Flushing The Seawater System-Inboard Models; With The Boat Out Of The Water - Mercury MerCruiser Diesel Inboard 2.8L Operation & Maintenance Manual

d. Tighten the cover screws. Do not overtighten.
b
f
c
5. For plastic seawater strainers:
a. Insert the plastic strainer basket.
b. Check the cover seal installation.
c. Screw the strainer cover on.
a
6. Open the seacock, if equipped, or remove the plug and reconnect the seawater inlet hose.
7. Upon first starting the engine, check for leaks or air in the system that would indicate an external leak.
Flushing the Seawater System—Inboard Models
Flushing the seawater system with fresh water is needed only for applications operating in saltwater, brackish water, polluted
water, or water with a high mineral content to avoid salt or silt buildup. For best results we recommend flushing the seawater
system after each outing. After each operation in saltwater and before storage, the seawater cooling system must be flushed.

With the Boat out of the Water

Without sufficient cooling water, the engine, the water pump, and other components will overheat and suffer damage. Provide
a sufficient supply of water to the water inlets during operation.
Rotating propellers can cause serious injury or death. Never operate the boat out of the water with a propeller installed.
Before installing or removing a propeller, place the drive unit in neutral and engage the lanyard stop switch to prevent the
engine from starting. Place a block of wood between the propeller blade and the anti‑ventilation plate.
90-8M0133679 JUNE 2017
eng
a
a - Screws and washers
b - Cover with glass
c - Strainer
d - Housing
e - Drain plug and sealing washer
f - Seal
d
e
12863
b
c
37287
NOTICE
WARNING
!
a - Strainer cover
b - Strainer basket
c - Seal
Section 4 - Maintenance
Page 57