Force 75, 90, 120 Installation Manual

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FORCE 75/90/120 MODELS INSTALLATION MANUAL

NOTICE to INSTALLER

After Completing Installation, These Instructions Should Be Placed with the Product for the Owner’s Future Use.

75/90/120 Model

This installation manual provides outboard installation procedure, proper setup and necessary adjustments. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND THOROUGHLY BEFORE BEGINNING INSTALLATION.

The remote control connected to your outboard MUST be equipped with a start-in-gear protection device. This p r events the engine from starting when the outboard is in gear.

1998 Mercury Marine The following are registered trademarks of Brunswick Corporation: Autoblend, Force, Jet-Prop, Mariner, Merc, MerCathode, MerCruiser, Mercury, Mercury Marine, Quicksilver, Ride-Guide, Sport-Jet, and Thruster.

Table of Contents

Page

Notice to Installer and Owner 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Selecting Steering Cables and

Remote Control Cables 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing Outboard on Transom 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Determining Recommended

Outboard Mounting Height 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Locating Centerline of Boat Transom 2. . . . . . .

Drilling Outboard Mounting Holes 3. . . . . . . . . .

Lifting Outboard 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Securing Outboard to Boat Transom 3. . . . . . . .

Ride Guide Steering Cable/Attaching

Kit Installation 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing Ride Guide Steering

Cable To The Outboard 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Steering Link Rod Installation 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lubrication 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Remote Control Installation 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shift and Throttle Cable

Installation to the Outboard 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shift Cable Installation 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Throttle Cable Installation 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fuel Line Installation 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fuel Line 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Portable Fuel Tank 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Permanent Fuel Tank 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Required Side Mount Remote Control

or Ignition Key Switch Assembly 8. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Boats Equipped with Side Mount

Remote Control 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Boats equipped with Panel

or Console Mount Remote Control 8. . . . . . .

Connecting Remote Control or Key Switch Wire

Harness to Engine Wire Harness 8. . . . . . . . . . . .

Battery Connections 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Propeller Selection 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Propeller Installation 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Power Trim System 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General Information 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Power Trim Operation 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Trim “In” Angle Adjustment

(Models With Power Trim) 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking Power Trim Fluid Level 11. . . . . . . . .

Tilt Pin Adjustment

(Models Without Power Trim) 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Trim Tab Adjustment 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Boat Performance 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Test Instructions 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

90-826881990 398- 1 -Printed in U.S.A.

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Notice to Installer and Owner

Installing Outboard on

This manual as well as safety labels posted on the outboard use the following safety alerts to draw your attention to special safety instructions that should be followed.

DANGER

DANGER - Immediate hazards which WILL result in severe personal injury or death.

WARNING

WARNING - Hazards or unsafe practices which COULD result in severe personal injury or death.

CAUTION

CAUTION - Hazards or unsafe practices which could result in minor personal injury or product or property damage.

WARNING

DO NOT OVERPOWER - Most boats are rated and certified for the maximum horsepower capabilities of the boat. Refer to the boat’s “Certification Plate” for the maximum horsepower limit or, if in doubt, contact your dealer or boat manufacturer.

Transom

Determining Recommended Outboard Mounting Height

Long drive shaft housing models are designed to operate on boats that have a 20 inch transom (51 cm). X-Long drive shaft housing models are designed to operate on boats that have a 25 inch transom (64 cm). For best all-around boating performance, it is recommended that the outboard be mounted with the anti-ventilation plate flush with the boat bottom.

U.S. COAST GUARD CAPACITY

MAXIMUM HORSEPOWER XXX MAXIMUM PERSON

CAPACITY (POUNDS) XXX MAXIMUM WEIGHT

CAPACITY XXX

Selecting Steering Cables and Remote Control Cables

Refer to “Quicksilver Accessories Guide” to determine correct length of steering cables and remote control cables.

IMPORTANT: Steering cables and remote control cables must be the correct length. Sharp bends on too-short cables result in “kinks;” too-long cables require unnecessary bends and/or loops. Both conditions place extra stress on the cables.

