MerCruiser Axius SeaCore 350 MAG, User Manual

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Section 3 - On the Water
90-899883169 DECEMBER 2007 Page 57
If full‑throttle operation is below the recommended range, the propeller must be changed
to prevent loss of performance and possible engine damage. On the other hand, operating
an engine above the recommended operating RPM range will cause higher than normal
wear and damage.
After initial propeller selection, the following common problems may require that the
propeller be changed to a lower pitch.
• Warmer weather and greater humidity cause a loss of RPM.
• Operating in a higher elevation causes a loss of RPM.
• Operating with a dirty boat bottom causes a loss of RPM.
• Operating with increased load (additional passengers, pulling skiers) causes a loss of
RPM.
For better acceleration, such as is needed for water skiing, use the next lower pitch
propeller. When not pulling skiers, do not operate at full throttle when using the lower pitch
propeller.
Getting Started
20‑Hour Break‑In Period
IMPORTANT: The first 20 hours of operation is the engine break‑in period. Correct break‑in
is essential to obtain minimum oil consumption and maximum engine performance. During
this break‑in period, the following rules must be observed:
• Do not operate below 1500 RPM for extended periods of time for the first 10 hours.
Shift into gear as soon as possible after starting and advance the throttle above 1500
rpm
if conditions permit safe operation
.
• Do not operate at one speed consistently for extended periods.
• Do not exceed 3/4 throttle during the first 10 hours. During the next 10 hours, occasional
operation at full throttle is permissible (5 minutes at a time maximum).
• Avoid full throttle acceleration from idle speed.
• Do not operate at full throttle until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.
• Frequently check engine oil level. Add oil as needed. It is normal for oil consumption
to be high during the break‑in period.
After the Break‑In Period
To help extend the life of your Mercury MerCruiser power package, follow these
recommendations:
• Ensure that propeller allows the engine to operate at or near the top of the specified
wide‑open‑throttle(WOT) RPM range. Refer to
Specifications
and
Maintenance
.
• Operate the engine at 3/4 throttle or lower. Refrain from prolonged operation at WOT
RPM.
• Change the engine oil and oil filter. Refer to
Maintenance
.
End of First Season Checkup
At the end of the first season of operation, contact an authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer
to discuss and/or perform scheduled maintenance items. If you are in an area where the
product is operated continuously, year‑round, you should contact your dealer at the end of
the first 100 hours of operation or once yearly, whichever occurs first.