Mercury Optimax 150 User manual

Operation
Maintenance
and
Installation
Manual
© 2017 Mercury Marine 150–175 Pro XS OptiMax
8M0133619 617 eng

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.
eng i

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.
Mercury Marine products are designed and manufactured to comply with our
own high quality standards, applicable industry standards and regulations, as
well as certain emissions regulations. At Mercury Marine every engine is
operated and tested before it is boxed for shipment to make sure that the
product is ready for use. In addition, certain Mercury Marine products are
tested in a controlled and monitored environment, for up to 10 hours of engine
run time, in order to verify and make a record of compliance with applicable
standards and regulations. All Mercury Marine product, sold as new, receives
the applicable limited warranty coverage, whether the engine participated in
one of the test programs described above or not.
ii eng

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, GO BOLDLY., 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:
Outboard
Engine Model and Horsepower
Engine Serial Number
Gear Ratio
Propeller Number Pitch Diameter
Hull Identification Number (HIN) Purchase Date
Boat Manufacturer Boat Model Length
Exhaust Gas Emissions Certification Number (Europe Only)
eng iii

eng iv

General Information
Boater's Responsibilities..................................................................................... 1
Before Operating Your Outboard........................................................................ 1
Boat Horsepower Capacity................................................................................. 1
High‑Speed and High‑Performance Boat Operation.......................................... 2
Propeller Selection..............................................................................................2
Outboard Remote Control Models ..................................................................... 4
Remote Steering Notice......................................................................................5
Lanyard Stop Switch........................................................................................... 5
Protecting People in the Water........................................................................... 8
Passenger Safety Message ‑ Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats...........................8
Wave and Wake Jumping................................................................................. 10
Impact with Underwater Hazards......................................................................11
Exhaust Emissions........................................................................................... 12
Selecting Accessories for Your Outboard......................................................... 14
Safe Boating Recommendations...................................................................... 14
Recording Serial Number................................................................................. 16
Specifications....................................................................................................17
Component Identification.................................................................................. 18
Transporting
Trailering Boat/Outboard ................................................................................. 19
Fuel and Oil
Fuel Requirements........................................................................................... 20
Oil Recommendation........................................................................................ 21
Fuel Additives................................................................................................... 21
Fuel Requirements........................................................................................... 21
Avoiding Fuel Flow Restriction......................................................................... 22
Low Permeation Fuel Hose Requirement ........................................................ 22
EPA Pressurized Portable Fuel Tank Requirements........................................ 22
Fuel Demand Valve (FDV) Requirement.......................................................... 22
Mercury Marine's Pressurized Portable Fuel Tank........................................... 23
Filling Remote Oil Tank.................................................................................... 24
Filling Engine‑Mounted Oil Reservoir Tank...................................................... 24
Filling Fuel Tank............................................................................................... 25
eng v

Features and Controls
Remote Control Features................................................................................. 26
Warning System............................................................................................... 26
Power Trim and Tilt...........................................................................................29
Operation
Important Information........................................................................................33
Prestarting Check List.......................................................................................34
Operating in Freezing Temperatures................................................................ 34
Operating in Saltwater or Polluted Water......................................................... 34
Operating at High Elevations............................................................................ 35
Setting Trim Angle While Running Engine at Idle Speed................................. 35
Engine Break‑in................................................................................................ 35
Starting the Engine........................................................................................... 36
Gear Shifting..................................................................................................... 38
Stopping the Engine......................................................................................... 39
Maintenance
Cleaning Care Recommendations.................................................................... 40
EPA Emissions Regulations............................................................................. 42
Inspection and Maintenance Schedule ............................................................ 43
Flushing the Cooling System............................................................................ 44
Top Cowl Removal and Installation.................................................................. 44
Flywheel Cover Removal and Installation......................................................... 45
Fuel System...................................................................................................... 45
Steering Link Rod Fasteners............................................................................ 47
Fuse Replacement............................................................................................48
Corrosion Control Anode.................................................................................. 48
Battery Inspection ............................................................................................ 49
Propeller Replacement..................................................................................... 49
Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement..........................................................52
Compressor Air Intake Filter............................................................................. 54
Alternator Belt Inspection..................................................................................54
Lubrication Points............................................................................................. 55
Checking Power Trim Fluid...............................................................................58
Gearcase Lubrication........................................................................................58
Submerged Outboard....................................................................................... 60
vi eng

