Checking Instruments; Propeller Selection - Volvo Penta DPX 500 Instruction Book

Any time you operate your boat, be aware of changes in shift system operation. A sudden increase in shift
effort at the remote control handle, or other abnormal operation, indicates a possible problem in the shift
system. If this occurs, take the following precautions:
•
With the engine running and the boat securely tied to the dock, shift the reverse gear into FORWARD and
REVERSE to make sure there is gear engagement. Do not exceed idle RPM.
•
Whenever you dock your boat, perform all docking maneuvers at slow speed. Pay special attention to
other boaters. Inform passengers of potential problems and take all precautions necessary to ensure
their safety.
If you suspect there is a problem, see your Volvo Penta dealer as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and
required service or adjustment. Continued operation could result in damage to the shift mechanism and loss
of shift and throttle control that could result in personal injury.

Checking instruments__________________________________________________________

Check your instruments often. Stop the boat engine if you have an abnormal reading or if your audible alarm sounds.
Normal readings are shown below.

Propeller selection ____________________________________________________________

Your Volvo Penta dealer has chosen a propeller designed to deliver top performance and economy under most
conditions. To obtain the maximum percentage of available horsepower, the engine RPM at full throttle should be in
the specified full throttle operating range. Refer to Specifications on pages 65 through 66 for full throttle RPM range.
Propellers that allow full throttle operation at the upper end of the
RPM range provide faster planing time for water skiing or similar
activities. Propellers that place full throttle operation RPM in the
middle of the range provide improved cruising fuel economy.
— If the engine's full throttle RPM with a normal load is below the
specified range or on the low side of the range (1), use smaller
propellers (e.g., E-2) to increase the RPM.
— If the engine's full throttle RPM exceeds the specified range (2),
use larger propellers (e.g., E-4) to decrease the RPM.
Engine damage can result from incorrect propeller selection that
1. Prevents engine RPM from reaching the specified full throttle
operating range (e.g., laboring engine.) Install lower pitch propeller(s).
2. Allows engine RPM above the specified full throttle operating range (e.g., overspeeding engine). Install higher
pitch propeller(s).
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