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Once the boat has slowed and motor is idling, place
the shift in REVERSE. Gradually increasing reverse
power with the throttle.
Do not use reverse function to slow down or
to stop boat above idle speed. Loss of control,
ejection or injury can occur. Reverse is for
low speed maneuvering only. Shift only while
engine is idling.
Remember that all boats steer by the stern (the feel-
ing is much like steering your automobile in reverse).
This means that the stern of your boat will swing in the
direction opposite to your turn. For example, when you
turn the helm wheel to the left, the stern of your boat
will swing in the direction opposite to your turn. This
is especially important to keep in mind when docking,
operating in close quarters with other boats, or when
approaching a swimmer or downed skier in the water.
Always look behind you and to both sides of the boat
before slowing down. Tell your passengers your inten-
tions to allow them time to make adjustments to their
balance or positions.
Slowly pull back on throttles, glance back and see if a
large following wave is approaching the transom. If so
give the engines a little throttle as the wave arrives to
keep wave from rolling over the transom.
D - 9
PRACTICE MANEUVERS
It is always a good idea to practice and get familiar
with all controls, functions and handling characteristics
of your boat before venturing on the water.
Always secure the tether cord to the engine shut-off
switch and the clip to your PFD or a wrist strap.
A. Where to Practice Exercises
Find a suitable area to practice the exercises. Ensure
the area meet the following requirements:
– No traffic
– No obstacles
– No swimmers
– No current
– Ample space to maneuver
– Water depth is adequate.
Operation - Section D
B. Practice Exercises
Practice alone the following exercises.
1. Turning
Practice turning in circles in both directions at slow
speed. When comfortable with the exercise, increase
difficulty by making some figure 8s. When this is mas-
tered, repeat the above exercises but at increased
speed.
2. Stopping Distances
Practice stopping the boat in a straight line at different
speeds. Remember,water drag is the main factor
which reduces the boat speed and thus the stopping
distance.
NOTICE
The boat speed, load, current and wind also
play an important role in affecting stopping
distances.
Do not use the reverse to stop.
3. Reverse
Practice reverse operation to learn how the boat oper-
ates in reverse and reacts with steering inputs.
NOTICE
Always perform this exercise at slow speeds.
4 Avoiding an Obstacle
Practice to avoid an obstacle (choose a virtual point
on the water) by steering boat and maintaining
throttle.
Repeat exercise, but this time release throttle while
turning.
NOTICE
With this exercise, you will learn that you need
throttle to steer the boat in a different direction.
Owner's Manual Page 104
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