Mercury 6.2 Inboard MPI DTS Manual

www.mercurymarine.com.au
41-71 Bessemer Drive
Dandenong South, Victoria 3175 Australia
www.mercurymarine.com
P.O. Box 1939
Fond du Lac, WI 54936-1939 USA
www.brunswick-marine.com
Parc Industriel de Petit-Rechain
B-4800 Verviers, Belgium
© Mercury Marine. All rights reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.
90-8M0119292 MAY 2015
6.2 Inboard
MPI DTS
OPERATION &
MAINTENANCE
MANUAL

© 2016 Mercury Marine 6.2 Inboard MPI DTS
8M0119292 516 eng
Welcome
You have selected one of the finest marine power packages available. It incorporates numerous design features to
ensure operating ease and durability.
With proper care and maintenance, you will enjoy using this product for many boating seasons. To ensure maximum
performance and carefree use, we ask that you thoroughly read this manual.
The Operation and Maintenance Manual contains specific instructions for using and maintaining your product. We
suggest that this manual remain with the product for ready reference whenever you are on the water.
Thank you for purchasing one of our products. We sincerely hope your boating will be pleasant!
Mercury Marine, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.A.
Name / function:
John Pfeifer, President,
Mercury Marine
Read This Manual Thoroughly
IMPORTANT: If you do not understand any portion of this manual, contact your dealer. Your dealer can also provide a
demonstration of actual starting and operating procedures.
Notice
Throughout this publication, and on your power package, warnings, cautions, and notices, accompanied by the
International Hazard Symbol !, may be used to alert the installer and user to special instructions concerning a
particular service or operation that may be hazardous if performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe them carefully.
These safety alerts alone cannot eliminate the hazards that they signal. Strict compliance with these special instructions
while performing the service, plus common sense operation, are major accident prevention measures.
! WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
! CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided, could result in engine or major component failure.
IMPORTANT: Identifies information essential to the successful completion of the task.
NOTE: Indicates information that helps in the understanding of a particular step or action.
IMPORTANT: The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation of the boat, the equipment aboard,
and the safety of all occupants aboard. We strongly recommend that the operator read this Operation and Maintenance
Manual and thoroughly understand the operational instructions for the power package and all related accessories before
the boat is used.
! WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
The serial numbers are the manufacturer’s keys to numerous engineering details that apply to your Mercury Marine
power package. When contacting Mercury Marine about service, always specify model and serial numbers.
Descriptions and specifications contained herein were in effect at the time this was approved for printing. Mercury
Marine, whose policies are based on continuous improvement, reserves the right to discontinue models at any time or to
change specifications or designs without notice and without incurring obligation.

Warranty Message
The product you have purchased comes with a limited warranty from Mercury Marine; the terms of the warranty are set forth
in the Warranty Manual included with the product. The Warranty Manual contains a description of what is covered, what is not
covered, the duration of coverage, how to best obtain warranty coverage, important disclaimers and limitations of
damages, and other related information. Please review this important information.
Copyright and Trademark Information
© MERCURY MARINE. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
Alpha, Axius, Bravo One, Bravo Two, Bravo Three, Circle M with Waves Logo, K‑planes, Mariner, MerCathode, MerCruiser,
Mercury, Mercury with Waves Logo, Mercury Marine, Mercury Precision Parts, Mercury Propellers, Mercury Racing,
MotorGuide, OptiMax, Quicksilver, SeaCore, Skyhook, SmartCraft, Sport‑Jet, Verado, VesselView, Zero Effort, Zeus, #1 On the
Water and We're Driven to Win are registered trademarks of Brunswick Corporation. Pro XS is a trademark of Brunswick
Corporation. Mercury Product Protection is a registered service mark of Brunswick Corporation.
Identification Records
Please record the following applicable information:
MerCruiser
Engine Model and Horsepower Engine Serial Number
Transom Assembly Serial Number (Sterndrive) Gear Ratio Sterndrive Unit Serial Number
Transmission Model (Inboard) Gear Ratio Transmission Serial Number
Propeller Number Pitch Diameter
Hull Identification Number (HIN) Purchase Date
Boat Manufacturer Boat Model Length
Exhaust Gas Emissions Certification Number (Europe Only)