Storage
Storage Preparation..........................................................................................61
Protecting Internal Engine Components........................................................... 62
Protecting External Outboard Components...................................................... 62
Gearcase.......................................................................................................... 62
Positioning Outboard for Storage..................................................................... 62
Battery Storage................................................................................................. 63
Troubleshooting
Starter Motor Will Not Crank the Engine........................................................... 64
Engine Will Not Start.........................................................................................64
Engine Runs Erratically.................................................................................... 64
Performance Loss.............................................................................................65
Battery Will Not Hold Charge............................................................................ 65
Owner Service Assistance
Service Assistance........................................................................................... 66
Ordering Literature............................................................................................68
Outboard Installation
Mercury Marine Validated Engine Mounting Hardware.................................... 70
Accessories Mounted to the Transom Clamp Bracket...................................... 70
Boat Horsepower Capacity............................................................................... 74
Start in Gear Protection.................................................................................... 74
Fuel System...................................................................................................... 75
Installation Specifications................................................................................. 77
Lifting the Outboard.......................................................................................... 77
Steering Cable ‑ Starboard Side Routed Cable................................................ 78
Steering Link Rod Fasteners............................................................................ 79
Determining Recommended Outboard Mounting Height.................................. 81
Drilling Outboard Mounting Holes..................................................................... 81
Fastening the Outboard to the Transom........................................................... 83
Electrical, Hoses, and Control Cables.............................................................. 88
Shift and Throttle Cable.................................................................................... 93
Front Clamp Reassembly................................................................................. 99
Oil Injection Set‑Up......................................................................................... 100
Trim In Pin...................................................................................................... 103
eng vii

Maintenance Log
Maintenance Log............................................................................................ 104
viii eng

Boater's Responsibilities
The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation of the
boat and the safety of its occupants and general public. It is strongly
recommended that each operator read and understand this entire manual
before operating the outboard.
Be sure that at least one additional person onboard is instructed in the basics
of starting and operating the outboard and boat handling in case the driver is
unable to operate the boat.
Before Operating Your Outboard
Read this manual carefully. Learn how to operate your outboard properly. If you
have any questions, contact your dealer.
Safety and operating information that is practiced, along with using good
common sense, can help prevent personal injury and product damage.
This manual as well as safety labels posted on the outboard use the following
safety alerts to draw your attention to special safety instructions that should be
followed.
! 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.
Boat Horsepower Capacity
! WARNING
Exceeding the boat's maximum horsepower rating can cause serious injury
or death. Overpowering the boat can affect boat control and flotation
characteristics or break the transom. Do not install an engine that exceeds
the boat's maximum power rating.
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 1

Do not overpower or overload your boat. Most boats will carry a required
capacity plate indicating the maximum acceptable power and load as
determined by the manufacturer following certain federal guidelines. If in doubt,
contact your dealer or the boat manufacturer.
U.S. COAST GUARD CAP ACITY
MAXIMUM HORSEPOWER XXX
MAXIMUM PERSON
CAPACITY (POUNDS) XXX
MAXIMUM WEIGHT
CAPACITY XXX
26777
High‑Speed and High‑Performance Boat Operation
If your outboard is to be used on a high‑speed or high‑performance boat with
which you are unfamiliar, we recommend that you do not operate it at its high
speed capability without first requesting an initial orientation and familiarization
demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator experienced with your boat/
outboard combination. For additional information, obtain a copy of our
Hi‑Performance Boat Operation booklet from your dealer, distributor, or
Mercury Marine.
Propeller Selection
The propeller on your outboard is one of the most important components in the
propulsion system. An improper propeller choice can significantly affect the
performance of your boat and could result in damage to the outboard engine.
When choosing a propeller, a full selection of aluminum and stainless steel
propellers specifically designed for your outboard are available through
Mercury Marine. To view the entire product offering and find the correct
propeller that is best suited for your application, visit
www.mercmarinepropellers.com or see your local authorized Mercury dealer.
SELECTING THE CORRECT PROPELLER
An accurate tachometer for measuring engine speed is important in choosing
the correct propeller.
Choose a propeller for your boating application that will allow the engine to
operate within the specified full throttle operating range. When operating the
boat at full throttle under normal load conditions, the engine RPM should be in
the upper half of the recommended full throttle RPM range. Refer to
Specifications. If engine RPM is above that range, select a propeller of
increased pitch in order to reduce engine RPM. If engine RPM is below the
recommended range, select a propeller of reduced pitch to increase engine
RPM.
GENERAL INFORMATION
2 eng

