Following Complete Submersion; Submerged While Running; Salt Water Submersion; Fresh Water Submersion - Mercury 5 SERIES Service Manual

GENERAL INFORMATION

Following Complete Submersion

Submerged While Running (Special Instructions)
When an engine is submerged while running, the possibility of internal engine damage is
greatly increased. If, after engine is recovered and with spark plugs removed, engine fails
to turn over freely when turning flywheel, the possibility of internal damage (bent connecting
rod and/or bent crankshaft) exists. If this is the case, the powerhead must be disassembled.
Salt Water Submersion (Special Instructions)
Due to the corrosive effect of salt water on internal engine components, complete disassem-
bly is necessary before any attempt is made to start the engine.
Fresh Water Submersion (Special Instructions)
1. Recover engine as quickly as possible.
2. Remove cowling.
3. Flush exterior of outboard with fresh water to remove mud, weeds, etc. DO NOT attempt
to start engine if sand has entered powerhead, as powerhead will be severely damaged.
Disassemble powerhead if necessary to clean components.
4. Drain engine oil. Do not refill engine oil at this time.
5. Drain carburetor and clean fuel pump assembly.
6. Remove spark plug and get as much water as possible out of powerhead. Most water
can be eliminated by placing engine in a horizontal position (with spark plug holes down)
and rotating flywheel.
7. Pour alcohol into carburetor throat (alcohol will absorbed water). Again rotate flywheel.
8. Turn engine over and pour alcohol into spark plug opening and rotate flywheel.
9. Turn engine over (place spark plug openings down) and pour engine oil into throat of
carburetor while rotating flywheel to distribute oil throughout crankcase.
10. Again turn engine over and pour approximately one teaspoon of engine oil into spark
plug opening. Again rotate flywheel to distribute oil in cylinder.
11. Dry all wiring and electrical components using compressed air.
12. Reinstall spark plug.
13. Refill engine crankcase with fresh oil.
14. Attempt to start engine, using a fresh fuel source. If engine starts, it should be run for
at least one hour to eliminate any water in engine.
15. If engine fails to start, determine cause (fuel, electrical or mechanical). Engine should
be run within 2 hours after recovery of outboard from water, or serious internal damage
may occur. If unable to start engine in this period, disassemble engine and clean all
parts. Apply oil as soon as possible.
Page 1C-6 90-857138R1 MAY 2000