90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Adaptive Speed Control (ASC).................................................. 2
Identification............................................................................... 2
Engine Serial Number......................................................... 2
Transmissions..................................................................... 3
ZF Marine Transmissions............................................... 3
Lanyard Stop Switch.................................................................. 3
Keep the Lanyard Stop Switch and Lanyard Cord in Good
Operating Condition............................................................. 4
Instrumentation.......................................................................... 4
VesselView........................................................................... 4
SmartCraft Digital Instruments............................................. 4
System Link Digital Instruments........................................... 5
Remote Controls (DTS Models)................................................. 5
Remote Controls................................................................. 5
DTS Slim Binnacle Single Handle Console Features and
Operation............................................................................ 6
Special Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features...........7
Dual‑Handle Electronic Remote Control (ERC)—Operation
and Adjustment................................................................... 7
Operation........................................................................ 7
Adjustment......................................................................8
Special Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features............... 8
Dock............................................................................... 9
Throttle Only................................................................... 9
1 Lever..........................................................................10
Sync..............................................................................10
Transfer (Boats equipped with dual helms).................. 11
Helm Transfer................................................................... 11
Electrical System Overload Protection..................................... 11
Visual and Audio Warning Systems......................................... 14
Service Engine Light and OBD‑M MIL Kit......................... 14
Testing the OBD‑M Malfunction Indicator Lamp
(MIL)............................................................................. 14
Audio Warning System..................................................... 14
Caution......................................................................... 15
Critical...........................................................................15
Nonconfigured Alarm–DTS Only.................................. 15
Testing the Audio Warning System.............................. 15
Guardian Strategy............................................................. 15
Section 2 - On the Water
Safe Boating Recommendations............................................. 18
Carbon Monoxide Exposure.................................................... 19
Be Alert To Carbon Monoxide Poisoning........................... 19
Stay Clear of Exhaust Areas.............................................. 19
Good Ventilation ................................................................ 19
Poor Ventilation ................................................................. 20
Basic Boat Operation (DTS Models)........................................ 20
Launching and Boat Operation......................................... 20
Operation Chart............................................................ 20
Starting and Stopping the Engine..................................... 20
Starting the Engine....................................................... 20
Stopping the Engine..................................................... 21
Throttle Only Operation—DTS Models............................. 21
Freezing Temperature Operation..................................... 22
Drain Plug and Bilge Pump............................................... 22
Protecting People in the Water................................................ 22
While You Are Cruising...................................................... 22
While Boat Is Stationary..................................................... 22
High‑Speed and High‑Performance Operation........................ 22
Passenger Safety in Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats.............. 22
Boats Having an Open Front Deck.....................................23
Boats With Front‑Mounted, Raised Pedestal Fishing Seats
........................................................................................... 23
Wave and Wake Jumping........................................................ 23
Impact with Underwater Hazards............................................. 24
Conditions Affecting Operation................................................ 24
Weight Distribution (Passengers and Gear) Inside the
Boat.................................................................................. 24
The Bottom of the Boat..................................................... 24
Cavitation.......................................................................... 25
Ventilation......................................................................... 25
Elevation and Climate....................................................... 25
Getting Started......................................................................... 25
20‑Hour Break‑In Period................................................... 25
After the Break‑In Period.................................................. 25
End of First Season Checkup........................................... 25
Section 3 - Specifications
Fuel Requirements................................................................... 28
Fuel Ratings....................................................................... 28
Using Reformulated (Oxygenated) Gasoline (USA Only).. 28
Gasoline Containing Alcohol.............................................. 28
Bu16 Butanol Fuel Blends............................................ 28
Methanol and Ethanol Fuel Blends...............................28
Engine Oil................................................................................ 28
6.2 MPI Inboard Engine Specifications.................................... 29
Fluid Specifications.................................................................. 30
Engine............................................................................... 30
Transmission.................................................................... 30

