Mercury Optimax Diagnostic Guide., Page 16Get this manual
OPTIMAX DIAGNOSTIC GUIDE
Procedure 13
IDLE RELIEF EXHAUST BOOT
The idle relief exhaust boot provides an alternative route for the exhaust gases to escape when the engine is running at idle speedCheck for exhaust or water leaking from the exhaust boot where it connects to the adapter plateWhen the engine is running at idle speed, put slight side pressure on the boot near the adapter plateIf you see water or exhaust leakingspitting out between the boot and adapter plate the boot needs to be re-sealedA leaking exhaust boot will cause exhaust gases to be ingested into the engine when running with the cowl onRemove the boot from the adapter plateClean the area of the boot and adapter plate where the two join togetherBoth surfaces must be clean and dry (no oily residue)Glue the boot back in using Loctite Ultra Copper RTV, available locally