Mercury Axius System User manual

© 2015 Mercury Marine Axius Joystick Piloting for Sterndrives
8M0099745 515 eng
Models Affected
The content in this manual applies to Axius Joystick Piloting for Sterndrives as implemented on the following MerCruiser
power packages:
Engine Configuration Engine Horsepower Sterndrive Model
4.5L V6 200 Bravo Three
250 Bravo Three
6.2L V8 300 Bravo Three
350 Bravo Three
Welcome
You have selected one of the finest marine power packages available. It incorporates numerous design features to
assure operating ease and durability. With proper care and maintenance, you will thoroughly enjoy using this product for
many boating seasons.
This manual is a supplement to the operations manual provided with your engine, and provides additional information
about using and maintaining the Axius Joystick Piloting for Sterndrives propulsion system. To ensure maximum
performance and carefree use, we ask that you thoroughly read this manual.
The serial numbers are the manufacturer’s keys to numerous engineering details that apply to your power package.
When contacting your authorized Mercury MerCruiser dealer about service, always specify model and serial numbers.
Keep this manual 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
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 section of the Operation, Maintenance and Warranty Manual included with your power
package. The warranty statement 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. Be certain to review this important information.
Mercury Premier Service
Mercury evaluates the service performance of its dealers and assigns its highest rating of "Mercury Premier" to those
demonstrating an exceptional commitment to service.
Earning a Mercury Premier Service rating means a dealer:
• Achieves a high 12‑month service Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) score for warranty service.
• Possesses all of the necessary service tools, test equipment, manuals, and parts books.
• Employs at least one certified or master technician.
• Provides timely service for all Mercury Marine customers.
• Offers extended service hours and mobile service, when appropriate.
• Uses, displays, and stocks an adequate inventory of genuine Mercury Precision Parts.
• Offers a clean, neat shop with well‑organized tools and service literature.
Read This Manual Carefully
! WARNING
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, Maintenance and
Warranty Manual and thoroughly understand the operational instructions for the power package and all related
accessories before the boat is used.
IMPORTANT: If you do not understand any portion of this manual, contact your dealer for a demonstration of actual
starting and operating procedures.

Notice to Users of This Manual
Throughout this publication, safety alerts labeled WARNING and CAUTION (accompanied by the international hazard symbol
! ) are used to alert you to special instructions concerning a particular service or operation that may be hazardous if
performed incorrectly or carelessly. Observe these alerts carefully.
These safety alerts alone cannot eliminate the hazards that they signal. Strict compliance to these special instructions when
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.
Additional alerts provide information that requires special attention:
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.
The description and specifications contained herein were in effect at the time this guide was approved for printing. Mercury
Marine, whose policy is one of continuous improvement, reserves the right to discontinue models at any time, or to change
specifications or designs, without notice and without incurring obligation.
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.

90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
Features and Controls............................................................... 2
Vessel Personality.............................................................. 2
Instrumentation................................................................... 2
VesselView..................................................................... 2
SmartCraft Digital Instruments....................................... 2
System Link Digital Instruments..................................... 3
Electronic Helm Steering.................................................... 3
Joystick—Basic Operation.................................................. 4
Engine Guardian Strategy.................................................. 4
Premier Features (If Equipped).................................................. 4
Chartplotter Requirements.................................................. 4
VesselView Autopilot Screen.............................................. 5
Trackpad Buttons with the Power Icon............................... 5
Autopilot Trackpad Lights................................................... 5
Autopilot Modes.................................................................. 6
Section 2 - On the Water
Getting Started........................................................................... 8
Starting the Engine............................................................. 8
Traditional Maneuvering with Steering and Thrust............. 8
To Maneuver the Boat in Forward or Reverse............... 8
To Steer the Boat in Tight Turns at Low Speeds............8
To Spin the Boat at Low Speeds.................................... 8
Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features............................ 9
Transfer (Boats Equipped with Dual Helms)................ 10
Dock Mode................................................................... 10
Throttle‑Only Mode....................................................... 11
Single‑Lever Mode....................................................... 12
Synchronizing Engines................................................. 12
Single Engine Operation................................................... 12
Maneuvering with the Joystick.......................................... 13
Centering the Drives after Joystick Operation.............. 14
Moving the ERC Handles while in Joystick Mode........ 14
Auto Trim.......................................................................... 14
Premier Features (If Equipped)................................................ 15
VesselView Autopilot Screen............................................ 15
Skyhook Station Keeping.................................................. 15
Important Safety Considerations.................................. 16
Engaging Skyhook........................................................16
Disengaging Skyhook................................................... 17
Using Skyhook..............................................................17
Response Settings............................................................ 18
Autopilot Modes................................................................ 18
Auto Heading.................................................................... 18
Engaging Auto Heading................................................18
Course Adjustment Using the Turn Buttons or
Joystick......................................................................... 19
To Resume a Heading .................................................20
Disengaging Auto Heading........................................... 20
Track Waypoint................................................................. 21
Engaging Track Waypoint Mode.................................. 22
Disengaging Track Waypoint Mode.............................. 23
Turn Buttons in Track Waypoint Mode......................... 23
Auto Heading Button in Track Waypoint Mode ............ 23
Acknowledging a Turn During a Waypoint Arrival........ 23
Waypoint Sequence..................................................... 24
Cruise Control................................................................... 25
Helm Transfer.......................................................................... 26
Requesting Helm Transfer................................................ 26
Helm Transfer and Autopilot............................................. 26
Battery Information................................................................... 27
Long Term Battery Storage & Maintenance
Recommendations............................................................ 27
Recommissioning......................................................... 27
Transporting a Joystick Piloting Boat....................................... 27
Section 3 - Troubleshooting
Single Engine Operation.......................................................... 30
Port Engine–Only Operation.................................................... 30
Shift Override—Emergency Procedure.................................... 30
Check VesselView First........................................................... 31
Diagnosing DTS Problems....................................................... 31
Engine Guardian System......................................................... 31
Troubleshooting Charts............................................................ 31
Joystick............................................................................. 31
Electronic Remote Controls.............................................. 32
Steering System............................................................... 33
Trackpad Features............................................................ 33
AutoPilot........................................................................... 33
Skyhook............................................................................ 34
Section 4 - Customer Assistance Information
Owner Service Assistance....................................................... 36
Local Repair Service.......................................................... 36
Service Away From Home..................................................36
Stolen Power Package....................................................... 36
Attention Required After Submersion................................. 36
Replacement Service Parts................................................ 36