Page ii 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016
Section 4 - Maintenance
Owner/Operator Responsibilities............................................ 32
Dealer Responsibilities........................................................... 32
Maintenance........................................................................... 32
Do‑It‑Yourself Maintenance Suggestions............................... 32
Inspection............................................................................... 33
MerCruiser Gas Inboard Inspection and Maintenance
Schedule................................................................................. 33
Daily Checks..................................................................... 33
After Each Use.................................................................. 33
Weekly Checks................................................................. 33
20 Hour Break In............................................................... 33
Annually or 100 Hours...................................................... 33
Three Years or 300 Hours................................................ 34
Five Years or 500 Hours................................................... 34
Engine Oil............................................................................... 34
Checking......................................................................... 34
Oil Level—Overfilled................................................... 35
Filling............................................................................... 35
Engine Oil Drain Pump.................................................... 36
Changing the Oil Filter..................................................... 37
Transmission Fluid................................................................. 37
Checking the Fluid Level Before Operation...................... 37
Checking the Fluid Level When Hot................................. 38
Changing.......................................................................... 38
Engine Coolant....................................................................... 38
Checking......................................................................... 38
Filling............................................................................... 39
Changing ........................................................................ 39
Flame Arrestor........................................................................ 40
Fuel System Maintenance...................................................... 41
Fuel System.................................................................... 41
Fuel Line Inspection........................................................ 41
Water‑Separating Fuel Filter........................................... 41
Filter Housing Removal............................................... 41
Draining the Filter Housing..........................................42
Fuel Filter Inspection................................................... 43
Filter Housing Installation............................................ 43
Battery.................................................................................... 43
Multiple EFI Engine Battery Precautions......................... 43
Serpentine Drive Belt.............................................................. 44
Serpentine Drive Belt Routing......................................... 44
Serpentine Belt Failure Identification............................... 44
Checking......................................................................... 45
Replacing........................................................................ 46
Flushing the Power Package—Models with a Flushing
Attachment ............................................................................ 46
Section 5 - Storage
Cold Weather or Extended Storage........................................ 52
Reformulated (Oxygenated) Gasolines (U.S.A. Only)..... 52
Fuel Containing Alcohol.................................................. 52
Preparing Power Package for Storage—MPI Models..... 52
Special Fuel Mix.......................................................... 53
Engine and Fuel System Preparation......................... 53
TowSport and Inboard Transmissions Extended
Storage............................................................................ 54
Draining the Seawater System............................................... 54
Draining the Raw Water.................................................. 54
Air Actuated Single‑Point Drain System (Closed Cooling,
Inboard Models).............................................................. 54
Battery Storage....................................................................... 57
Recommissioning the Power Package................................... 57
Section 6 - Troubleshooting
Diagnosing EFI Problems....................................................... 60
Diagnosing DTS Problems..................................................... 60
Engine Guardian System........................................................ 60
Troubleshooting Charts.......................................................... 60
Starter Motor Will Not Crank Engine, or Cranks Slowly.. 60
Engine Will Not Start or Is Hard to Start.......................... 60
Engine Runs Rough, Misses, or Backfires...................... 61
Poor Performance........................................................... 61
Excessive Engine Temperature...................................... 61
Insufficient Engine Temperature..................................... 61
Low Engine Oil Pressure................................................. 61
Battery Will Not Recharge............................................... 62
Remote Control Is Difficult to Move or Makes Unusual
Sounds............................................................................ 62
Steering Wheel Jerks or Is Difficult to Turn..................... 62
Section 7 - Customer Assistance Information
Owner Service Assistance...................................................... 64
Local Repair Service......................................................... 64
Service Away From Home................................................ 64
Stolen Power Package..................................................... 64
Attention Required After Submersion............................... 64
Replacement Service Parts.............................................. 64
Parts and Accessories Inquiries....................................... 64
Resolving a Problem......................................................... 64
Contact Information for Mercury Marine Customer Service
.......................................................................................... 65

