Product Manual

Methanol and Ethanol Fuel Blends
IMPORTANT:
The fuel system components on your Mercury Marine engine will withstand up to 10% alcohol (methanol or
ethanol) content in the gasoline. Your boat's fuel system may not be capable of withstanding the same percentage of alcohol.
Contact your boat manufacturer for specific recommendations on your boat's fuel system components (fuel tanks, fuel lines,
and fittings).
Be aware that gasoline containing methanol or ethanol may cause increased:
• Corrosion of metal parts
• Deterioration of rubber or plastic parts
• Fuel permeation through the rubber fuel lines
• Likelihood of phase separation (water and alcohol separating from the gasoline in the fuel tank)
!
WARNING
Fuel leakage is a fire or explosion hazard, which can cause serious injury or death. Periodically inspect all fuel system
components
for leaks, softening, hardening, swelling, or corrosion, particularly after storage. Any sign of leakage or
deterioration requires replacement before further engine operation.
IMPORTANT: If you use gasoline that contains or might contain methanol or ethanol, you must increase the frequency of
inspection for leaks and abnormalities.
IMPORTANT:
When operating a Mercury Marine engine on gasoline containing methanol or ethanol, do not store the gasoline
in the fuel tank for long periods. Cars normally consume these blended fuels before they can absorb enough moisture to cause
trouble; boats often sit idle long enough for phase separation to take place. Internal corrosion may occur during storage if
alcohol has washed protective oil films from internal components.
Low Permeation Fuel Hose Requirement
Required for outboards manufactured for sale, sold, or offered for sale in the United States.
• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that any outboard manufactured after January 1, 2009, must use low
permeation fuel hose for the primary fuel hose connecting the fuel tank to the outboard.
• Low permeation hose is USCG Type B1‑15 or Type A1‑15, defined as not exceeding 15 g/m²/24 h with CE 10 fuel at 23 °C
as specified in SAE J 1527 ‑ marine fuel hose.
EPA Pressurized Portable Fuel Tank Requirements
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires portable fuel systems that are produced after January 1, 2011, for use
with outboard engines to remain fully sealed (pressurized) up to 34.4 kPa (5.0 psi). These tanks may contain the following:
• An air inlet that opens to allow air to enter as the fuel is drawn out of the tank.
• An air outlet that opens (vents) to the atmosphere if pressure exceeds 34.4 kPa (5.0 psi).
Fuel Demand Valve (FDV) Requirement
Whenever a pressurized fuel tank is used, a fuel demand valve is required to be installed in the fuel hose between the fuel tank
and primer bulb. The fuel demand valve prevents pressurized fuel from entering the engine and causing a fuel system overflow
or possible fuel spillage.
The fuel demand valve has a manual release. The manual release can be used (pushed in) to open (bypass) the valve in case
of a fuel blockage in the valve.
a - Fuel demand valve ‑ installed in the fuel hose between the fuel tank and primer
bulb
b - Manual release
c - Vent/water drain holes
Painting Procedures
Propeller Painting Procedure
!
WARNING
Continuous exposure to airborne particles such as chemical vapors, dust, or spray can cause serious injury or death. Ensure
that the work area is properly ventilated and wear protective eyewear, clothing, and respirators.
a
c
b
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General Information
Page 1C-12 © 2018 Mercury Marine 90-8M0125265 eng NOVEMBER 2017