Page ii 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
Parts and Accessories Inquiries.................................. 36
Resolving a Problem......................................................... 36
Contact Information for Mercury Marine Customer Service
.......................................................................................... 37
Customer Service Literature................................................... 37
English Language............................................................. 37
Other Languages.............................................................. 38
Ordering Literature................................................................. 38
United States and Canada................................................ 38
Outside the United States and Canada............................ 38
Section 5 - Predelivery (PDI) and Customer Delivery (CDI) Checklists
Predelivery Inspection (PDI)................................................... 40 Customer Delivery Inspection (CDI)....................................... 41

Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 1
Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
Table of Contents
Features and Controls............................................................ 2
Vessel Personality........................................................... 2
Instrumentation................................................................ 2
VesselView .............................................................. 2
SmartCraft Digital Instruments ................................ 2
System Link Digital Instruments .............................. 3
Electronic Helm Steering................................................. 3
Joystick—Basic Operation............................................... 4
Engine Guardian Strategy............................................... 4
Premier Features (If Equipped).............................................. 4
Chartplotter Requirements...............................................4
VesselView Autopilot Screen........................................... 5
Trackpad Buttons with the Power Icon............................ 5
Autopilot Trackpad Lights................................................ 5
Autopilot Modes............................................................... 6
1

Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
Page 2 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
Features and Controls
Vessel Personality
Mercury Marine and your boatbuilder developed a vessel propulsion personality to ensure optimal performance of the joystick,
steering, and autopilot under ideal conditions. As wind and current conditions change, user input will be required to
compensate.
Changing engine performance, gear ratios, or propellers may affect the performance of the joystick as well as the top speed of
the vessel. Changing any parameter from the original factory equipment and settings can have a negative effect on
performance, and changes must not be made without first consulting the boat manufacturer and a Mercury product integration
engineer.
The vessel propulsion personality is the property of the boat manufacturer. Changes or upgrades to the personality must be
approved and distributed by the boat manufacturer. Mercury Marine will assist with software personality changes only at the
request of the boat manufacturer.
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.
56038
VesselView 7
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
• Fuel consumption

Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 3
• 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
Electronic Helm Steering
The electronic helm steering operates through electronic signals. We recommend that you drive carefully until you have a
chance to explore the joystick piloting system's handling characteristics and boat's response in an open area clear of
obstructions or other boat traffic. The electronic helm steering can provide a faster steering response than expected.
To confirm your steering range from lock‑to‑lock, ensure that the starboard engine key is on. The engines do not have to be
running for this test. Steer to starboard until the wheel stops. This stop is electric and is driven by the electric motor attached to
the steering wheel. Begin turning the wheel to port and count the number of turns until the wheel stops at the port lock. This is
the number of turns the drives will move from full starboard (26°) to full port (–26°), with the center straight ahead position at
zero (0) degrees.
You may experience times during which the electronic end stops of the wheel are not felt. This will happen when the starboard
key is off, the starboard engine battery voltage is low, the 20‑amp circuit breaker (typically labeled Helm Main Power or similar)
is tripped, or a steering wheel motor fault occurs. This loss of feedback will not result in loss of steering, however. The drives
will still stop turning when the wheel reaches the hard‑over position at each lock.
The vessel personality developed by the boat manufacturer in partnership with Mercury Marine, determines the number of turns
lock‑to‑lock. Typically, this is about 2‑1/2 turns of the wheel from lock‑to‑lock, resulting in full starboard to full port steering
angle.
a
b
c
c50400

Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
Page 4 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
Joystick—Basic Operation
The joystick offers intuitive control of your boat during low speed operation and docking maneuvers. Engine speed is limited to
approximately 1700–2500 RPM in this mode, depending on vessel and propulsion application, to prevent excessive propeller
wash or unacceptable boat dynamics during maneuvers. DOCK mode reduces this limited engine speed by approximately 30%
and will be discussed more in the DOCK mode section. This RPM reduction may vary between engine models and horsepower.
Environmental conditions such as strong wind and current may require more thrust than what is listed previously. If more power
is needed for vessel maneuvering, use the electronic remote control levers.
55918
Typical joystick location
Though joystick operation is easy and intuitive, you should avoid using it until you have the opportunity to become familiar with
the vessel's handling characteristics while operating the vessel with the joystick in open water. Thereafter, you should
occasionally practice operating without the joystick in case the joystick becomes inoperable.
Both engines must be running and both ERC levers must be in neutral for the joystick to operate.
Engine Guardian Strategy
IMPORTANT: Boat speed could be reduced to idle and may not respond to your throttle demands.
Engine Guardian Strategy is designed to help reduce the potential for engine damage by reducing engine power when a
potential problem is detected by the PCM or SmartCraft system.
When the Guardian system detects a failure in the shift system or other abnormal condition, it will leave the shift actuator in the
last known position. Therefore, if the drive is in gear and there is a fault, the drive remains in gear. Pulling the lanyard,
activating the E‑stop switch, or turning the key to the off position and restarting the engine will result in the gear position
returning to neutral. This allows you to continue to maneuver the vessel in forward gear and return to port.
Engine Guardian monitors:
• Engine oil pressure
• Coolant temperature
• Seawater pressure
• Engine overspeed
• Shift system
Should Engine Guardian engage on your vessel, your SmartCraft instrumentation will indicate this and advise you to reduce
throttle if necessary. Engine Guardian may also reduce throttle for you if the situation requires it.
To avoid a possible recurrence of the problem you should contact an authorized dealer. The PCM will store the faults and with
this information the technician will be able to more rapidly diagnose problems.
Premier Features (If Equipped)
Chartplotter Requirements
Many of the Premier features use information from the chartplotter to function. However, not every chartplotter has the quality
of information needed to allow these features to work properly. The chartplotter on your boat has been selected from an
approved list created and maintained by Mercury MerCruiser. These chartplotters use specific software to meet the stringent
demands to function with the Premier system.
• All chartplotters on the vessel must be calibrated the same.
• All chartplotters on the vessel must have the arrival radius alarm set to no less than 0.05 nautical mile (0.06 mile).
• All chartplotters on the vessel must be capable of sharing waypoint data.
• Some chartplotter models require the turn transition distance to be set greater than the arrival alarm radius. For more
information on the turn transition distance, refer to the appropriate chartplotter operation manual.

Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 5
Poor quality or inaccurate information generated by unapproved chartplotters or software can cause the features to behave
erratically, unexpectedly, or not function at all. Updating software to an unapproved version can also cause the system to not
function correctly. See your dealer or call Mercury Customer Service for approved plotters, plotter settings, and compatible
software in the event your chartplotter needs service.
VesselView Autopilot Screen
The VesselView autopilot screen displays:
• Steering angle of the drives when in standby mode
• A digital compass value of the current heading
• Three icons to indicate the currently selected response level
• Engine RPM
a - Heading
b - Steering angle reference
c - Engine RPM
d - Response level
Trackpad Buttons with the Power Icon
The power icon located on the buttons for Skyhook, auto heading mode, and track waypoint mode indicate that the buttons
can engage or disengage the autopilot function they perform.
If you press a button that has the power icon when that button light is on, the light turns off for that button and the standby light
illuminates.
If you press a button that has the power icon when that button light is off, the light turns on for that button, a single beep
sounds, and the active light illuminates, unless another mode is currently active. If another mode is currently active, press the
button on the active mode to disengage it, then press the button for the new mode.
If you press a button with the power icon when that button light is off, the light turns on for that button, a single beep sounds,
and the active light illuminates.
Autopilot Trackpad Lights
The autopilot trackpad includes lights to indicate when an autopilot mode is active (engaged) or in standby (disengaged). If the
standby light is illuminated, then the autopilot is disengaged (off). If the active light is illuminated, then the autopilot is engaged
(on).
Pressing the button for auto heading, track waypoint, or Skyhook will engage that mode, turning on both its respective light and
the active light.
a
b
c
d
56091

