Owner`s manual

SPECIFICATIONS
26
Some of these adverse effects are caused because the alcohol in
the fuel can absorb moisture from the air, resulting in a separation
of the water/alcohol from the gasoline in the fuel tank.
The fuel system components on your Mercury engine will
withstand up to 10% alcohol content in the gasoline. We do not
know what percentage your boat’s fuel system will withstand.
Contact your boat manufacturer for specific recommendations on
the boats fuel system components (fuel tanks, fuel lines, and
fittings).
Fuel containing alcohol may increase:
• Corrosion of metal parts.
• Deterioration of rubber or plastic parts.
• Fuel permeation through rubber fuel lines.
• Starting and operating difficulties.
!
CAUTION
Operating a Mercury engine with fuel containing alcohol creates
unique problems as a result of the long storage periods common
to a boat. In other applications, fuels containing alcohol are
normally consumed before they can absorb enough moisture to
cause problems. However, boats are often idle enough for the
problem of phase seperation to occur in the fuel. In addition,
alcohol can wash the protective oil film from internal components
resulting in corrosion during storage. Do not store fuel containing
alcohol in a fuel tank for a long period of time.
IMPORTANT: Because of possible adverse effects of alcohol in
gasoline, it is recommended that only alcohol‑free fuel be used
where possible.
If only fuel containing alcohol is available, or if the presence of
alcohol is unknown, increased inspection frequency for leaks and
abnormalities is required.