90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page iii
Customer Service Literature.................................................... 65
English Language.............................................................. 65
Other Languages................................................................66
Ordering Literature................................................................... 66
United States and Canada................................................. 66
Outside the United States and Canada.............................. 66
Section 8 - Checklists
Predelivery Inspection (PDI).................................................... 68 Customer Delivery Inspection (CDI)........................................ 69
Section 9 - Maintenance Log
Scheduled Maintenance Log................................................... 72 Vessel Maintenance Notes...................................................... 73

Page iv 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page 1
Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Table of Contents
Adaptive Speed Control (ASC)............................................... 2
Identification........................................................................... 2
Engine Serial Number......................................................2
Transmissions..................................................................3
ZF Marine Transmissions ........................................ 3
Lanyard Stop Switch............................................................... 3
Keep the Lanyard Stop Switch and Lanyard Cord in
Good Operating Condition .............................................. 4
Instrumentation....................................................................... 4
VesselView ..................................................................... 4
SmartCraft Digital Instruments ....................................... 4
System Link Digital Instruments ..................................... 5
Remote Controls (DTS Models)............................................. 5
Remote Controls.............................................................. 5
DTS Slim Binnacle Single Handle Console Features and
Operation......................................................................... 6
Special Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features
................................................................................ 7
Dual‑Handle Electronic Remote Control (ERC)—
Operation and Adjustment............................................... 7
Operation ................................................................. 7
Adjustment .............................................................. 8
Special Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features............ 8
Dock ........................................................................ 9
Throttle Only ............................................................ 9
1 Lever .................................................................. 10
Sync ...................................................................... 10
Transfer (Boats equipped with dual helms) ........... 11
Helm Transfer................................................................ 11
Electrical System Overload Protection................................. 11
Visual and Audio Warning Systems..................................... 14
Service Engine Light and OBD‑M MIL Kit......................14
Testing the OBD‑M Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
.............................................................................. 14
Audio Warning System.................................................. 14
Caution .................................................................. 15
Critical ................................................................... 15
Nonconfigured Alarm–DTS Only ........................... 15
Testing the Audio Warning System ....................... 15
Guardian Strategy..........................................................15
1

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Page 2 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016
Adaptive Speed Control (ASC)
This power package utilizes Adaptive Speed Control (ASC) to maintain the engine RPM that is demanded at the remote
control, regardless of the load change. As an example of how ASC functions, when the operator steers the boat into a hard turn
or is navigating at a slow on‑plane speed in following seas when boat control is needed without a lot of speed, the propulsion
control module will automatically adjust the engine to maintain the RPM without the operator changing the position of the
remote control throttle handle. ASC allows the operator to keep both hands on the steering wheel, which is safer, and the
operator can focus on the boating experience.
Identification
The serial numbers are the manufacturer's keys to numerous engineering details which apply to your MerCruiser power
package. When contacting MerCruiser about service, always specify model and serial numbers.
Engine Serial Number
The serial number is located in two places on the engine. One is on the engine specification decal located on the engine cover,
and the other is secured to the starboard side of the engine block near the starter motor.
A quick reference code on the engine cover or heat exchanger can be used to access additional information about the engine
and safe boating practices.
Freshwater cooled
a - Engine serial number decal
b - Quick reference code
Engine block location
a - Engine serial number plate
b - Flywheel housing
c - Starter motor
ab
61322
a
b
c
39307