Section 1 - Getting to Know the Joystick Piloting System
Page 6 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
NOTE: The standby light will flash on and off when the system is attempting to acquire the necessary GPS signals.
a - Standby light
b - Active light
Autopilot Modes
! WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death. Inattentive boat operation can result in a collision with other watercraft, obstacles, swimmers, or
underwater terrain. The autopilot navigates a preset course, and does not automatically respond to hazards in the vicinity of
the boat. The operator must stay at the helm, ready to evade hazards and warn passengers of course changes.
The autopilot includes several modes that can steer your vessel to a specific compass heading or to destinations generated
from a chartplotter and GPS unit. If using a device to generate course information, you must be familiar with the operation of
that chartplotter and GPS unit before attempting to use the autopilot to steer your vessel. The autopilot does not control speed,
only direction, and it cannot sense hazards to navigation. These automatic modes do not relieve the operator of the
responsibility to stay at the helm and keep a vigilant lookout for other vessels, persons in the water, or hazards to navigation.
When using the autopilot with a chartplotter and a GPS unit to navigate along a series of waypoints (a route), be aware that the
boat will not travel to the precise location of the waypoint before initiating a turn to the next waypoint. Your chartplotter
establishes a zone called an arrival circle around the point, and the autopilot will announce arrival at the waypoint when the
boat enters that zone.
b
a
51879

Section 2 - On the Water
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 7
Section 2 - On the Water
Table of Contents
Getting Started....................................................................... 8
Starting the Engine.......................................................... 8
Traditional Maneuvering with Steering and Thrust.......... 8
To Maneuver the Boat in Forward or Reverse ........ 8
To Steer the Boat in Tight Turns at Low Speeds
................................................................................ 8
To Spin the Boat at Low Speeds ............................. 8
Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features.........................9
Transfer (Boats Equipped with Dual Helms) ......... 10
Dock Mode ............................................................ 10
Throttle‑Only Mode ................................................ 11
Single‑Lever Mode ................................................ 12
Synchronizing Engines .......................................... 12
Single Engine Operation................................................ 12
Maneuvering with the Joystick....................................... 13
Centering the Drives after Joystick Operation ....... 14
Moving the ERC Handles while in Joystick Mode
.............................................................................. 14
Auto Trim....................................................................... 14
Premier Features (If Equipped)............................................ 15
VesselView Autopilot Screen......................................... 15
Skyhook Station Keeping...............................................15
Important Safety Considerations ........................... 16
Engaging Skyhook ................................................ 16
Disengaging Skyhook ............................................ 17
Using Skyhook ...................................................... 17
Response Settings.........................................................18
Autopilot Modes............................................................. 18
Auto Heading................................................................. 18
Engaging Auto Heading ........................................ 18
Course Adjustment Using the Turn Buttons or
Joystick .................................................................. 19
To Resume a Heading ......................................... 20
Disengaging Auto Heading .................................... 20
Track Waypoint.............................................................. 21
Engaging Track Waypoint Mode ........................... 22
Disengaging Track Waypoint Mode ...................... 23
Turn Buttons in Track Waypoint Mode .................. 23
Auto Heading Button in Track Waypoint Mode .... 23
Acknowledging a Turn During a Waypoint Arrival
.............................................................................. 23
Waypoint Sequence .............................................. 24
Cruise Control................................................................ 25
Helm Transfer....................................................................... 26
Requesting Helm Transfer............................................. 26
Helm Transfer and Autopilot.......................................... 26
Battery Information............................................................... 27
Long Term Battery Storage & Maintenance
Recommendations......................................................... 27
Recommissioning .................................................. 27
Transporting a Joystick Piloting Boat................................... 27
2

