Mercury 15 TwoStroke, Operation, Maintenance & Installation Manual

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Prestarting 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 the trapped water in the 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
.
If you keep your boat moored in the water, always tilt the outboard so the
gearcase is completely out of water (except in freezing temperatures) when not
in use.
Wash the outboard exterior and flush out the exhaust outlet of the propeller and
gearcase with fresh water after each use. Each month, spray Mercury Precision
or Quicksilver Corrosion Guard on external metal surfaces. Do not spray on
corrosion control anodes as this will reduce the effectiveness of the anodes.
OPERATION
40
eng