Mercury MerCruiser Series, Manual

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4. Remove the strainer, drain plug, and sealing washer.
5. Clean any debris from the strainer housing.
6. Flush both the strainer and housing with clean water.
7. Inspect the cover gasket and replace if damaged.
Typical seawater strainer
a - Screws and washers
b - Cover with glass
c - Strainer
d - Housing
e - Drain plug and sealing washer
f - Seal
8. Install the strainer basket, drain plug, and sealing washer.
9. Assemble the cover.
10. Tighten the cover screws. Do not overtighten.
11. Open the seacock.
12. Start the engine and check for leaks. Repair as necessary.
Flushing the Seawater System
Flushing the seawater system with fresh water is needed only for applications operating in saltwater, brackish water, polluted
water, or water with a high mineral content to avoid salt or silt buildup. For best results we recommend flushing the seawater
system after each outing. After each operation in saltwater and before storage, the seawater cooling system must be flushed.
NOTE: An engine flushing attachment accessory kit P/N 8M0117941 is available to provide easy and convenient flushing of the
seawater cooling system.
With the Boat Out of the Water
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.
!
WARNING
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed.
Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the
engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the anti‑ventilation plate.
1. Remove the propeller. Refer to the boat manufacturer's instructions.
2. Disconnect the seawater inlet hose from between the strainer and the seawater pump.
a
b
c
d
e
f
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Section 5 - Maintenance
90-8M0117076
eng
FEBRUARY 2018 Page 65