
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.
Check steering for free operation.
Check for debris around the rudder and reverse gate which may jam or
hinder operation.
Before launching, examine the jet drive water intake for obstructions
which may prevent pumping of water.
Ensure the driveshaft bearing on the jet drive is lubricated.
OPERATING IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES
If there is a chance of ice forming on the water, the jet drive 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. Do not start the engine until the ice is clear.
OPERATING IN SALTWATER OR POLLUTED WATER
If the boat is kept moored in the water, always tilt the outboard so the water
intake is completely out of the water (except in freezing temperatures) when not
in use.
Wash down the outboard exterior and flush out the exhaust outlet of the jet
drive with fresh water after each use. Each month, spray Mercury Precision or
Quicksilver Corrosion Guard on external metal surfaces.
NOTE: Do not spray on corrosion control anodes as this will reduce the
effectiveness of the anodes.
OPERATING IN SHALLOW WATER
The life of the impeller and water intake can be greatly increased by avoiding
the intake of sand and gravel. The intake suction will act like a dredge when the
water intake comes close to the bottom. It is better to stop the engine and drift
up to shore when landing, and to shove off with an oar when leaving. The
engine can idle through areas of water less than 61 cm (2 ft) deep, but there
should be more than 61 cm (2 ft) of water under the boat when increasing
speed to reach full plane.
Once the boat is on plane, the boat speed will prevent the ingestion of gravel
and other debris from the bottom. The suction is still present, but the water
intake passes too quickly over the bottom to allow debris to be drawn into the
water intake.
OPERATION
eng
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