MerCruiser 350 Magnum MPI, Operation & Maintenance Manual

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CC97
Starting, Shifting And Stopping
! WARNING
Before starting engine, operate bilge blower for at least five minutes to remove any explosive fumes from
engine compartment. If boat is not equipped with a bilge blower, open engine hatch and leave open while
starting engine.
IMPORTANT: Observe the following:
•
Do not start engine without water being supplied to seawater pickup pump (to prevent pump or engine
damage).
•
Do not operate starter motor continuously for more than 30 seconds.
•
Never shift unit unless engine is at Idle RPM.
Perform the following as appropriate:
1
Check all items listed in OPERATION CHART.
2
Perform any other necessary checks, as indicated by your dealer, or specified in your boat owner’s manual.
3
Place control handle in NEUTRAL.
FLOODED ENGINE - Turn ignition switch to ON position. Place the throttle lever at 50% position. Attempt to start
engine. As soon as engine starts, return throttle to the idle position.
4
Turn ignition key to START. Release key when engine starts and allow switch to return to RUN position.
5
Check oil pressure gauge immediately after engine starts. If oil pressure is not within specified range (see
SPECIFICATIONS), stop engine immediately and determine cause.
6
After engine has warmed up, check water temperature gauge to ensure that engine temperature is not abnor-
mally high. If it is, stop engine immediately and determine cause.
7
Be sure charging system is functioning correctly.
8
Observe power package for fuel, oil, water and exhaust leaks.
9
To shift unit into gear, move control/shift lever with a firm, quick motion forward to shift to FORWARD gear, or
backward to shift to REVERSE. After shifting unit, advance throttle to desired setting.
10
To shift unit out of gear, move control/shift lever to NEUTRAL and allow engine to drop to IDLE speed. If engine
has been run at high speed for a long period of time, allow engine to cool by running at IDLE speed for 3 to 5 min-
utes.
11
Turn ignition key to OFF.