Operation And Performance; Loading; Fueling - Pro-Line Boats 2000 30 Sport Owner's Manual

Operation and Performance

Loading

The performance of any boat is contingent upon the amount of load carried. Reduce the
load to permit safe operation in rough and adverse conditions. Heavy loads reduce
performance and increase fuel consumption. The load positioning greatly affects the
performance of your boat. If excessive weight is placed too far aft, the boat may have
difficulty getting on plane and ride rough. If the load is concentrated too far forward, the
boat may "bow steer" or veer off to the side when entering a large wave at an angle as
well as a reduction in top end speed. There is an optimum load location which is
generally near the center of the boat.
When loading your Pro-Line always:
* Maintain a balance both port to starboard and bow to stern.
* Keep heavy items as low as possible.
* When boarding step (never jump) into the boat one at a time.
* Pass gear from the dock to someone in the boat, do not carry gear while
boarding.
* Never allow passengers to hang feet over the side of the boat.
* Do not allow passengers to sit or stand on top of the stern or gunwales.
* Do not overload the boat to the point where water enters the cockpit
scuppers.

Fueling

Certain precautions must be observed when fueling due to the explosive nature of
gasoline.
Before Fueling:
* Secure the boat to the dock with adequate moorings.
* Turn off engine and any equipment having spark producing contacts.
* Close cabin, doors, and hatches so fumes do not enter boat.
* Disembark all persons not necessary for the fueling operation.
* Prohibit all smoking and open flames on board and nearby.
* Have a fire extinguisher close by.
While Fueling:
* Keep nozzle in contact with fill opening to minimize chance of sparks.
* Do not leave unattended.
* Do not spill fuel.
* Do not over fill. Filling a tank until fuel is vented is dangerous.
* Allow room for expansion.
After Fueling:
* Close fill opening.
* Wipe up any spilled fuel and dispose of rags on shore.
* Open cabin door, ventilate boat, and run blower (generator only)
for a minimum of four minutes before starting.
* Check for fumes in bilge. Continue to ventilate if fumes are present.
24