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page 3
Transmissions
ZF Marine Transmissions
On the ZF Marine 63 series transmissions, the identification plate lists the gear ratio, serial number, and model.
58645
61400
Model 63A Model 63IV
Lanyard Stop Switch
A lanyard switch is designed to shut down the engine in the event the operator unexpectedly moves away from the helm, as
may happen in an accidental ejection. The lanyard is connected to the operator's personal flotation device or wrist.
A decal near the lanyard stop switch reminds the operator to attach the lanyard to his or her personal flotation device or wrist.
a - Lanyard cord clip
b - Lanyard decal
c - Lanyard stop switch
Accidental ejections, such as falling overboard, are more likely to occur in:
• Low‑sided sport boats
• Bass boats
• High‑performance boats
Accidental ejections can also occur from:
• Poor operating practices
• Sitting on the seat or gunwale at planing speeds
• Standing at planing speeds
• Operating at planing speeds in shallow or obstacle‑infested waters
• Releasing your grip on the steering wheel
• Carelessness caused by consuming alcohol or drugs
• High‑speed boating maneuvers
The lanyard is a cord usually between 122 and 152 cm (4 and 5 ft) long when stretched out, with an element on one end made
to be inserted into the switch, and a snap on the other end for attaching to the operator. The lanyard is coiled to make its at‑rest
condition as short as possible to minimize the likelihood of lanyard entanglement with nearby objects. Its stretched‑out length is
made to minimize the likelihood of accidental activation should the operator choose to move around in an area close to the
operator's normal position. The operator can shorten the lanyard by wrapping the lanyard around his wrist, or by tying a knot in
the lanyard.
Activation of the lanyard stop switch will stop the engine immediately, but the boat will continue to coast for some distance,
depending upon its velocity. While the boat is coasting, it can cause injury to anyone in the boat's path as it would under power.
c
a
b
53910
OFF
RUN
ATTACH LANYARD

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Page 4 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016
Instruct all passengers on the proper starting and operating procedures should they be required to operate the boat in an
emergency.
! WARNING
If the operator falls out of the boat, stop the engine immediately to reduce the possibility of serious injury or death from being
struck by the boat. Always properly connect the operator to the stop switch using a lanyard.
Accidental or unintended activation of the switch during normal operation is also a possibility. This could cause any, or all, of
the following potentially hazardous situations:
• Occupants could be thrown forward due to unexpected loss of forward motion, a particular concern for passengers in the
front of the boat who could be ejected over the bow and possibly struck by the propulsion or steering components.
• Loss of power and directional control in heavy seas, strong current, or high winds.
• Loss of control when docking.
! WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death from deceleration forces resulting from accidental or unintended stop switch activation. The boat
operator should never leave the operator's station without first disconnecting the stop switch lanyard from the operator.
Keep the Lanyard Stop Switch and Lanyard Cord in Good Operating Condition
Before each use, ensure that the lanyard stop switch works properly. Start the engine, and then stop it by pulling the lanyard
cord. If the engine does not stop, have the switch repaired before operating the boat.
Before each use, inspect the lanyard cord to ensure that it is in good working condition and that there are no breaks, cuts, or
wear to the cord. Check that the clips on the ends of the cord are in good condition. Replace any damaged or worn lanyard
cords.
Instrumentation
VesselView
There are several VesselView products available. VesselView will display all engine information, fault codes, vessel
information, basic navigation data, and system information. When an operating system error or failure occurs, VesselView
displays an alarm message.
VesselView may also be connected to other vessel systems such as GPS, generators, and chartplotters. This vessel
integration allows the operator to monitor and control a wide range of vessel systems from a single display.
Refer to the VesselView operator's manual for more information.
61325
VesselView
SmartCraft Digital Instruments
The SmartCraft instrument package augments the VesselView display. The instrument package may include:
• Tachometer
• Speedometer
• Engine coolant temperature
• Engine oil pressure
• Battery voltage

