Mercury 200, 225, 250, 275 User Manual

Welcome Aboard!

Proper care and maintenance is an important part in keeping your Mercury Product operating at peak efficiency for maximum performance and economy. The enclosed Owner's Registration Card is your key to trouble‑free family fun. Refer to your Operation and Maintenance Manual for full details of your warranty coverage.

Details of your nearest dealer can be found on www.marinepower.com where country maps and full contact information are displayed.

Is your engine properly registered for warranty purpose? Please check on www.marinepower.com. If necessary, please contact your local dealer.

Declaration of Conformity

This outboard motor’s serial number plate contains in the lower corner left hand corner either the CE mark alone or the CE mark accompanied by a notified body number. This outboard motor manufactured by Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, WI, USA or Marine Power Europe Inc. Park Industriel, de Petit‑Rechain, Belgium complies with the requirements of the following directives by meeting the associated standards, as amended:

If the CE mark is accompanied by a notified body number, the following Recreational Craft Directive applies:

Recreational Craft Directive: 2003/44/EC amending 94/25/EC

Owner's manual (A.2.5) ISO 10240

Handling characteristics (A.4) ISO 8665

Outboard engine starting (A.5.1.4) ISO 11547

Fuel tanks (A.5.2.2) ISO 13591; ISO 8469

General steering system ABYC P‑17

Exhaust emission requirements (B.2) ISO 8178

Owner's manual (B.4) ISO 8665

Noise emission levels (C.1) ISO 14509

The notified body responsible for surveillance of the quality system under Full Quality Assurance Module H of Directive 2003/44/EC is:

Det Norske Veritas

Norway

Notified Body Number: 0575

If the CE mark is not accompanied by a notified body number, the following Recreational Craft Directive language applies:

Recreational Craft Directive: 94/25/EC

Owner's manual (A.2.5) ISO 10240

Handling characteristics (A.4) ISO 8665

Outboard engine starting (A.5.1.4) ISO 11547

Fuel tanks (A.5.2.2) ISO 13591; ISO 8469

General steering system ABYC P‑17

The following applies to all product covered by this manual:

Safety of Machinery Directive 98/37/EC

Principles of safety integration (1.1.2) EN 292‑1; EN 292‑2; EN 1050

Noise (1.5.8) ICOMIA 39/94

Vibration ICOMIA 38/94

Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 89/336/EC

Generic emission standard EN 61000‑6‑3

Generic immunity standard EN 61000‑6‑1

Vehicles, boats and internal combustion engine driven devices ‑ radio disturbance characteristics

SAE J551 (CISPR 12)

Electrostatic discharge testing

EN 61000‑6‑2; EN 61000‑4‑2; EN 61000‑4‑3

This declaration is issued under the sole responsibility of Mercury Marine and Marine Power Europe.

Patrick C. Mackey

President, Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, WI USA

European Regulations Contact:

Regulations and Product Safety Department, Mercury Marine,

Fond du Lac, WI USA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

iii

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Transfer Of Warranty..............................................................................................................................1

Warranty Registration United States And Canada................................................................................. 1

Warranty Registration Outside The United States And Canada............................................................. 1

FourStroke Outboard Limited Warranty United States, Canada, Europe, Confederation of Independent

States, Middle-East and Africa...............................................................................................................2

3 Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion...........................................................................................3

Warranty Coverage And Exclusions.......................................................................................................5

General Information

Boater's Responsibilities.........................................................................................................................7

Before Operating Your Outboard............................................................................................................ 7

Boat Horsepower Capacity..................................................................................................................... 7

High-Speed And High-Performance Boat Operation.............................................................................. 8

Outboard Remote Control Models .........................................................................................................8

Lanyard Stop Switch...............................................................................................................................8

Protecting People In The Water..............................................................................................................9

Passenger Safety Message - Pontoon Boats And Deck Boats............................................................ 10

Wave And Wake Jumping.................................................................................................................... 11

Impact With Underwater Hazards.........................................................................................................11

Exhaust Emissions............................................................................................................................... 12

Selecting Accessories For Your Outboard............................................................................................ 13

Safe Boating Suggestions.................................................................................................................... 14

Recording Serial Number..................................................................................................................... 14

200/225/250/275 Specifications - International..................................................................................... 15

Component Identification...................................................................................................................... 16

Installation

Installing Outboard................................................................................................................................17

Propeller Selection................................................................................................................................18

Transporting

Trailering Boat/Outboard ..................................................................................................................... 20

Fuel and Oil

Fuel Recommendations........................................................................................................................22

Filling Fuel Tank................................................................................................................................... 23

Engine Oil Recommendations.............................................................................................................. 23

Checking And Adding Engine Oil.......................................................................................................... 23

Features and Controls

Remote Control Features..................................................................................................................... 25

Warning System................................................................................................................................... 31

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Power Trim and Tilt...............................................................................................................................34

Operation

Pre-Starting Check List.........................................................................................................................37

Operating In Freezing Temperatures.................................................................................................... 37

Operating In Salt Water Or Polluted Water........................................................................................... 37

Engine Break-in Procedure...................................................................................................................37

Starting The Engine..............................................................................................................................37

Gear Shifting......................................................................................................................................... 49

