Flushing The Cooling System - Mercury Optimax User Manual

• Check corrosion control anodes. Check more frequently when
used in salt water. See Corrosion Control Anodes.
• Drain and replace gearcase lubricant. See Gearcase
Lubrication.
• Check power trim fluid. See Checking Power Trim Fluid.
• Inspect battery. See Battery Inspection.
•
Check control cable adjustments.
•
Lubricate splines on the driveshaft and shift shaft.
• Check tightness of bolts, nuts, and other fasteners.
• Check cowl seals to make sure seals are intact and not
damaged.
• Check internal cowl sound reduction foam (if equipped) to
make sure foam is intact and not damaged.
• Check that the intake silencer (if equipped) is in place.
• Check that the idle relief muffler (if equipped) is in place.
• Check for loose hose clamps and rubber boots (if equipped)
on the air intake assembly.
EVERY 300 HOURS OF USE OR THREE YEARS
• Replace water pump impeller (more often if overheating
occurs or reduced water pressure is noted).
• Replace the in‑line oil filter that is located in the oil hose
between the oil tank and the oil injection pump.
BEFORE PERIODS OF STORAGE
• Refer to Storage procedure. See Storage section.

Flushing the Cooling System

Flush the internal water passages of the outboard with fresh water
after each use in salt, polluted, or muddy water. This will help
prevent a build up of deposits from clogging the internal water
passages.
NOTE: The engine can be stopped, or running at idle speed in
neutral, when flushing the cooling system. Do not flush the engine
using a water source that exceeds 310 kPa (45 psi)
1. Unscrew the cover from the end of the hose adapter.
1. These items should be serviced by an authorized dealer.
MAINTENANCE
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