IMPORTANT: To ensure proper fit, and performance, Mercury Marine
recommends the use of Mercury or Quicksilver branded propellers and
mounting hardware.
Propellers are designated by the diameter, pitch, number of blades, and
material. The diameter and pitch are stamped (cast) into the side or the end of
the propeller hub. The first number represents the diameter of the propeller and
the second number represents the pitch. For example, 14x19 represents a
propeller with a 14 inch diameter and 19 inches of pitch.
a - Diameter
b - Pitch ‑ Travel during one revolution
The following are some propeller basics that will help you determine the correct
propeller for your boating application.
Diameter ‑ The diameter is the distance across the imaginary circle that is
made when the propeller rotates. The correct diameter for each propeller has
been predetermined for the design of your outboard. However, when more than
one diameter is available for the same pitch, use a larger diameter for heavy
boat applications and a smaller diameter for lighter applications.
Pitch ‑ The pitch is the theoretical distance, in inches, that a propeller travels
forward during one revolution. Pitch can be thought of similar to gears in a car.
The lower the gear, the faster the car will accelerate, but with lower overall top
speed. Likewise, a lower pitch propeller will accelerate quickly, but top‑end
speed will be reduced. The higher the propeller pitch the faster the boat will
usually go; though typically slowing acceleration.
Determining the correct pitch size ‑ First, check the full throttle RPM under
normal load condition. If the full throttle RPM is within the recommended range,
select a replacement or upgrade propeller with the same pitch as the current
propeller.
• Adding 1 inch of pitch will reduce the full throttle RPM by 150 to 200
• Subtracting 1 inch of pitch will increase full throttle RPM by 150 to 200
a
b
22669
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 3

• Upgrading from a 3‑blade propeller to a 4‑blade propeller will generally
decrease full throttle RPM by 50 to 100
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage to the engine. Never use a propeller that allows
the engine to exceed the recommended full throttle RPM range when under
normal full throttle operation.
PROPELLER MATERIAL
Most propellers manufactured by Mercury Marine are made from either
aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum is suitable for general purpose use and
is standard equipment on many new boats. Stainless steel is over five times
more durable than aluminum and typically provides performance gains in
acceleration and top end speed due to design efficiencies. Stainless steel
propellers also come in a larger variety of sizes and styles that allow you to dial
in the ultimate performance for your boat.
3 BLADE VS. 4 BLADE
Available in many sizes of both aluminum and stainless, 3 and 4‑blade
propellers have unique performance characteristics. In general, 3‑blade
propellers offer good all around performance and higher top speed than
4‑blade propellers. However, 4‑blade propellers are usually faster to plane and
more efficient at cruising speeds, but lack the top end speed of a 3‑blade
propeller.
Outboard Remote Control Models
The remote control connected to your outboard must be equipped with a start
in neutral only protection device. This prevents the engine from starting when
the shift is actuated in any position other than neutral.
! WARNING
Starting the engine with the drive in gear can cause serious injury or death.
Never operate a boat that does not have a neutral‑safety‑protection device.
N
63103
GENERAL INFORMATION
4 eng

Remote Steering Notice
The steering link rod that connects the steering cable to the engine must be
fastened utilizing self‑locking nuts. These self‑locking nuts must never be
replaced with common nuts (nonlocking) as they will work loose and vibrate off,
freeing the link rod to disengage.
! WARNING
Improper fasteners or improper installation procedures can result in
loosening or disengagement of the steering link rod. This can cause a
sudden, unexpected loss of boat control, resulting in serious injury or death
due to occupants being thrown within or out of the boat. Always use required
components and follow instructions and torque procedures.
a - Self‑locking nuts
Lanyard Stop Switch
The purpose of a lanyard stop switch is to turn off the engine when the operator
moves far enough away from the operator's position (as in accidental ejection
from the operator's position) to activate the switch. Tiller handle outboards and
some remote control units are equipped with a lanyard stop switch. A lanyard
stop switch can be installed as an accessory ‑ generally on the dashboard or
side adjacent to the operator's position.
A decal near the lanyard stop switch is a visual reminder for the operator to
attach the lanyard to their personal flotation device (PFD) or wrist.
a
a27740
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 5

The lanyard cord is usually 122–152 cm (4–5 feet) in length when stretched out,
with an element on one end made to be inserted into the switch and a clip on
the other end for attaching to the operator's PFD or wrist. 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 normal operator's position. If it is desired
to have a shorter lanyard, wrap the lanyard around the operator's wrist or leg,
or tie a knot in the lanyard.
a - Lanyard cord clip
b - Lanyard decal
c - Lanyard stop switch
Read the following Safety Information before proceeding.
Important Safety Information: The purpose of a lanyard stop switch is to stop
the engine when the operator moves far enough away from the operator's
position to activate the switch. This would occur if the operator accidentally falls
overboard or moves within the boat a sufficient distance from the operator's
position. Falling overboard and accidental ejections are more likely to occur in
certain types of boats such as low sided inflatables, bass boats, high
performance boats, and light, sensitive handling fishing boats operated by a
hand tiller. Falling overboard and accidental ejections are also likely to occur as
a result of poor operating practices such as sitting on the back of the seat or
gunwale at planing speeds, standing at planing speeds, sitting on elevated
fishing boat decks, operating at planing speeds in shallow or obstacle infested
waters, releasing your grip on a steering wheel or tiller handle that is pulling in
one direction, drinking alcohol or consuming drugs, or daring high speed boat
maneuvers.
c
a
b
53910
OFF
RUN
ATTACH LANYARD
GENERAL INFORMATION
6 eng

