Section 6 - Storage
90-899883179   OCTOBER  2007 Page  87
NOTICE
Water trapped in the seawater section of the cooling system can cause corrosion or
freeze  damage.  Drain  the  seawater  section  of  the  cooling  system  immediately  after
operation or before any length of storage in cold weather. If the boat is in the water, keep
the seacock closed until restarting the engine to prevent water from flowing back into the
cooling  system.  If  the  boat  is  not  fitted  with  a  seacock,  leave  the  water  inlet  hose
disconnected and plugged.
9. Ensure  that  the  sterndrive  vent  holes  and  water  drain  holes  and  passages  are
unobstructed and open (refer to Draining Instructions).
10. For additional assurance against freezing and rust, after draining, fill the cooling system
with propylene glycol mixed to the manufacturer's recommendation to protect engine
to the lowest temperature to which it will be exposed during freezing temperatures or
extended storage.
NOTICE
The universal joint bellows may develop a set when stored in a raised or up position,
causing the bellows to fail when returned to service and allowing water to enter the boat.
Store the sterndrive in the full down position.
11. Store boat with drive unit in full down/in position.
12. Store the battery according to the manufacturer's instructions.
ENGINE AND FUEL SYSTEM PREPARATION
!
 WARNING
Fuel is flammable and explosive. Ensure the key switch is off and the lanyard is positioned
so that the engine cannot start. Do not smoke or allow sources of spark or open flame in
the  area  while  servicing.  Keep  the  work  area  well  ventilated  and  avoid  prolonged
exposure to vapors. Always check for leaks before attempting to start the engine and
wipe up any spilled fuel immediately.
!
 WARNING
Fuel  vapors  trapped  in  the  engine  compartment  may  be  an  irritant,  cause  difficulty
breathing,  or  may  ignite  resulting  in  a  fire  or  explosion.  Always  ventilate  the  engine
compartment before servicing the power package.
1. Prepare carbureted fuel system for extended storage as follows:
a. Start engine.
b. Provide cooling water to the engine as done in the previous step.
c. Remove flame arrestor assembly.
d. Close the fuel shut off valve, if equipped. Disconnect and plug the fuel inlet fitting
if not equipped with a fuel shut off valve.
e. While operating engine at fast idle (1300 RPM), fog internal surfaces of induction
system  and  combustion  changers  by  spraying  approximately  227  g  (8  oz.)  of
Mercury/Quicksilver Storage Seal or SAE 20W engine oil into carburetor bores.
f. Spray the remaining 57 g (2 oz.) of Storage Seal (or oil) rapidly into carburetor,
just as the engine begins to stall, due to lack of fuel. Allow engine to stop.