High-Speed And High-Performance Boat Operation; Propeller Selection - Mercury 135 OptiMax Manual

GENERAL INFORMATION
Do not overpower or overload your boat. Most boats will carry a required capacity plate indicating the
maximum acceptable power and load as determined by the manufacturer following certain federal
guidelines. If in doubt, contact your dealer or the boat manufacturer.

High-Speed and High-Performance Boat Operation

If your outboard is to be used on a high speed or high performance boat with which you are unfamiliar,
we recommend that you never operate it at its high speed capability without first requesting an initial
orientation and familiarization demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator experienced with your
boat/outboard combination. For additional information, obtain a copy of our Hi-Performance Boat
Operation booklet from your dealer, distributor, or Mercury Marine.

Propeller Selection

The propeller on your outboard is one of the most important components in the propulsion system. An
improper propeller choice can significantly affect the performance of your boat and could result in damage
to the outboard engine.
When choosing a propeller, a full selection of aluminum and stainless steel propellers specifically
designed for your outboard are available through Mercury Marine. To view the entire product offering
and find the correct propeller that is best suited for your application, visit www.mercmarinepropellers.com
or see your local authorized Mercury dealer.
SELECTING THE CORRECT PROPELLER
An accurate tachometer for measuring engine speed is important in choosing the correct propeller.
Choose a propeller for your boating application that will allow the engine to operate within the specified
full throttle operating range. When operating the boat at full throttle under normal load conditions, the
engine RPM should be in the upper half of the recommended full throttle RPM range. Refer to
Specifications. If engine RPM is above that range, select a propeller of increased pitch in order to reduce
engine RPM. If engine RPM is below the recommended range, select a propeller of reduced pitch to
increase engine RPM.
IMPORTANT: To ensure proper fit, and performance, Mercury Marine recommends the use of Mercury
or Quicksilver branded propellers and mounting hardware.
U.S. COAST GUARD CAP ACITY
MAXIMUM HORSEPOWER XXX
MAXIMUM PERSON
CAPACITY (POUNDS)
MAXIMUM WEIGHT
CAPACITY
7
XXX
XXX
26777