Section 2 - On the Water
Page 8 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
Getting Started
Starting the Engine
1. Place the remote control handle in neutral.
! WARNING
Explosive fumes contained in the engine compartment can cause serious injury or death from fire or explosion. Before
starting the engine, operate the bilge blower or vent the engine compartment for at least five minutes.
2. Turn the ignition key to the RUN position.
NOTE: This power package is equipped with SmartStart and may have a push button for starting. Rather than holding the
start button or key switch to start the engine and then releasing it when the engine starts, SmartStart completely controls
the starting process. When the start button is pushed, the PCM signals the engine to start. If the engine does not start, the
starting process times out after a few seconds or when the engine reaches 400 RPM. Attempting to start the engine with
the engine already running will turn the engine off.
3. Turn the ignition key switch to the START position then release, or press the start/stop button and release. If the engine is
cold, allow the engine to operate at idle for 6–10 minutes or until the engine temperature reaches 71° C (160° F) for closed
cooling and 60° C (140° F) for standard cooling.
4. If the engine does not start after three attempts:
a. Push the throttle only button and position the remote control handle or throttle lever to the 1/4 throttle position.
b. Turn the ignition key to START position then release, or press the start/stop button and release. Be prepared to
quickly move the control handle to the idle position. Allow the engine idle RPM to stabilize before shifting.
NOTICE
Shifting into gear at engine speeds above idle will damage the drive system. Shift the drive into gear only when the engine is
operating at idle.
5. Inspect the power package for fuel, oil, water, and exhaust leaks.
6. Move the control handle with a firm, quick motion forward to shift to forward gear, or backward to shift to reverse. After
shifting, advance the throttle to the desired setting.
Traditional Maneuvering with Steering and Thrust
You can maneuver your joystick piloting‑equipped vessel much like a traditional sterndrive boat. However, the joystick piloting
drive system expands the maneuvering capability of your vessel at both slow and planing speeds. At slow speeds, the drive
system is capable of directing the thrust through independently articulating drives to produce more responsive turning of the
vessel. The joystick piloting drive system features counterrotating propellers that do not produce any propsteer when
accelerating or slowing down.
To Maneuver the Boat in Forward or Reverse
Place one or both engines in forward or reverse gear and steer with the steering wheel as you would any comparable boat.
To Steer the Boat in Tight Turns at Low Speeds
• To turn the boat in tight turns at low speeds, turn the wheel in the direction of the turn.
• To increase the turn rate of the boat after the wheel is completely turned, you may increase the power to the inside drive.
To Spin the Boat at Low Speeds
• Turn the drives to straight forward.
• To spin to the right, place the starboard engine in reverse and the port engine in forward.
• To spin to the left, place the port engine in reverse and the starboard engine in forward.
• To increase the rate of turn, simultaneously adjust each ERC lever for more throttle. More reverse throttle will be needed to
compensate for the forward drive.

Section 2 - On the Water
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 9
Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) Features
The DTS system features several operational modes for the electronic remote control (ERC) levers. Any of the listed features
can operate simultaneously.
Dual-engine ERC
a - Trim control (handle)
b - Trim control (trackpad)
c - Neutral lights
d - Transfer function
e - Dock mode
f - + (increase brightness)
g - Throttle‑only mode
h - – (decrease brightness)
i - Single‑lever control
j - Synchronization feature
52793
Dash-mounted DTS trackpad
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
51853

Section 2 - On the Water
Page 10 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
Control Function
Trim control Raises and lowers the drives for best efficiency, or for conditions such as shallow water or trailering.
NEUTRAL (lights) Illuminate when the engine is in the neutral gear position. The lights flash when the engine is in
throttle‑only mode.
TROLL
Limits the boat to idle forward at an idle speed up to a specific RPM that is programed into the PCM or
vessel personality. Use the + and – buttons to increase or decrease the speed.
NOTE: The troll feature is not available on some ERC‑mounted trackpads, only dash‑mounted. For
vessels equipped with ERC‑mounted trackpads that do not have a troll button, the troll feature can be
accessed from VesselView.
TRANSFER Allows boat control to be transferred to a different helm. Refer to Helm Transfer.
DOCK
Available during joystick and ERC operation.
• Joystick operation reduces throttle capacity to approximately 70% of normal joystick throttle
demand.
• Control lever throttle capacity is reduced to approximately 50% of normal control lever throttle
demand.
THROTTLE ONLY Allows the boat operator to increase engine RPM without shifting into gear. Refer to Throttle‑Only
Mode.
1 LEVER Enables the throttle and shift functions of all engines to be controlled by the port lever. Refer to Single
Lever Mode.
SYNC Turns the auto‑synchronization feature off or on. Refer to Synchronizing Engines.
+ (increase) and
– (decrease)
Increases and decreases brightness settings for the trackpad, VesselView display, and SmartCraft
gauges.
NOTE: On dash‑mounted DTS trackpads, these buttons increase or decrease the trolling speed.
Transfer (Boats Equipped with Dual Helms)
The transfer function 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.
51858
Transfer button and light
Dock Mode
Dock mode reduces the RPM throughout the throttle lever range by 50%, allowing finer control of engine power in close quarter
situations. If more power is needed for vessel maneuvering when environmental conditions require more thrust, do not use
Dock mode.
NOTE: When the joystick is enabled while in dock mode, dock mode reduces available power to 70% of the already reduced
power with the joystick.
To engage dock mode:
1. Place both ERC levers in neutral.
2. Press the dock button located on the DTS trackpad.
3. The dock light turns on.
4. Place either ERC lever into gear.

