Check The Transmission Fluid/Oil Level - ILMOR 2011 MV8 User Manual

Check the Transmission
Fluid/Oil Level
is to allow the operator an opportunity to start the engine and permit the alternator
to recharge the battery, but if the charge has fallen too low or if the battery is older or
fails to hold a charge at the expected level, the boat may not start.
In the event of a dead battery, charge it with a battery charger before attempting
to start the engine. Jump-starting from another boat or battery is dangerous. Charg-
ing a dead battery with the alternator on the boat will put undue stress on the alterna-
tor, and that, in turn, may cause it to fail.
When charging, batteries generate small amounts of dangerous hydrogen gas.
This gas is highly explosive. Keep all sparks, flames and smoking well away
from the area. Failure to follow instructions when charging a battery can cause
an electrical charge or even an explosion of the battery. This could result in seri-
ous injury or death.
An accurate transmission fluid/oil reading will happen only after the transmission has run long
enough to thoroughly warm to 140 F. (60 C.) This should one of the last checks performed prior to
an outing. Run the engine with the boat in the body of water. Run the boat for at least fifteen (15)
minutes to get the transmission fluid/oil up to the required level of heat.
• After operating the engine at idle while in the water for at least five minutes or
until thoroughly warmed up, turn the engine OFF and disconnect the engine
safety starting switch. Be sure the throttle/shift control lever is in neutral. Open
the engine compartment and locate the transmission dipstick.
Note: To prevent an incorrect reading, the transmission fluid level must be checked immedi-
ately after the engine is shut down. Transmission fluid/oil drains back into the transmission
casing from the cooler and cooler lines, and the dipstick could give a false reading if not
done quickly.
Different transmissions will have their own type of dipstick. The The two types used
on V-drive and direct drive transmissions used in conjunction with the MV8 engine will
have either a threaded or non-threaded dipstick. Those without threads expand when the
handle is turned in a clockwise direction after the dipstick is inserted.
• If the dipstick and the transmission housing void are not threaded, ensure that the
dipstick is fully inserted in the void prior to use. T his is required for the expansion and
correct operation. The dipstick has a T handle.
• If the dipstick and housing void are threaded, there will be an o-ring between the dip-
stick and housing void to provide the necessary seal. The handle has a fuller grip area
than the T-handled, non-threaded dipstick.
• Remove the dipstick and wipe it off with a clean rag. Quickly re-insert it fully, and then
immediately remove it. Check that the level is between the ADD and FULL mark on
the stick.
2011 ILMOR MV8 Owner's Manual • Page 19