Freezing Temperature And Cold Weather Operation - Mercury MerCruiser D2.8L D-Tronic Service Manual

SERVICE MANUAL NUMBER 22

Freezing Temperature and Cold Weather Operation

IMPORTANT: If boat is operated during periods of freezing temperature, precautions
must be taken to prevent freeze damage to power package. Refer to the following and
to Cold Weather or Extended Storage for related information and draining
instructions.
Seawater (raw water) section of cooling system MUST BE COMPLETELY drained for
winter storage or immediately after cold weather use, if the possibility of freezing
temperatures exist. Failure to comply may result in trapped water causing freeze
and/or corrosion damage to engine.
If boat is in the water, seacock (water inlet valve), if equipped, must be left closed
until engine is to be started to prevent water from flowing back into cooling system
and/or boat. If boat is not fitted with a seacock, water inlet hose must be left
disconnected and plugged to prevent water from flowing back into cooling system
and/or boat. As a precautionary measure, attach a tag to the ignition switch or
steering wheel of the boat with the warning: Open seacock or reconnect water inlet
hose before starting engine.
1. At the end of operations each day, COMPLETELY drain seawater section of the cooling
system and the seawater strainer to protect against damage by freezing. Refer to
SECTION 1B.
2. At the end of operation each day, drain water from water separating fuel filter.
3. Fill fuel tank at end of operation each day to prevent condensation.
4. Closed cooling section of engine must be filled with Premixed Marine Engine Coolant,
a mixture of anti-freeze / deionized water solution sufficient to prevent freezing to the
coldest temperature of the area.
5. Ensure that proper cold weather lubrication oil is used.
6. Make certain that the battery is of sufficient size and is fully charged. Ensure that all other
electrical equipment is in optimum condition.
7. At temperatures of –20
crankcase mounted coolant heater to improve cold starting.
8. If operating in arctic temperatures of –29
information about special cold weather equipment and precautions.
90-860074--1 FEBRUARY 2002
CAUTION
CAUTION
° °
C (–4 F) and below, it is recommended that you use the
°
C (–20
°
F) or lower, consult your dealer for
MAINTENANCE
Page 1B-65