Mercury GO BOLDLY SeaPro 500hp User manual

Operation
and
Maintenance
Manual
© 2021 Mercury Marine SeaPro 500hp
8M0171845 621 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. 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, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.A.
Name / function:
Christopher D. Drees, 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, safety alerts labeled
WARNING and CAUTION (accompanied by the 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.
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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.
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.
California Proposition 65
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including
gasoline engine exhaust, which is known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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 Mercury Marine Limited
Warranty. The terms of the warranty are set forth in the Warranty Manual,
which can be accessed any time on the Mercury Marine website, at http://
www.mercurymarine.com/warranty‑manual. 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, limitations,
and waivers, and other related information. Please review this important
information.
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Mercury Marine products are designed and manufactured to comply with our
own high quality standards, applicable industry standards and regulations, and
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.
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, Bravo Four STM, Circle M
with Waves Logo, GO BOLDLY, K‑planes, Mariner, MerCathode, MerCruiser,
Mercury, Mercury with Waves Logo, Mercury Marine, Mercury Precision Parts,
Mercury Propellers, Mercury Racing, MotorGuide, OptiMax, Pro XS,
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. Mercury Product Protection is a
registered service mark of Brunswick Corporation. All other marks are the
property of their respective owners.
Identification Records
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.
Please record the following applicable information:
Outboard
Engine Model and Horsepower
Engine Serial Number
Gear Ratio
Propeller Number Pitch Diameter
Watercraft Identification Number (WIN) or Hull
Identification Number (HIN) Purchase Date
Boat Manufacturer Boat Model Length
Exhaust Gas Emissions Certification Number (Europe Only)
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eng iv

General Information
Boater's Responsibilities..................................................................................... 1
Boat Horsepower Capacity................................................................................. 1
High‑Speed and High‑Performance Boat Operation.......................................... 1
Propeller Selection..............................................................................................2
Outboard Remote Control Models ..................................................................... 2
Lanyard Stop Switch........................................................................................... 2
Protecting People in the Water........................................................................... 5
Passenger Safety Message ‑ Pontoon Boats and Deck Boats...........................5
Wave and Wake Jumping................................................................................... 7
Impact with Underwater Hazards........................................................................7
Exhaust Emissions............................................................................................. 9
Selecting Accessories for Your Outboard......................................................... 11
Safe Boating Recommendations...................................................................... 11
Recording Serial Number................................................................................. 14
Specifications....................................................................................................14
Component Identification.................................................................................. 16
Transporting and Towing
Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS).........................................................................17
Trailering Boat/Outboard ................................................................................. 18
Towing Boat Through Water............................................................................. 18
Fuel and Oil
Fuel Requirements........................................................................................... 19
Fuel Additives................................................................................................... 20
Low Permeation Fuel Hose Requirement ........................................................ 20
Engine Oil Recommendations.......................................................................... 20
Oil Life/Maintenance Monitor............................................................................ 21
Checking and Adding Engine Oil...................................................................... 23
eng v

Features and Controls
Electronic Remote Control (ERC)..................................................................... 27
Active Trim........................................................................................................ 37
Adaptive Speed Control.................................................................................... 44
Engine Synchronization (Multiple Engines)...................................................... 44
Helm Transfer................................................................................................... 44
Quick Steer....................................................................................................... 46
Throttle and Shift Operation with Three or Four Engines................................. 47
Single‑Lever Mode (Multiple Engines).............................................................. 50
Start/Stop All Engines....................................................................................... 50
Throttle‑Only Mode........................................................................................... 51
Warning System............................................................................................... 52
Power Trim and Tilt...........................................................................................54
Transmission and Steerable Gearcase............................................................ 58
Operation
Important Daily Inspection Before Each Use ................................................... 59
Prestarting Check List.......................................................................................59
Operating in Freezing Temperatures................................................................ 59
Operating in Saltwater or Polluted Water......................................................... 60
Operating at High Elevations............................................................................ 60
Effects of Elevation and Weather on Performance........................................... 61
Setting Trim Angle While Running Engine at Idle Speed................................. 62
Operating in the Event of Engine Failure (Multiple‑Engine Applications)......... 62
Engine Break‑in Procedure...............................................................................62
Ran Out of Fuel Condition—Priming the Fuel System..................................... 63
Starting the Engine........................................................................................... 63
Gear Shifting..................................................................................................... 65
Stopping the Engine......................................................................................... 66
Proper Outboard Tilt Positioning During Periods of Non‑Use .......................... 67
Steering Failure—Single‑Engine Applications.................................................. 68
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Maintenance
Cleaning Care Recommendations.................................................................... 70
Use Of Anti‑fouling Bottom Paint Prohibited..................................................... 72
EPA Emissions Regulations............................................................................. 73
Inspection and Maintenance Schedule............................................................. 74
Hood Opening...................................................................................................76
Hood Removal.................................................................................................. 78
Hood Installation............................................................................................... 78
Top Cowl Removal and Installation.................................................................. 79
Flushing the Cooling System............................................................................ 84
Fuel System...................................................................................................... 87
Inspect Transom Tightness.............................................................................. 91
Battery Inspection ............................................................................................ 91
Battery Cables and Clean Power Harness....................................................... 92
Corrosion Control Anodes................................................................................ 94
Changing Engine Oil and Filter......................................................................... 94
Checking Engine Oil Level................................................................................97
Gearcase Lubricant.......................................................................................... 98
Transmission Fluid..........................................................................................103
Cooling System Water Strainer Inspection..................................................... 109
Propeller Replacement................................................................................... 110
DTS Wiring System........................................................................................ 113
Accessory Drive Belt ......................................................................................113
Fuses.............................................................................................................. 113
Storage
Storage Preparation........................................................................................117
Protecting External Outboard Components.................................................... 117
Protecting Internal Engine Components......................................................... 117
Engine Fluids.................................................................................................. 118
Positioning Outboard for Storage................................................................... 118
Battery Storage............................................................................................... 118
Troubleshooting
Starter Motor Will Not Crank the Engine......................................................... 119
Engine Will Not Start.......................................................................................119
Engine Starts But Will Not Shift Into Gear...................................................... 119
Engine Runs Erratically.................................................................................. 119
Performance Loss...........................................................................................120
Battery Will Not Hold Charge.......................................................................... 120
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Owner Service Assistance
Service Assistance......................................................................................... 121
Ordering Literature..........................................................................................123
Maintenance Log
Maintenance Log............................................................................................ 125
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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.
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.
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
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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.
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 1

