Mercury Racing Launches 700 SCi Sterndrive

[Scream And Fly]

Mercury Racing Launches 700 SCi Sterndrive
Integrated Package Features All-New NXT Drive

FOND DU LAC, WI. (February 16, 2006) – Mercury Racing has revolutionized the sport boat industry once again with its all-new 700 SCi integrated sterndrive engine package. This engine is packed with game-changing technology and it was all designed and developed exclusively by Mercury Racing.

The engine was unveiled Feb. 16 in the Mercury Marine booth at the Miami International Boat Show moments after the event opened its doors to the public. The engine is paired with the all-new NXT drive, which was also seen for the first time at the boat show (see below for details).

The 700 SCi is based off the same CNC-machined 502 cubic-inch cylinder block as the Mercury Racing 525 EFI and 600 SCi. The intercooler, made of a copper-nickel alloy (called CuproNickel) for enhanced corrosion resistance, is 0.75 inches taller than the model used on the 600 SCi for improved engine cooling. Boost bypass is achieved via a cast internal passage. The intake also features port fuel injection and a fuel crossover passage, which eliminates tee fittings by routing fuel to both fuel rails for enhanced engine aesthetics.

An induction-hardened, micro-alloy crankshaft features larger journal radii for enhanced strength and durability. Connecting rods feature floating wrist pins and stronger rod bolts for enhanced engine durability. A new camshaft design provides increased valve lift for enhanced power and torque. The oil flow rate has been increased for enhanced engine protection throughout the engine operating range. The 700 SCi is the first engine to come standard with Mercury Racing’s new universal engine mount system. The new mounts enable OEM boat builders to install the engine in virtually any hull configuration with ease. The 700 SCi is also the first engine to feature Mercury Racing’s new large-capacity power steering reservoir, which eliminates the need for additional aftermarket reservoirs used by boat builders today.

Engine aesthetics have also been stepped up: the 700 SCi has new carbon-fiber reservoir covers, polished pulleys and an anthracite gray paint on selected components.

Like the 525 EFI, 600 SCi, 850 SCi and 1075 SCi, the 700 SCi comes equipped with the Mercury-exclusive Propulsion Control Module (PCM) 03 microprocessor. This powerful engine management computer is combined with a 3.3 liter Lysholm screw-type supercharger, roller camshaft, and sequential fuel injection, which results in impeccable running quality, instant throttle response and unmatched performance from idle to its 4,800-5,200 rpm full-throttle operating range. The 700 SCi’s use of new PCM 03 idle speed control strategies, along with an exclusive dual-shift switch and coupler design, result in ultra-smooth shifting for the dry-sump ACE drive.

The PCM 03 computer also enables individual cylinder control. This ability to optimize fuel, spark timing and knock control independently for each cylinder enhances engine running quality, performance, fuel economy and durability.

Higher fuel pressure demands are met with an electric fuel pump. The engine is also equipped with fuel cooling and a mechanical pump to combat vapor lock. To improve packaging and reduce fuel connections, a custom billet aluminum housing was created to accommodate the fuel-pressure regulator and water-separating fuel filter.

Supercharger boost is variable. A boost bypass control valve, electronically activated by the PCM 03 microprocessor, continuously adjusts the amount of boost needed to provide consistent horsepower. Under optimum ambient conditions, the boost bypass control valve will open to adjust for the lower boost required to obtain 700 crankshaft horsepower. Conversely, the controller closes the bypass control valve to provide active torque management throughout the engine operating rpm range and to supply the additional boost required to maintain a consistent 700 hp when operating in sub-optimal running conditions. The 700 SCi’s ability to provide a consistent horsepower in any condition or locale eliminates the hassle of re-propping the boat to match atmospheric conditions.

The 700 SCi comes equipped with the digital SmartCraft Controller Area Network (CAN) system, a network of sensors that proactively monitors engine functions. SmartCraft Integrated Marine Technology from Mercury Marine links power, controls and internal and external sensors to provide the user precise data on all boat functions. The system monitors a variety of vital engine functions including fuel flow, fuel range, fuel used, and rpm, plus water depth, trim angle, water pressure and battery voltage.
A 14-pin Deutsch connector on the engine harness enables both the ignition and SmartCraft functions to be incorporated into one wiring harness, saving time for the boatbuilder.

The PCM 03 also drives the exclusive Engine Guardian™ System. Engine Guardian monitors engine functions to forewarn of possible problems that could lead to engine damage. This “smart” technology not only detects and alerts the boater of a problem; it processes the data and reduces power to a maximum, safe level that allows the boater to continue operation. Engine Guardian also has the ability to proactively help prevent engine overheating by sensing not only engine temperature, but cooling water pressure as well. By sensing both water pressure and temperature, the system can provide advance warning to the control module, which then reduces engine power before temperature-related engine damage could take place.

