Operating With Low Water Inlets In Shallow Water; Drive Unit Impact Protection - Mercury 496 MAG Bravo Owner's Manual

CA802

Operating With Low Water Inlets In Shallow Water

Serious engine damage could occur by failing to follow these instructions. Sand, silt or mud could be
sucked into the water inlets restricting or shutting off the water supply to the engine.
Extreme care should be exercised when operating a boat equipped with low water inlets (A) while maneuvering
in shallow water. Also, avoid beaching the boat with the engine(s) running.
CA866

Drive Unit Impact Protection

The Power Trim hydraulic system is designed to provide impact protection for drive unit. If a submerged object
is struck while boat is moving forward, the hydraulic system will cushion the kickup of drive unit as it clears the
object, reducing damage to unit. After drive unit has cleared object, the hydraulic system allows drive unit to
return to original operating position, preventing loss of steering control and engine overspeed.
Use extreme caution when operating in shallow water or where underwater objects are known to be present.
Use extreme care to prevent striking submerged object while operating in REVERSE. No impact protection is
provided in REVERSE.
If drive unit should strike a submerged object, stop engine as soon as possible and inspect drive unit for damage.
If damage is present or suspected, boat should be taken to an Authorized Mercury MerCruiser Dealer for
thorough inspection and necessary repair. Operating a damaged drive unit could cause additional damage to
other parts of drive unit, or could affect control of boat. If continued running is necessary, do so at greatly reduced
speeds.
IMPORTANT: Impact protection system cannot be designed to ensure total protection from impact
damage under all conditions.
18
A
76363
CAUTION
75827
INDEX