Section 2 - On the Water
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 11
NOTE: Engine RPM and available power will be proportionately reduced throughout the throttle lever range.
51854
Dock button and light
To disengage dock mode:
1. Bring both ERC levers to any detent or neutral.
NOTE: Dock mode disengages only when the levers are moved into a detent.
2. Press DOCK. The dock light turns off.
Throttle-Only Mode
Moving the joystick whenever the engines are running and the ERC levers are in the neutral position will command the boat to
move. 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 drives will turn using the steering wheel or the
joystick and the RPM of the engines can be increased while in throttle‑only mode, but the gear position will remain in neutral.
51855
Throttle-only button and light
To engage throttle‑only mode:
1. Place both ERC levers into neutral.
2. Press THROTTLE ONLY on the DTS trackpad. The throttle‑only light will turn on and the neutral lights will blink.
3. Place either ERC lever into forward or reverse detent position. The warning horn will beep each time the levers are moved
into or out of gear while in throttle‑only mode, but the drive will remain in neutral.
NOTE: Throttle‑only mode also affects the joystick. The drives will move and the RPM can be increased, but the gear
position will remain in neutral.
4. The RPM of the engines can be increased.
To disengage throttle‑only mode:
1. Place both ERC levers into neutral. Throttle‑only mode will not disengage unless the ERC levers are in neutral.
NOTE: Pressing THROTTLE ONLY while the ERC levers are in gear will only turn off the throttle‑only light. The engines
will remain in throttle‑only mode until the operator returns the levers to the neutral position.
2. Press THROTTLE ONLY. The throttle‑only light will turn off.
3. The neutral lights stop flashing and remain illuminated. Either the ERC levers or the joystick can now be used to control the
boat's movement.

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Page 12 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
Single-Lever Mode
Joystick piloting features the ability to command all engines with a single lever. This feature simplifies engine management.
Single‑lever mode has no affect on the joystick function. It is not the same as the system feature called Sync.
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Single-lever button and light
To engage single‑lever mode:
1. Place both ERC levers in neutral.
2. Press 1 LEVER on the DTS trackpad. The single‑lever light will turn on.
3. Place the starboard ERC lever into gear.
4. The RPM on the engines will increase and decrease in sync, while both drives remain in gear.
To disengage single‑lever mode:
1. Place both ERC levers in neutral.
2. Press 1 LEVER. The single‑lever light will turn off.
Synchronizing Engines
Sync mode is an automatic engine‑synchronization feature that engages automatically at key‑up. Sync mode monitors the
position of both ERC levers. If both the levers are within 10% of one another, all engines synchronize to the starboard engine's
RPM. The SmartCraft system will automatically disengage sync at the last 10% of the lever range to allow each engine the
ability to reach the maximum available RPM. Sync mode cannot engage until its minimum RPM is met.
The indicator light on the sync button will be on when all 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 and light
VesselView shows an orange icon if the engines exceed an RPM difference of 10% of one another. The icon turns red when
they synchronize. The icon turns off when sync mode is off.
To disengage sync mode:
1. Place the ERC levers into any detent.
2. Press SYNC. The sync light turns off.
To engage sync mode, press the sync button at any time.
Single Engine Operation
If an engine or steering system stops functioning during use, the remaining drive is electronically limited while turning inboard.
This prevents the drives from making contact with each other, since the active drive is unable to determine the position of the
disabled drive. The boat is still operational, but maneuverability is decreased when turning toward the side that is not working.
Refer to the inboard drive angle limit in the following table. The drive is still capable of turning through its full range when
turning away from the disabled drive. Use extra caution when one of the drives is disabled.

