Mercury Optimax 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 ‑ Optimax

Manufacturer:

Mercury Marine W6250 Pioneer Road P.O. Box 1939 Fond du Lac, WI 54935-1939 USA ,

Authorized Representative:

Marine Power Europe, Inc. Parc Industriel de Petit-Rechain B-2800 Verviers - Belgium,

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

Applicable Requirement Standards Applied

Owner's manual (A.2.5) EN ISO 10240:2004

Handling characteristics (A.4) EN ISO 8665:1995

Outboard engines starting (A.5.1.4) EN ISO 11547:1995

General steering system (A.5.4.1) ABYC P‑17; EN ISO 10592:1995

Exhaust emission requirements (B.

EN ISO 8178‑1: 1996

Owner's manual (B.4) EN ISO 8665:1995

Noise emission levels (C.1) EN ISO 14509:2000

Module used for exhaust emission assessment: Module H; Certification No. RCD‑H‑2

Module used for noise emission assessment: Module H; Certification No. RCD‑H‑2

Name of Notified Body for exhaust emission assessment and noise emission assessment:

Det Norske Veritas AS

Veritasveien 1

1322 Hovik

Norway

Notified Body Number: 0575

Engine type: Outboard

Fuel type: Gasoline

Combustion cycle: 2 stroke, direct injection

Brands: Mercury, Mariner

Engine Family

Manufacture Location

Horsepower

Starting Serial Number

Module H Noise and Exhaust Certificate

Optimax 1.5LFond du Lac,

Wisconsin USA

75, 90,115 1B227000 RCD‑H‑2

Optimax 2.5LFond du Lac,

Wisconsin USA

135, 150 1B227000 RCD‑H‑2

Optimax 3.0LFond du Lac,

Wisconsin USA

200 1B227000 RCD‑H‑2

If the CE mark is not accompanied by the notified body number, the following Recreational Craft Directive language applies only to product entering the EU prior to January 1, 2007:

Recreational Craft Directive: 94/25/EC

Applicable Requirement Standards Applied

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 (A.5.4.1) ABYC P‑17

The following applies to all products covered by this manual:

Safety of Machinery Directive 98/37/EC

iii

Principles of safety integration (1.1.2)

ISO 12100‑1; ISO 12100‑2; EN 1050

Noise (1.5.8) ICOMIA 39/94

Vibration (1.5.9) 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)

CISPR 12; EN 55012:2002/A1:2005

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 on May 1, 2006.

European Regulations Contact:

Regulations and Product Safety Department, Mercury Marine,

Fond du Lac, WI USA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Warranty Information

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

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

Warranty Registration Outside The United States And Canada

.....................................................................................................2

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

Africa............................................................................................3

3 Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion................................6

Warranty Coverage And Exclusions..........................................10

General Information

Boater's Responsibilities............................................................13

Before Operating Your Outboard...............................................13

Boat Horsepower Capacity........................................................14

High‑Speed and High‑Performance Boat Operation................. 14

Propeller Selection.....................................................................14

Outboard Remote Control Models ............................................17

Remote Steering Notice.............................................................18

Lanyard Stop Switch..................................................................19

Protecting People In The Water.................................................21

Passenger Safety Message ‑ Pontoon Boats And Deck Boats. 22

Wave And Wake Jumping......................................................... 23

Impact With Underwater Hazards..............................................24

Exhaust Emissions.................................................................... 26

Selecting Accessories For Your Outboard.................................27

Safe Boating Suggestions......................................................... 28

Recording Serial Number.......................................................... 30

75/90/115 OptiMax Specifications.............................................30

Component Identification...........................................................31

Transporting

Trailering Boat/Outboard .......................................................... 32

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Fuel and Oil

Fuel Recommendations.............................................................33

Fuel Requirements....................................................................35

Fuel Additives............................................................................35

Avoiding Fuel Flow Restriction..................................................35

Oil Recommendation.................................................................35

Filling Oil Injection System.........................................................35

Filling Fuel Tank........................................................................37

Features and Controls

Remote Control Features..........................................................38

Warning System........................................................................39

Power Trim And Tilt...................................................................42