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page 5
• Fuel consumption
• Engine operating hours
SmartCraft tachometer and speedometer
a - Tachometer
b - Speedometer
c - LCD display
The SmartCraft instrument package also aids in identifying fault codes associated with the engine audio warning system. The
SmartCraft instrument package displays critical engine alarm data and other potential problems on its LCD display.
For basic operation information on the SmartCraft instrument package and for details on the warning functions monitored by the
system, refer to the manual provided with your gauge package.
System Link Digital Instruments
Some instrumentation packages include system link gauges that augment the information provided by VesselView or a
SmartCraft system tachometer and speedometer. The owner and operator should be familiar with all the instruments and their
functions on the boat. Have your boat dealer explain the gauges and normal readings that appear on your boat.
The following digital instruments may be included with your power package.
a
b
c
d
37925
System Link digital gauges
Item Gauge Indicates
a Oil pressure gauge Engine oil pressure
b Voltmeter Battery voltage
c Water temperature gauge Engine operating temperature
d Fuel gauge Quantity of fuel in tank
Remote Controls (DTS Models)
Remote Controls
IMPORTANT: Your boat must be equipped with a Mercury Marine electronic remote control. Start in gear protection is provided
by this control system and prevents the engine from starting when the control is actuated in forward or reverse. Refer to the
Mercury Precision Parts/Quicksilver Accessories Guide.
The digital throttle and shift (DTS) system required to operate this engine package provides start and stop functions, throttle
control, shift control, start in gear protection, and emergency lanyard stop functions. The DTS system works with specialized
helm components such as a command module kit and electronic remote control. Consult your dealer for a description and/or
demonstration of your remote control.
a
b
c
c50400

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Page 6 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016
DTS Slim Binnacle Single Handle Console Features and Operation
1. Operation of shift and throttle is controlled by the movement of the control handle. Push the control handle forward from
neutral to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle back from
neutral to the first detent for reverse gear. Continue pulling back to increase speed.
a - Forward
b - Neutral
c - Reverse
2. Detent tension adjustment screw ‑ This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort to move the control
handle out of detent positions. Turning the screw clockwise will increase tension. Turning the screw counterclockwise will
decrease tension. Adjust to the desired tension.
3. Control handle tension adjustment screw ‑ This screw can be adjusted to increase or decrease the tension on the control
handle. This will help prevent unwanted motion of the remote control handle in rough water. Turn the screw clockwise to
increase tension and counterclockwise to decrease tension. Adjust to the desired tension.
a - Caps (2)
b - Detent tension adjustment
c - Control handle tension adjustment
NOTE: The control handle tension and detent tension screws may require periodic maintenance adjustment.
a
b
c
58646
a
b
c
52313

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page 7
Special Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features
The DTS system features several alternate operational modes for the electronic remote control (ERC) levers.
STOP/
START
THROTTLE - ONLY
DOCK TRANSFER
N
b
c
d
e
f
g
a
58648
Slim binnacle ERC
Item Control Function
a Stop/Start Allows the operator to start or stop the engine without the use of the key switch. The key switch must be in
the run position for the start/stop switch to function.
b Transfer Allows boat control to be transferred to a different helm.
c Throttle‑only Allows the boat operator to increase engine RPM for warm‑up without shifting the transmission into gear.
d + Increases brightness settings for the CAN pad, VesselView, and SmartCraft gauges.
e – Decreases brightness settings for the CAN pad, VesselView, and SmartCraft gauges.
f Dock Reduces control lever operation throttle capacity to approximately 50% of normal control lever throttle
demand.
g Neutral light Illuminates when the drive is in the neutral gear position. The lights flash when the engine is in throttle
only mode.
Dual‑Handle Electronic Remote Control (ERC)—Operation and Adjustment
Operation
The electronic remote control (ERC) handle controls the shift and throttle operation. Push the control handle forward from
neutral to the first detent for forward gear. Continue pushing the handle forward to increase speed. Pull the control handle from
the forward position to the neutral position to decrease speed and eventually stop. Pull the control handle back from neutral to
the first detent for reverse gear. Continue pulling the handle back to increase speed in reverse.
NOTE: In certain modes, the gear position is determined by the electronic shift control (ESC), not the position of the ERC
levers. When using the joystick or while in Skyhook, the computer controls the shifting in and out of gears even though the
handles are in neutral.
a - Forward
b - Neutral
c - Reverse
a
b
c
51902

