Sterndrive Surface Care; Flushing The Power Package - MerCruiser Sterndrive 4.3 MPI User Manual

Sterndrive Surface Care

c
e
f
g
We recommend the following maintenance items to help keep your sterndrive corrosion‑free:
• Maintain a complete paint covering on the sterndrive.
• Check the finish regularly. Prime and paint nicks and scratches using Mercury enamel paint and touch up paint. Use only tin–
based anti–fouling paint or its equivalent on or near aluminum surfaces below the waterline.
• If bare metal is showing, apply 2 coats paint.
Description
Mercury Phantom Black
• Spray all electrical connections with sealant.
Tube Ref No.
Liquid Neoprene
25
• Inspect the sacrificial trim tab or anode plate if equipped, at regular intervals and replace it before it is half gone. If a stainless
steel propeller is installed, additional anodes or a MerCathode System will be required.
• Inspect the propeller shaft for fishing line, which can cause corrosion on a stainless steel shaft.
• Remove the propeller at least every 60 days and lubricate the propeller shaft.
• Do not use lubricants containing graphite on or near the aluminum in saltwater.
• Do not paint trim tabs or the mounting surface.

Flushing the Power Package

Your boat could come equipped with a combination of any of three different types of water pickups: through the hull, through the
transom, and through the sterndrive. The flushing procedures for these systems are separated into two categories: sterndrive
water pickups and alternative water pickups. Consult your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer for further explanation.
IMPORTANT: Bravo models equipped with closed cooling require dual water pickups and must be equipped with a through‑hull
or through‑transom pickup in addition to the sterndrive water inlets.
IMPORTANT: Alpha engines with the sterndrive water inlet blocked off at the gimbal housing, and using a through‑hull water inlet,
need a supply of cooling water available to both the sterndrive and to the engine during operation
90-8M0053269 NOVEMBER 2010
d
a
b
Description
Standard Bravo sterndrive
a - Sacrificial trim cylinder anode
b - Sacrificial anodic plate
c - Steering lever ground wire
d - Ground wire between the gimbal ring and bell housing
e - Stainless steel hoses
f - Ground wire between the gimbal housing and trim cylinder
g - Ground wire between the gimbal ring and gimbal housing
21083
Where used
Bare metal
Where Used
All electrical connections
Section 5 - Maintenance
Part number
92‑ 802878‑1
Part No.
92- 25711 3
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