Mercury 40 SeaPro User manual

Operation
Maintenance
and
Installation
Manual
© 2017 Mercury Marine 40 SeaPro/Marathon
8M0133626 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
Outboard Remote Control Models ..................................................................... 2
Remote Steering Notice......................................................................................3
Lanyard Stop Switch........................................................................................... 3
Protecting People in the Water........................................................................... 6
Passenger Safety Message ‑ Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats...........................6
Wave and Wake Jumping................................................................................... 8
Impact with Underwater Hazards........................................................................9
Safety Instructions for Hand‑Tilled Outboards.................................................. 10
Exhaust Emissions........................................................................................... 10
Selecting Accessories for Your Outboard......................................................... 12
Safe Boating Suggestions................................................................................ 12
Recording Serial Number................................................................................. 14
40 Sea Pro/Marathon Specifications................................................................ 14
40 SeaPro/Marathon Component Identification................................................ 15
Transporting
Trailering Boat/Outboard ................................................................................. 17
Transporting Portable Fuel Tanks.................................................................... 17
Fuel and Oil
Fuel Requirements........................................................................................... 19
Oil Recommendation........................................................................................ 20
Fuel and Oil Ratio............................................................................................. 20
Mixing Fuel and Oil........................................................................................... 21
Filling Oil Injection System................................................................................21
Filling Fuel Tank............................................................................................... 22
eng v

Features and Controls
Remote Control Features................................................................................. 23
Warning System ‑ Electric Start Models........................................................... 24
Warning Horn System ‑ Manual Start Models.................................................. 25
Engine Over‑Speed Limiter.............................................................................. 26
Manual Tilt System........................................................................................... 27
Power Trim and Tilt (if equipped)......................................................................34
Throttle Grip Friction Adjustment ‑ Tiller Handle Models.................................. 37
Steering Friction Adjustment ............................................................................37
Trim Tab Adjustment........................................................................................ 38
Operation
Prestarting Check List.......................................................................................40
Operating in Freezing Temperatures................................................................ 40
Operating in Saltwater or Polluted Water......................................................... 40
Operating at High Elevations............................................................................ 41
Engine Break‑in Procedure...............................................................................41
Starting the Engine ‑ Electric Start Remote Control Models............................. 41
Starting the Engine ‑ Tiller Handle Models and Manual Start Remote Control
Models.............................................................................................................. 44
Gear Shifting..................................................................................................... 48
Stopping the Engine ........................................................................................ 49
Emergency Starting ‑ Electric Start Models ..................................................... 49
Emergency Starting ‑ Manual Start Models...................................................... 52
vi eng

Maintenance
Cleaning Care Recommendations.................................................................... 54
EPA Emissions................................................................................................. 56
Inspection and Maintenance Schedule ............................................................ 56
Flushing the Cooling System............................................................................ 58
Top Cowl Removal and Installation.................................................................. 59
Battery Inspection ............................................................................................ 60
Fuel System...................................................................................................... 60
Exterior Care.....................................................................................................63
Steering Link Rod Fasteners............................................................................ 64
Fuse Replacement ‑ Electric Start Models....................................................... 65
Corrosion Control Anode.................................................................................. 65
Propeller Replacement..................................................................................... 66
Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement..........................................................69
Lubrication Points............................................................................................. 70
Checking Power Trim Fluid...............................................................................72
Gearcase Lubrication........................................................................................73
Submerged Outboard....................................................................................... 74
Storage
Storage Preparation..........................................................................................75
Protecting External Outboard Components...................................................... 75
Protecting Internal Engine Components........................................................... 76
Gearcase.......................................................................................................... 76
Positioning Outboard for Storage..................................................................... 76
Battery Storage................................................................................................. 76
Troubleshooting
Starter Motor Will Not Crank the Engine (Electric Start Models)...................... 77
Engine Will Not Start.........................................................................................77
Engine Runs Erratically.................................................................................... 77
Performance Loss.............................................................................................78
Battery Will Not Hold Charge............................................................................ 78
Installation
Installing Outboard............................................................................................79
Propeller Selection............................................................................................89
eng vii

Owner Service Assistance
Service Assistance........................................................................................... 90
Ordering Literature............................................................................................92
Maintenance Log
Maintenance Log.............................................................................................. 94
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.
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
2 eng

Remote Steering Notice
! 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.
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 (non‑locking) as they will work loose and vibrate
off, freeing the link rod to disengage.
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.
3065
a
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 3

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
4 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 5

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
6 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 7

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
8 eng

Impact with Underwater Hazards
Reduce speed and proceed with caution whenever you drive a boat in shallow
water areas, or in areas where you suspect underwater obstacles may exist
which could be struck by the outboard or the boat bottom. The most important
thing you can do to help reduce injury or impact damage from striking a
floating or underwater object is to control the boat speed. Under these
conditions, boat speed should be kept to a minimum planing speed of
24 to 40 km/h (15 to 25 mph).
26785
Striking a floating or underwater object could result in an infinite number of
situations. Some of these situations could result in the following:
• Part of the outboard or the entire outboard could break loose and fly into
the boat.
• The boat could move suddenly 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.
• A rapid reduction in speed. This will cause occupants to be thrown
forward, or even out of the boat.
• Impact damage to the outboard and/or boat.
Keep in mind, the most important thing you can do to help reduce injury or
impact damage during an impact is control the boat speed. Boat speed should
be kept to a minimum planing speed when driving in waters known to have
underwater obstacles.
After striking a submerged object, stop the engine as soon as possible and
inspect it for any broken or loose parts. If damage is present or suspected, the
outboard should be taken to an authorized dealer for a thorough inspection and
necessary repair.
The boat should also be checked for any hull fractures, transom fractures, or
water leaks.
Operating a damaged outboard could cause additional damage to other parts
of the outboard, or could affect control of the boat. If continued running is
necessary, do so at greatly reduced speeds.
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 9

! WARNING
Operating a boat or engine with impact damage can result in product
damage, serious injury, or death. If the vessel experiences any form of
impact, have an authorized Mercury Marine dealer inspect and repair the
vessel or power package.
Safety Instructions for Hand‑Tilled Outboards
No person or cargo should occupy the area directly in front of the outboard
while the boat is in motion. If an underwater obstacle is struck, the outboard will
tilt up and could seriously injure anyone occupying this area.
MODELS WITH CLAMP SCREWS:
Some outboards come with transom bracket clamp screws. The use of clamp
bracket screws alone, is insufficient to properly and safely secure the outboard
to the transom. Proper installation of the outboard includes bolting the engine to
the boat through the transom. Refer to Installation ‑ Installing Outboard for
more complete installation information.
! WARNING
Failure to correctly fasten the outboard could result in the outboard propelling
off the boat transom resulting in property damage, serious injury, or death.
Before operation, the outboard must be correctly installed with the required
mounting hardware.
If an obstacle is struck at planing speed and the outboard is not securely
fastened to the transom, it is possible the outboard could lift off the transom
and land in the boat.
Exhaust Emissions
BE ALERT TO CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that is present in the exhaust fumes of
all internal combustion engines, including the engines that propel boats, and
the generators that power boat accessories. By itself, CO is odorless, colorless,
and tasteless, but if you can smell or taste engine exhaust, you are inhaling
CO.
Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, which are similar to the
symptoms of seasickness and intoxication, include headache, dizziness,
drowsiness, and nausea.
GENERAL INFORMATION
10 eng