Operation Chart; Starting And Stopping The Engine; Starting The Engine; November - MerCruiser 496 MAG Owner's Manual

OPERATION CHART

Install the bilge drain plug.
Open engine hatch.
Turn battery switch on.
Operate bilge blowers.
Open fuel shut off valve.
Open seacock, if equipped.
Close the drain system.
Place sterndrive unit in full down (in)
position.
Check the engine oil.
Perform all other checks specified by
your dealer or boat builder.
Listen for Audio Warning Alarm to
sound when the ignition switch is in
the "ON" position.

Starting and Stopping the Engine

NOTE: Only perform those functions applicable to your power package.

STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Check all items listed in the Operation Chart.
2. Place the remote control handle in neutral.
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.
Explosive fumes contained in the engine compartment can cause serious injury or death
from fire or explosion. Before starting the engine, operate the bilge blower or vent the
engine compartment for at least five minutes.
3. Turn ignition key to "START". Release key when engine starts and allow switch to return
to "ON" position. Allow engine to warm up (6‑10 minutes on first start of the day).
4. If engine does not start after 3 attempts:

90-899883240 NOVEMBER 2007

Before Starting
Observe all gauges to
check condition of
engine. If not normal,
stop the engine.
Check for fuel, oil,
water, fluid and
exhaust leaks.
Check shift and
throttle control
operation.
Check steering
operation.

Operation Chart

After Starting While Underway
Observe all
gauges to check
condition of
engine. If not
normal, stop the
engine.
Listen for the
audio alarm.
NOTICE
WARNING
!
Section 3 - On the Water
After Stopping
Turn the ignition key to the
"OFF" position.
Turn battery switch to the
"OFF" position.
Close fuel shut off valve.
Close seacock, if
equipped.
Flush cooling system if in
saltwater.
Drain bilge.
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