Freezing Temperature and Cold Weather Operation
IMPORTANT: If the boat is operated during periods of freezing temperature, take precautions to prevent freezing damage to
the power package. Damage caused by freezing is not covered by the Mercury Marine Limited Warranty.
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.
NOTE: As a precautionary measure, attach a tag to the key switch or steering wheel of the boat reminding the operator to open
the seacock or unplug and connect the water inlet hose before starting the engine.
In order to operate the engine in temperatures of 0° C (32° F) or lower, observe the following instructions:
• At the end of each daily operation, completely drain the seawater section of the cooling system to protect against damage
by freezing.
• At the end of each daily operation, drain the water from the water separator, if equipped. Fill the fuel tank at the end of daily
operation to prevent condensation.
• Use the required permanent‑type antifreeze solution to protect components against damage by freezing.
• Use proper cold weather lubrication oil; ensure that the crankcase contains a sufficient amount.
• Make certain that the battery is of sufficient size and is fully charged. Check that all other electrical equipment is in
optimum condition.
• At temperatures of –20° C (–4° F) and below, use a coolant heater and a marine application bilge air heater to improve cold
starting.
• If operating in arctic temperatures of –29° C (–20° F) or lower, consult your Mercury Diesel authorized repair facility for
information about special cold weather equipment and precautions.
Refer to Storage for cold weather or extended storage related information.
Protecting People In The Water
While You Are Cruising
It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in their direction, even at slow speeds.
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where there might be people in the water.
Whenever a boat is moving (even coasting) and the gear shift is in neutral, there is sufficient force by the water on the propeller
to cause the propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller rotation can cause serious injury.
While Boat Is Stationary
!
WARNING
A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to the boat can cause serious injury or death to swimmers.
Stop the engine immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your boat.
Shift into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to swim or be in the water near your boat.
High Speed and High Performance
If your boat is a high‑speed or high performance boat with which you are unfamiliar, we recommend that you never operate it at
its high‑speed capability without first requesting an initial orientation and demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator
experienced with your boat. For additional information, refer to the High Performance Boat Operation booklet
(90‑849250‑R2) from your authorized Mercury Diesel repair facility.
Section 2 - On The Water
90-8M0145546 eng MAY 2018 Page 27
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