2 - G
ENERAL
I
NFORMATION
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Reduce speed and proceed with caution whenever you drive a boat in
shallow water areas, or in areas where you suspect underwater
obstacles may exist which could be struck by the sterndrive or the
boat bottom. The most important thing you can do to help reduce
injury or impact damage from striking a floating or underwater object
is to control the boat speed. Under these conditions, boat speed
should be kept to a minimum planing speed 24 to 40 km/h
(15 to 25 MPH).
45914
Striking a floating or underwater object could result in an infinite
number of situations. Some of these situations could result in the
following:
•
Part of the sterndrive or the entire sterndrive could break loose
and cause serious injury or damage to the boat.
•
The boat could move suddenly in a new direction. Such a sharp
change in direction can cause occupants to be thrown out of
their seats or out of the boat.
•
A rapid reduction in speed. This will cause occupants to be
thrown forward, or even out of the boat.
•
Impact damage to the sterndrive and/or boat.
Keep in mind, the most important thing you can do to help reduce
injury or impact damage during an impact is control the boat speed.
Boat speed should be kept to a minimum planing speed when driving
in waters known to have underwater obstacles.
!
WARNING
Operating a boat or engine with impact damage can result in
product damage, serious injury, or death. If the vessel experiences
any form of impact, have an authorized Mercury Marine dealer
inspect and repair the vessel or power package.
After striking a submerged object, stop the engine as soon as
possible and inspect it for any broken or loose parts. If damage is
present or suspected, the sterndrive should be taken to an authorized
dealer for a thorough inspection and necessary repair.
The boat should also be checked for any hull fractures, transom
fractures, or water leaks.
Operating a damaged sterndrive could cause additional damage to
other parts of the sterndrive, or could affect control of the boat. If
continued running is necessary, do so at greatly reduced speeds.
S
AFE
B
OATING
S
UGGESTIONS
In order to safely enjoy the waterways, familiarize yourself with local
and other governmental boating regulations and restrictions, and
consider the following suggestions.
Use flotation devices.
Have an approved personal flotation device of
suitable size for each person aboard (it is the law) and have it readily
accessible.
Do not overload your boat.
Most boats are rated and certified for
maximum load (weight) capacities (refer to your boat capacity plate).
If in doubt, contact your dealer or the boats manufacturer.
Perform safety checks and required maintenance
. Follow a
regular schedule and ensure that all repairs are properly made.
Summary of Contents for 1550 STERNDRIVE
Page 5: ...ii 90 8M0114812 JANUARY 2016 ...
Page 25: ...2 GENERAL INFORMATION NOTES 20 90 8M0114812 JANUARY 2016 ...
Page 39: ...4 OPERATION NOTES 34 90 8M0114812 JANUARY 2016 ...
Page 43: ...5 CONDITIONS AFFECTING OPERATION NOTES 38 90 8M0114812 JANUARY 2016 ...
Page 69: ...8 OWNER SERVICE ASSISTANCE NOTES 64 90 8M0114812 JANUARY 2016 ...