Locating Centerline of Boat Transom

Locate (and mark with pencil) vertical centerline (a) of boat transom.

a - Centerline of Transom

NOTE: Dimensions “A” = “B” and “C” = “D”.

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Drilling Outboard Mounting Holes

Lifting Outboard

IMPORT ANT: Before drilling any mounting holes, carefully read “Determining Recommended Outboard Mounting Height,” preceding. There is a 3/4 in. (19 mm) difference between outboard mounting holes in transom brackets.

WARNING

DO NOT, under any circumstances, allow upper outboard mounting bolts to be closer than 1 in. (25.4 mm) from top of boat transom. Upper mounting bolts must never be installed thru shims.

NOTE: When drilling into a fiberglass boat, place

masking tape directly onto boat where mounting holes will be drilled to help prevent fiberglass from chipping.

IMPORTANT: When using “Transom Drilling Fixture” (part number 91-98234A2), use drill guide holes marked “A” when drilling outboard mounting holes.

WARNING

Make sure lifting ring is threaded on flywheel a minimum of 5 turns and that hoist has a maximum lift capacity over 500 lbs. (227 kg) BEFORE lifting outboard.

Remove top cowl from outboard. Thread lifting ring (a) on flywheel a minimum of 5 turns.

a - Lifting Ring (91-90455)

a - Centerline of Transom b - Transom Drilling Fixture (91-98234A2)

1. Use a 17/32 in. (13.5 mm) diameter drill bit to drill 4 mounting holes perpendicular to and thru transom.

Connect hoist [maximum lifting capacity over 500 lbs. (227 kg)] to lifting ring and lift outboard onto boat transom.

Securing Outboard to Boat Transom

IMPORT ANT: I f boat is equipped with thru tilt tube steering, steering cable end must be installed into tilt tube of outboard before securing outboard to transom. Refer to “Steering Cable and Steering Link Rod Installation” following.

Position outboard on boat transom to align mounting holes in transom brackets with those drilled in boat that will place the outboard at the recommended mounting height (refer to “Determining Recommended Outboard Mounting Height,” preceding).

CAUTION

Marine sealer must be used on shanks of mounting bolts (not threads) to make a water-tight installation.

IMPORT ANT: DO NOT use an impact driver when tightening transom mounting bolts.

Apply marine sealer to shanks of mounting bolts (not threads). Secure outboard to transom using four (4) bolts, flat washers and locknuts, as shown. Be sure installation is water-tight.

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WARNING

Before operating, outboard(s) MUST BE SECURED to boat transom with four 1/2 in. diameter bolts, flat washers and locknuts (supplied) as follows: two (2) bolts must be installed thru upper mounting holes and two (2) bolts thru lower mounting holes. Installation must be water-tight and outboard should be checked for tightness on transom during operation. Failure to bolt outboard to transom as described may result in damage to the boat and/or loss of outboard and possible injury to occupants of boat.

Installing Ride Guide Steering Cable To The Outboard

IMPORTANT: Before installing steering cable in tilt tube, lubricate entire cable end with Quicksilver 2-4-C Marine Lubricant.

NOTE: Ride Guide steering cable is lubricated at the

factory and requires no additional lubrication at initial installation.

1. Lubricate seal (a) inside of outboard tilt tube and entire cable end (b) with Quicksilver 2-4-C Marine Lubricant.

2. Insert steering cable end thru outboard tilt tube and secure steering cable to tilt tube with steering cable attaching nut (c), as shown. Torque nut to 35 lb. ft. (47.5 N·m).

a - 1/2 Inch Diameter Bolts b - Flat Washers c - Locknuts d - Marine Sealer

Ride Guide Steering Cable/ Attaching Kit Installation

NOTE: These instructions are for single cable-single

outboard installations. Instructions for mounting dual engines are included with the applicable dual engine attaching kit. Refer to “Quicksilver Accessories Guide” to determine correct kit.