Section 2 - On the Water
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 13
NOTE: Joystick is not available when only one engine is operating.
Drive Limits of Engine with Module Failure
Model Maximum Inboard Drive Angle Limit
4.5L Axius Joystick Piloting for Sterndrive models 3.0°
6.2L Axius Joystick Piloting for Sterndrive models 3.0°
The limit may be greater than specified in the previous table depending on the propulsion personality and distance between the
drives. Single engine operation should be intentionally experienced in order to become familiar with the limits of the vessel
maneuverability.
IMPORTANT: Intentionally experiencing single engine operation for the first time should be conducted in an open area that is
not congested with obstacles or other vessel traffic.
To experience single engine operation, proceed with the following:
1. Ensure the vessel is in an open area with a calm sea.
2. Turn off the engines.
3. Start the starboard engine only.
4. Shift the starboard engine into forward gear.
5. At idle, attempt to steer the vessel, noting how it maneuvers.
6. Advance the throttle slowly while attempting to steer the vessel. Note how it maneuvers.
7. After experiencing single engine operation at various different engine RPMs, shift the starboard engine into neutral.
8. Start the port engine to continue with normal vessel operations.
IMPORTANT: There are two possible conditions that can be encountered when experiencing single engine operation with
the port engine running. 1) With the port engine running and the starboard engine key in the OFF position, you will not feel
the steering wheel end stop feedback. 2) Turning the starboard engine key to the ON position will provide steering wheel
end stop feedback.
Maneuvering with the Joystick
! 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.
NOTICE
The vessel personality that determines how a boat responds to joystick commands was created for typical boat loading and
operation in ideal boating conditions. Variations in wind, current, and boat loading will have a substantial effect on the
performance of joystick operations. For example, a boat that is loaded heavily to the bow will behave differently than a boat
that is loaded heavily to the stern. The vessel personality cannot anticipate nor compensate for these variables. It is the
operator's responsibility to make the necessary corrections by changing the loading of the boat or by performing additional
maneuvers to track the desired path.
The joystick provides a single lever interface to maneuver the vessel. Operating the vessel with the joystick is well suited for
close quarter and docking operations in most situations. You can move and rotate the joystick at the same time, allowing
intricate movements in close quarters.
The computer control system automatically calculates the steering angle of each engine, the throttle level, and the proper gear
to push or rotate the boat in a direction corresponding to a joystick movement or twist. For example, if you move the joystick
sideways, the computer control system commands the engines to apply sideways thrust to the boat. Rotating the joystick
prompts the computer to command forces that rotate the boat about its center.
The joystick is proportional, which means the greater distance from the center that the joystick is moved, the more thrust that is
applied to move the boat in that direction. The available demand on the engine is limited while using the joystick.
For joystick control of the boat:
1. Both engines must be running for joystick to function.
2. For best control, trim all engines to the full‑down position and allow the auto trim function to adjust the engines to the
optimal trim angle.
• If the engines are already trimmed down, the operator need not change the trim. The computer controlled system will
automatically trim the engines up to the vessel propulsion personality predetermined angle when the joystick is
engaged.

Section 2 - On the Water
Page 14 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
• If the engines are trimmed up, the operator should manually adjust the trim to full down, provided doing so does not
create a hazard. The system will not automatically trim the engines down when the joystick is engaged.
•For more details, refer to Auto Trim.
IMPORTANT: After joystick operation and before attempting to put the vessel on plane, the trim position must be set to an
angle that allows for normal operation. The computer controlled system will not return the drives to the position they were
at before the joystick was engaged.
3. Move all of the electronic remote control levers to neutral. For Zero Effort controls, shift into neutral and place the throttle
levers at idle.
4. Move the joystick in the direction that you want the boat to move, or twist the joystick in the direction that you want the boat
to rotate. The joystick can be moved and rotated at the same time.
The following picture gives a limited example of the basic responses to inputs from the joystick, and should be used for
reference only. The pictures show an approximate correlation between joystick inputs and the corresponding movement of the
vessel. Exact maneuvers will require multiple joystick inputs and additional user corrections to maintain the maneuver.
NOTE: The joystick does not have detents. It can be positioned at any of the indicated arrows or anywhere in‑between.
a - Forward
b - Crab to forward by starboard
c - Lateral to starboard
d - Crab to reverse by starboard
e - Reverse
f - Crab to reverse by port
g - Lateral to port
h - Crab to forward by port
i - Port yaw
j - Starboard yaw
Centering the Drives after Joystick Operation
Upon releasing the joystick, the drives will remain in their last commanded position, unless the last command was yaw (twisting
the joystick). To center the drives, move the steering wheel or twist the joystick.
Moving the ERC Handles while in Joystick Mode
If the ERC handles are moved while the joystick is in operation, a noncritical fault will be set in the system. A six‑second
intermittent beep will sound, an ERC override fault will be displayed on the VesselView, and the ERC will take command of the
vessel from the joystick. Once the ERC handles are returned to neutral, the joystick can again assume control of the vessel.
Auto Trim
The Joystick Piloting system includes an auto trim feature that works with Skyhook station keeping and joystick operations. This
feature will automatically trim the drives up or down to a position preset by the boat manufacturer.
Enabling Auto Trim
Auto trim is enabled whenever the ERC levers are moved into a gear and then back into neutral, or when the engines are
started.
Auto Trim Up
When the operator assumes control of the vessel with the joystick, auto trim will raise any drive that is trimmed below the
preset position to that preset position, provided that auto trim has been enabled as described above. Auto trim will similarly
raise the drives when Skyhook is engaged. Once the drives have been trimmed up to the preset point, auto trim is disabled
and can only be reenabled as described previously.
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a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j