Dual Helm Station Transfer.................................................................................................................. 50

Synchronizing Dual Engines................................................................................................................. 51

Stopping The Engine............................................................................................................................ 52

Remote Control Adjustments................................................................................................................ 52

Maintenance

Outboard Care...................................................................................................................................... 54

EPA Emissions..................................................................................................................................... 54

Inspection And Maintenance Schedule................................................................................................ 55

Flushing The Cooling System............................................................................................................... 56

Cowl Removal and Installation............................................................................................................. 56

Cleaning Care for Top and Bottom Cowls............................................................................................ 58

Battery Inspection ................................................................................................................................58

DTS Battery Specifications...................................................................................................................59

Air Filter................................................................................................................................................ 60

Fuel System.......................................................................................................................................... 62

Corrosion Control Anode...................................................................................................................... 65

Propeller Replacement......................................................................................................................... 65

Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement.............................................................................................. 67

Fuses....................................................................................................................................................68

DTS Wiring System.............................................................................................................................. 69

Accessory Drive Belt Inspection........................................................................................................... 69

Checking Power Trim Fluid...................................................................................................................70

Checking Power Steering Fluid............................................................................................................ 70

Changing Engine Oil ............................................................................................................................71

Gearcase Lubrication............................................................................................................................74

Storage

Storage Preparation..............................................................................................................................76

Protecting External Outboard Components.......................................................................................... 76

Protecting Internal Engine Components............................................................................................... 76

Gearcase.............................................................................................................................................. 77

Positioning Outboard For Storage........................................................................................................ 77

Battery Storage..................................................................................................................................... 77

Troubleshooting

Starter Motor Will Not Crank the Engine............................................................................................... 78

Engine Will Not Start.............................................................................................................................78

Engine Starts But Will Not Shift Into Gear............................................................................................ 78

Engine Runs Erratically........................................................................................................................ 78

Performance Loss.................................................................................................................................79

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Battery Will Not Hold Charge................................................................................................................ 79

Owner Service Assistance

Local Repair Service.............................................................................................................................80

Service Away From Home....................................................................................................................80

Parts And Accessories Inquiries...........................................................................................................80

Service Assistance...............................................................................................................................80

Mercury Marine Service Offices............................................................................................................80

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Transfer Of Warranty

The limited warranty is transferable to a subsequent purchaser, but only for the remainder of the unused portion of the limited warranty. This will not apply to products used for commercial applications.

To transfer the warranty to the subsequent owner, send or fax a copy of the bill of sale or purchase agreement, new owner’s name, address and engine serial number to Mercury Marine’s warranty registration department. In the United States and Canada, mail to:

Mercury Marine Attn: Warranty Registration Department W6250 W. Pioneer Road P.O. Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939 920-929-5054 Fax 920-929-5893

Upon processing the transfer of warranty, Mercury Marine will send registration verification to the new owner of the product by mail.

There is no charge for this service.

For products purchased outside the United States and Canada, contact the distributor in your country, or the Marine Power Service Center closest to you.

Warranty Registration United States And Canada

Outside United States and Canada ‑ Check with your local distributor.

1. You may change your address at any time, including at time of warranty claim, by calling Mercury Marine or sending a letter or fax with your name, old address, new address, and engine serial number to Mercury Marine’s warranty registration department. Your dealer can also process this change of information. Mercury Marine Attn: Warranty Registration Department W6250 W. Pioneer Road P.O. Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939 920-929-5054 Fax 920-929-5893

NOTE: Registration lists must be maintained by Mercury Marine and any dealer on marine products sold in the United States, should a safety recall notification under the Federal Safety Act be required.

2. To be eligible for warranty coverage, the product must be registered with Mercury Marine. At the time of sale, the dealer should complete the warranty registration and immediately submit it to Mercury Marine via MercNET, E‑mail, or mail. Upon receipt of this warranty registration, Mercury Marine will record the registration.

3. Upon processing the warranty registration, Mercury Marine will send registration verification by mail to the purchaser of the product. If this registration verification is not received within 30 days, please contact your selling dealer immediately. Warranty coverage is not effective until your product is registered with Mercury Marine.

Warranty Registration Outside The United States And Canada

1. It is important that your selling dealer fills out the Warranty Registration Card completely and mails it to the distributor or Marine Power Service Center responsible for administering the warranty registration/claim program for your area.

2. The Warranty Registration Card identifies your name and address, product model and serial numbers, date of sale, type of use and the selling distributor's/dealer's code number, name and address. The distributor/dealer also certifies that you are the original purchaser and user of the product.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

3. A copy of the Warranty Registration Card, designated as the Purchaser's Copy, MUST be given to you immediately after the card has been completely filled out by the selling distributor/dealer. This card represents your factory registration identification, and should be retained by you for future use when required. Should you ever require warranty service on this product, your dealer may ask you for the Warranty Registration Card to verify date of purchase and to use the information on the card to prepare the warranty claim forms.

4. In some countries, the Marine Power Service Center will issue you a permanent (plastic) Warranty Registration Card within 30 days after receiving the Factory Copy of the Warranty Registration Card from your distributor/dealer. If you receive a plastic Warranty Registration Card, you may discard the Purchaser's Copy that you received from the distributor/dealer when you purchased the product. Ask your distributor/dealer if this plastic card program applies to you.