Refer to “Quicksilver Accessories Guide” to determine correct length of steering cable.

IMPORTANT: Steering cable must be correct length. Sharp bends on too-short of a cable result in “kinks;” too-long of a cable requires unnecessary bends and/or loops. Both conditions place extra stress on the cable.

Install steering mount and steering wheel in accordance with installation instructions that accompany each.

Steering Link Rod Installation

IMPORTANT: The steering link rod that connects the steering cable to the engine must be fastened using special washer head bolt (“a” – Part Number 10-14000) and self locking nuts (“b” & “c” – Part Number 11-34863). These locknuts must never be replaced with common nuts (non locking) as they will work loose and vibrate off freeing the link rod to disengage.

IMPORTANT: Disengagement of a steering link rod can result in the boat taking a full, sudden, sharp turn. This potentially violent action can cause occupants to be thrown overboard exposing them to serious injury or death.

3. Assemble steering link rod to steering cable with two flat washers (d) and nylon insert locknut (“b” – Part Number 1 1-34863). T ighten locknut (b) until it seats, then back nut off 1/4 turn.

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4. Assemble steering link rod to engine with special washer head bolt (“a” – Part Number 10-14000) and nylon insert locknut (“c” – Part Number 11-34863). First torque bolt (a) to 20 lb. ft. (27.1 N·m), then torque locknut (c) to 20 lb. ft. (27.1 N·m). Install access hole plug in bottom cowl.

a - Head Bolt b - Locknut c - Nylon Insert Locknut d - Flat Washers e - Access Hole Plug f - Access Hole (located in bottom cowl)

Remote Control Installation

Refer to “Quicksilver Accessories Guide” to determine correct length of remote control cables.

IMPORT ANT: R e m ote control cables must be correct length. Sharp bends on too-short cables result in “kinks;” too-long cables require unnecessary bends and/or loops. Both conditions place extra stress on the cables.

IMPORTANT: Install control cables to remote control and mount remote control BEFORE attaching control cables to engine. Refer to installation instructions included with remote control.

WARNING

After installation is complete (and before operating outboard), check that boat will turn right when steering wheel is turned right and that boat will turn left when steering wheel is turned left. Check steering thru full range (left and right) and at all tilt angles to assure interference-free movement.

Lubrication

Lubrication and maintenance inspection of the steering system is the owners responsibility. I t must be performed every 60 days in fresh water or 30 days in salt water.

Refer to operators manual for correct lubrication and maintenance procedure.

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Shift and Throttle Cable Installation to the Outboard

Install the shift cable and throttle cable into the remote control and mount the remote control following instructions which are provided with remote control.

NOTE: Install the shift cable before the throttle cable. The shift cable is the first cable to move when the remote control handle is actuated.

Shift Cable Installation

1. Position the remote control handle into neutral detent.

2. Manually shift engine (move shift actuator “a”) into neutral position. The propeller shaft can rotate in either direction.

3. Slide shift actuator (a) toward the rear of engine (reverse gear) until resistance is felt. Measure the distance between mounting stud and barrel retainer. Push the cable end in (towards cable barrel) until resistance is felt. Adjust the cable barrel to obtain the proper distance.

4. Place the s h ift cable barrel into the barrel retainer and the cable end on the cable mounting stud. Fasten shift cable to the mounting stud with nylon washer (e) and locknut (d). Tighten locknut against the nylon washer, then back-off the locknut 1/4 turn. Lock cable barrel (c) in barrel retainer (b) with retainer latch (f).

5. Check shift cable adjustments as follows: a. With remote control in forward the propshaft

should lock solidly in gear. If it does not, adjust the cable barrel closer to the cable end guide.

b. Shift remote control into neutral. The prop-

shaft should turn freely without drag. If not, adjust the barrel away from the cable end guide. Repeat steps a and b.

c. Shift remote control into reverse while turning

propeller. The propshaft should lock solidly in gear. If not, adjust the barrel away from the cable end guide. Repeat steps a thru c.

d. Return remote control handle to neutral. The

propeller should turn freely without drag. If not, adjust the barrel closer to the cable end guide. Repeat steps a thru d.

a - Shift Actuator b - Barrel Retainer c - Cable Barrel d - Locknut e - Nylon Washer f - Barrel Retainer Latch

Throttle Cable Installation

NOTE: Attach SHIFT CABLE to engine prior to at-

taching THROTTLE CABLE.

