Getting To Know And Handle Your Ranger Boat - Ranger boats Z-Comanche Owner's/Operator's Manual

DICTATES! At this moderate speed you should begin to trim your engine into a higher position (out). Please refer
to your engine owner's manual for more information on power trim use and operations.
Your speed will increase and the bow will lift. The boat will begin to run with the back rear portion of the hull
in contact with the water and steering will become easier. Over-trimming will result in excessively high RPM (note
your tachometer) and the steering can develop "torque" or a "pull" toward the right. Trim back down slightly for best
operation. A different trim setting (see your trim indicator) will be required for different throttle settings. You will soon
develop an instinctive feel for these settings. Your ear will become attuned to the sound of the proper engine RPM.
Again,over trimming is to be avoided as excessive RPM can cause engine damage and can also cause your prop
WARNING
to "blow out" (lose its grip on the water because it is too near the surface). If the bow of your boat should begin to
bob up and down (called porpoising) you will probably have over trimmed. Bump the trim button down a little until
the motion stops.
If your boat should continue to "porpoise", a slight increase in throttle and speed will generally correct the
condition. Proper distribution of the load in your boat will make a great difference in its operation. Moving tackle
boxes or ice chests rearward or toward the front can greatly effect boat performance and handling.
When beginning a turn with the engine trimmed in the higher positions, the trim switch should be pressed to
LOWER the engine further into the water just prior to and during the turning of the steering wheel. Practice and
experience will determine just how far down you will need to trim for safely handling a turn at various speeds
and water conditions. Just remember to MAKE SAFETY YOUR GUIDE when attempting any new or unfamiliar
maneuver. PROCEED ONLY AT SPEEDS AT WHICH YOU FEEL SAFE AND IN CONTROL!
Naturally, it is impossible to describe here all the different situations that you may encounter. Just remember
that COMMON SENSE is your best safety precaution. Your new boat is built to safely carry you in NORMAL
OPERATION, but it is up to you to stay alert and to avoid dangerous situations. Safe boating is in the hands of the
operator.
Even the pleasant experience of the "first ride in your new boat" must sometime come to an end. Hopefully you
have purchased a "drive on" trailer with your boat. The key to simple and effortless loading of your boat is having
the trailer in the proper position. This "right" position is determined by the steepness of the ramp. Here, you will
have to experiment with the proper depth to have your trailer in. The most common mistake is having the trailer
too deep, so a little time spent experimenting with different depth positions can ultimately save you much time and
embarrassment. To load at slow speed, position your boat to head directly between the guide bunks or guide rollers
and use the thrust of your outboard engine to drive the boat forward until the bow contacts the roller on the bow
stand block. Shut down your outboard and fasten the winch strap hook to the bow eye. Tighten the winch strap and
lock winch before pulling the boat from the water. Your engine should be trimmed up into a higher position before
the trailer is pulled up the ramp to prevent damage to the lower unit or propeller. Pull the rig up the ramp and park
well out of the way of other boaters. Stop your vehicle engine and set parking brake. Remove the drain plug, open
and drain the livewell systems, and stow all loose equipment. We recommend that you install a transom saver,
or engine support brace, between the trailer frame and the lower unit of your engine to prevent damage to your
transom while the boat is in transit.
For the most possible boating and fishing enjoyment familiarize yourself completely with your boat and with the
instruction manuals for all additional equipment. If you are a novice, there are publications on good seamanship
recommended to make your boating safe and enjoyable. We also recommend that you enroll and attend any of
the excellent safe boating courses offered and conducted by your area Power Squadron or the U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary.
WARNING
and thoroughly understand the operational instructions for the engine and all related accessories before
the boat is used.
Getting to Know and Handle Your Ranger® Boat
Improper use of power trim may lead to excessive bow steer or
steering torque (pull) and could lead to accidental injury or death.
The operator (driver) is responsible for the correct and safe operation
of the boat, the equipment aboard and the safety of all occupants
aboard. We strongly recommend that the operator read this manual
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