Mercury Racing Sterndrive 600SCi User Manual

Declaration of Conformance – Mercury Racing Sterndrive 600SCi (600 HP)

Manufacturer:

Mercury Racing N7480 County Road UU Fond du Lac, WI 54935 USA

Authorized Representative:

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

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

Applicable Requirement Standards Applied

Owner’s manual (A.2.5) ISO 10240

Handling characteristics (A.4) ISO 8665

Inboard Engine (A.5.1.1) ISO 15584; ISO 7840; ISO 10133

Fuel System (A.5.2) ISO 7840; ISO 8469

Electrical System (A.5.3) ISO 10133; ISO 8846

General Steering System (A.5.4.1)

Applicable portions of: ABYC P‑21; EN ISO 10592

Exhaust emission requirements (B.2)

ISO 8178‑1

Owner’s manual (B.4) ISO 8665

Module used for exhaust emission assessment: Modules B+C,

EC‑Type Examination Certificate No.: EXMERC001.

The notified body responsible for EC‑Type Examination for the engine exhaust emissions assessment is

IMCI Rue Abbe Cuypers 3 B – 1040, Brussels – Belgium

Notified Body No.: 0609

Engine Type: Sterndrive

Fuel Type: Gasoline

Combustion Cycle: 4 Stroke

Engine Family Name: 600SCi

Starting Serial Number: 0M955821

Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 89/336/EC

Generic emission standard BS EN 61000‑6‑3

Generic immunity standard BS EN 61000‑6‑1

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

SAE J551; CISPR 12

Electrostatic discharge testing BS EN 61000‑4‑2; BS 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

Regulatory contact: Engineering - Regulations Mercury Racing N7480 County Road UU Fond du Lac, WI 54935-9585 USA

Thank You

for your purchase of one of the finest marine power packages available. It incorporates numerous design features to assure operating ease and durability.

With proper care and maintenance, you will thoroughly enjoy using this product for many boating seasons. To ensure maximum performance and carefree use, we ask that you thoroughly read this manual.

iii

The Operation, Maintenance & Warranty Manual contains specific instructions for using and maintaining your product. We suggest that this manual remain with the product for ready reference whenever you are on the water.

Again, thank you for purchasing one of our Mercury Marine products. We sincerely hope your boating will be pleasant!

Mercury Racing, N7480 County Road "UU" Fond du Lac, WI 54935-9585

7406

Warranty Message

The product you have purchased comes with a limited warranty from Mercury Marine; the terms of the warranty are set forth in the Warranty Information section of this manual. The warranty statement contains a description of what is covered, what is not covered, the duration of coverage, how to best obtain warranty coverage, important disclaimers and limitations of damages, and other related information. Please review this important information.

WARNING

The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation of the boat, the equipment aboard and the safety of all occupants aboard. We strongly recommend that the operator read this Operation, Maintenance and Warranty Manual and thoroughly understand the operational instructions for the power package and all related accessories before the boat is used.

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Safety Alerts and Notices

Throughout this publication, "Warnings" and "Cautions,"

accompanied by the international HAZARD symbol

, are used to alert the technician to special instructions concerning a particular service or operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe these safety alerts carefully.

These safety alerts alone can not eliminate the hazards they signal. Strict compliance to these special instructions when performing the service, and common sense operation are major accident prevention measures.

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.

IMPORTANT: Indicates information or instructions that are necessary for a particular step or action.

NOTE: Indicates information that helps in the understanding of a particular step or action.

Mercury, Mercury Marine, MerCruiser, Mercury MerCruiser, Mercury Racing, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Mariner, Quicksilver, #1 On The Water, Alpha, Bravo, Pro Max, OptiMax, Sport‑Jet, K‑Planes, MerCathode, RideGuide, SmartCraft, Zero Effort, M with Waves logo, Mercury with Waves logo, and SmartCraft logo are all registered trademarks of Brunswick Corporation. Mercury Product Protection logo is a registered service mark of Brunswick Corporation.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

vii

Warranty Information

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

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

Mercury Racing Division One Year Limited Warranty.................2

Products Sold to Government Agencies......................................6

3 Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion................................7

Warranty Coverage and Exclusions for Mercury Racing Sterndrive

Products.....................................................................................10

General Information

Boater's Responsibilities............................................................12

Boat Horsepower Capacity........................................................12

High-Speed and High-Performance Boat Operation.................13

Paddle Wheel and Water Temperature Sensors.......................13

Lanyard Stop Switch..................................................................13

Trailering Boat...........................................................................15

Protecting People In The Water.................................................15

Exhaust Emissions....................................................................16

Wave And Wake Jumping.........................................................18

Impact With Underwater Hazards..............................................19

Operating in Shallow Water.......................................................20

