Evinrude e-tec 2005, Manual

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22
Using Your E-TEC Outboard
IMPACT DAMAGE
Your outboard has a shock absorption system
designed to help withstand damage from im-
pact with underwater objects at low to moder-
ate speeds.
High speed impacts with rigid underwater ob-
jects like pilings or boulders can be beyond
the capability of the absorption system.
Such impacts can result in serious damage to
your outboard and injury to boat occupants
from the outboard or its parts entering the
boat. Occupants can also be ejected or in-
jured by falling against portions of the boat as
a result of rapid deceleration following im-
pacts.
When boating in unfamiliar, shallow, or de-
bris-laden waters, seek information on safe
boating areas and navigation hazards from a
reliable local source.
Reduce your speed and keep a sharp look-
out!
The outboard’s shock absorption system
does not work while operating in reverse. If
you back into an object, either in the water or
while trailering, your boat and outboard can
be seriously damaged.
If you hit any object:
• STOP immediately and examine the out-
board for loosening of attaching hardware.
• INSPECT for damage to swivel and stern
brackets, and steering components.
• EXAMINE the boat for structural damage.
• TIGHTEN any loosened hardware.
If the collision occurred in the water, proceed
slowly to harbor. Before boating again, have
your Dealer thoroughly inspect all compo-
nents.
WARNING
Failure to inspect for damage after an
accident or striking an object could
result in sudden, unexpected compo-
nent failure, loss of boat control, and
personal injury. Unrepaired damage
could reduce your boat and outboard’s
ability to resist future impacts.