Section 3 - Troubleshooting
Page 36
90-8M0093150
eng
MAY 2014
Check VesselView First
Your VesselView display is the primary information source for the various functions of your boat. Consult the VesselView
display if you suspect something is wrong. VesselView displays faults and other information that can be helpful in determining
the current status of various systems that could be causing your concern and the solution to the problem.
Diagnosing DTS Problems
Your authorized Mercury Mariner dealer has the proper service tools for diagnosing problems on digital throttle and shift (DTS)
systems. The electronic control module (ECM)/propulsion control module (PCM) on these engines has the ability to detect
problems with the system when they occur and store a trouble code in the memory of the control module. This code can then
be read by a service technician using a special diagnostic tool.
Engine Guardian System
The Engine Guardian system monitors the engine sensors for any early indications of problems. The system will respond to a
problem by emitting a warning horn and/or reducing engine power in order to provide engine protection.
If the guardian system has been activated, reduce throttle speed. The horn will turn off when throttle speed is within the
allowable limit. Consult an authorized Mercury Marine dealer for assistance.
Troubleshooting Charts
Joystick
Symptom
Remedy
The joystick does not control the boat.
One or both ERC levers are not in neutral. Place the ERC levers into neutral
position.
Verify that at least two engines (one port and one starboard; refer to the NOTE,
following) are running. Start the engine or engines.
Response to joystick input is erratic, or the
joystick operates independent of input.
Ensure that there are no radios or other sources of electronic or magnetic
interference near the joystick.
The joystick does not function properly and a
fault code is set.
Check VesselView for Engine Guardian fault codes that indicate reduced engine
power. If any are found, have the system checked by your authorized Mercury
Marine dealer.
The joystick operates erratically.
Check trim position. Trim the engines down.
The joystick operates too aggressively.
Activate dock mode. This will reduce the available power by 30%.
NOTE: In order for the joystick to control the boat, at least two engines must be running. For triple‑engine applications, these
must be the two outer engines. For quad‑engine applications, any combination of one port and one starboard engine will work
(i.e., both outer engines, both inner engines, the port inner and starboard outer, or the port outer and the starboard inner).
Electronic Remote Controls
Symptom
Remedy
The ERC lever is too hard or too easy to move out of the
neutral detent.
Adjust the detent tension.
The ERC lever has too much or too little resistance through
its range of motion.
Adjust the handle tension screw.
The ERC lever increases engine RPM, but the engines do
not engage gears and the boat does not move.
Check the throttle‑only button on the DTS trackpad. If the light is
on, put the ERC levers in neutral and push the button to
disengage.
Turn off all engine key switches. Then turn them back on.
Check VesselView for fault codes or popup warnings. Expand the
fault code text to see if a course of action is required.
Contact your authorized Mercury Marine dealer.
