Draining The Sterndrive - Mercury MerCruiser Service Manual

Maintenance
IMPORTANT: If water does not drain from the seawater pump housing when both green indicators are extended, remove
the blue plugs on the seawater pump housing.
a
11. Allow the system to drain for a minimum of ten minutes. Pump air as necessary to keep the green indicators extended.
12. Crank the engine over slightly with the starter motor to purge any water trapped in the seawater pump. Do not allow the
engine to start.
13. After the water has drained from the engine, install the blue plugs on the distribution housing and seawater pump if they
were removed and tighten securely.
14. Push the locking lever down on the air pump and remove the pump from the air actuator assembly. Install the cap on the
fitting.
15. Install the blue plug on the heat exchanger and tighten securely.
16. Mercury MerCruiser recommends the drain system remain open while transporting the boat or while performing other
maintenance. This helps ensure that all water is drained.
17. Before launching the boat, pull up on the manual release valve. Verify that the green indicators are no longer extended.
18. Open the seacock, if equipped, or unplug and connect the water inlet hose prior to operating the engine.

Draining the Sterndrive

NOTE: This procedure is needed only for salty, brackish, mineral‑laden, or polluted water applications; and for freezing
temperatures or extended storage.
Page 1C-38
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a - Green indicators
a
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© 2016 Mercury Marine
a - Seawater pump housing water drain
b - Blue plugs
56033
90-8M0099748 eng DECEMBER 2015