IMPORTANT: Registration lists must be maintained by the factory and dealer in some countries by law. It is our desire to have ALL products registered at the factory should it ever be necessary to contact you. Make sure your dealer/distributor fills out the warranty registration card immediately and sends the factory copy to the Marine Power International Service Center for your area.

5. For further information concerning the Warranty Registration Card and its relationship to Warranty Claim processing, refer to the International Warranty.

FourStroke Outboard Limited Warranty United States, Canada, Europe, Confederation of Independent States, Middle‑East and Africa

Outside the United States, Canada, Europe, Confederation of Independent States, Middle‑East and Africa ‑ check with your local distributor.

WHAT IS COVERED: Mercury Marine warrants its new Outboard and Jet Products to be free of defects in material and workmanship during the period described below.

DURATION OF COVERAGE: This Limited Warranty provides coverage for three (3) years from the date the product is first sold to a recreational use retail purchaser, or the date on which the product is first put into service, whichever occurs first. Commercial users of these products receive warranty coverage of one (1) year from the date of first retail sale, or one (1) year from the date in which the product was first put into service, whichever occurs first. Commercial use is defined as any work or employment related use of the product, or any use of the product which generates income, for any part of the warranty period, even if the product is only occasionally used for such purposes. The repair or replacement of parts, or the performance of service under this warranty, does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration date. Unexpired warranty coverage can be transferred from one recreational use customer to a subsequent recreational use customer upon proper re–registration of the product. Unexpired warrant coverage cannot be transferred either to or from a commercial use customer.

CONDITIONS THAT MUST BE MET IN ORDER TO OBTAIN WARRANTY COVERAGE: Warranty coverage is available only to retail customers that purchase from a Dealer authorized by Mercury Marine to distribute the product in the country in which the sale occurred, and then only after the Mercury Marine specified pre–delivery inspection process is completed and documented. Warranty coverage becomes available upon proper registration of the product by the authorized dealer. Routine maintenance outlined in the Operation and Maintenance Manual must be timely performed in order to maintain warranty coverage. Mercury Marine reserves the right to make future warranty coverage contingent on proof of proper maintenance.

WHAT MERCURY WILL DO: Mercury’s sole and exclusive obligation under this warranty is limited to, at our option, repairing a defective part, replacing such part or parts with new or Mercury Marine certified remanufactured parts, or refunding the purchase price of the Mercury product. Mercury reserves the right to improve or modify products from time to time without assuming an obligation to modify products previously manufactured.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY COVERAGE: The customer must provide Mercury with a reasonable opportunity to repair, and reasonable access to the product for warranty service. Warranty claims shall be made by delivering the product for inspection to a Mercury dealer authorized to service the product. If purchaser cannot deliver the product to such a dealer, written notice must be given to Mercury. We will then arrange for the inspection and any covered repair. Purchaser in that case shall pay for all related transportation charges and/or travel time. If the service provided is not covered by this warranty, purchaser shall pay for all related labor and material, and any other expenses associated with that service. Purchaser shall not, unless requested by Mercury, ship the product or parts of the product directly to Mercury. Proof of registered ownership must be presented to the dealer at the time warranty service is requested in order to obtain coverage.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED: This limited warranty does not cover routine maintenance items, tune ups, adjustments, normal wear and tear, damage caused by abuse, abnormal use, use of a propeller or gear ratio that does not allow the engine to run in its recommended wide open throttle RPM range (see the Operation and Maintenance Manual), operation of the product in a manner inconsistent with the recommended operation/duty cycle section of the Operation and Maintenance Manual, neglect, accident, submersion, improper installation (proper installation specifications and techniques are set forth in the installation instructions for the product), improper service, use of an accessory or part not manufactured or sold by us, jet pump impellers and liners, operation with fuels, oils or lubricants which are not suitable for use with the product (see the Operation and Maintenance Manual), alteration or removal of parts, or water entering the engine through the fuel intake, air intake or exhaust system, or damage to the product from insufficient cooling water caused by blockage of the cooling system by a foreign body, running the engine out of water, mounting the engine too high on the transom, or running the boat with the engine trimmed out too far.. Use of the product for racing or other competitive activity, or operating with a racing type lower unit, at any point, even by a prior owner of the product, voids the warranty.

Expenses related to haul out, launch, towing, storage, telephone, rental, inconvenience, slip fees, insurance coverage, loan payments, loss of time, loss of income, or any other type of incidental or consequential damages are not covered by this warranty. Also, expenses associated with the removal and/or replacement of boat partitions or material caused by boat design for access to the product are not covered by this warranty.

No individual or entity, including Mercury Marine authorized dealers, has been given authority by Mercury Marine to make any affirmation, representation or warranty regarding the product, other than those contained in this limited warranty, and if made, shall not be enforceable against Mercury Marine.

For additional information regarding events and circumstances covered by this warranty, and those that are not, see the Warranty Coverage section of the Operation and Maintenance Manual, incorporated by reference into this warranty.

DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS:

THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED. TO THE EXTENT THAT THEY CANNOT BE DISCLAIMED, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE LIFE OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY. INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARE EXCLUDED FROM COVERAGE UNDER THIS WARRANTY. SOME STATES/COUNTRIES DO NOT ALLOW FOR THE DISCLAIMERS, LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS IDENTIFIED ABOVE, AS A RESULT, THEY MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER LEGAL RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE AND COUNTRY TO COUNTRY.

3 Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion

WHAT IS COVERED: Mercury Marine warrants that each new Mercury, Mariner, Mercury Racing, Sport Jet, M2 Jet Drive, Tracker by Mercury Marine Outboard, Mercury MerCruiser Inboard or Sterndrive

Engine (Product) will not be rendered inoperative as a direct result of corrosion for the period of time described below.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

DURATION OF COVERAGE: This limited corrosion warranty provides coverage for three (3) years from either the date the product is first sold, or the date on which the product is first put into service, whichever occurs first. The repair or replacement of parts, or the performance of service under this warranty does not extend the life of this warranty beyond its original expiration date. Unexpired warranty coverage can be transferred to subsequent (non‑commercial use) purchaser upon proper re‑registration of the product.

CONDITIONS THAT MUST BE MET IN ORDER TO OBTAIN WARRANTY COVERAGE: Warranty coverage is available only to retail customers that purchase from a Dealer authorized by Mercury Marine to distribute the product in the country in which the sale occurred, and then only after the Mercury Marine specified pre‑delivery inspection process is completed and documented. Warranty coverage becomes available upon proper registration of the product by the authorized dealer. Corrosion prevention devices specified in the Operation and Maintenance Manual must be in use on the boat, and routine maintenance outlined in the Operation and Maintenance Manual must be timely performed (including without limitation the replacement of sacrificial anodes, use of specified lubricants, and touch‑up of nicks and scratches) in order to maintain warranty coverage. Mercury Marine reserves the right to make warranty coverage contingent upon proof of proper maintenance.

WHAT MERCURY WILL DO: Mercury's sole and exclusive obligation under this warranty is limited to, at our option, repairing a corroded part, replacing such part or parts with new or Mercury Marine certified re‑manufactured parts, or refunding the purchase price of the Mercury product. Mercury reserves the right to improve or modify products from time to time without assuming an obligation to modify products previously manufactured.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED: This limited warranty does not cover electrical system corrosion; corrosion resulting from damage, corrosion which causes purely cosmetic damage, abuse or improper service; corrosion to accessories, instruments, steering systems; corrosion to factory installed jet drive unit; damage due to marine growth; product sold with less than a one year limited Product warranty; replacement parts (parts purchased by customer); products used in a commercial application. Commercial use is defined as any work or employment related use of the product, or any use of the product which generates income, for any part of the warranty period, even if the product is only occasionally used for such purposes.

Corrosion damage caused by stray electrical currents (on‑shore power connections, nearby boats, submerged metal) is not covered by this corrosion warranty and should be protected against by the use of a corrosion protection system, such as the Mercury Precision Parts or Quicksilver MerCathode system and/or Galvanic Isolator. Corrosion damage caused by improper application of copper base anti‑fouling paints is also not covered by this limited warranty. If anti‑fouling protection is required, Tri‑Butyl‑Tin‑Adipate (TBTA) base anti‑fouling paints are recommended on Outboard and MerCruiser boating applications. In areas where TBTA base paints are prohibited by law, copper base paints can be used on the hull and transom. Do not apply paint to the outboard or MerCruiser product. In addition, care must be taken to avoid an electrical interconnection between the warranted product and the paint. For MerCruiser product, an unpainted gap of at least 38 mm (1.5 in.) should be left around the transom assembly. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual for additional details.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS:

Warranty Coverage And Exclusions

The purpose of this section is to help eliminate some of the more common misunderstandings regarding warranty coverage. The following information explains some of the types of services that are not covered by warranty. The provisions set forth following have been incorporated by reference into the Three Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion Failure, the International Limited Outboard Warranty, and the United States and Canada Limited Outboard Warranty.

Keep in mind that warranty covers repairs that are needed within the warranty period because of defects in material and workmanship. Installation errors, accidents, normal wear, and a variety of other causes that affect the product are not covered.

Warranty is limited to defects in material or workmanship, but only when the consumer sale is made in the country to which distribution is authorized by us.

Should you have any questions concerning warranty coverage, contact your authorized dealer. They will be pleased to answer any questions that you may have.

GENERAL EXCLUSIONS FROM WARRANTY

1. Minor adjustments and tune‑ups, including checking, cleaning or adjusting spark plugs, ignition components, carburetor settings, filters, belts, controls, and checking lubrication made in connection with normal services.

2. Factory installed jet drive units ‑ Specific parts excluded from the warranty are: The jet drive impeller and jet drive liner damaged by impact or wear, and water damaged drive shaft bearings as a result of improper maintenance.

3. Damage caused by neglect, lack of maintenance, accident, abnormal operation or improper installation or service.

4. Haul out, launch, towing charges, removal and/or replacement of boat partitions or material because of boat design for necessary access to the product, all related transportation charges and/or travel time, etc. Reasonable access must be provided to the product for warranty service. Customer must deliver product to an authorized dealer.