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Page 8 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016
The amount of force needed to move the handles and to move the handles through the detents is adjustable to help prevent
unwanted motion.
Adjustment
NOTE: The control handle tension and detent tension may require periodic maintenance using the adjustment screws.
To adjust the handle detent tension:
1. Remove the side cover plugs of the handle that needs adjustment.
2. Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase tension on the control handle and counterclockwise to decrease tension.
3. Adjust to the tension desired.
To adjust handle tension:
1. Remove the side cover plugs of the handle that needs adjustment.
2. Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase tension on the control handle and counterclockwise to decrease tension.
3. Adjust to the tension desired.
a - Detent tension adjustment screw
b - Handle tension adjustment screw
Special Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features
The DTS system features several alternate operational modes for the electronic remote control (ERC) levers. Any of the listed
features can operate simultaneously.
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
58650
Dual engine ERC
ab
51901

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page 9
Item Control Function
a Neutral lights Illuminate when the drive is in the neutral gear position. The lights flash when the engine is in throttle only
mode.
b Transfer Allows boat control to be transferred to a different helm. Refer to Helm Transfer.
c Dock
Available with joystick operation and the control levers.
Joystick operation reduces throttle capacity to approximately 70% of normal joystick throttle demand.
Control lever operation reduces throttle capacity to approximately 50% of normal control lever throttle
demand.
d + Increases brightness settings for the CAN pad, VesselView, and SmartCraft gauges.
e Throttle‑only Allows the boat operator to increase engine RPM for warm‑up without shifting the transmission into gear.
f – Decreases brightness settings for the CAN pad, VesselView, and SmartCraft gauges.
g 1 Lever Enables the throttle and shift functions of both engines to be controlled by the port lever.
h Sync Turns off or on the auto‑synchronization feature.
NOTE: Not all functions may be active.
Dock
Dock mode is available with joystick operation and remote control lever operation. Dock mode reduces throttle capacity to
approximately 70% of normal joystick throttle demand, allowing finer control of engine power in close quarter situations. If more
power is needed for vessel maneuvering when environmental conditions require more thrust, use the electronic remote control
levers.
51854
DOCK button
Throttle Only
NOTE: On vessels equipped with Axius, throttle only mode should be used to disable the joystick if the captain is not in
command at the helm. Placing the ERC in throttle only mode will avoid unintended gear engagement. The engines will turn
using the steering wheel or the joystick and the RPM of the engines can be increased while in the throttle only mode, but the
gear position will remain in neutral.
51855
THROTTLE ONLY button
To engage throttle only mode:
1. Place both ERC levers in neutral.
2. Press the THROTTLE ONLY button. The button light will turn on and the neutral lights will blink.
3. Place either ERC lever into gear. The warning horn will beep each time the levers are moved in and out of gear while in
throttle only, but will remain in neutral.
4. The RPM of the engines can be increased.

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Page 10 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016
5. Throttle only mode also affects the joystick. The engines will move and the RPM can be increased, but will remain in
neutral.
NOTE: Pressing the THROTTLE ONLY button while the ERC levers are not in the neutral position turns the button light off and
remains in throttle only mode. You must place the ERC levers into the neutral position to disengage throttle only mode.
To disengage throttle only mode:
1. Place both ERC levers into neutral. Throttle only will not disengage unless the ERC levers are in neutral.
2. Press the THROTTLE ONLY button. The button light will turn off.
3. The neutral lights stop flashing and remain illuminated. The joystick can now be used.
1 Lever
The joystick piloting system features the ability to command both engines with a single lever on a dual‑engine application. This
feature simplifies engine management during rough sea conditions by allowing you to use a single lever to command both
engines simultaneously. It has no affect on the joystick function. It is not the same as the system feature called Sync.
51856
1 LEVER button
To engage 1 Lever mode:
1. Place both ERC levers in neutral.
2. Press the 1 LEVER button. The button light will turn on.
3. Place the starboard ERC lever into gear.
4. When the handle is moved, the engines RPM and gear position is synchronized.
To disengage 1 Lever mode:
1. Place both ERC levers in neutral.
2. Press the 1 LEVER button. The button light turns off.
Sync
Sync is an automatic engine synchronization feature that is always on unless it is manually turned off. Sync monitors the
position of both ERC levers. When both levers are within 10% of one another, the port engine synchronizes to the starboard
engine's RPM. The SmartCraft system will automatically disengage sync after 95% of throttle position range to allow each
engine the ability to reach maximum available RPM. Sync cannot engage until the engines are at a minimum speed.
The indicator light on the SYNC button is on when both engines are on. The light is yellow at idle and 95% of throttle and when
the engines are not synchronized. The light turns red when the engines are synchronized.
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SYNC button
The RPM display of VesselView also shows an orange icon under the RPM numbers if the engines RPMs differ more than 10%
of each other, and the icon turns red when they are synchronized.
To disengage sync mode:
1. Place the ERC levers in any detent.