1. Position remote control handle in neutral detent.

2. Position engine throttle lever against idle stop.

3. Measure distance between throttle barrel retainer (a) and throttle actuator stud (b) (center-to-center). Add 1/8 in. (3.18 mm) for preload.

4. Adjust cable barrel (c) to attain the same distance between barrel and hole in throttle cable end guide (center-to-center) as measured in step 3.

5. Place the throttle cable barrel into barrel retainer and the cable end on the cable mounting stud. Fasten throttle cable to the mounting stud with nylon washer (e) and locknut (d). Tighten locknut against the nylon washer, then back-off the lock nut 1/4 turn. Lock cable barrel (c) in barrel retainer (a) with retainer latch (g).

6. Check throttle cable adjustment as follows: a. Advance remote control to wide open throttle

and bring back to neutral.

b. Manually push tower shaft (f) towards idle

stop. If tower shaft moves toward stop, adjust cable barrel away from cable end guide. Repeat steps a and b.

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NOTE: There should be some preload on throttle

cable to ensure throttle will return to full idle when in neutral.

9. Install grommet in bottom cowl. Secure with retainer (e) and screws (d).

a - Barrel Retainer b - Throttle Cable Mounting Stud c - Cable Barrel d - Locknut e - Nylon Washer f - Throttle Shaft g - Barrel Retainer Latch

7. Route throttle cable through grommet opening (a).

Starboard

Bottom Cowl Grommet

a - Opening for Power Trim Wire Harness b - Opening for Throttle Cable c - Opening for Fuel Connector d - Screws e - Retainer

Fuel Line Installation

Fuel Line

Minimum fuel line inside diameter (I.D.) is 5/16 in. (8 mm) with separate fuel line/fuel tank pickup for each engine.

1. Install fuel line on fuel pump, secure with a stastrap (a).

8. Route power trim wire harness through grommet opening (b).

a - Sta-Strap b - Inlet Fuel Line

2. Insert fuel connector into bottom cowl grommet. Install bolt and tighten securely.

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Portable Fuel Tank

Connecting Remote Control

Select a suitable location in boat within engine fuel line length limitations and secure tank in place.

Permanent Fuel Tank

Permanent fuel tanks should be installed in accordance with industry and federal safety standards which include recommendations applicable to grounding, anti-siphon protection, ventilation, etc.

Required Side Mount Remote Control or Ignition Key Switch Assembly

Boats Equipped with Side Mount Remote Control

A Quicksilver Commander 2000 series Side Mount Remote Control equipped with a warning horn must be used with this outboard. This warning horn is necessary for the engine overheat warning system.

or Key Switch Wire Harness to Engine Wire Harness

1. Route remote control harness or key switch harness down side of boat to outboard, fastening harness to boat. Be sure harness does not rub, get pinched or come in contact with bilge water.

2. Route harness thru cowl. Plug remote harness connector into engine harness connector and secure in place with harness clamp.

3. If outboard is equipped with power trim, connect blue and green wires from remote harness to respective leads in engine harness (isolate brown/ white and tan wires as these are used for accessories).

a - Warning Horn

Boats equipped with Panel or Console Mount Remote Control

A Quicksilver Ignition Key/Choke Assembly equipped with a warning horn must be used with this engine. This warning horn is necessary for the engine overheat warning system.

a - Warning Horn

53759

a - Engine Harness Connector b - Power Trim Wires c - Harness Clamp

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4. Check that harness has enough slack to allow outboard to operate throughout its full steering and tilt ranges.

