Steering The Boat - Mercury Jet OptiMax 110 Manual

Table of Contents

Advertisement

In an emergency, putting the jet outboard into reverse and
applying reverse throttle can rapidly slow down the boat and
reduce stopping distance. However, such a maneuver may
cause occupants in the boat to be thrown forward or possibly out
of the boat.

Steering the Boat

The jet drive is dependent on water jet thrust for steering the
boat. If the water jet thrust should ever stop (water blockage,
engine stops, etc.), the boat will slow to a stop. However, while
slowing there will be a reduced ability to steer the boat.
Steering the vessel in a tight turn can result in loss of boat
control. In some cases, the boat can spin out or roll over,
causing serious injury or death. Avoid steering beyond the
capabilities of the vessel, especially at high speeds.
A loss or reduction in water jet thrust will directly affect boat
directional control, and may result in property damage,
personal injury, or death. Boat directional control can also be
substantially reduced or lost altogether by a sudden loss of
power such as running out of gas, quickly backing off the
throttle, turning off the ignition switch, activating the lanyard
stop switch, or plugging the water intake to the jet pump. Use
caution when maneuvering at high speeds in areas where
debris (weeds, logs, gravel, etc.) could be picked up into the jet
drive. The ability to take evasive action is dependent on
sufficient water jet thrust to control the boat.
While steering the boat at engine speeds above idle, the boat will
respond quickly; but, due to the relatively flat‑bottom hulls and
lack of a gearcase in the water, the boat will tend to skid on
turns. Turns must be started early and use sufficient power to
maintain steering control.
OPERATION
WARNING
!
WARNING
!
52
eng

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Table of Contents