5. Additional service work requested by customer other than that necessary to satisfy the warranty obligation.

6. Labor performed by other than an authorized dealer may be covered only under following circumstances: When performed on emergency basis (providing there are no authorized dealers in the area who can perform the work required or have no facilities to haul out, etc., and prior factory approval has been given to have the work performed at this facility).

7. All incidental and/or consequential damages (storage charges, telephone or rental charges of any type, inconvenience or loss of time or income) are the owner's responsibility.

8. Use of other than Mercury Precision or Quicksilver parts when making warranty repairs.

9. Oils, lubricants or fluids changed as a matter of normal maintenance is customer's responsibility unless loss or contamination of same is caused by product failure that would be eligible for warranty consideration.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

10. Participating in or preparing for racing or other competitive activity or operating with a racing type lower unit.

11. Engine noise does not necessarily indicate a serious engine problem. If diagnosis indicates a serious internal engine condition which could result in a failure, condition responsible for noise should be corrected under the warranty.

12. Lower unit and/or propeller damage caused by striking a submerged object is considered a marine hazard.

13. Water entering engine through the fuel intake, air intake or exhaust system or submersion.

14. Failure of any parts caused by lack of cooling water, which results from starting motor out of water, foreign material blocking inlet holes, motor being mounted too high or trimmed too far out.

15. Use of fuels and lubricants which are not suitable for use with or on the product. Refer to the Maintenance section.

16. Our limited warranty does not apply to any damage to our products caused by the installation or use of parts and accessories which are not manufactured or sold by us. Failures which are not related to the use of those parts or accessories are covered under warranty if they otherwise meet the terms of the limited warranty for that product.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Boater's Responsibilities

The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation of the boat and safety of its occupants and general public. It is strongly recommended that each operator (driver) read and understand this entire manual before operating the outboard.

Be sure at least one additional person on board is instructed in the basics of starting and operating the outboard and boat handling in case the driver is unable to operate the boat.

Before Operating Your Outboard

Read this manual carefully. Learn how to operate your outboard properly. If you have any questions, contact your dealer.

Safety and operating information that is practiced, along with using good common sense, can help prevent personal injury and product damage.

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 ‑ indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

WARNING ‑ indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

CAUTION ‑ indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury or property damage. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

Boat Horsepower Capacity

WARNING

Using an outboard that exceeds the maximum horsepower limit of a boat can: 1) cause loss of boat control 2) place too much weight at the transom altering the designed flotation characteristics of the boat or 3) cause the boat to break apart particularly around the transom area. Overpowering a boat can result in serious injury, death or boat damage.

Do not overpower or overload your boat. Most boats will carry a required capacity plate indicating the maximum acceptable power and load as determined by the manufacturer following certain federal guidelines. If in doubt, contact your dealer or the boat manufacturer.

GENERAL INFORMATION

U.S. COAST GUARD CAPACITY

MAXIMUM HORSEPOWER XXX

MAXIMUM PERSON CAPACITY (POUNDS) XXX

MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY XXX

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High‑Speed And High‑Performance Boat Operation

If your outboard is to be used on a high speed or high performance boat with which you are unfamiliar, we recommend that you never operate it at its high speed capability without first requesting an initial orientation and familiarization demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator experienced with your boat/outboard combination. For additional information, obtain a copy of our Hi‑Performance Boat Operation booklet from your dealer, distributor, or Mercury Marine.

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Outboard Remote Control Models

The outboard must be equipped with a Mercury remote control designed for digital throttle and shift. Start‑in‑gear protection is provided by the remote control system.

Lanyard Stop Switch

The purpose of a lanyard stop switch is to turn off the engine when the operator moves far enough away from the operator's position (as in accidental ejection from the operator's position) to activate the switch. Tiller handle outboards and some remote control units are equipped with a lanyard stop switch. A lanyard stop switch can be installed as an accessory ‑ generally on the dashboard or side adjacent to the operator's position.

The lanyard is a cord usually between 122 and 152 cm (4 and 5 feet) in length when stretched out, with an element on one end made to be inserted into the switch and a snap on the other end for attaching to the operator. The lanyard is coiled to make its at‑rest condition as short as possible to minimize the likelihood of lanyard entanglement with nearby objects. Its stretched‑out length is made to minimize the likelihood of accidental activation should the operator choose to move around in an area close to the normal operator's position. If it is desired to have a shorter lanyard, wrap the lanyard around the operator's wrist or leg, or tie a knot in the lanyard.

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a - Lanyard cord b - Lanyard stop switch

GENERAL INFORMATION

Read the following Safety Information before proceeding.

Important Safety Information: The purpose of a lanyard stop switch is to stop the engine when the operator moves far enough away from the operator's position to activate the switch. This would occur if the operator accidentally falls overboard or moves within the boat a sufficient distance from the operator's position. Falling overboard and accidental ejections are more likely to occur in certain types of boats such as low sided inflatables, bass boats, high performance boats, and light, sensitive handling fishing boats operated by a hand tiller. Falling overboard and accidental ejections are also likely to occur as a result of poor operating practices such as sitting on the back of the seat or gunwale at planing speeds, standing at planing speeds, sitting on elevated fishing boat decks, operating at planing speeds in shallow or obstacle infested waters, releasing your grip on a steering wheel or tiller handle that is pulling in one direction, drinking alcohol or consuming drugs, or daring high speed boat maneuvers.

