Gear Shifting - Mercury Racing 500R Operation And Maintenance Manual

6. After the engine starts, check for a steady stream of water flowing out of
the water pump indicator hole.
IMPORTANT: If no water is coming out of the water pump indicator hole, stop
the engine and check the cooling water intake for obstruction. No obstruction
may indicate a water pump failure or blockage in the cooling system. These
conditions will cause the engine to overheat. Have the outboard checked by
an authorized dealer. Operating the engine while overheated will cause engine
damage.

Gear Shifting

IMPORTANT: Observe the following:
•
Never shift the outboard into or out of gear unless the engine speed
is at idle. Shifting at higher than engine idle speed could cause
damage to the gearcase.
•
Do not shift the outboard into reverse when the forward motion of
the boat is greater than a no wake speed. Shifting into reverse at
higher boat speeds could cause the engine to stall, and in some
situations, this could cause water to be drawn into the cylinders,
resulting in severe engine damage.
• The outboard has three gear shift positions: forward (F), neutral (N), and
reverse (R).
• When shifting, always stop at the neutral position and allow the engine
idle speed to stabilize before shifting into another gear.
• Always shift the outboard into gear with a quick motion.
• After shifting the outboard into gear, advance the lever further to increase
speed.
DTS PANEL MOUNT REMOTE CONTROL
IMPORTANT: Never shift the outboard into gear unless the engine speed is at
idle.
• The outboard has three gear shift positions to provide operation: forward
(F), neutral (N), and reverse (R).
eng
OPERATION
N
F
79
R
3427