GASOLINE ENGINE 8.1 S INBOARD MODELS
Page 53 of 58
Cold Weather and Extended Storage Draining
NOTE: If recommended coolant is unavailable, any type of ethylene glycol based antifreeze
may be used, but it will require replacement every two years.
IMPORTANT: Drain seawater section of closed cooling system only.
IMPORTANT: Boat must be as level as possible to ensure complete draining of
cooling system.
CAUTION
Seawater section of cooling system MUST BE COMPLETELY drained for winter
storage or immediately after cold weather use if the possibility of freezing
temperatures exist. Failure to comply may result in trapped water causing freeze
and/or corrosion damage to engine. Damage caused by freezing IS NOT covered by
the Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.
CAUTION
If engine will be exposed to freezing temperatures, ensure closed cooling section
is filled with an ethylene glycol antifreeze and water solution properly mixed to pro-
tect engine to lowest temperature to which it will be exposed.
IMPORTANT: Closed cooling section must be kept filled year-round with
recommended coolant.
IMPORTANT: Do not use Propylene Glycol Antifreeze in the closed cooling section
of the engine.
CAUTION
Ensure that boat is out of the water or seacock is closed and that bilge pump is oper-
ating. Excess water in the bilge can damage engine or cause boat to sink.
SINGLE POINT DRAIN SYSTEM
CAUTION
Freeze damage can occur if operating where temperatures are below 32
°
F. Use
Manual Drain System to ensure heat exchanger is completely drained.
NOTE: This procedure is written for the air pump that is attached to the engine. However,
any air source can be used.
1. Remove air pump from engine.
2. Ensure that lever on top of pump is flush with the handle (horizontal).
