Mercury V-6 series, User Manual

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The fuel system components on your MerCruiser engine will
withstand up to 10% alcohol content in the gasoline. We do not know
what percentage your boat’s fuel system will withstand. Contact your
boat manufacturer for specific recommendations on the boats fuel
system components (fuel tanks, fuel lines, and fittings). Be aware
that gasolines containing alcohol may cause increased:
•
Corrosion of metal parts.
•
Deterioration of rubber or plastic parts.
•
Fuel permeation through rubber fuel lines.
•
Starting and operating difficulties.
WARNING
FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD: Fuel leakage from any part
of fuel system can be a fire and explosion hazard which can
cause serious bodily injury or death. Careful periodic inspec-
tion of entire fuel system is mandatory, particularly after stor-
age. All fuel components including fuel tanks, whether plastic
metal or fiberglass, fuel lines, fittings, fuel filters and carbure-
tors/fuel injection components should be inspected for leak-
age, softening, hardening, swelling or corrosion. Any sign of
leakage or deterioration requires replacement before further
engine operation.
Because of possible adverse effects of alcohol in gasoline, it is
recommended that only alcohol-free gasoline be used where
possible. If only fuel containing alcohol is available, or if the presence
of alcohol is unknown, increased inspection frequency for leaks and
abnormalities is required.
IMPORTANT: When operating a MerCruiser engine on gasoline
containing alcohol, storage of gasoline in the fuel tank for long
periods should be avoided. Long periods of storage, common
to boats, create unique problems. In cars alcohol-blend fuels
normally are consumed before they can absorb enough
moisture to cause trouble, but boats often sit idle long enough
for phase separation to take place. In addition, internal
corrosion may take place during storage if alcohol has washed
protective oil films from internal components.