Principles Of Operation; Before Operating This Watercraft - Polaris SLT780 1996 Owner's Safety And Maintenance Manual

OPERATION
Principles Of Operation
The engine is directly coupled to a
driveshaft which, when running, ro-
tates the impeller. The impeller is si-
tuated where the water is drawn up
underneath the watercraft. The wa-
ter travels through the impeller and
is accelerated producing thrust to
move the watercraft forward.
Squeezing the throttle lever in-
creases engine speed (watercraft
speed).
Turning the handlebar pivots the jet
pump nozzle (water outlet) which
controls the watercraft's direction.
The throttle must be applied in order
to turn the watercraft. This is unlike
a conventional boat which uses a
rudder to control direction.
The ability to steer or turn the watercraft is completely lost when the throttle lever
is released. You must have thrust to turn. Keep the throttle depressed to maintain
thrust and control, to aid in steering and avoiding potential contact with objects or
people in the water.
The more the throttle is depressed while turning the sharper the turn will be. Prac-
tice these maneuvers in open water to understand and acquire a feel for turning.
The watercraft behaves differently with a passenger on board, requiring more op-
erator skill. Practice these skills alone before taking a passenger on board.
Before operating this watercraft you should:
1. Have viewed the Watercraft Safety Video tape provided with the watercraft
(PN 991 3672);
2.
Have read and understand this Owner's Manual;
3.
Be familiar with all controls and functions of the watercraft;
4. Have performed the pre-operation check found on page 29.
If you have any questions about the features or controls of this watercraft consult
your local Polaris dealer.