Corrosion Control Anode; Propeller Replacement - 87.3 Mm (3 - 7/16 In.) Diameter Gearcase - Mercury 40 Operator's Manual

Corrosion Control Anode

Your outboard has corrosion control anodes at different locations. An anode helps protect the outboard against
galvanic corrosion by sacrificing its metal to be slowly corroded instead of the outboard metals.
Each anode requires periodic inspection, especially in salt water which will accelerate the erosion. To maintain
this corrosion protection, always replace the anode before it is completely eroded. Never paint or apply a protective
coating on the anode as this will reduce effectiveness of the anode.
One anode is installed on the bottom of the transom bracket assembly. The trim tab is also an anode on the
87.3 mm (3 ‑ 7/16 in.) diameter gearcase. The 108 mm (4 ‑ 1/4 in.) diameter gearcase has three anodes. One of
the anodes is the trim tab, and the other two anodes are located on each side of the gearcase.
a - Anode on transom bracket assembly
b - Anode (2) on each side of gearcase
Propeller Replacement ‑ 87.3 mm (3 ‑ 7/16 in.) Diameter Gearcase
If the propeller shaft is rotated while the engine is in gear, there is the possibility that the engine will crank over
and start. To prevent this type of accidental engine starting and possible serious injury caused from being struck
by a rotating propeller, always shift outboard to neutral position and remove spark plug leads when you are
servicing the propeller.
1. Shift outboard to neutral (N) position.
2. Remove the spark plug leads to prevent engine from starting.
MAINTENANCE
b
c
a
WARNING
!
N
49
c - Trim tab
N
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