Mercury 15 E, Manual

Page: 77 / 127

OPERATION
67
Pre‑Starting Check List
• Operator knows safe navigation, boating, and operating
procedures.
• An approved personal flotation device of suitable size for each
person aboard and readily accessible (it is the law).
• A ring type life buoy or buoyant cushion designed to be thrown
to a person in the water.
• Know your boats' maximum load capacity. Look at the boat
capacity plate.
• Fuel supply OK.
• Arrange passengers and load in the boat so the weight is
distributed evenly and everyone is seated in a proper seat.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to
return.
• It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
• Know the waters and area you will be boating; tides,
currents, sand bars, rocks, and other hazards.
• Make inspection checks listed in Maintenance ‑ Inspection
and Maintenance Schedule.
Operating in Freezing Temperatures
When using your outboard or having your outboard moored in
freezing or near freezing temperatures, keep the outboard tilted
down at all times so the gearcase is submerged. This prevents
trapped water in gearcase from freezing and causing possible
damage to the water pump and other components.
If there is a chance of ice forming on the water, the outboard should
be removed and drained completely of water. If ice should form at
the water level inside the outboard driveshaft housing, it will block
water flow to the engine causing possible damage.
Operating in Saltwater or Polluted Water
We recommend that you flush the internal water passages of your
outboard with fresh water after each use in salt or polluted water.
This will prevent a buildup of deposits from clogging the water
passages. Refer to Maintenance ‑ Flushing the Cooling System.