MerCruiser 3.0 MPI, Owner'S Manual

Page: 52 / 114

Section 3 - On the Water
Page 44 90-899883272 MARCH 2008
Getting Started
20‑Hour Break‑In Period
IMPORTANT: The first 20 hours of operation is the engine break‑in period. Correct break‑in
is essential to obtain minimum oil consumption and maximum engine performance. During
this break‑in period, the following rules must be observed:
• Do not operate below 1500 RPM for extended periods of time for the first 10 hours.
Shift into gear as soon as possible after starting and advance the throttle above 1500
rpm
if conditions permit safe operation
.
• Do not operate at one speed consistently for extended periods.
• Do not exceed 3/4 throttle during the first 10 hours. During the next 10 hours, occasional
operation at full throttle is permissible (5 minutes at a time maximum).
• Avoid full throttle acceleration from idle speed.
• Do not operate at full throttle until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.
• Frequently check engine oil level. Add oil as needed. It is normal for oil consumption
to be high during the break‑in period.
After Break‑In Period
To help extend the life of your Mercury MerCruiser power package, the following
recommendations should be considered;
• Ensure that propeller allows the engine to operate at or near the top of the specified
WOT RPM range (Refer to
Specifications
and
Maintenance
) when at full throttle with
a normal boat load.
• Operation at 3/4 throttle setting or lower is recommended. Refrain from prolonged
operation at WOT RPM.
• Change the engine oil and oil filter. Refer to
Maintenance
.
End of First Season Checkup
At the end of the first season of operation, contact an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer
to discuss and/or perform scheduled maintenance items. If you are in an area where the
product is operated continuously, year‑round, you should contact your dealer at the end of
the first 100 hours of operation or once yearly, whichever occurs first.