Storage Preparation; Protecting External Outboard Components - Mercury 8 Bigfoot 4-Stroke User Manual

Storage Preparation

The major consideration in preparing your outboard for storage is to protect it from rust, corrosion, and damage
caused by freezing of trapped water.
The following storage procedures should be followed to prepare your outboard for out of season storage or
prolonged storage (two months or longer).
Never start or operate your outboard (even momentarily) without water circulating through all the cooling water
intake holes in the gearcase to prevent damage to the water pump (running dry) or overheating of the engine.
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: Gasoline containing alcohol (ethanol or methanol) can cause a formation of acid during storage and
can damage the fuel system. If the gasoline being used contains alcohol, it is advisable to drain as much of the
remaining gasoline as possible from the fuel tank, remote fuel line, and engine fuel system.
Fill the fuel tank and engine fuel system with treated (stabilized) fuel to help prevent formation of varnish and gum.
Proceed with following instructions.
• Portable Fuel Tank ‑ Pour the required amount of gasoline stabilizer (follow instructions on container) into
fuel tank. Tip fuel tank back and forth to mix stabilizer with the fuel.
• Permanently Installed Fuel Tank ‑ Pour the required amount of gasoline stabilizer (follow instructions on
container) into a separate container and mix with approximately one quart (one liter) of gasoline. Pour this
mixture into fuel tank.
• Place the outboard in water or connect flushing attachment for circulating cooling water. Run the engine for
ten minutes to fill the engine fuel system.
Flushing Device

Protecting External Outboard Components

• Lubricate all outboard components listed in Maintenance ‑ Inspection and Maintenance Schedule.
• Touch up any paint nicks. See your dealer for touch‑up paint.
• Spray Quicksilver or Mercury Precision Lubricants Corrosion Guard on external metal surfaces (except
corrosion control anodes).
Tube Ref No.
Corrosion Guard
120
STORAGE
CAUTION
!
9192
Description
91‑44357Q 2
Attaches to the water intakes; provides
a fresh water connection when flushing
the cooling system or operating the
engine.
Where Used
External metal surfaces
68
Part No.
92-802878Q55