New Z-8 250 Pro XS

[RichmondVa]

Well I finally go my boat in and was able to enjoy a little joy riding while breaking in the motor a little this weekend.  I do have a few questions regarding the break in and was hoping some of you could give me some insight;

The manual on the motor said to keep the motor between 4000-5000rpms (approximately 3/4 throttle) with the trim all the way down alternating different rpms for periods of time.  The rpm range may be a little higher, I don't have it in front of me right now.  With that being said, I was lucky if I could hit 4500 at any given time with that being my short 10 second bursts of full throttle.  Does this sound right to any of you?  Should I have been able to see higher rpms?  Could I have trimmed the motor a little to achieve a few higher rpms for break in purposes? 

After yesterday, I have -3 hours of time on the motor between 4000-4500.  Was wondering if I need to put any higher rpms on the motor over the next few hours for break in purposes.  If not, I'll continue doing the same until I'm done.  Any help is greatly appreciated.

[Ron Fogelson]

This is what Merc has listed on their webpage.


What is the proper break-in procedure for an OptiMax outboard?

Break-in is important to insure correct engine performance and life. Follow the procedure listed in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual. Generally, for the first two hours we recommend avoiding extended periods of idle or wide-open throttle, or holding the engine at one speed for extended periods of time. New two-stroke engines require additional oil during break-in; OptiMax engines use programming inside the computer to increase the oil mixture during the specified break-in period.

Break-in procedures are described in the Operation, Maintenance & Warranty manual supplied with each new engine.

Follow the book!
Yes you could have gotten higher RPM's using your trim but don't trim up until you are able to run higher RPMs, if your book says one hour than you are good if it says 4 hours then you have a bit more time to go.  You can't go wrong doing what Merc says to do.

Congratulations on your new boat, I love the Z-8   

[RichmondVa]

Thanks Ron, I appreciated your response.  I've learned alot over the last couple of years reading your posts.  Again, thanks.