Section 3 - On The Water
90-8M0070920 eng AUGUST 2012 Page 31
Shifting
NOTICE
Shifting into gear at engine speeds above idle will damage the transmission. Shift into gear only when the engine is operating
at idle.
NOTICE
Failure to rotate the propeller shaft when shifting gears or forcing the shift mechanism while the engine is not operating can
result in product damage. If you must shift gears with the engine off, manually rotate the propeller shaft in the appropriate
direction.
To shift the unit, verify the remote control throttle lever is in neutral. Move the remote control shift lever forward to shift into
forward gear or backward to shift into reverse. After shifting the transmission, advance the throttle to the desired setting.
Engine Shutdown (Stopping)
1. Place the remote control lever in neutral.
NOTICE
Immediately stopping the engine after high load operation can damage the turbocharger bearings. Idle the engine for several
minutes before shutdown.
2. Operate the engine at idle speed for several minutes to allow the turbocharger and engine to cool.
3. Turn key switch to the "OFF," or 0, position.
Protecting People in the Water
While Boat is in Operation
People in the water cannot take quick action to avoid a boat heading in their direction.
Approach slowly and exercise extreme caution when boating in areas where people may be in the water.
When a boat is moving 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 the 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 down the engine before allowing people in the water near the boat.
High‑Speed and High‑Performance
If your boat is considered a high‑speed or high‑performance boat, 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 Hi‑Performance Boat Operation booklet from your Mercury Diesel
authorized repair facility.