While activation of the lanyard stop switch will stop the engine immediately, a boat will continue to coast for some distance depending upon the velocity and degree of any turn at shut down. However, the boat will not complete a full circle. While the boat is coasting, it can cause injury to anyone in the boat's path as seriously as the boat would when under power.

We strongly recommend that other occupants be instructed on proper starting and operating procedures should they be required to operate the engine in an emergency (e.g. if the operator is accidentally ejected).

WARNING

Should the operator fall out of the boat, the possibility of serious injury or death from being run over by the boat can be greatly reduced by stopping the engine immediately. Always properly connect both ends of the stop switch lanyard to the stop switch and the operator.

WARNING

Avoid serious injury or death from deceleration forces resulting from accidental or unintended stop switch activation. The boat operator should never leave the operator's station without first disconnecting the stop switch lanyard from the operator.

Accidental or unintended activation of the switch during normal operation is also a possibility. This could cause any, or all, of the following potentially hazardous situations:

• Occupants could be thrown forward due to unexpected loss of forward motion ‑ a particular concern for passengers in the front of the boat who could be ejected over the bow and possibly struck by the gearcase or propeller.

• Loss of power and directional control in heavy seas, strong current or high winds.

• Loss of control when docking.

Protecting People In The Water

WHILE YOU ARE CRUISING

It is very difficult for a person standing or floating in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in his/her direction, even at slow speed.

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Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an area where there might be people in the water.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Whenever a boat is moving (coasting) and the outboard gear shift is in neutral position, there is sufficient force by the water on the propeller to cause the propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller rotation can cause serious injury.

WHILE BOAT IS STATIONARY

WARNING

Stop your engine immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your boat. Serious injury to the person in the water is likely if contacted by a rotating propeller, a moving boat, a moving gearcase, or any solid device rigidly attached to a moving boat or gearcase.

Shift outboard into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to swim or be in the water near your boat.

Passenger Safety Message ‑ Pontoon Boats And Deck Boats

Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all passengers. Do not allow any passengers to stand or use seats other than those designated for traveling faster than idle speed. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as plunging into a large wave or wake, a sudden throttle reduction, or a sharp change of boat direction, could throw them over the front of the boat. Falling over the front of the boat between the two pontoons will position them to be run over by the outboard.

BOATS HAVING AN OPEN FRONT DECK

No one should ever be on the deck in front of the fence while the boat is in motion. Keep all passengers behind the front fence or enclosure.

Persons on the front deck could easily be thrown overboard or persons dangling their feet over the front edge could get their legs caught by a wave and pulled into the water.

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WARNING

Avoid serious injury or death from falling over the front end of a pontoon or deck boat and being run over. Stay back from the front end of the deck and remain seated while the boat is in motion.

BOATS WITH FRONT MOUNTED, RAISED PEDESTAL FISHING SEATS

Elevated fishing seats are not intended for use when the boat is traveling faster than idle or trolling speed. Sit only in seats designated for traveling at faster speeds.

Any unexpected, sudden reduction in boat speed could result in the elevated passenger falling over the front of the boat.

GENERAL INFORMATION

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Wave And Wake Jumping

Operating recreational boats over waves and wake is a natural part of boating. However, when this activity is done with sufficient speed to force the boat hull partially or completely out of the water, certain hazards arise, particularly when the boat re‑enters the water.

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The primary concern is the boat changing direction while in the midst of the jump. In such case the landing may cause the boat to veer violently in a new direction. Such a sharp change in direction can cause occupants to be thrown out of their seats, or out of the boat.

WARNING

Avoid serious injury or death from being thrown within or out of a boat when it lands after jumping a wave or wake. Avoid wave or wake jumping whenever possible. Instruct all occupants that if a wake or wave jump occurs, get low and hang on to a boat hand hold.

There is another less common hazardous result from allowing your boat to launch off a wave or wake. If the bow of your boat pitches down far enough while airborne, upon water contact it may penetrate under the water surface and submarine for an instant. This will bring the boat to a nearly instantaneous stop and can send the occupants flying forward. The boat may also steer sharply to one side.

Impact With Underwater Hazards

Reduce speed and proceed with caution whenever you drive a boat in shallow water areas, or in areas where you suspect underwater obstacles may exist which could be struck by the outboard or the boat bottom. The most important thing you can do to help reduce injury or impact damage from striking a floating or underwater object is to control the boat speed. Under these conditions, boat speed should be kept to a minimum planing speed of 24 to 40 km/h (15 to 25 MPH).

GENERAL INFORMATION

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WARNING

To avoid serious injury or death from all or part of an outboard coming into the boat after striking a floating or underwater obstacle maintain a top speed no greater than minimum planing speed.

Striking a floating or underwater object could result in an infinite number of situations. Some of these situations could result in the following:

• Part of the outboard or the entire outboard could break loose and fly into the boat.

• The boat could move suddenly in a new direction. Such a sharp change in direction can cause occupants to be thrown out of their seats or out of the boat.