5. Place shift cable, battery cable, and remote control wire ha r ness in openings in grommet. Secure grommet in bottom cowl with retainer and screws.

For best all around performance from your outboard/ boat combination, select a propeller that allows the engine to operate in the upper half of the recommended full t h r o ttle RPM range with the boat normally loaded (refer to Specifications in the Operators Manual). This RPM range allows for better acceleration while maintaining maximum boat speed.

If changing conditions cause the RPM to drop below the recommended range (such as warmer, more humid weather, operation at higher elevations, increased boat load or a dirty boat bottom/gear case) this may require a propeller change or cleaning to maintain performance and ensure the outboard’s durability.

Check full-throttle RPM using an accurate tachometer with the engine trimmed out to a balanced steering condition (steering effort equal in both directions) without causing the propeller to “break loose.”

Port Bottom Cowl Grommet

a - Opening for Battery Cable b - Opening for Control Harness c - Opening for shift cable d - Retainer e - Screws

Battery Connections

CAUTION

Failure to observe correct polarity when connecting battery cables to battery will result in damage to the charging system.

Connect battery cables from engine to battery. Connect red battery cable to positive battery terminal and black battery cable to negative battery terminal.

(–)

(+)

Propeller Selection

Refer to “Quicksilver Accessory Guide” for a complete list of available propellers.

Propeller Installation

WARNING

When the propeller shaft is rotated and the engine is in gear, there is the possibility for the engine to crank over and start. T o prevent this type of accidental engine starting and possible serious injury caused from being struck by a rotating propeller, always set the remote control into neutral and remove spark plug leads when you are servicing the propeller.

CAUTION

If the propeller moves forward-and-aft on the propeller shaft (is loose), retighten the propeller nut. Operation with a loose propeller could cause damage to the thrust hub and gear housing during acceleration, deceleration or when shifting gears.

IMPORT ANT: To assure that the propeller remains secure on the shaft during the season, periodically check propeller locknut for tightness.

To prevent the propeller hub from corroding and seizing to the propeller shaft, especially in salt water, always apply a coat of Quicksilver Anti-Corrosion Grease to the entire shaft at recommended maintenance intervals and each time the propeller is removed.

1. Shift remote control into neutral position.

2. Remove leads from spark plugs to prevent engine from starting.

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3. Apply Quicksilver Anti-Corrosion Grease to entire shaft.

4. Install thrust washer (a), propeller (b), propeller nut retainer (c), and propeller nut (d) onto the shaft.

5. Place a block of wood between gear case and propeller and torque propeller locknut to 55 lb. ft. (75 N·m), aligning tabs of washer with flat grooves of propeller hub.

6. Secure propeller nut by bending three of the tabs into the thrust hub grooves.

a - Thrust Washer b - Propeller c - Propeller Nut Retainer d - Propeller Nut

IMPORTANT: Avoid possible serious injury or death. When the outboard is trimmed in or out beyond a neutral steering condition, a pull on the steering wheel or tiller handle in either direction may result. Failure to keep a continuous firm grip on the steering wheel or tiller handle when this condition exists can result in loss of boat control as the outboard can turn freely. The boat can now “spin out” or go into a very tight maximum turn which, if unexpected, can result in occupants being thrown within the boat or out of the boat.

Consider the following lists carefully.

TRIMMING IN OR DOWN CAN:

1. Lower the bow.

2. Result in quicker planing off, especially with a heavy load or a stern heavy boat.

3. Generally improve the ride in choppy water.

4. Increase steering torque or pull to the right (with the normal right hand rotation propeller).

5. In excess, lower the bow of some boats to a point where they begin to plow with their bow in the water while on plane. This can result in an unexpected turn in either direction called “bow steering” or “over steering” if any turn is attempted or if a significant wave is encountered.

Power Trim System

General Information

The power trim system is filled at the manufacturer and is ready for use.

Trim outboard through entire trim and tilt range several times to remove any air from the system.

The trim system is pressurized and is not externally vented.

