Clearing A Lodged Impeller; Engine Break-In Procedure - Mercury Jet OptiMax 80 Manual

A large amount of debris being drawn into the water intake may
result in a loss of power. Intake suction holding debris against the
grate will result in restricted water flow. Shutting the engine off may
allow the debris to fall off the intake grate allowing full power to be
restored. If debris does not fall off the intake grate, the engine must
be shut off and debris physically removed from the grate.

Clearing A Lodged Impeller

Rotating the flywheel to free a lodged impeller can accidentally
start the engine, resulting in serious injury or death. Always turn
the ignition key or lanyard stop switch to the "OFF" position and
remove all spark plug leads from the spark plugs.
It is possible for debris to lodge between the impeller and jet
housing wall, especially after the engine has been stopped. This
will lock the driveshaft and will prevent the engine from being able
to crank over for starting. Following are steps for dislodging the
impeller.
1. Position lanyard stop switch to the "OFF" position.
2. Remove spark plug leads to prevent the engine from
accidentally starting.
3. Remove flywheel or rewind cover and rotate the engine
flywheel counterclockwise.
If this does not dislodge the impeller, it will be necessary to remove
the six screws and water intake housing.
Engine Break‑in Procedure
IMPORTANT: Failure to follow the engine break‑in procedures can
result in poor performance throughout the life of the engine and
can cause engine damage. Always follow break‑in procedures.
GASOLINE/OIL BREAK-IN MIXTURE
NOTE: Do not use pre‑mixed gas and oil during break‑in. Use
straight gasoline during engine break‑in and after engine break‑in.
OPERATION
WARNING
!
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