Boat Bottom Care; Painting Your Power Package - Mercury 2.8 Diesel Operation & Maintenance Manual

Section 4 - Maintenance
Refer to the appropriate Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive service manual for testing procedures.

Boat Bottom Care

To achieve maximum performance and fuel economy, the boat bottom must be kept clean. Accumulation of marine growth or
other foreign matter can greatly reduce boat speed and increase fuel consumption. To ensure best performance and efficiency,
periodically clean the boat bottom in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
In some areas, it may be advisable to paint the bottom to help prevent marine growth. Refer to the following information for
special notes about the use of antifouling paints.

Painting Your Power Package

IMPORTANT: Corrosion damage that results from the improper application of anti‑fouling paint will not be covered by the
limited warranty.
1.
Painting the boat hull or transom: you may apply anti‑fouling paint to the boat hull and transom. However, observe the
following:
IMPORTANT: Do not paint anodes or MerCathode System reference electrode and anode. Paint will render them
ineffective as inhibitors of galvanic corrosion.
IMPORTANT: If anti‑fouling protection is required for the boat hull or transom, you can use copper‑based or tin‑based
paints where not prohibited by law. If using copper‑based or tin‑based anti‑fouling paints, observe the following:
• Avoid any electrical interconnection between the paint and the Mercury MerCruiser product, anodic blocks, or
MerCathode system by allowing a minimum of 40 mm (1‑1/2 in.) unpainted area on the transom of the boat around
these items.
b
2. Painting the sterndrive unit or transom assembly: The sterndrive unit and transom assembly should be painted with a
good‑quality marine paint or an anti‑fouling paint that does not contain copper, tin, or any other material that could conduct
electrical current. Do not paint drain holes, anodes, MerCathode system, or items specified by the boat manufacturer.
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a - Painted boat transom
b - Unpainted area on transom
a
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90-8M0113987 DECEMBER 2015
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