2005 50hp Merc Maint

[Coolwater]

I bought a brand new 2-stroke 50hp Merc back in October. I put about 2 hours on so far in break-in time. Merc says the break-in period should only take about an hour, but I have had multiple sources recommend about 8 hours of break-in time. I don't have any problems with how long it takes to break-in, just wondering what people here thought. In addition, what precautions, maint schedule should I follow for this motor? I had the motor properly winterized. Of course, I will keep the oil full. Should I change the plugs after I firts fire it up in the spring? Would it be wise to add a fuel/water seperator? I just want to make sure I take the best care possible of the new motor.<br />Thx, and spring is hopefully right around the corner!

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: 2005 50hp Merc Maint

Coolwater, <br /><br />Personally, I would extend the break-in period to ten hours. That's what they recommended for my Rude when I got it. An hour seems pretty short to me. After the break-in, I would change the lower unit fluid and the spark plugs. A fuel/water seperator is a must, in my opinion. If you are not using the motor much and the fuel is going to be sitting in there for a while, I would add stabil to the fuel to keep it fresh, if you have not done so already. Otherwise, enjoy in the spring...<br /><br />This is from the Nissan site, but it applies to all:<br /><br /> web page

 

[andy6374]

Re: 2005 50hp Merc Maint

I agree with Rick that 1 hour isn't enough, you are going to hurt anything by running it rich longer.<br /><br />Not this spring...<br />But every other year it's recommended to change out the impeller and tstat (if equipped).

 

[Coolwater]

Re: 2005 50hp Merc Maint

I too thought 1hr break-in was pretty short, (says it right in the Merc manual), so I was planning on 10 hours. Thx for the info on the t-stat and impellor.<br /><br />Coolwater

 

[timmathis]

Re: 2005 50hp Merc Maint

Good motor. Take care of it and it will take care of you. Enjoy and be safe, Tim

 

[andrewkafp]

Re: 2005 50hp Merc Maint

I have a similar animal 2005 50 mariner ELPTO.<br />Rick is right (As usual) Manual says 20hrs but 10 hrs or first tank of fuel (double oil of course) is the preferred timeframe. Look out for leaky oil injection tank (drips from the fitting at the base)and watch the pee-er on these as it is easily blocked due to big tube a small hole in the end. Just keep some weed eater line on board. Otherwise the 3 cyl 3 carb powerplant is a nice typically US built quality product.

 

[Coolwater]

Re: 2005 50hp Merc Maint

460<br />My Merc manual actually said 1 hour of break-in. I'm planning on 10 hours. As far as the "pee-er" being blocked, do you just use the weed eater line as a probe to clear it out? We do run on a fairly shallow lake, (Lake St.Clair, Michigan)and I could see sucking up my fair share of sand, etc...<br />Thanks for everyone help!!

 

[andrewkafp]

Re: 2005 50hp Merc Maint

Coolwater<br /><br />I have the little service manual that comes with the new boat and motor. That's the one that mentions 10 hrs, but the dealer here is Oz says first tank at x2 oil which equates to 10 hours anyway. The pee-er is a bit funny on these. There is a fat rubber tube (32- 75680 58 HOSE, 15.00 Inches) and a restricted plastic end (22-813613 FITTING) Unlike the old Mercs that had a consistant diameter tube. When it slows to a trickle, just keep it running and insert the line and it will unblock easily.