Mercury Optimax 115 Service Manual page 460

ATTACHMENTS / CONTROL LINKAGE
STEERING LINK ROD INSTALLATION
IMPORTANT: The steering link rod that connects the steering cable to the engine
must be fastened using special washer head bolt ("a" - Part Number 10-14000) and
self locking nuts ("b" & "c" - Part Number 11-34863). These locknuts must never
be replaced with common nuts (non locking) as they will work loose and vibrate
off freeing the link rod to disengage.
Disengagement of a steering link rod can result in the boat taking a full, sudden,
sharp turn. This potentially violent action can cause occupants to be thrown
overboard exposing them to serious injury or death.
1. Assemble steering link rod to steering cable with two flat washers (d) and nylon insert
locknut ("b" - Part Number 11-34863). Tighten locknut (b) until it seats, then back nut
off 1/4 turn.
2. Production Outboards - Assemble steering link rod to engine with special washer
head bolt ("a" - Part Number 10-14000) and nylon insert locknut ("c" - Part Number
11-34863). First torque bolt (a) to 20 lb. ft. (27 Nm), then torque locknut (c) to 20 lb.
ft. (27 Nm).
High Performance Outboards - An access hole is provided through the bottom cowl
to ease installation of the link rod connecting bolt. Remove the BACK plug for installa-
tion and reinstall after installation.
After installation is complete (and before operating outboard), check that boat
will turn right when steering wheel is turned right and that boat will turn left when
steering wheel is turned left. Check steering thru full range (left and right) and at
all tilt angles to assure interference-free movement.
Maintenance Instructions
Maintenance inspection is owner's responsibility and must be performed at intervals spe-
cified, following:
Normal Service - Every 50 hrs. of operation or 60 days (whichever comes first)
*Severe Service - Every 25 hrs. of operation or 30 days (whichever comes first)
*Operation in a salt water area is considered "Severe Service."
1. Carefully check steering system components for wear. Replace worn parts.
2. Check steering system fasteners to be sure that they are torqued to correct specifica-
tions.
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WARNING
a
c
WARNING
d
b
90-855347R1 JANUARY 1999