Pre-Cruise Check - Monterey M3 Owner's Manual

Operation

2.3 Pre-Cruise Check

Before Starting the Engine:
• Check the weather forecast and sea conditions
before leaving the dock. Decide if the planned
cruise can be made safely.
• Be sure all required documents are on
board.
• Be sure all necessary safety equipment is
on board and operative. This should include
items like the running lights, spotlight, life
saving devices, etc. Please refer to the Safety
Equipment chapter for additional information
on safety equipment.
• Make sure you have signal kits and flare guns
aboard, and they are current and in good op-
erating condition.
• Be sure you have sufficient water and other
provisions for the planned cruise.
• Leave a written message listing details of
your planned cruise with a close friend ashore
(Float Plan). The float plan should include a
description of your boat, where you intend to
cruise, and a schedule of when you expect
to arrive in the cruising area, and when you
expect to return.
of any changes in your plan to prevent false
alarms. This information will tell authorities
where to look and the type of boat to look for
in the event you fail to arrive.
• Check the amount of fuel on board. Observe
the "rule of thirds:" one third of the fuel for the
trip out, one third to return and one third in
reserve. An additional 15% may be consumed
in rough seas.
• The engine fuel filter should be checked for
leaks or corrosion.
• Turn the battery switch on.
• Check the bilge water level. Look for other
signs of potential problems. Monitor for the
scent of fuel fumes.
• Test the automatic and manual bilge pump
switch to make sure the system is working
properly.
30
Keep the person informed
• Turn on the bilge blower. Check the blower
output and operate four (4) minutes before
starting the engine. The blower also should
be activated when operating below cruising
speed.
• Have a tool kit aboard. The kit should include
the following basic tools:
Spark plug wrench
Spark plug gap gauge
Screwdrivers
Lubricating oil
Jackknife
Basic 3/8" ratchet set
Allen wrench set
Wire crimping tool
End wrench set
Diagonal cutting pliers
WARNING
THERE MUST BE AT LEAST ONE PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE
ON BOARD FOR EVERY PERSON ON BOARD AND ONE THROW-
OUT FLOTATION DEVICE. CHECK THE U.S. COAST GUARD
STANDARDS FOR THE CORRECT TYPE OF DEVICE FOR YOUR
BOAT.
• Have the following spare parts on board:
Extra light bulbs
Fuses and
Main 12-volt fuses
Assorted stainless bolts
Drain plugs
Transmission oil
Propeller nuts
Fuel hose and clamps
Engine cooling pump
Impeller Kit
Clamps
Steering fluid
• Make sure all fire extinguishers are in position
and in good operating condition.
MONTEREY
BOATS
Hammer
Electrician's tape
Offset screwdrivers
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Vise grip pliers
Needle nose pliers
Wire connector Set
Medium slip-joint pliers
DC electrical test light
Spark plugs
circuit breakers
Assorted stainless screws
Flashlight and batteries
Engine oil
Propellers
Fuel filters
Wire ties
Hydraulic oil
Assorted hose
Rags
Pump & alternator belts