Installation20NOTICEECM01630 During water testing, check the buoyan-cy of the boat, at rest, with its maximumload. Check that the static water level onthe exhaust housing is low enough toprevent water entry into the power headwhen water rises due to waves when theoutboard is not running. Incorrect engine height or obstructionsto the smooth flow of water (such as thedesign or condition of the boat, or ac-cessories such as transom ladders ordepth finder transducers) can create air-borne water spray while the boat iscruising. If the motor is operated contin-uously in the presence of airborne waterspray, enough water could enter the en-gine through the intake opening on thecowling to cause severe engine dam-age. Eliminate the cause of the airbornewater spray.TIP: The optimum mounting height of the out-board motor is affected by the boat and mo-tor combination and the desired use. Testruns at different heights can help determinethe optimum mounting height. Consult yourYamaha dealer or boat manufacturer forfurther information on determining the prop-er mounting height. For instructions on setting the trim angle ofthe outboard motor, see page 31.EMU26971Clamping the outboard motor1. Place the outboard motor on the transomso that it is positioned as close to the cen-ter as possible. Tighten the transomclamp screws evenly and securely. Oc-casionally check the clamp screws fortightness during operation of the out-board motor because they could becomeloose due to engine vibration.WARNING! Loose clamp screws couldallow the outboard motor to fall off ormove on the transom. This couldcause loss of control and serious inju-ry. Make sure the transom screws aretightened securely. Occasionallycheck the screws for tightness duringoperation. [EWM00641]2. If the engine restraint cable attachment isequipped on your engine, an engine re-straint cable or chain should be used. At-tach one end to the engine restraint cableattachment and the other to a securemounting point on the boat. Otherwisethe engine could be completely lost if itaccidentally falls off the transom.3. Secure the clamp bracket to the transomusing the bolts provided with the out-board (if packed). For details, consultZMU02012ZMU02013