Maintenance Frequently Asked Questions

What is the length of the corrosion warranty?

The corrosion warranty is for three years from the original date of purchase of the complete power package for 1988 and newer MerCruiser product that have a one-year limited product warranty. See the complete corrosion warranty under the section titled Warranties or in your owner's manual. Protection against certain types of corrosion damage must be provided by using such systems as the Mercury Precision MerCathode system and/or galvanic isolator. These certain types of corrosion damage include damage due to stray electrical currents (on-shore power connections, nearby boats, submerged metal), etc. It is the owner's responsibility to ensure that all necessary anti-corrosion devices are in good working order and are providing adequate protection.

Is it better to change my engine oil/gear lube at the beginning or end of the season?

It is better to change the oil and gear lube at the end of the season, prior to storage. Lubricants naturally accumulate moisture, combustion by-products, and other contaminants during use. It can be detrimental to store an engine or drive with large amounts of these contaminants present.

How often should maintenance be performed?

Maintenance intervals vary depending on the specific engine and drive model. Recommended maintenance intervals are included in your owner's manual or service manual.

How often should I change my sacrificial anodes?

Because they are self-sacrificing, the anodes must be inspected often and replaced when 50% consumed.

Should I use Premium Blend or High Performance gear lube in my sterndrive?

High Performance gear lube is required in all Bravo and Alpha I Generation II sterndrives. It is recommended for use in all older sterndrives as well. Premium Blend and High Performance gear lube should never be mixed. Be sure to drain the unit completely if switching from one type of lube to the other.

Can I use Split-Fire spark plugs?

Mercury has not tested and cannot approve the use of split fire spark plugs. Incorrect spark plugs can foul, cause radio frequency interference, cause the engine to run poorly, and may cause severe engine damage from detonation. Your warranty does not cover damage caused by the use of products not recommended by MerCruiser. The operation and maintenance manuals list the recommended spark plug for your engine. Authorized dealers have cross-reference charts for tested and approved alternatives.

My owner's manual lists the oil capacity for my engine, but when I change the oil it won't take that much without being overfilled. Why?

The engine oil capacities given in the owner's and service manuals are approximate and indicate what the capacity of the entire lubrication system is. A small amount of oil remains in the crankcase, oil lines, etc. This is why it is difficult to get the indicated amount of oil in the engine without it being overfilled. You should always fill the crankcase according to the dipstick when the engine is level, preferably with the boat at rest in the water. If the oil is at the full mark on the dipstick, then it is at the proper level regardless of how much you put in. It is important not to overfill or under fill the crankcase. The engine oil level should always be between the add and the full marks on the dipstick.

How often should I flush my engine in saltwater use?

For maximum corrosion protection, we recommend that the engine be flushed with freshwater after each saltwater use.

Do you have a freshwater flush kit to flush the engine while in the water?

No, we do not offer a kit that can be used with the engine in the water. Currently we offer a flush kit for all sterndrive (except Bravo One Performance and Blackhawk) and inboard (V6 & small-block V8 only) engine applications. This flush kit is intended for use out of the water only. See your MerCruiser dealer for details on the kit and additional components that will best suit your needs.

Why do I have to periodically check my engine alignment and lubricate the engine coupler?

With time and usage, the engine will sometimes get out of alignment with the transom assembly and sterndrive. For longest engine coupler life, it is important that the engine alignment be as accurate as possible. We recommend using Quicksilver Engine Coupler Spline Grease for proper lubrication. Damage caused by improper engine alignment or lack of lubrication is not covered under the limited warranty.

Do you have any tips for do-it-yourself maintenance?

If you are a person who likes to do-it-yourself, here are some suggestions for you:

• Present-day marine equipment, such as your MerCruiser power package, is an advanced technological piece of machinery. Electronic ignition and special fuel delivery systems provide greater fuel economies, but are also more complex for the untrained technician.
• Do not attempt any maintenance or repairs which are not covered in the service manual unless you are aware of the precautions and procedures required. Your safety is very important to us.
• The service manual is written for the trained technician. Do not attempt repairs if you do not understand the procedures.
• There are special tools and equipment that are required to perform some repairs. Do not attempt these repairs unless you have these special tools and/or equipment.
• Please do not contact the dealer, service office, or the factory to request troubleshooting help or to request the repair procedure. It is difficult to diagnose a problem over the telephone.
• Remember, your authorized dealer is there to provide service for your power package. Dealers have qualified, factory-trained technicians.

What kind of spare parts should I carry on my boat for my MerCruiser?

Some suggested items would include a floating prop wrench, a spare prop and attaching hardware, spark plugs, belt(s), oil, power trim and steering fluid, High Performance gear lube, water separating fuel filter.

How can I obtain parts or service for my Quicksilver generator?

You can contact the Generac Corporation (USA) for this information at ++1-800-333-1322 or visit the Generac website (Worldwide) www.generac.com.