Section 4 - Specifications
90-899883173   DECEMBER  2007 Page  55
• Corrosion of metal parts
• Deterioration of rubber or plastic parts
• Fuel permeation through rubber fuel lines
• Starting and operating difficulties
!
 WARNING
Fuel  leakage  is  a  fire  or  explosion  hazard,  which  can  cause  serious  injury  or  death.
Periodically inspect all fuel system components for leaks, softening, hardening, swelling,
or  corrosion,  particularly  after  storage.  Any  sign  of  leakage  or  deterioration  requires
replacement before further engine operation.
IMPORTANT: If you use gasoline that contains or might contain alcohol, you must increase
the frequency of inspection for leaks and abnormalities.
IMPORTANT:  When  operating  a  Mercury  MerCruiser  engine  on  gasoline  containing
alcohol,  storage  of  gasoline  in  the  fuel  tank  for  long  periods  should  be  avoided.  Long
periods of storage, common to boats, create unique problems. In cars alcohol‑blend fuels
normally are consumed before they can absorb  enough moisture  to cause trouble, but
boats often sit idle long enough for phase separation to take place. In addition, internal
corrosion may take place during storage if alcohol has washed protective oil films from
internal components.
Engine Oil
To  maintain  optimum  engine  performance  and  to  provide  maximum  protection,  we
recommend the following oil:
Application Recommended Oil
All MerCruiser engines with Emissions Control
Mercury MerCruiser Full‑Synthetic Engine Oil, 20W‑40,
NMMA FC‑W rated
IMPORTANT: Lubrication requirements for catalyzed engines differ from the requirements
for  non‑catalyzed  engines.  Some  marine‑grade  lubricants  contain  high  levels  of
phosphorus,  which  can  damage  the  catalyst  system  on  MerCruiser  engines.  Although
these high‑phosphorus lubricants may allow for acceptable engine performance, exposure
over time will damage the catalyst. Catalysts damaged by lubricants containing high levels
of phosphorus may not be covered by the MerCruiser Limited Warranty.
If  the  Mercury  MerCruiser  Full‑Synthetic,  20W‑40  oil  is  unavailable,  you  can  use  the
following lubricants, listed in order of recommendation, for short periods of time:
1. Mercury/Quicksilver 25W‑40 Synthetic Blend, NMMA FC‑W rated 4‑cycle oil
2. Other recognized brands of NMMA FC‑W–rated oils