• A rapid reduction in speed. This will cause occupants to be thrown forward, or even out of the boat.

• Impact damage to the outboard and/or boat.

Keep in mind, the most important thing you can do to help reduce injury or impact damage during an impact is control the boat speed. Boat speed should be kept to a minimum planing speed when driving in waters known to have underwater obstacles.

After striking a submerged object, stop the engine as soon as possible and inspect it for any broken or loose parts. If damage is present or suspected, the outboard should be taken to an authorized dealer for a thorough inspection and necessary repair.

The boat should also be checked for any hull fractures, transom fractures, or water leaks.

Operating a damaged outboard could cause additional damage to other parts of the outboard, or could affect control of the boat. If continued running is necessary, do so at greatly reduced speeds.

WARNING

Avoid serious injury or death from loss of boat control. Continued boating with major impact damage can result in sudden outboard component failure with or without subsequent impacts. Have the outboard thoroughly inspected and any necessary repairs made.

Exhaust Emissions

BE ALERT TO CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

Carbon monoxide is present in the exhaust fumes of all internal combustion engines. This includes the outboards, sterndrives and inboard engines that propel boats, as well as the generators that power various boat accessories. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that is odorless, colorless and tasteless.

Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning which should not be confused with seasickness or intoxication, include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea.

WARNING

Avoid the combination of a running engine and poor ventilation. Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide in sufficient concentration can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage, or death.

GENERAL INFORMATION

GOOD VENTILATION

Ventilate passenger area, open side curtains, or forward hatches to remove fumes.

ob00316

Example of desired air flow through the boat

POOR VENTILATION

Under certain running and/or wind conditions, permanently enclosed or canvas enclosed cabins or cockpits with insufficient ventilation may draw in carbon monoxide. Install one or more carbon monoxide detectors in your boat.

Although the occurrence is rare, on a very calm day, swimmers and passengers in an enclosed area of a stationary boat that contains or is near a running engine may be exposed to a hazardous level of carbon monoxide.

WHILE BOAT IS STATIONARY

ob00317

a - Running the engine when the boat is

moored in a confined space

b - Mooring close to another boat that has its

engine running

WHILE BOAT IS MOVING

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a - Running the boat with the trim angle of

the bow too high

b - Running the boat with no forward

hatches open

Selecting Accessories For Your Outboard

Genuine Mercury Precision or Quicksilver Accessories have been specifically designed and tested for your outboard. These accessories are available from Mercury Marine dealers.

GENERAL INFORMATION

WARNING

Check with your dealer before installation of accessories. The misuse of acceptable accessories or the use of unacceptable accessories can result in serious injury, death, or product failure.

Some accessories not manufactured or sold by Mercury Marine are not designed to be safely used with your outboard or outboard operating system. Acquire and read the installation, operation, and maintenance manuals for all your selected accessories.

Safe Boating Suggestions

In order to safely enjoy the waterways, familiarize yourself with local and other governmental boating regulations and restrictions, and consider the following suggestions.

Use flotation devices. Have an approved personal flotation device of suitable size for each person aboard (it is the law) and have it readily accessible.

Do not overload your boat. Most boats are rated and certified for maximum load (weight) capacities (refer to your boat capacity plate). If in doubt, contact your dealer or the boats manufacturer.

Perform safety checks and required maintenance. Follow a regular schedule and ensure that all repairs are properly made.

Know and obey all nautical rules and laws of the waterways. Boat operators should complete a boating safety course. Courses are offered in the U.S.A. by 1) The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, 2) The Power Squadron, 3) The Red Cross and 4) your state boating law enforcement agency. Inquiries may be made to the Boating Hotline, 1‑800‑368‑5647 or the Boat U.S. Foundation information number 1‑800‑336‑BOAT.

Make sure everyone in the boat is properly seated. Do not allow anyone to sit or ride on any part of the boat that was not intended for such use. This includes the back of seats, gunwales, transom, bow, decks, raised fishing seats, any rotating fishing seat; or anywhere that an unexpected acceleration, sudden stopping, unexpected loss of boat control, or sudden boat movement could cause a person to be thrown overboard or into the boat.

Never be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while boating (it is the law). Alcohol or drug use impairs your judgment and greatly reduces your ability to react quickly.

Prepare other boat operators. Instruct at least one other person on board in the basics of starting and operating the outboard, and boat handling, in case the driver becomes disabled or falls overboard.

Passenger boarding. Stop the engine whenever passengers are boarding, unloading, or are near the back (stern) of the boat. Just shifting the outboard into neutral is not sufficient.

Be alert. The operator of the boat is responsible by law to maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing. The operator must have an unobstructed view particularly to the front. No passengers, load, or fishing seats should block the operators view when operating the boat above idle speed.

Never drive your boat directly behind a water skier in case the skier falls. As an example, your boat traveling at 40 km/h (25 MPH) will overtake a fallen skier 61 m (200 ft.) in front of you in 5 seconds.

Watch fallen skiers. When using your boat for water skiing or similar activities, always keep a fallen or down skier on the operator's side of the boat while returning to assist the skier. The operator should always have the down skier in sight and never back up to the skier or anyone in the water.

