Section 5 - Maintenance
Page 72
90-8M0074352
eng
OCTOBER 2012
3. Install the cap.
Changing
Power trim fluid does not require changing unless it becomes contaminated with water or debris. Contact your authorized
Mercury MerCruiser dealer.
Battery
Refer to specific instructions and warnings accompanying your battery. If this information is not available, observe the following
precautions when handling a battery.
!
WARNING
Recharging a weak battery in the boat, or using jumper cables and a booster battery to start the engine, can cause serious
injury or product damage from fire or explosion. Remove the battery from the boat and recharge in a ventilated area away
from sparks or flames.
!
WARNING
An operating or charging battery produces gas that can ignite and explode, spraying out sulfuric acid, which can cause
severe burns. Ventilate the area around the battery and wear protective equipment when handling or servicing batteries.
Multiple EFI Engine Battery Precautions
Alternators:
Alternators are designed to charge the battery that supplies electrical power to the engine that the alternator is
mounted on. When batteries for two different engines are connected, one alternator will supply all of the charging current for
both batteries. Normally, the other engine's alternator will not be required to supply any charging current.
EFI electronic control module (ECM):
The ECM requires a stable voltage source. During multiple engine operation, an
onboard electrical device may cause a sudden drain of voltage at the engine's battery. The voltage may go below the ECMs
minimum required voltage. Also, the alternator on the other engine may now start charging. This could cause a voltage spike in
the engine's electrical system.
In either case, the ECM could shut off. When the voltage returns to the range that the ECM requires, the ECM will reset itself,
and the engine will operate normally. The ECM shuts off and resets itself so quickly that the engine may only seem to have an
ignition miss.
Batteries:
Boats with multiengine EFI power packages require each engine be connected to its own battery. This ensures that
the engine's ECM has a stable voltage source.
Battery switches:
Battery switches should always be positioned so each engine is operating off of its own battery. Do not
operate engines with switches in both or all position. In an emergency, another engine's battery can be used to start an engine
with a dead battery.
Battery isolators:
Isolators can be used to charge an auxiliary battery used for powering accessories in the boat. They should
not be used to charge the battery of another engine in the boat unless the type of isolator is specifically designed for this
purpose.
Generators:
The generator's battery should be considered another engine's battery.
Cleaning the Flame Arrester
!
WARNING
Fuel is flammable and explosive. Ensure that the key switch is off and the lanyard is positioned so that the engine cannot
start. Do not smoke or allow sources of spark or open flame in the area while servicing. Keep the work area well ventilated
and avoid prolonged exposure to vapors. Always check for leaks before attempting to start the engine, and wipe up any
spilled fuel immediately.