Section 5 - Maintenance
Page 74
90-899883273 MARCH 2008
Replacing
IMPORTANT: If reusing a belt, install it in the same direction of rotation as before.
The belt tensioner operates within the limits of movement provided by the cast stops when
the belt length and geometry are correct. If the tensioner contacts either of the cast stops
during operation, check the mounting brackets and the belt length. Loose brackets, bracket
failure, accessory drive component movement, incorrect belt length, or belt failure can
cause the tensioner to contact the cast stops. See your authorized MerCruiser dealer for
service if these conditions exist.
!
CAUTION
Rapid release of the belt tensioner, or allowing the tensioner to snap back quickly, could
cause injury or product damage. Relieve the spring tension slowly.
1. Use a breaker bar and appropriate socket to relieve the tensioner. Rotate the tensioner
away from belt until it stops.
2. Remove the belt from the idler pulley and slowly relieve the tension on the breaker bar.
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3. Remove the belt and route the replacement belt according to the belt routing diagram.
4. Carefully release the tensioner and ensure that the belt stays properly positioned.
5. Use moderate thumb pressure on the belt at the location that has the longest distance
between two pulleys.
Description
Deflection
13 mm (1/2 in.)
Flushing the Seawater System—Inboard Models
The Boat out of the Water—Inboard Models
IMPORTANT: Flushing the power package is most effective when performed with the boat
out of the water.
IMPORTANT: We recommend flushing after each outing in salty, brackish, mineral‑laden,
or polluted water and before cold weather and extended storage.
!
WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the
water with a propeller installed. Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive
unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the engine from starting.
Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the anti‑ventilation plate.
Summary of Contents for 8.1 H.O.
Page 8: ...Page iv 90 899883273 MARCH 2008 ...
Page 26: ...Section 1 Warranty Notes Page 18 90 899883273 MARCH 2008 ...
Page 64: ...Section 4 Specifications Notes Page 56 90 899883273 MARCH 2008 ...
Page 96: ...Section 6 Storage Notes Page 88 90 899883273 MARCH 2008 ...
Page 102: ...Section 7 Troubleshooting Notes Page 94 90 899883273 MARCH 2008 ...