Report accidents. Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident Report with their state boating law enforcement agency when their boat is involved in certain boating accidents. A boating accident must be reported if 1) there is loss of life or probable loss of life, 2) there is personal injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, 3) there is damage to boats or other property where the damage value exceeds $500.00 or 4) there is complete loss of the boat. Seek further assistance from local law enforcement.

Recording Serial Number

It is important to record this number for future reference. The serial number is located on the outboard as shown.

GENERAL INFORMATION

S ee rrial Numb

MAX

RPM

H P L B

K W K G

20XX

OTXXXXXX

XXXX

ob01322

a - Serial number b - Model year c - Model designation

d - Year manufactured e - Certified Europe Insignia (as applicable)

200/225/250/275 Specifications ‑ International

Models 200/225/250/275

Horsepower 200/225/250/275

Kilowatts 149/168/186/205

Full Throttle RPM Range 5800‑6400

Idle Speed in Neutral Gear

550 RPM

Number of Cylinders 6

Piston Displacement 2,598 cc (158.5 cid)

Cylinder Bore 82 mm (3.23 in.)

Stroke 82 mm (3.23 in.)

Recommended Spark Plug NGK ILFR6G

Spark Plug Gap 0.8 mm (0.0315 in.)

Spark Plug Hex Size 16 mm

Gear Ratio 1.85:1

Recommended Gasoline Refer to Fuel & Oil

Recommended Oil Refer to Fuel & Oil

Right Hand Rotation Gearcase Lubricant Capacity

970 ml (32.8 fl. oz.)

Left Hand Rotation Gearcase Lubricant Capacity

900 ml (30.4 fl. oz.)

1. With engine fully warmed up.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Models 200/225/250/275

Engine Oil Capacity With Oil Filter Replacement

7.0 liters (7.4 qt)

Battery Rating

1000 Marine Cranking Amps (MCA), 800 Cold

Cranking AMPS (CCA) or 180 Ampere Hour

(Ah)

Sound at Drivers Ear (ICOMIA 39‑94)

4‑Stroke 79.6

Component Identification

ob01302

a - Rear cowl b - Lower cowl chaps c - Anti‑ventilation plate d - Gearcase e - Cooling water intake holes

f - Spray plate g - Pedestal h - Engine flush i - Auxiliary tilt switch j - Top cowl

INSTALLATION

Installing Outboard

WARNING

Before operation, the outboard must be correctly installed with the required mounting hardware as shown. Failure to correctly fasten outboard could result in outboard ejecting off boat transom causing serious injury, death, or property damage.

IMPORTANT: For optimum boat performance and detailed engine installation instructions, refer to the outboard installation manual, supplied with the outboard.

We strongly recommend that your dealer install your outboard and related accessories to ensure proper installation and good performance. If you install the outboard yourself, follow instructions in the Outboard Installation Manual which is provided with the outboard.

The outboard must be secured to the boat transom with the four 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) diameter mounting bolts, locknuts and washers provided. Install two bolts through the upper set of mounting holes and two bolts through the lower set of mounting slots.

ob01306

MAXIMUM OUTBOARD MOUNTING HEIGHT

The mounting height of the outboard must not exceed 63.5 cm (25 in.) for L models, 76.2 cm (30 in.) for XL models and 88.9 cm (35 in.) for XXL models. Mounting the outboard higher may cause damage to the gearcase components.

INSTALLATION

ob01312

Maximum Static Waterline

The static waterline, with boat at rest, must be below the "MAX STATIC WATERLINE" mark on the idle relief grommet (located at the rear of the outboard) when the outboard is fully tilted in/down. If waterline is above "MAX STATIC WATERLINE" mark, adjust boat load forward or increase (raise) outboard mounting height to correctly place mark above waterline.

MAX STATIC WATERLINE

4224

Propeller Selection

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 throttle RPM range with the boat normally loaded (refer to General Information ‑ Specifications). This RPM range allows for better acceleration while maintaining maximum boat speed.

ob00323

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/gearcase, a propeller change or cleaning may be required to maintain performance and ensure the outboards durability.

INSTALLATION

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.

TRANSPORTING

Trailering Boat/Outboard

When transporting the boat on a trailer, the outboard should be positioned and/or supported in one of the following ways:

1. If the boat trailer provides sufficient ground clearance, the outboard may be tilted down to the vertical operating position with no additional support required.

ob01268

2. If additional ground clearance is required, the outboard should be tilted up and supported using the outboard's tilt support bracket (trailering position) and/or an accessory transom support device. Refer to Features and Controls ‑ Tilting Operation.

ob01307

3. For maximum ground clearance, the outboard can be tilted to the full tilt position and supported using the outboards tilt support bracket and/or an accessory transom support device.

TRANSPORTING

ob01267

Additional clearance may be required for railroad crossings, driveways and trailer bouncing. Refer to your local dealer for recommendations.

IMPORTANT: Do not rely on the power trim/tilt system to maintain proper ground clearance for trailering. The power trim/tilt system is not intended to support the outboard for trailering.

Shift the outboard to forward gear. This prevents the propeller from spinning freely when boat is trailered.

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Mercury 200, 225, 250, 275 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

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