FAQ
Your first line of defense is to use additives such as Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment or Mercury's Quickare Step 1 fuel treatment. These help the gas and ethanol from separating in your tank, while helping your gas stay fresh. The use of a Water Separating Fuel Filter is a must these days with the poor quality of gas; it is only a matter of time before you will have water in your gas. Another tip is to try filling your gas tank with only the amount of gas you think you will use in your trip, this eliminates excess gas sitting in you tank and being able to go bad.
*NOTE*: StarTron and equivalent products will NOT remove water once it has gotten into your tank in large quantities. They are PREVENTATIVE measures. If water is in your gas, you will need to pump the tank dry.
Is your service department by appointment or can I just drop off anytime?
Our service department is by appointment only due to limited boat storage space. During peak times in spring & summer service drop off appointments are typically 2-3 weeks out. Call or email to set up your appointment today! Please note all service is not promised same day unless discussed prior to drop off.
How often should I change my water pump impeller?
What do I need to do, to have my engine ready for the spring? (De-Winterizing)
It is recommended to run your engine on a water flush, to burn off fogging fluids in the system. Also, check your lower unit for water by opening your lower unit drain screw. After running you engine for the first time, remove your spark plugs and clean or replace them as needed.
Normal use warrants a water pump impeller replacement every 3 years. If you put 300 hours or more, then it should be changed every year. If the motor has been sitting, it is usually necessary to change the impeller, as the rubber dries out and the vanes get set in place, limiting water pressure and possibly leading to overheating.
What should I do to prevent gas problems in my gas tank?
How do I know which motors models have electric start, power trim, or a tiller?
The listing below shows Mercury model designations. From the first few letters in each model number you can easily identify the specifications of the motor.
M = Manual Start
E = Electric Start
H = Handle (Tiller)
PT = Power Trim
L = Long Shaft (20" Transom)
XL = Extra Long Shaft (25" Transom)
O = Oil Injected
EFI = Electronic Fuel Injection
DFI = Direct Fuel Injection
PK = Pro Kicker
BF/CT = Big Foot / Command Thrust
GA = Gas Assisted Tilt