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:
• Avoid any electrical interconnection between the paint and the Mercury MerCruiser product, anodic blocks, or
MerCathode system by allowing a minimum of 40 mm (1.5 in.) unpainted area on the transom of the boat around
these items.
a - Painted boat transom
b - Unpainted area on transom
2.
Painting the sterndrive unit or transom assembly: The sterndrive unit and transom assembly should be painted with a
good‑quality marine paint or an antifouling paint that does not contain copper, tin, or any other material that could conduct
electrical current. Do not paint drain holes, anodes, MerCathode system, or items specified by the boat manufacturer.
NOTICE
Washing the MerCathode assembly can damage components and lead to rapid corrosion. Do not use any cleaning
equipment such as brushes or high‑pressure washers to clean the MerCathode assembly.
3. Do not power‑wash a sterndrive that has a MerCathode assembly. Doing so can damage the coating on the reference wire
of the MerCathode assembly and increase corrosion.
b
a
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Section 4 - Maintenance
Page 72 90-8M0145546 eng MAY 2018
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