Power Trim Operation

With most boats, operating around the middle of the “trim” range will give satisfactory results. However, to take full advantage of the trimming capability there may be times when you choose to trim your outboard all the way in or out. Along with an improvement in some performance aspects comes a greater responsibility for the operator, and this is being aware of some potential control hazards. The most significant control hazard is a pull or “torque” that can be felt on the steering wheel or tiller handle. This steering torque results from the outboard being trimmed so that the propeller shaft is not parallel to the water surface.

WARNING

Avoid possible serious injury or death. Adjust outboard to a n intermediate trim position as soon as boat is on plane to avoid possible ejection due to boat spin-out. Do not attempt to turn boat when on plane if outboard is trimmed extremely in or down and there is a pull on the steering wheel or tiller handle.

TRIMMING OUT OR UP CAN:

1. Lift the bow higher out of the water.

2. Generally increase top speed.

3. Increase clearance over submerged objects or a shallow bottom.

4. Increase steering torque or pull to the left at a normal installation height (with the normal right hand rotation propeller).

5. In excess, cause boat “porpoising” (bouncing) or propeller ventilation.

6. Cause engine overheating if any water intake holes are above the water line.

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Trim “In” Angle Adjustment (Models With Power Trim)

Some outboard boats, particularly some bass boats, are built with a greater than normal transom angle which will allow the outboard to be trimmed further “in” or “under”. This greater trim “under” capability is desirable to improve acceleration, reduce the angle and time spend in a bow high boat attitude during planing off, and in some cases, may be necessary to plane off a boat with aft live wells, given the variety of available propellers and height range of engine installations.

However, once on plane, the engine should be trimmed to a more intermediate position to a avoid a bow-down planing condition called “plowing”. Plowing can cause “bow steering” or “over steering” and inefficiently consumes horsepower. In this condition, if attempting a turn or encountering a diagonal, moderate wake, a more abrupt turn than intended may result.

In rare circumstances, the owner may decide to limit the trim under. This can be accomplished by purchasing a stainless steel tilt pin (P/N 17-49930A1) and inserting it through whatever pin hole is desired. The non-stainless steel shipping bolt should not be used in this application other than on a temporary basis.

IMPORTANT: Avoid possible serious injury or death. Adjust outboard to an intermediate trim position as soon as boat is on plane to avoid possible ejection due to boat spin-out. Do not attempt to turn boat when on plane if outboard is trimmed extremely in or down and there is a pull on the steering wheel or tiller handle.

Checking Power Trim Fluid Level

1. Tilt outboard to the full up position and engage the tilt support lever.

2. Remove fill cap and check fluid level. The fluid level should be even with the bottom of the fill hole. If necessary, add Quicksilver Power Trim & Steering Fluid or automotive transmission fluid (ATF) Type F, FA or Dexron II.

a - Fill Cap

Tilt Pin Adjustment (Models Without Power Trim)

WARNING

DO NOT operate boat without the tilt pin installed. Failure to install tilt pin could result in outboard kicking up when operated in reverse causing serious injury, death, or property damage.

Place tilt pin in desired hole in the transom bracket so the outboard will run perpendicular to the water when the boat is running at full speed. This allows the boat to be driven parallel to the water.

a - Stainless Steel Tilt Pin (P/N 17-49930A1)

a - Tilt Pin

Consider the following lists carefully when adjusting the tilt pin.

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PLACING TILT PIN IN LOWER HOLES CAN:

MODELS WITHOUT POWER TRIM

1. Lower the bow.

2. Result in quicker planing off, especially with a heavy load or a stern heavy boat.

3. Generally improve the ride in choppy water.

4. Increase steering torque or pull to the right (with the normal right hand rotation propeller).

PLACING TILT PIN IN UPPER HOLES CAN:

1. Lift the bow out of the water.

2. Generally increase top speed.

3. Increase clearance over submerged objects or a shallow bottom.

4. Increase steering torque or pull to the left at a normal installation height (with the normal right hand rotation propeller).