Trim Tab Adjustment.................................................................46

Operation

Pre‑Starting Check List..............................................................47

Operating In Freezing Temperatures.........................................47

Operating In Salt Water Or Polluted Water................................48

Operating at High Elevations.....................................................48

Setting Trim Angle While Running Engine at Idle Speed..........49

Engine Break‑in Procedure........................................................49

Starting the Engine....................................................................50

Gear Shifting..............................................................................53

Stopping The Engine.................................................................54

Maintenance

Outboard Care...........................................................................55

EPA Emissions..........................................................................55

Inspection and Maintenance Schedule......................................56

Flushing the Cooling System ....................................................57

Top Cowl Removal And Installation...........................................58

Cleaning Care for Top Cowl......................................................59

TABLE OF CONTENTS

vii

Flywheel Cover Removal and Installation..................................59

Side Panel Removal and Installation.........................................60

Fuel System...............................................................................61

Steering Link Rod Fasteners.....................................................63

Fuse Replacement.....................................................................64

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

Battery Inspection .....................................................................66

Battery Information....................................................................67

Propellers...................................................................................68

Spark Plug Inspection And Replacement..................................71

Compressor Air Intake Filter......................................................72

Alternator Belt Inspection...........................................................72

Lubrication Points......................................................................73

Checking Power Trim Fluid........................................................75

Gearcase Lubrication.................................................................76

Storage

Storage Preparation...................................................................79

Fuel System...............................................................................79

Protecting Internal Engine Components....................................81

Protecting External Outboard Components...............................82

Gearcase...................................................................................82

Positioning Outboard For Storage.............................................82

Battery Storage..........................................................................82

Troubleshooting

Starter Motor Will Not Crank the Engine....................................83

Engine Will Not Start..................................................................83

Engine Runs Erratically.............................................................84

Performance Loss......................................................................84

Battery Will Not Hold Charge.....................................................84

Owner Service Assistance

Local Repair Service..................................................................85

Service Away From Home.........................................................85

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Parts And Accessories Inquiries................................................85

Service Assistance....................................................................85

Mercury Marine Service Offices.................................................86

Outboard Installation

Important Information.................................................................88

Boat Horsepower Capacity........................................................88

Start in Gear Protection.............................................................88

Selecting Accessories For Your Outboard.................................89

Fuel Tanks.................................................................................89

Installation Specifications..........................................................89

Lifting the Outboard...................................................................90

Steering Cable ‑ Starboard Side Routed Cable.........................91

Determining Recommended Outboard Mounting Height...........92

Drilling Outboard Mounting Holes..............................................93

Fastening the Outboard to the Transom....................................95

Electrical, Fuel Hose, Flush Hose and Control Cables..............98

Oil Injection Set‑Up..................................................................111

Trim In Pin...............................................................................112

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.

WARRANTY 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.

Optimax 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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATIONS:

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE

Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, could result in engine or major component failure.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Boat Horsepower Capacity

WARNING

Exceeding the boat's maximum horsepower rating can cause serious injury or death. Overpowering the boat can affect boat control and flotation characteristics or break the transom. Do not install an engine that exceeds the boat's maximum power rating.

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.

U.S. COAST GUARD CAP ACITY

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.

Propeller Selection

The propeller on your outboard is one of the most important components in the propulsion system. An improper propeller choice can significantly affect the performance of your boat and could result in damage to the outboard engine.

GENERAL INFORMATION

When choosing a propeller, a full selection of aluminum and stainless steel propellers specifically designed for your outboard are available through Mercury Marine. To view the entire product offering and find the correct propeller that is best suited for your application, visit www.mercmarinepropellers.com or see your local authorized Mercury dealer.

SELECTING THE CORRECT PROPELLER

An accurate tachometer for measuring engine speed is important in choosing the correct propeller.

Choose a propeller for your boating application that will allow the engine to operate within the specified full throttle operating range. When operating the boat at full throttle under normal load conditions, the engine RPM should be in the upper half of the recommended full throttle RPM range. Refer to Specifications. If engine RPM is above that range, select a propeller of increased pitch in order to reduce engine RPM. If engine RPM is below the recommended range, select a propeller of reduced pitch to increase engine RPM.

