Ran Out of Fuel Condition—Priming the Fuel System
In the event the engine is run out of fuel, the fuel system must be primed after
fuel supply is restored. The fuel supply module (FSM) is non‑vented and in
order to prime the system air must be purged while operating the fuel pumps.
IMPORTANT: Repeated key ON events without purging air can damage the
fuel pumps and is not effective in priming the fuel system.
The objective is to purge the air entrained in the fuel system through the fuel
injectors during engine cranking to allow fuel to enter the fuel module.
1. If possible, bring the engine to a vertical or close to vertical trim position.
2. Verify the vessel fuel supply line is connected to the outboard fuel system
inlet fitting.
3. Turn the ignition key
ON
. The fuel pumps will run for approximately five
seconds.
4. Turn the ignition key to the
START
position and release the key. The
ECM controls the activation of the starter. The starter may continue
cranking for up to eight seconds.
NOTE: When priming the fuel system following a fuel runout, residual fuel may
cause the engine to flare and stall which shortens the engine cranking event.
5. Continue with the ignition key
ON
and
START
sequence until the engine
continues to run.
IMPORTANT: Allow the starter motor to cool for 20 to 30 seconds between full
eight second crank events. Limit the number of events to a maximum of 15 full
eight second cranking events.
6. Once the engine starts, it may initially run rough at idle while the residual
air is purged from the fuel system.
7. If the fuel system will not prime within 15 full eight second cranking
events, contact an authorized Mercury Marine dealer to prime the fuel
system with a fuel rail purge line.
Starting the Engine
Before starting, read the
Prestarting Check List
, special operating
instructions,
Engine Break
‑
in Procedure
,
Gear Shifting
in this section, and
the remote control features and operation in the
Features and Controls
section.
NOTICE
Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other
components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide a sufficient supply of
water to the water inlets during operation.
1. Check the engine oil level. Refer to
Maintenance
‑
Checking Engine Oil
Level
.
OPERATION
eng
63