Operating In Freezing Temperatures; Operating In Saltwater Or Polluted Water; Operating At High Elevations; Propeller Selection - Mercury 200 Verado FourStroke Operation, Maintenance & Warranty Manual

OPERATION

Operating in Freezing Temperatures

When using your outboard or having your outboard moored in freezing or near
freezing temperatures, keep the outboard tilted down at all times so the
gearcase is submerged. This prevents the trapped water in the gearcase from
freezing and causing possible damage to the water pump and other
components.
If there is a chance of ice forming on the water, the outboard should be
removed and drained completely of water. If ice should form at the water level
inside the outboard driveshaft housing, it will block water flow to the engine
causing possible damage.

Operating in Saltwater or Polluted Water

We recommend that you flush the internal water passages of your outboard
with fresh water after each use in salt or polluted water. This will prevent a
buildup of deposits from clogging the water passages. Refer to Maintenance ‑
Flushing the Cooling System.
If you keep your boat moored in the water, always tilt the outboard so the
gearcase is completely out of water (except in freezing temperatures) when not
in use.
Wash the outboard exterior and flush out the exhaust outlet of the propeller and
gearcase with fresh water after each use. Each month, spray Mercury Precision
or Quicksilver Corrosion Guard on external metal surfaces. Do not spray on
corrosion control anodes as this will reduce the effectiveness of the anodes.

Operating at High Elevations

Your engine automatically compensates for high elevation changes. A different
pitch propeller may help reduce some normal performance loss resulting from
reduced oxygen in the air. Consult your dealer.

Propeller Selection

For best all around performance from your outboard/boat combination, select a
propeller that allows the engine to operate in the upper half of the
recommended full throttle RPM range with the boat normally loaded (refer to
General Information ‑ Specifications). This RPM range allows for better
acceleration while maintaining maximum boat speed.
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