MerCruiser Sterndrive 4.3L TKS, Owner'S Manual

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Section 5 - Maintenance
90-860171061 DECEMBER 2006 Page 85
5. Remove the seawater inlet hose from the seawater pump and plug the hose to prevent
water from siphoning into the engine or boat.
6147
6. Using a suitable adapter, connect the flushing hose from the water source to the water
inlet of the seawater pump.
!
CAUTION
Overheating from insufficient cooling water will cause engine and drive system damage.
Ensure that there is sufficient water always available at water inlet holes during operation.
7. With sterndrive unit in normal operating position, open the water source fully.
8. Place the remote control in neutral idle speed position and start engine.
!
CAUTION
Avoid engine damage from overheating. If the engine is operated above 1500 RPM
during flushing, suction created by the seawater pickup pump may collapse the flushing
water hose causing the engine to overheat.
9. Slowly advance throttle until engine reaches 1300 RPM (+/‑100 RPM).
!
CAUTION
Engine overheating can cause engine damage. To avoid, observe the water temperature
gauge and ensure that the engine is operating in the normal range.
10. Observe the water temperature gauge to ensure that the engine is operating in the
normal range.
11. Operate engine with sterndrive in neutral for about 10 minutes or until discharge water
is clear.
12. Slowly return throttle to idle speed position.
13. Stop engine.
14. Shut off the water and remove flushing attachments.
15.
If the boat is out of the water:
Install the water inlet hose to the aft side of the seawater
pump. Tighten the hose clamp securely.
16.
If the boat is in the water:
Tag the ignition switch with an appropriate tag requiring
the seawater inlet hose to be reconnected prior to operating engine.
Battery
Refer to specific instructions and warnings accompanying your battery. If this information
is not available, observe the following precautions when handling a battery.