Section 6 - Storage
90-8M0069751 eng APRIL 2012 Page 111
Preparing Your Power Package for Seasonal or Extended Storage
NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide
a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation.
IMPORTANT: If the boat has already been removed from the water, supply water to the water inlet holes before starting the
engine. Follow all warnings and flushing attachment procedures stated in Flushing the Seawater System.
1. Supply cooling water to the sterndrive's water inlet holes and the engine's seawater pump inlet.
2. Start the engine and operate until it reaches normal operating temperature.
3. Stop the engine.
4. Change the engine oil and filter.
5. Start the engine and run for about 15 minutes. Check for oil leaks.
6.
Flush the seawater cooling system. See Flushing the Seawater System.
Seasonal Storage Instructions
1.
Read all precautions and perform all procedures found in Preparing Your Power Package for Seasonal or Extended
Storage.
2.
Read all precautions and perform all procedures found in Draining the Seawater System and drain the seawater section
of the cooling system.
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 freezing temperatures. 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.
IMPORTANT: Mercury Marine recommends the use of propylene glycol antifreeze in the seawater section of the cooling
system for cold weather (freezing temperature), seasonal storage, or extended storage. Make sure that the propylene
glycol antifreeze contains a rust inhibitor and is recommended for use in marine engines. Be certain to follow the propylene
glycol manufacturer's recommendations.
3. Fill a container with approximately 5.6 liters (6 U.S. quarts) of propylene glycol antifreeze and tap water mixed to
manufacturer's recommendation to protect the engine to the lowest temperature to which it will be exposed during cold
weather or extended storage.
4. Disconnect the seawater inlet hose from the seawater pump. Using an adapter, if required, temporarily connect an
appropriate length piece of hose to seawater pump and place the other end of the hose into the container of propylene
glycol antifreeze and tap water.
Typical
a - Seawater pump
b - Temporary hose
c - Container of propylene
glycol antifreeze and tap
water (not shown)
NOTE: Discharge of propylene glycol into the environment may be restricted by law. Dispose of propylene glycol in
accordance with federal, state, and local laws and guidelines.
5. Start the engine and operate at idle speed until the antifreeze mixture has been pumped into the engine seawater cooling
system.
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