MerCruiser 3.0 MPI, Owner'S Manual

Page: 85 / 114

Section 5 - Maintenance
90-899883272 MARCH 2008 Page 77
NOTICE
Operating the engine out of the water at high speeds creates suction, which can collapse
the water supply hose and overheat the engine. Do not operate the engine above 1400
RPM out of the water and without sufficient cooling water supply.
7. Depress the throttle only button and slowly advance the throttle until the engine reaches
1300 RPM (± 100 RPM).
8. Observe the water temperature gauge to ensure that the engine is operating in the
normal range.
9. Operate engine with sterndrive in neutral for about 10 minutes or until discharge water
is clear.
10. Slowly return throttle to idle speed position.
11. Stop engine.
12. Shut off water and remove flushing attachment.
13. This step is only required if the boat is to be stored in the water. After the flush procedure
is completed, remove the seawater inlet hose from the thermostat housing and plug
the hose to prevent water from siphoning into the boat. This prevents seawater from
contaminating the engine flush.
14. Tag the ignition switch with an appropriate tag requiring the seawater inlet hose to be
reconnected prior to operating engine.
Battery
Refer to specific instructions and warnings accompanying your battery. If this information
is not available, observe the following precautions when handling a battery.
!
WARNING
Recharging a weak battery in the boat, or using jumper cables and a booster battery to
start the engine, can cause serious injury or product damage from fire or explosion.
Remove the battery from the boat and recharge in a ventilated area away from sparks or
flames.
!
WARNING
An operating or charging battery produces gas that can ignite and explode, spraying out
sulfuric acid, which can cause severe burns. Ventilate the area around the battery and
wear protective equipment when handling or servicing batteries.