While activation of the lanyard stop switch will stop the engine immediately, a
boat will continue to coast for some distance depending upon the velocity and
degree of any turn at shut down. However, the boat will not complete a full
circle. While the boat is coasting, it can cause injury to anyone in the boat's
path as seriously as the boat would when under power.
We strongly recommend that other occupants be instructed on proper starting
and operating procedures should they be required to operate the engine in an
emergency (if the operator is accidentally ejected).
! 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.
! 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.
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 gearcase or
propeller.
• Loss of power and directional control in heavy seas, strong current, or
high winds.
• Loss of control when docking.
KEEP THE LANYARD STOP SWITCH AND LANYARD CORD IN GOOD
OPERATING CONDITION
Before each use, check to ensure the lanyard stop switch works properly. Start
the engine and stop it by pulling the lanyard cord. If the engine does not stop,
have the switch repaired before operating the boat.
Before each use, visually inspect the lanyard cord to ensure 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.
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 7

Protecting People in the Water
WHILE YOU ARE CRUISING
It is very difficult for a person standing or floating in the water to take quick
action to avoid a boat heading in his/her direction, even at slow speed.
21604
Always slow down and exercise extreme caution any time you are boating in an
area where there might be people in the water.
Whenever a boat is moving (coasting) and the outboard gear shift is in neutral
position, there is sufficient force by the water on the propeller to cause the
propeller to rotate. This neutral propeller rotation can cause serious injury.
WHILE THE BOAT IS STATIONARY
! WARNING
A spinning propeller, a moving boat, or any solid device attached to the boat
can cause serious injury or death to swimmers. Stop the engine immediately
whenever anyone in the water is near your boat.
Shift the outboard into neutral and shut off the engine before allowing people to
swim or be in the water near your boat.
Passenger Safety Message ‑ Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats
Whenever the boat is in motion, observe the location of all passengers. Do not
allow any passengers to stand or use seats other than those designated for
traveling faster than idle speed. A sudden reduction in boat speed, such as
plunging into a large wave or wake, a sudden throttle reduction, or a sharp
change of boat direction, could throw them over the front of the boat. Falling
over the front of the boat between the two pontoons will position them to be run
over by the outboard.
BOATS HAVING AN OPEN FRONT DECK
No one should ever be on the deck in front of the fence while the boat is in
motion. Keep all passengers behind the front fence or enclosure.
GENERAL INFORMATION
8 eng

Persons on the front deck could easily be thrown overboard or persons
dangling their feet over the front edge could get their legs caught by a wave
and pulled into the water.
26782
! WARNING
Sitting or standing in an area of the boat not designed for passengers at
speeds above idle can cause serious injury or death. Stay back from the front
end of deck boats or raised platforms and remain seated while the boat is in
motion.
BOATS WITH FRONT MOUNTED, RAISED PEDESTAL FISHING SEATS
Elevated fishing seats are not intended for use when the boat is traveling faster
than idle or trolling speed. Sit only in seats designated for traveling at faster
speeds.
Any unexpected, sudden reduction in boat speed could result in the elevated
passenger falling over the front of the boat.
26783
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 9

Wave and Wake Jumping
Operating recreational boats over waves and wake is a natural part of boating.
However, when this activity is done with sufficient speed to force the boat hull
partially or completely out of the water, certain hazards arise, particularly when
the boat enters the water.
26784
The primary concern is the boat changing direction while in the midst of the
jump. In such case, the landing may cause the boat to veer violently in a new
direction. Such a sharp change in direction can cause occupants to be thrown
out of their seats, or out of the boat.
! WARNING
Wave or wake jumping can cause serious injury or death from occupants
being thrown within or out of the boat. Avoid wave or wake jumping whenever
possible.
There is another less common hazardous result from allowing your boat to
launch off a wave or wake. If the bow of your boat pitches down far enough
while airborne, upon water contact it may penetrate under the water surface
and submarine for an instant. This will bring the boat to a nearly instantaneous
stop and can send the occupants flying forward. The boat may also steer
sharply to one side.
GENERAL INFORMATION
10 eng