Like the 525 EFI and 600 SCi, the 700 SCi features a factory-installed closed-cooling system. Five-year coolant increases corrosion protection, reducing maintenance costs and hassle. The system cools the entire engine cylinder block and aluminum cylinder heads. CMI “cool collar” Sweeper Headers feature a new alloy for enhanced saltwater corrosion resistance and durability. A multipoint manual water drain system makes winterizing easier.

The 700 SCi is the fourth engine to be installed exclusively by builders and dealers accredited by Mercury Racing’s T.E.A.M. (Total Engine Application Management) initiative. The standardized T.E.A.M. process ensures proper installation of the engine with factory-specified components, providing maximum performance along with unmatched quality and durability.

The NXT Drive

Mercury Racing’s all-new NXT dry-sump sterndrive was also revealed in Miami.

The NXT drive development is a result of Mercury Racing responding to customer needs – It was designed to fill the gap between the race-proven Bravo One XR and the legendary dry-sump Six drives.

The drive features a combination of the best of Bravo One XR and dry-sump Six drive assets – packed in a housing that is a perfect example of following function. The development of a drive robust enough to handle engines between 600 and 800 hp has been a dilemma in the powerboat industry for years. The NXT delivers with an input torque rating of 800 ft-lbs.

OEM boat builders can install the engine in the same position as engines equipped with Bravo drives. Mercury Racing hydrodynamic engineers developed an integrated transmission which sits within the transom assembly – between the engine bell housing and the drive itself. The compact size of the transmission enables builders to install the engine in the same fore and aft location as a standard Bravo in close couple applications. The compact, integrated transmission results in an engine/transom plate/drive package that is nearly 200 pounds lighter than a comparable engine outfitted with a standard-sized transmission and dry-sump Six drive. The transmission design allows for use of a "driveline kit" for forward engine applications. The Mercury Racing-exclusive transmission design features a Bravo-like cone clutch mechanism, which results in smooth shifting characteristics.

Both the drive and transmission feature dry-sump lubrication for higher efficiency and reduced operating temperatures. The all-new gearcase features a wedge-style skeg with an innovative, patent pending rear water pick-up design. The new water pick-up is interchangeable with available accessory pick-ups for multiple hull-type configurations and speeds.

Stainless steel propshaft and hub adapters enable both the five-blade Maximus propeller and Mercury Racing’s new line of CNC-machined five-blade cleaver propellers to be used. Performance of either propeller is maximized, thanks to a prop hub venting system built into rear of the drive. The system forces air down over the cleaver hub or through the Maximus hub – enhancing hole shot and acceleration, as well as reducing drag when the gearcase torpedo is submerged.

The dry-sump NXT drive comes standard with an integrated steering system, similar to that used on the dry-sump Six drive. An integrated tie bar attachment features a tucked-in design for better swim platform clearance. An alternative tie bar attaching point accepts dry-sump Six drive tie bar hardware. A digital trim indicator comes standard which a steering position indicator available as an option. Both trim and steering position may be viewed using Mercury Racing’s SystemView Race Edition monitor. A trim pump design delivers faster trim-out speed when compared to a dry-sump Six drive. A robust bracket enhances trim pump durability.

The dry-sump NXT drive was designed with the both the OEM boat builder and servicing dealer in mind. The unique through-hull location of the transmission allows it to be installed after the engine is first mounted. This “reverse install” feature is especially handy in boats with limited engine room space. Access to the transmission from the transom also allows the transmission to be removed and serviced without having to pull the complete engine. The removable transom assembly cowl, modeled after the Mercury Racing’s Integrated Transom System, enables easier access to various transom components.

For additional information on the 700 SCi – NXT drive package and the full-line of Mercury Racing products, visit www.mercuryracing.com.

Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation. Headquartered in Lake Forest, Ill., Brunswick Corporation endeavors to instill “Genuine Ingenuity”™ in all its leading consumer brands, including Mercury and Mariner outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrives and inboard engines; MotorGuide trolling motors; Teignbridge propellers; MotoTron electronic controls; Northstar marine electronics; Navman marine and GPS-based products; IDS dealer management systems; Albemarle, Arvor, Baja, Bayliner, Bermuda, Boston Whaler, Crestliner, HarrisKayot, Hatteras, Lowe, Lund, Maxum, Meridian, Ornvik, Palmetto, Princecraft, Quicksilver, Savage, Sea Boss, Sea Pro, Sea Ray, Sealine, Triton, Trophy, Uttern and Valiant boats; Attwood marine parts and accessories; Land ‘N’ Sea and Kellogg marine parts and accessories distributor; Life Fitness, Hammer Strength and ParaBody fitness equipment; Brunswick bowling centers, equipment and consumer products; Brunswick billiards tables; and Valley-Dynamo pool, Air Hockey and foosball tables. For more information, visit www.brunswick.com.