cylinder. Reinstall spark plug.
Jet Drive
• Pump extra grease into the jet drive bearing to purge out moisture.
Positioning Outboard for Storage
Store the outboard in an upright (vertical) position. This will allow water to drain out of the outboard.
Battery Storage
• Follow the battery manufacturer's instructions for storage and recharging.
• Remove the battery from the boat and check water level. Recharge if necessary.
• Store the battery in a cool, dry place.
• Periodically check the water level and recharge the battery during storage.
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