Mercury 50 HP EFI CT anti freeze flush question

[USMC22]

Hi Guys,

 

I’ve been preparing my boat for winter as the temps drop. Today I attempted to use the winterizing antifreeze flush kit. Instructions say to fill with antifreeze, elevate and let it enter through muffs on the outboard water intake. I let the motor warm up while flushing with water through garden hose, no issues and strong stream.

 

problem: connected antifreeze jug to muffs, open nozzle. Watch antifreeze flowing down the hose and to the muffs. Start outboard and antifreeze is flowing nicely out the prop area but never had a strong stream come (only dripping) prior to getting nervous about the no “pee flow” and shut the outboard off.

 

using the mercury muffs that go through the center hold and clamp on.

 

only about 2 gallons of antifreeze used. 

 

Is my outboard good now or have I not properly flushed it?

[MickD]

Does the motor have a third water intake, possibly under the horizontal fin on the lower unit?  My old Suzuki did, and I had to tape it shut so the muffs would provide the water and the engine would not suck air into the third intake.

 

I never used antifreeze, simply put the engine vertical and let it drain.  But now with a new Merc, I'll check the manual to see what is recommended.  I think most if not all water pumps have a small hole that will drain all the water out of the pump.  But, check the manual.  Too much at stake to not be sure you're doing it right.

[TOXIC]

We have freezing temps here in VA and I have never winterized my 250 Yammie.  I just make sure it is drained thoroughly between trips and I unscrew and drain the speedo tube at the motor.  I have the new style Water Pressure gauge that is wire driven so no worries there.  I have heard of some running RV anti freeze in their livewells but I never have.  You should be fine.  As long as theres room for the water to expand when it freezes you won't hurt anything and since you have some antifreeze in there that's insurance.