Outboard External Finish; Scratch Repair; Spark Plugs; Submerged Outboard - Evinrude E-TEC Operator's Manual

Maintenance

OUTBOARD EXTERNAL FINISH

Your outboard's upper and lower engine cov-
ers use molded-in color technology, providing
a deep, durable gloss with maximum ultravio-
let (sunlight) protection.
The high gloss finish will show polish marks
when viewed closely in certain light condi-
tions. This glossing is NORMAL.
Periodically, wash the entire boat and out-
board with soapy water and apply a coat of
automotive wax. Leave the engine cover in
place when washing the outboard.
NOTICE
When
board, DO NOT cover the engine with can-
vas—it will dull
outboard's engine covers.

SCRATCH REPAIR

Surface scratches on the upper and lower en-
gine covers can be polished out with buffing
compound.
Treat affected areas using these steps:
1) Sand the affected area with 800-grit sand-
paper.
2) Wet sand the area with 1200-grit sandpa-
per.
3) Using a composite material buffing com-
pound, polish the area, closely following
the product directions.
NOTICE
Your Dealer has the profes-
sional materials
scratches. Do not attempt to paint over
marks or scratches in the composite
material. See your Dealer to repair any
deep scratches or gouges.

SPARK PLUGS

A CAUTION
The ignition system presents a serious
shock hazard. Use caution to avoid
injury from shock or injury resulting
from your reaction to shock. Do not han-
dle primary or secondary ignition com-
ponents while the engine is cranking or
running.
48
trailering your out-
the finish of
to properly repair
Spark plugs should be serviced by an
Evinrude E-TEC Dealer. Incorrect spark plug
maintenance can lead to engine damage.
NOTICE
Replacement
MUST be indexed correctly.
Marine Engine Duty Cycles
The International Council of Marine Industry
Associations (ICOMIA) Standard No. 36-88
specifies a marine engine duty cycle based on
documented studies. A duty cycle is a profile
of engine running and usage. This duty cycle
is used to determine average spark plug lon-
gevity and maintenance requirements for
Evinrude E-TEC outboards.
the
ICOMIA Marine Engine Duty Cycle
Engine Speed as
Percentage of Rated
Speed (RPM)
IDLE
40%
60%
80%
100%
NOTICE
Some running profiles and
conditions can lead to spark plug wear
sooner than expected. Depending on your
specific usage, the spark plug mainte-
nance schedule may require adjustment.

SUBMERGED OUTBOARD

If your outboard has been under water, have
it serviced immediately upon recovery. If
immediate service is unavailable, resub-
merge it in fresh water to avoid prolonged ex-
posure to the atmosphere.
After submersion, all boat and engine electri-
cal, fuel, and oiling systems must be inspect-
ed for signs of water intrusion. Your Dealer
should perform this service.
spark plugs
Time at Specified RPM
(Percentage of total
engine running time)
40%
25%
15%
14%
6%