MerCruiser 3.0 MPI, Owner'S Manual

Page: 97 / 114

Section 6 - Storage
90-899883272 MARCH 2008 Page 89
3. Push the quick connect fitting release buttons and remove the blue drain hoses from
the bracket.
32559
b
c
d
e
a
a - Release button (to engine block)
b - T‑handle
c - Release button (to exhaust
manifold)
d - Blue drain hoses
e - Hose guide
4. Pull the T‑handle until the hose guide is in contact with the quick connect fittings.
5. Push down on the T‑handle to force the blue drain hoses below their connection points
on the block.
6. If water does not drain from all blue drain hoses, refer to
Clearing Clogged Drain
Hoses
.
7. Leave the blue drain hoses disconnected until all water drains from the engine.
8. Pull the T‑handle until the quick connect fittings on the blue drain hoses are within
reach.
9. Install the quick connect fittings on the bracket. Pull on the blue drain hoses to ensure
they are firmly connected.
10. Push down on the T‑handle until seated.
11. Turn off the bilge pump.
12. If the boat was drained in the water, open the seacock, if equipped, or unplug and
reconnect the water inlet hose prior to operating the engine.
IMPORTANT: The next time you start the engine, check the blue drain hoses for leaks.
Draining the Seawater Section of Models with Closed Cooling
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 cold weather. 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 reconnect the water inlet
hose before starting the engine.