Operate your boat at normal cruising speed trimmed to desired position by installing the “tilt pin” in the desired tilt pin hole. Turn your boat left and right and note the direction the boat turns more easily.

If adjustment is necessary, loosen trim tab bolt and make small adjustments at a time. If the boat turns more easily to the left, move the trailing edge of trim tab to the left. If the boat turns more easily to the right move the trailing edge of trim tab to the right. Retighten bolt and retest.

MODELS WITH POWER TRIM

Operate your boat at normal cruising speed, trimmed to desired position. Turn your boat left and right and note the direction the boat turns more easily.

5. In excess, cause boat “porpoising” (bouncing) or propeller ventilation.

Trim Tab Adjustment

Propeller steering torque will cause your boat to pull in one direction. This steering torque is a normal thing that results from your outboard not being trimmed so the propeller shaft is parallel to the wa ter sur fac e. The trim tab can help to compensate for this steering torque in many cases and can be adjusted within limits to reduce any unequal steering effort.

NOTE: Trim tab adjustment will have little effect reducing steering torque if the outboard is installed w ith the anti-ventilation plate approximately 2 inches (50mm) or more above the boat bottom.

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Boat Performance

Test Instructions

IMPORTANT: A tight grip on the steering wheel/ tiller handle is always advisable when accelerating, decelerating, or when trimming the boat. On models with Power Trim, upon reaching cruising speed, the outboard should be trimmed to obtain a balanced steering condition. While trimming, steering loads will vary and will pull in one direction until a balanced steering condition is obtained. If the outboard is trimmed past the balanced steering condition, the steering wheel/ tiller handle then will have a tendency to pull in the opposite direction. Excessive trimming past the balanced steering position will result in increased steering loads, and, in most boat applications, a decrease in performance.

NOTE: When performing an acceleration test, it is

recommended that a stop watch be used to improve testing accuracy. A wrist watch with a second hand may be substituted.

5. An acceleration test can also be performed if desired. Start the test with boat motionless in the water and outboard in neutral. A stop watch should be started as the throttle is quickly pushed to WOT (wide open throttle). Stop the watch as the speedometer needle sweeps past 20 MPH (32 km/hr). Several runs should be made to assure a good average.

6. Prop “break loose” (sudden high RPM), if not excessive, in some cases can be beneficial during acceleration. If undesirable “break loose” occurs, it can be decreased by trimming the outboard further under. If it remains excessive with all similar propellers, the outboard must be lowered.

CAUTION

When trimming a boat with dual outboards, both outboards should be at approximately the same tilt angle and be tilted out (up) simultaneously (to prevent boat from pitching side-to-side) until desired boat attitude is achieved. Outboards can then be trimmed individually to precisely adjust boat trim angle and pitch.

1. With boat in water, trim the outboard(s) (trim button in remote control handle) so that the decal on the side cowl is horizontal. This is a typical setting that should give reasonable acceleration and top speed.

2. Go for a short familiarization ride at various throttle and trim settings BEFORE starting testing.

3. When making either top speed or acceleration runs, best accuracy will be obtained by running with or against any wind. Side winds require driving in a constant turn to keep the boat running straight-ahead. If winds are 10 MPH (16 km/hr) or greater, it is suggested that all acceleration runs be made down wind.

7. It is suggested that all applicable data be recorded on a chart and retained for future reference.

8. After several propellers of different pitch and/or design have been tried, select one that best services the general purpose of the boat. The selected propeller should enable the engine to operate within its recommended full throttle RPM range, without excessive propeller “break loose” during acceleration or turns. A second propeller, which would make both a suitable spare or a special purpose alternate, might also be desirable.

NOTE: A higher pitch often gives better top speed, but the next lower pitch gives adequate top speed with much better acceleration.

4. The top speed WOT (wide open throttle) test should be done with the boat normally loaded (to duplicate actual running conditions). Operate boat in gear at WOT and check RPM. Engine RPM must be within the recommended full throttle RPM range (listed in Operation and Maintenance Manual).

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