Sea Valves; Bilge Pumps; Direct Current (Dc) Electrical System; Batteries - Back Cove Yachts Back Cove 30 Owner's Manual

Make sure all air hoses and connections are tight and
leak free.
Make sure all accessory pumps are repaired and
operating efficiently.
Operate at prudent speeds.
K. Sea Valves
Sea valves are the single most important mechanical
devices responsible for the watertight integrity of the
hull. (see Fig_6.4-9)
The sea valve is open when the handle is
perpendicular to the hull, and closed when the handle
is parallel to the hull. All sea valves should be
checked each time the boat is used. Close all sea
valves before leaving the boat except deck, bilge
pump and cockpit drains. Closing sea valves while
the boat is in the water will trap water inside the
system.
When the boat is hauled all sea valves should be
inspected. All sea valves should be left open during
winter cold-weather storage to ensure that all water is
drained from them.
L. Bilge Pumps
The bilge should be checked each time the boat is
boarded or left. Remove any water present with the
bilge pumps (see Fig_6.4-5 thru Fig_6.4-7). Also,
check to see that the bilge is clean of debris and oil,
which can clog the screens on the bilge pump, and
cause pump failure.
DISCHARGE OF OIL PROHIBITED
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits
the discharge of oil or oily waste into or upon the
navigable waters of the United States or the
waters of the contiguous zone if such discharge
causes a film or sheen upon or a discoloration of
the surface of the water or causes a sludge or
emulsion beneath the surface of the water.
Violators are subject to a penalty of $5,000.
The electric bilge pumps are wired directly to the
ship's service batteries through an "always ON" push
button breaker located on the 12V DC distribution
panel (see Fig_6.2-5). This allows the bilge pumps to
protect the boat even when all other systems are
shut-down. The bilge pumps are controlled by
switches located on the helm pod. The switches allow
the pumps to be controlled manually, but revert to
automatic ("ON") mode. A float switch inside each
pump controls the pump in automatic mode.
7.3 Electrical
A. 12V Direct Current (DC) Electrical System
The engine starting, generator (optional) starting, and
ship's power (house) systems operate at 12V DC,
with negative grounds. All wiring is performed to
specifications set forth in the latest ABYC, NMMA,
and NFPA regulations. Any modifications or additions
to this system must also be performed to these
specifications.
B. Batteries
Batteries are the primary source of power to the 12V
DC systems. Regular maintenance of the batteries
will extend their lives.
Wear safety glasses when working on or around
batteries. Battery acid is extremely corrosive to
fabrics and may irritate skin. Keep battery acid
away from people and clothes. Neutralize battery
acid with a weak vinegar solution and flush
affected area with fresh water.
Injury can result if the battery terminals are
accidentally bridged
conductor.
Your Back Cove 30 has two battery banks:
1. Engine or "Start" bank comprised of two 12V
GR31 flooded lead acid batteries located on
the starboard side in the lazarette.
(see Fig_6.2-1)
(Fig_6.2-1)
with a tool or other