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper fit, and performance, Mercury Marine recommends the use of Mercury or Quicksilver branded propellers and mounting hardware.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Propellers are designated by the diameter, pitch, number of blades, and material. The diameter and pitch are stamped (cast) into the side or the end of the propeller hub. The first number represents the diameter of the propeller and the second number represents the pitch. For example, 14x19 represents a propeller with a 14 inch diameter and 19 inches of pitch.

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a - Diameter b - Pitch ‑ Travel during one

revolution

The following are some propeller basics that will help you determine the correct propeller for your boating application.

Diameter ‑ The diameter is the distance across the imaginary circle that is made when the propeller rotates. The correct diameter for each propeller has been predetermined for the design of your outboard. However, when more than one diameter is available for the same pitch, use a larger diameter for heavy boat applications and a smaller diameter for lighter applications.

Pitch ‑ The pitch is the theoretical distance, in inches, that a propeller travels forward during one revolution. Pitch can be thought of similar to gears in a car. The lower the gear, the faster the car will accelerate, but with lower overall top speed. Likewise, a lower pitch propeller will accelerate quickly, but top‑end speed will be reduced. The higher the propeller pitch the faster the boat will usually go; though typically slowing acceleration.

Determining the Correct Pitch size ‑ First, check the full throttle RPM under normal load condition. If the full throttle RPM is within the recommended range, select a replacement or upgrade propeller with the same pitch as the current propeller.

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Adding 1 inch of pitch will reduce the full throttle RPM by 150 to 200

• Subtracting 1 inch of pitch will increase full throttle RPM by 150 to 200

• Upgrading from a 3‑blade propeller to a 4‑blade propeller will generally decrease full throttle RPM by 50 to 100

IMPORTANT: Avoid damage to the engine. Never use a propeller which allows the engine to exceed the recommended full throttle RPM range when under normal full throttle operation.

PROPELLER MATERIAL

Most propellers manufactured by Mercury Marine are made from either aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum is suitable for general purpose use and is standard equipment on many new boats. Stainless steel is over five times more durable than aluminum and typically provides performance gains in acceleration and top end speed due to design efficiencies. Stainless steel propellers also come in a larger variety of sizes and styles that allow you to dial in the ultimate performance for your boat.

3 BLADE VS. 4 BLADE

Available in many sizes of both aluminum and stainless, 3 and 4‑blade propellers have unique performance characteristics. In general, 3‑blade propellers offer good all around performance and higher top speed than 4‑blade propellers. However, 4‑blade propellers are usually faster to plane and more efficient at cruising speeds, but lack the top end speed of a 3‑blade propeller.

Outboard Remote Control Models

The remote control connected to your outboard must be equipped with a start in neutral only protection device. This prevents the engine from starting when the shift is actuated in any position other than neutral.

GENERAL INFORMATION

WARNING

Starting the engine with the drive in gear can cause serious injury or death. Never operate a boat that does not have a neutral‑safety‑protection device.

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Remote Steering Notice

The steering link rod that connects the steering cable to the engine must be fastened utilizing self‑locking nuts. These self‑locking nuts must never be replaced with common nuts (non‑locking) as they will work loose and vibrate off, freeing the link rod to disengage.

WARNING

Improper fasteners or improper installation procedures can result in loosening or disengagement of the steering link rod. This can cause a sudden, unexpected loss of boat control, resulting serious injury or death due to occupants being thrown within or out of the boat. Always use required components and follow instructions and torque procedures.

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a - Self‑locking nuts

GENERAL INFORMATION

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 122 ‑ 152 cm (4 ‑ 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.

21629

a - Lanyard cord b - Lanyard stop switch

Read the following Safety Information before proceeding.

GENERAL INFORMATION

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.

GENERAL INFORMATION

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.

21604

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

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.

GENERAL INFORMATION

WHILE BOAT IS STATIONARY

WARNING

A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to the boat can cause serious injury or death to swimmers. Stop the engine immediately whenever anyone in the water is near your boat.

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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+ 91 hidden pages

Mercury Optimax User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual