MerCruiser 8.1 H.O., User Manual

Page: 84 / 106

Section 5 - Maintenance
Page 76 90-899883273 MARCH 2008
3. Using a suitable adapter, connect the flushing hose from the water source to the water
inlet of the seawater pump.
NOTICE
Flushing the engine when it is not operating will result in water collecting in the exhaust
system, damaging the engine. Do not supply flush water for more than 15 seconds without
the engine operating.
4. Completely open the water source to provide maximum water supply.
5. Place the remote control in the neutral idle speed position.
6. Immediately start the engine.
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 the engine with the transmission in neutral for a minimum of 10 minutes.
10.
For power packages operated in salty, brackish, mineral‑laden, or polluted water:
Continue to operate the engine until the discharge water is clear.
11. Slowly return the throttle to idle speed position.
12. Stop the engine.
13. Immediately shut off the supply water and remove the flushing attachment.
14. Tag the ignition switch with an appropriate tag requiring the seacock to be opened or
the seawater inlet hose to be reconnected prior to operating the engine.