Safe Boating Suggestions.........................................................22

Stolen Power Package..............................................................25

Specifications

Engine Identification..................................................................26

General Engine Specifications...................................................27

Engine Operating Limitations (HP600)......................................28

Fuel Requirements....................................................................28

Oil Recommendations...............................................................31

Capacities..................................................................................32

California Emissions Regulations..............................................32

Engine Break-in.........................................................................32

After Break-In Period.................................................................33

TABLE OF CONTENTS

viii

Operation

Instrumentation..........................................................................34

Warning System........................................................................34

Electrical System Overload Protection......................................37

Remote Controls (Console Mounted Zero Effort)......................42

Remote Controls........................................................................43

Power Trim................................................................................46

Freezing Temperature Operation..............................................53

Starting, Shifting and Stopping..................................................53

Operation Chart.........................................................................55

Drain Plug and Bilge Pump........................................................56

Launching And Boat Operation Care.........................................57

Conditions Affecting Operation

Weight Distribution.....................................................................58

Bottom Of Boat..........................................................................58

Cavitation...................................................................................58

Ventilation..................................................................................59

Propeller Selection.....................................................................59

Conditions That Lower Engine Performance.............................60

Maintenance

Special Tools.............................................................................61

Servicing High Horsepower Engines.........................................62

Service Responsibilities.............................................................62

Replacement Service Parts.......................................................63

Do-It-Yourself Maintenance Suggestions..................................64

Engine Maintenance Charts......................................................65

Bravo Drive Maintenance Charts...............................................67

Checking Fluid Levels................................................................69

Changing Fluids.........................................................................76

Lubrication.................................................................................89

Propellers...................................................................................92

Flushing the Power Package.....................................................96

Seawater Pump Impeller Inspection..........................................99

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Cleaning the Seawater (Raw Water) Section of the Engine Oil,

Power Steering, and Fuel Coolers...........................................100

Serpentine and Supercharger Drive Belts...............................102

Fuel Filters...............................................................................107

Corrosion and Corrosion Protection........................................109

Battery.....................................................................................114

Bottom of Boat.........................................................................115

Inspection and Maintenance....................................................115

Attention Required After Submersion......................................116

Cold Weather or Extended Storage

Power Package Lay-up............................................................117

Draining Instructions................................................................119

Battery Winter Storage............................................................123

Power Package Recommissioning..........................................123

Troubleshooting

Engine Will Not Crank .............................................................127

Engine Cranks But Will Not Start.............................................128

Engine Hard to Start, Runs Rough, Misses, and/or Backfires. 128

Poor Performance....................................................................129

Engine Coolant Temperature Too Low....................................129

Engine Coolant Temperature Too High...................................130

Low Engine Oil Pressure.........................................................130

Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Doesn't Run)...............131

Battery Will Not Come Up On Charge.....................................131

Power Trim Does Not Operate (Motor Runs But Drive Unit Does

Not Move)................................................................................131

Electrical Analog Trim Gauge Malfunction...............................132

Remote Control Operates Hard, Binds, Has Excessive Free-Play

or Makes Unusual Sounds.......................................................132

Steering Wheel Turns Hard or Jerky.......................................132

Seawater Pressure Is Below Specification..............................133

Seawater Pressure Is Above Specification..............................133

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Owner Service Assistance

Local Repair Service................................................................134

Service Away From Home.......................................................134

Parts And Accessories Inquiries..............................................134

Service Assistance..................................................................134

Mercury Mercruiser Service Offices.........................................135

Ordering Literature

United States and Canada.......................................................137

Outside The United States and Canada..................................137

Maintenance Log

Maintenance Log.....................................................................138

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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. 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.

IMPORTANT: Your warranty coverage begins at the time of sale, but warranty claims cannot be processed until the product is registered with Mercury Marine.

3. Upon processing the warranty registration, Mercury Marine will send the purchaser a Mercury Owner Resource Guide. The back page of this guide contains your warranty registration information and should be saved. If this registration verification is not received within 30 days, please contact your selling dealer immediately.

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

Mercury Racing Division One Year Limited Warranty

WHAT IS COVERED

Mercury Marine warrants its new products (and remanufactured products sold under the trade name "Pacemaker") to be free of defects in material and workmanship during the period described below.

DURATION OF COVERAGE

This Limited Warranty provides coverage for one (1) year from either 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. 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 a subsequent purchaser upon proper re‑registration of the product.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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. Inaccurate warranty registration information regarding recreational use, or subsequent change of use from recreational to commercial may void the warranty at the sole discretion of Mercury Marine. 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 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 defective 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

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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, 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, 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. The commercial use of the product, defined as any work or employment related use of the product, or any income generating use of the product, even if such use is only occasional, will void the warranty. Use of the product for racing or other competitive activity, 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, tournament fees, club fees, prize money 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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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 EX‑PRESSLY 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.

