Storage Preparation - Mercury 4 TwoStroke Operation, Maintenance And Installation Manual

Storage Preparation

The major consideration in preparing your outboard for storage is to protect it
from rust, corrosion, and damage caused by freezing of trapped water.
The following storage procedures should be followed to prepare your outboard
for out of season storage or prolonged storage (two months or longer).
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.
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Gasoline containing alcohol (ethanol or methanol) can cause a
formation of acid during storage and can damage the fuel system. If the
gasoline being used contains alcohol, it is advisable to drain as much of the
remaining gasoline as possible from the fuel tank, remote fuel line, and engine
fuel system.
Fill the fuel tank and engine fuel system with treated (stabilized) fuel to help
prevent formation of varnish and gum. Proceed with the following instructions.
• Pour the required amount of gasoline stabilizer (follow instructions on
container) into the fuel tank. Tip fuel tank back and forth to mix stabilizer
with the fuel.
• Place the outboard in water or connect flushing attachment for circulating
cooling water. Start the outboard and operate at idle RPM in neutral for
five minutes to allow stabilized fuel to reach the carburetor.
Protecting External Outboard Components
• Lubricate all outboard components listed in Maintenance ‑ Inspection
and Maintenance Schedule.
• Touch up any paint nicks. See your dealer for touch‑up paint.
• Spray Quicksilver or Mercury Precision Lubricants Corrosion Guard on
external metal surfaces (except corrosion control anodes).
Tube Ref
Description
No.
Corrosion Guard
120
Protecting Internal Engine Components
NOTE: Make sure the fuel system has been prepared for storage. Refer to Fuel
, preceding.
System
IMPORTANT: Refer to Maintenance ‑ Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement
for correct procedure for removing spark plug boots.
eng
STORAGE
NOTICE
Where Used
External metal surfaces
49
Part No.
92-802878 55