Starting The Engine - Mercury Optimax User Manual

BREAK-IN PROCEDURE
1. For the first hour of operation, allow the engine to warm up for
30‑60 seconds.
a. Run the engine at varied throttle settings, the majority of
the time between 3000 and 4500 RPM or three‑quarter
throttle.
b. Change engine speed approximately every two minutes,
and avoid continuous operation at idle speed for more than
ten minutes. Short bursts of full throttle for periods up to ten
seconds are acceptable.
c. Avoid trimming the outboard out (up) beyond a vertical trim
position during operation.
NOTE: It is the driver's responsibility to always drive in a safe
manner. Improper trim angle of the outboard when driving at
speed can be difficult and dangerous. The purpose of specifying
trim angle is to help guide the operator in determining how to put
the propel load on the engine. They are intended to be guidelines
and do not suggest or require unsafe boat operation.
2. For the next three hours of operation, change engine speed
every ten minutes.

Starting the Engine

Before starting, read the pre‑starting check list, special operating
instructions, and engine break‑in procedure in the Operation
Section.
Failure to provide sufficient cooling water will damage the water
pump and cause the engine to overheat. Provide a sufficient
supply of water at the water inlets during operation.
OPERATION
NOTICE
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