Products Sold to Government Agencies

Contact the Mercury Racing Sales Department for a copy of the Government Agencies Warranty Packet Kit which explains the conditions required for government agencies to receive warranty when purchasing Mercury Racing Outboard or Sterndrive product.

Mercury Racing Sales Department N7840 County Road UU Fond du Lac, WI 54935 920-921-5330 Fax 920-921-6533

WARRANTY INFORMATION

3 Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion

WHAT IS COVERED: Mercury Marine warrants that each new Mercury, Mariner, Mercury Racing Outboard, Sport Jet, M2 Jet

Drive, Tracker by Mercury Marine Outboard, Mercury MerCruiser Inboard or Sterndrive Engine, Mercury Racing Bravo style sterndrive engine (Product) will not be rendered inoperative as a direct result of corrosion for the period of time described below.

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

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.

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 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; 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.

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.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Warranty Coverage and Exclusions for Mercury Racing Sterndrive Products

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 Mercury Racing Division Three Year Limited Warranty Against Corrosion Failure, the Mercury Racing Division 90 Day, 6 months and One Year Limited Warranties.

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 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.

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 or EFI settings, filters, belts, controls, and checking lubrication made in connection with normal services.

2. Damage caused by lack of maintenance.

3. Haul‑out, launch, towing charges, and all related transportation charges and/or travel time, etc.

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

WARRANTY INFORMATION

5. 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).

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

7. 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.

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

9. Water in the starter motor.

10.Starter motors and/or armatures or field coil assembly, which are burned, or where lead is thrown out of commutator because of excess cranking.

11.Valve or valve seat grinding required because of wear.

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 power package.

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

Boat Horsepower Capacity

WARNING

Avoid serious injury, death or property damage from overpowering a boat. Using a power package that exceeds the maximum horsepower limit of a boat can:

• Cause loss of boat control.

• Place too much weight at the transom altering the designed flotation characteristics of the boat

• Cause the boat to break apart, particularly around the transom area.

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 CAPACITY

MAXIMUM HORSEPOWER XXX

MAXIMUM PERSON CAPACITY (POUNDS) XXX

MAXIMUM WEIGHT CAPACITY XXX

ob00306

GENERAL INFORMATION

High‑Speed and High‑Performance Boat Operation

If your power package 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/ power package combination. For additional information, obtain a copy of our Hi‑Performance Boat Operation booklet from your dealer, distributor, or Mercury Marine.

Paddle Wheel and Water Temperature Sensors

Paddle wheels cannot be utilized on vessels that are capable of speeds in excess of 50 mph. Water temperature sensors cannot be connected to Race Sterndrive engines that are equipped with a Propulsion Control Module (PCM). The water temperatue sensor connection is utilized by the PCM for monitoring engine oil temperature.

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. A lanyard stop switch can be installed as an accessory ‑ generally on the dashboard or side adjacent to the operator's position.

GENERAL INFORMATION

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.

21629

a - Lanyard cord b - Lanyard stop switch

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:

GENERAL INFORMATION

• 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 gear case or propeller.

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

• Loss of control when docking.

Trailering Boat

The boat can be trailered with the drive unit in up or down position. Adequate road clearance is required between road and gear housing skeg when trailering with the drive unit in down position.

If adequate road clearance is a problem, place drive unit in full up position.

Protecting People In The Water

WHILE YOU ARE CRUISING

It is very difficult for a person in the water to take quick action to avoid a boat heading in their direction, even at slow speeds.

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 (even coasting) and the gear shift is in neutral, 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

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

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.

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.

GENERAL INFORMATION

While Boat Is Stationary

21626

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

5449

a - Running the boat with the trim angle of the bow too high. b - Running the boat with no forward hatches open (station

wagon effect).

GOOD VENTILATION

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

5448

GENERAL INFORMATION

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.

5450

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 any 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.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Impact With Underwater Hazards

WARNING

Avoid serious injury or death. When operating in shallow water or areas with underwater obstacles, maintain a minimum and safe speed.

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 sterndrive 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 24 to 40 km/h (15 to 25 MPH)

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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 sterndrive or the entire sterndrive 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 sterndrive and/or boat.

GENERAL INFORMATION

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.

WARNING

Avoid serious injury or death from loss of boat control due to sudden component failure. Do not operate a boat with impact damage. Have the power package inspected and repaired as necessary.

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

Operating in Shallow Water

CAUTION

Serious engine damage could occur by failing to follow these instructions. Sand, silt or mud could be sucked into the water inlets restricting or shutting off the water supply to the engine.

+ 118 hidden pages

Mercury Racing Sterndrive 600SCi User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual