Section 6 - Storage
Page 70
90-8M0099741
eng
JUNE 2015
Cold Weather or Extended Storage
Reformulated (Oxygenated) Gasolines (U.S.A. Only)
This type of gasoline is required throughout most of the U.S.A. There are two types of oxygenates used in fuels: alcohol
(ethanol) or ether (MTBE or ETBE). Gasoline containing ethanol is especially subject to absorbing atmospheric moisture,
forming gums or solids, or it may separate into a layer of fuel floating on top of a layer of water and alcohol. To reduce the
potential for separation, storage should be in containers that prevent oxidation or water vapors mixing. If ethanol is used in the
gasoline in your area, refer to
Fuel Containing Alcohol
.
Fuels for your Mercury Marine engine may contain up to 10% of ethanol or ether.
Fuel Containing Alcohol
Fuels containing either methanol (methyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) may cause certain adverse effects. These adverse
effects are more severe with methanol. Increasing the percentage of alcohol in the fuel can also worsen these adverse effects.
Some of these adverse effects are caused because the alcohol in the gasoline can absorb moisture from the air, resulting in a
separation (phase) of the water/alcohol from the gasoline in the fuel tank.
The fuel system components on your Mercury Marine 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 boat's 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
Fuel leakage is a fire or explosion hazard, which can cause serious injury or death. Periodically inspect all fuel system
components for leaks, softening, hardening, swelling, or corrosion, particularly after storage. Any sign of leakage or
deterioration requires replacement before further engine operation.
Because of possible adverse effects of alcohol in gasoline, only alcohol‑free gasoline should be used. 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 Mercury Marine 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 problems. Conversely, boats may not be used
for days, weeks, or months, 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.
IMPORTANT: Mercury MerCruiser strongly recommends that this service should be performed by an authorized Mercury
MerCruiser dealer. Damage caused by freezing temperatures is not covered by the Mercury MerCruiser Limited Warranty.
NOTICE
Water trapped in the seawater section of the cooling system can cause corrosion or freeze damage. Drain the seawater
section of the cooling system immediately after operation or before any length of storage in freezing temperatures. If the boat
is in the water, keep the seacock closed until restarting the engine to prevent water from flowing back into the cooling system.
If the boat is not fitted with a seacock, leave the water inlet hose disconnected and plugged.
NOTE: As a precautionary measure, attach a tag to the key switch or steering wheel of the boat reminding the operator to open
the seacock or unplug and reconnect the water inlet hose before starting the engine.
IMPORTANT: Mercury MerCruiser requires that propylene glycol antifreeze, mixed to the manufacturer's instructions, be used
in the seawater section of the cooling system for freezing temperatures or extended storage. Ensure that the propylene glycol
antifreeze contains a rust inhibitor and is recommended for use in marine engines. Be certain to follow the propylene glycol
manufacturer's recommendations.
Preparing Power Package for Storage—MPI Models
Multipoint fuel injection (MPI) systems must have a special mix of fuel, stabilizer, and lubricant, completely fill the fuel delivery
system. This fuel mix stabilizes the fuel and lubricates the fuel pumps, fuel pressure regulator, fuel injectors and, reduces
internal oxidation of the fuel system metal components.
IMPORTANT: This special fuel mix can be used on Mercury Marine catalyzed gasoline engines.