Section 2 - On the Water
90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015 Page 15
Auto Trim Down
When the operator assumes control of the vessel with the joystick and one or more drives is trimmed above the preset
position, a pop‑up notice will appear on the VesselView display. Similarly, if Skyhook is engaged with one or more drives
trimmed above the preset, the pop‑up will appear. This notice will disappear after 10 seconds, but the operator is provided a
full 15 seconds during which to initiate the auto trim down function.
To initiate auto trim down, briefly press the trim all down button on the ERC or trim pad. Any drive trimmed above the preset
position will be automatically trimmed down to the preset position. To halt the auto trim down of a particular drive, push either
trim button (up or down) for that drive. To halt the auto trim down of all drives, push either trim all button.
IMPORTANT: The preset position for auto trim is accurate to ± 3°, meaning that auto trim in either direction can overshoot by
as much as 3°. If one drive is auto trimmed up and the other drive is auto trimmed down, the drives may be trimmed differently
by as much as 6°. This is not a malfunction.
To bring the drives to the same auto trim position:
1. With the engines off, but the key switches on, trim the drives to their full down position. Hold the trim button for an
additional three seconds.
2. Start the engines.
3. Enable auto trim.
4. Engage the joystick or Skyhook. The drives will all auto trim up to the same position.
Premier Features (If Equipped)
VesselView Autopilot Screen
The VesselView autopilot screen displays:
• The angle of the drives when in standby mode
• A digital compass value of the current heading
• Three icons to indicate the currently selected response level
• Engine RPM
a - Heading
b - Steering angle reference
c - Engine RPM
d - Response level
Skyhook Station Keeping
Your vessel is equipped with the Skyhook station keeping feature. This system uses global positioning system (GPS)
technology and an electronic compass to automatically control shifting, throttling, and steering to maintain heading and
approximate position. This feature can be helpful when waiting for space near a fuel dock, waiting for bridges to open, or when
the water is too deep for an anchor.
Skyhook does not maintain an exact fixed position, but rather will hold the vessel in a fixed compass heading within an
approximate area. The size of this area is affected by the accuracy of the global positioning satellite system, the satellite signal
quality, the physical position of the satellites relative to the receiver, solar flares, and the proximity of the receiver on the vessel
to large structures (for example, bridges or buildings) and trees. Under some of these conditions Skyhook may be affected
enough that the system will disengage. The operator must remain at the helm whenever Skyhook is engaged and be vigilant for
changing conditions such as the presence of other vessels or swimmers or the disengagement of Skyhook.
a
b
c
d
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Page 16 90-8M0099745 eng MAY 2015
Under typical operating conditions, Skyhook is capable of holding the vessel within a radius of 10 m (30 ft). However, this
distance may sometimes increase to a radius of 30 m (100 ft). Because Skyhook holds the boat in an approximate position, not
a precise one, it can cause your boat to collide with other objects close to your boat and cause damage. Do not use Skyhook
when your boat is close to a dock, piling, bridge, another vessel, or swimmer.
! WARNING
Skyhook is an automatic system. Use of this system does not relieve the operator of the responsibility to remain at the helm
and keep watch for changing conditions. The presence of swimmers or other vessels, or if Skyhook becomes disengaged,
will require the operator to assume manual control of the vessel.
Important Safety Considerations
Activities in the water near the vessel while Skyhook is engaged may result in injury or death. The operator should read and
observe the warning labels on the boat, and instruct passengers how Skyhook operates before using the feature.
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Label near the autopilot trackpad
52821
Label in the vicinity of the transom boarding area
IMPORTANT: If either of these labels cannot be located or are not legible, they must be replaced before engaging Skyhook.
For replacement labels, contact the manufacturer of your boat or a Mercury Marine authorized repair facility.
Before engaging (activating) Skyhook, the operator must:
1. Inform passengers how Skyhook operates, to stay out of the water and off the swim platform and boarding ladder, and to
be alert for any sudden shifts in the boat position.
2. Inform passengers of any audible or visual warning systems that may be installed on the boat, and when they can expect
them to be active.
3. Check to see that no one is near the back of the boat or anywhere in the water near the boat.
After engaging (activating) Skyhook, the operator must:
1. Remain at the helm and maintain a vigilant watch.
2. Disengage (deactivate) Skyhook if anyone enters the water or approaches the boat from the water.
! WARNING
A rotating propeller, a moving boat, or a device attached to a moving boat can cause serious injury or death to people in the
water. When Skyhook is engaged, the propellers rotate and the boat moves to maintain the position of the boat. Stop the
engines immediately whenever anyone is in the water near the boat.
Engaging Skyhook
Skyhook will not engage unless the joystick and control levers are in neutral.