Storage; Storage Preparation; Protecting External Outboard Components; Protecting Internal Engine Components - Mercury 40 4-Stroke Manual

Storage Preparation

The major consideration in preparing your outboard for storage is to protect it from rust, corrosion, and
damage caused by freezing of trapped water.
The following storage procedures should be followed to prepare your outboard for out of season storage
or prolonged storage (two months or longer).
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.
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Gasoline containing alcohol (ethanol or methanol) can cause a formation of acid during
storage and can damage the fuel system. If the gasoline being used contains alcohol, it is advisable to
drain as much of the remaining gasoline as possible from the fuel tank, remote fuel line, and engine fuel
system.
Fill the fuel tank and engine fuel system with treated (stabilized) fuel to help prevent formation of varnish
and gum. Proceed with following instructions.
• Portable Fuel Tank - Pour the required amount of gasoline stabilizer (follow instructions on
container) into fuel tank. Tip fuel tank back and forth to mix stabilizer with the fuel.
• Permanently Installed Fuel Tank - Pour the required amount of gasoline stabilizer (follow
instructions on container) into a separate container and mix with approximately one quart (one
liter) of gasoline. Pour this mixture into fuel tank.
Carburetor Models
• Place the outboard in water or connect flushing attachment for circulating cooling water. Run the
engine for ten minutes to fill the engine fuel system.
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Models
• Remove the fuel filter sight bowl and empty contents in a suitable container. Refer to Maintenance
- Fuel System for removal and installation of filter. Add 3 cc (1/2 teaspoon) of gasoline stabilizer
into the fuel filter sight bowl and reinstall.
• Place the outboard in water or connect flushing attachment for circulating cooling water. Run the
engine for 15 minutes to allow treated fuel to fill the engine fuel system.

Protecting External Outboard Components

• Lubricate all outboard components listed in Maintenance - Inspection and Maintenance
Schedule.
• Touch up any paint nicks. See your dealer for touch-up paint.
• Spray Quicksilver or Mercury Precision Lubricants Corrosion Guard on external metal surfaces
(except corrosion control anodes).
Tube Ref No.
Corrosion Guard
120

Protecting Internal Engine Components

• Remove the spark plugs and add approximately 30 ml (1 oz.) of engine oil or inject a five second
spray of storage seal into each spark plug hole.
• Rotate the flywheel manually several times to distribute the oil in the cylinders. Reinstall spark
plugs.
• Change the engine oil.

STORAGE

NOTICE
Description
63
Where Used
External metal surfaces
Part No.
92-802878Q55