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016 Page 11
2. Press the SYNC button. The button light turns off.
To engage Sync mode, press the SYNC button at any time.
Transfer (Boats equipped with dual helms)
The TRANSFER button allows the boat operator to transfer control of the boat from the active helm to the inactive helm on
boats equipped with dual helms. Refer to Helm Transfer.
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TRANSFER button
Helm Transfer
Some boats are designed to allow control of the vessel from more than one location. These locations are commonly referred to
as helms or stations. Helm transfer is a term used to describe the method of transferring control from one helm (or station) to
another helm.
! WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death from loss of boat control. The boat operator should never leave the active station while engine is
in gear. Helm transfer should only be attempted while both stations are manned. One‑person helm transfer should only be
performed while engine is in neutral.
The helm transfer function allows the boat operator to select which helm is in control of the vessel. Before a transfer can be
initiated the ERC levers at the active helm and at the helm intended for the transfer must be in the neutral position.
NOTE: If you attempt to transfer helm control when the ERC levers are not in neutral, a beep will sound and the helm transfer
will not succeed until the levers at the helms are moved to neutral and transfer is requested again.
Some fault codes may appear on VesselView if other control or navigation functions are attempted after the helm transfer
procedure is started. To remove the fault codes it may be necessary to cycle the key switch off and on, and then restart the
helm transfer procedure. Ensure that other control and navigation inputs are performed after helm transfer is complete to avoid
setting fault codes.
NOTICE
The ERC levers must be in neutral to perform a helm transfer. While in neutral your vessel could drift and collide with objects
nearby resulting in damage. Keep an adequate look out while performing the helm transfer.
To avoid damage, use extra care when attempting a helm transfer while the vessel is close to docks, piers, or other fixed items
or when near other vessels.
Electrical System Overload Protection
If an electrical system overload occurs, a fuse will fail or the circuit breaker will open. The cause must be found and corrected
before replacing the fuse or resetting the circuit breaker.
NOTE: In an emergency, when you must operate the engine and cannot locate the cause for the high current draw, turn off or
disconnect all accessories connected to the engine and instrumentation wiring. Reset the circuit breaker. If the breaker remains
open, the electrical overload has not been eliminated. Contact your authorized dealer.

Section 1 - Getting to Know Your Power Package
Page 12 90-8M0119292 eng MAY 2016
To access the circuit breaker and fuses, remove the outside engine cover. Pull the outside engine cover up to remove it from
the four rubber mount grommets.
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The circuit breaker provides protection for the engine wiring harness and the instrumentation power lead.
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All of the engine protection fuses are located at the front of the engine. To access the fuses, disengage the fuse holders from
the electrical plate assembly.
Mechanical engine, freshwater
cooled shown, others similar
a - Oxygen sensor fuses (4)
b - Spare fuse
c - Engine and trim relays
d - Fuel injectors
e - Alternator and fuel pump relay
f - Ignition coils
g - Malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL)
abc
bd
ef
b
g
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