MerCathode LED Codes
MerCathode LED Definition Required Action
Solid green No fault. The controller is working properly.
No action is necessary. This is the normal LED indication
for a properly functioning MerCathode system.
2 flashes per
second
There is an open or short in the reference
electrode/anode, a high temperature, or a
sensed reference electrode voltage in
excess of 1.4 V.
The system is not operating correctly. Contact your local
Mercury Service dealer for assistance.
1 flash per 4
seconds
The reference voltage is outside of the
normal, expected range: either above 1.04 V
or below 0.86 V.
The system is stabilizing. Monitor it for further change.
LED not on
There is no power to the controller or both
the reference electrode and anode are open.
• If the boat is out of the water, no action is
necessary.
• Check the battery voltage; it must be 9 V or higher.
• Check the 5‑amp fuse in the controller wire harness.
• If further assistance is required, contact your local
Mercury Service dealer.
Do Not Use Caustic Cleaning Chemicals
IMPORTANT: Do not use caustic cleaning chemicals on any part of the MerCruiser power package. Some cleaning products
contain strong caustic agents. For example, some hull cleaners contain hydrochloric acid. These cleaners can degrade some of
the components they contact, including critical steering fasteners.
Damage to steering fasteners may not be obvious during visual inspection, and this damage may lead to catastrophic failure.
Some caustic cleaning chemicals may cause or accelerate corrosion. Exercise caution when using cleaning chemicals around
the power package, and follow the recommendations on the packaging of the cleaning product.
Power Package Exterior Surfaces
1. Spray the entire power package at recommended intervals with Corrosion Guard. Follow the instructions on the can for
proper application.
Tube Ref No.
Description Where Used Part No.
120
Corrosion Guard Painted surfaces 92-802878 55
2. Clean the entire power package. External surfaces that have become bare should be repainted with the recommended
primer and spray paint at recommended intervals.
Description
Part Number
Mercury Light Gray Primer
Painted surfaces
92‑802878 52
Mercury Phantom Black 92‑802878Q 1
Boat Bottom Care
To achieve maximum performance and fuel economy, the boat bottom must be kept clean. Accumulation of marine growth or
other foreign matter can greatly reduce boat speed and increase fuel consumption. To ensure best performance and efficiency,
periodically clean the boat bottom in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
In some areas, it may be advisable to paint the bottom to help prevent marine growth. Refer to the following information for
special notes about the use of antifouling paints.
Painting Your Power Package
IMPORTANT: Corrosion damage that results from the improper application of antifouling paint will not be covered by the limited
warranty.
1.
Painting the boat hull or transom: you may apply antifouling paint to the boat hull and transom. However, observe the
following:
IMPORTANT: Do not paint anodes or MerCathode System reference electrode and anode. Paint will render them
ineffective as inhibitors of galvanic corrosion.
IMPORTANT: If antifouling protection is required for the boat hull or transom, you can use copper‑based or tin‑based
paints where not prohibited by law. If using copper‑based or tin‑based antifouling paints, observe the following:
Section 4 - Maintenance
90-8M0128973 eng MAY 2017 Page 77