[canadamariah]

I want to start up my 2004 4.3 mercruiser (19ft sx9) stern drive on land. This is my first boat and I was told to put the ear muffs over the inlet holes on the stern drive. Problem is I don't know where the inlet holes are. I assume once i cover these holes and hook up the water hose I can then start it up and run it for a few minutes. It was professionnally winterized and I was told I can just turn the key and start it up. I checked the oil. Is there anything else to check. I wanted to try it before I put it in the water.

Thanks

[mikeyt]

Water intake is just below the cavitation plate on both sides. Earmuffs on, turn water on, start engine, do not over-rev, do not run for more than 2-3 mins.

[m&mmariah]

mikey, why no more than 3 minutes? At the end of the boating season, I run mine a lot longer on the muffs to warm up the oil prior to oil change, so that the oil drains easier. What's the harm in longer than 3 minutes? Also, what are our engines supposed to run temp wise? Seems like whenever we're running about 2800 rpm for an extended period, temp maxes out at about 150. Think I need a new thermostat? Appreciate your knowledge on all this stuff.

Mark & May.