Propeller Selection
IMPORTANT: The installed propellers must allow the engine to reach engine
rated speed (RPM) with the boat fully loaded to maximum capacity. Use the
VesselView display to verify engine RPM.
It is the responsibility of the boat manufacturer or the selling dealer to equip the
engine with the correct propellers. Refer to the engine information data tag
located on the engine for the specified engine rated speed (RPM).
If full throttle engine RPM is below the engine rated speed (RPM), the
propellers will have to be changed to prevent loss of performance and possible
engine damage.
After initial propeller selection, certain issues may require a propeller with a
lower pitch. They include:
• Operating with increased load (additional passengers or gear)
• Shifting the center of gravity of the vessel
• The addition of towers or canvas
• Fouling of the hull and running gear
• High ambient temperatures
• Operating at high elevation
It is the responsibility of the boat owner to ensure that the correct propellers are
installed at delivery and maintained over the life of the boat. Because of the
many variables of boat design, only testing will determine the best propeller for
a particular boat. If the engine is not able to reach the engine rated speed
(RPM), contact your boatbuilder, boat dealer, or an authorized Mercury repair
facility for assistance in propeller selection.
IMPORTANT: The propellers must be replaced as a matched pair.
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.
Outboard Remote Control Models
The outboard must be equipped with a Mercury remote control designed for
digital throttle and shift. Start‑in‑gear protection is provided by the remote
control system.
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.
GENERAL INFORMATION
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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
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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
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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
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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
6 eng

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.
Impact with Underwater Hazards
Your outboard is equipped with a hydraulic trim and tilt system that also
contains a shock absorbing feature. This feature helps the outboard withstand
damage in the case of impact with an underwater object at low to moderate
speeds. At higher speeds, the force of the impact may exceed the system’s
ability to absorb the energy of the impact and cause serious product damage.
No impact protection exists while in reverse. Use extreme caution when
operating in reverse to avoid striking underwater objects.
GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 7

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 that
could be struck by the outboard or the boat bottom. The most significant
action you can take 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 the minimum planing speed,
typically 24 to 40 km/h (15 to 25 mph).
26785
! WARNING
Avoid serious injury or death from all or part of an outboard or drive unit
coming into the boat after striking a floating or underwater object. When
operating in waters where objects may be at the surface or just under the
surface of the water, reduce your speed and keep a vigilant lookout.
Examples of objects that can cause engine damage are dredging pipes,
bridge supports, wing dams, trees, stumps, and rocks.
Striking a floating or underwater object could result in any of an infinite number
of situations. Some of these situations could yield 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. A sharp change in
direction can cause occupants to be thrown out of their seats or out of the
boat.
• The boat's speed could rapidly reduce. This will cause occupants to be
thrown forward or even out of the boat.
• The outboard or boat could sustain impact damage.
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. If water leaks are discovered after an impact, immediately activate
the bilge pump.
GENERAL INFORMATION
8 eng

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.
! 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.
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.
! WARNING
Inhaling engine exhaust gases can result in carbon monoxide poisoning,
which can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage, or death. Avoid exposure
to carbon monoxide.
Stay clear from exhaust areas when engine is running. Keep the boat
well‑ventilated while at rest or underway.
STAY CLEAR OF EXHAUST AREAS
41127
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GENERAL INFORMATION
eng 9

Engine exhaust gases contain harmful carbon monoxide. Avoid areas of
concentrated engine exhaust gases. When engines are running, keep
swimmers away from the boat, and do not sit, lie, or stand on swim platforms or
boarding ladders. While underway, do not allow passengers to be positioned
immediately behind the boat (platform dragging, teak/body surfing). This
dangerous practice not only places a person in an area of high engine exhaust
concentration, but also subjects them to the possibility of injury from the boat
propeller.
GOOD VENTILATION
Ventilate the passenger area, open side curtains or forward hatches to remove
fumes.
Example of desired air flow through the boat:
POOR VENTILATION
Under certain running and/or wind conditions, permanently enclosed or canvas
enclosed cabins or cockpits with insufficient ventilation may draw in carbon
monoxide. Install one or more carbon monoxide detectors in your boat.
Although the occurrence is rare, on a very calm day, swimmers and
passengers in an open area of a stationary boat that contains, or is near, a
running engine may be exposed to a hazardous level of carbon monoxide.
1. Examples of poor ventilation while the boat is stationary:
a - Operating the engine when the boat is moored in a confined space
b - Mooring close to another boat that has its engine operating
21626
a
b
GENERAL INFORMATION
10 eng