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All information and specifications included in this manual were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Malibu Boats West, Inc. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation.
Please read carefully and familiarize yourself with the craft before using it. We, at Malibu Boats, thank you for choosing us as your boat manufacturer and assure you that your satisfaction and boating enjoyment will continue to be our #1 priority.
At Malibu, safety is not an option! General Precautions Your Malibu boat has been constructed to meet all U.S. Coast Guard and National Marine Manufacturers Association (N.M.M.A.) requirements. However, it is still your responsibility as the boat owner, to ensure the boat is always operated in a safe fashion.
In a few jurisdictions, the Coast Guard retains registration authority. Your Malibu dealer will either supply registration forms or tell you where they may be obtained. The agency will supply you with a certificate which must be carried with you when the boat is in operation.
Safety Equipment U.S. Coast Guard regulations require certain accessory equipment on each boat. For a detailed description, obtain “Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats” published by the Coast Guard. 1) Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): PFDs must be Coast Guard approved, in good and serviceable condition and the appropriate size for the user.
4) Navigation Lights: Recreational boats are required to display navigational lights between sunset and sunrise and other periods of reduced visibility (fog, rain, haze, etc.). Your navigation lights are provided to keep other boats informed of your presence and course. It is up to you to make sure they are operational and turned on when required.
Hazardous Conditions Every waterway poses hazards that should be avoided. The following information outlines some of the hazards which may be encountered. Weather Learn and understand weather patterns and signs of change. Bad weather can cause an uncomfortable and unsafe situation.
Carbon Monoxide Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas produced by all engines and fuel burning appliances. Even with the best boat design and construction, plus the utmost care in inspection, operation, and maintenance, hazardous levels of CO may still be present in accommodation spaces under certain conditions.
Operation By Minors If your boat will be operated by a minor, remember to have an adult present at all times. Many states have laws regarding minimum age and licensing requirements for minors. Contact state and local authorities for special requirements that may apply in your area. Passenger Safety Any time you take your boat out, make sure that there is at least one other passenger aboard who is familiar with the operation of your boat.
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USWMS System In the USWMS Lateral System, well defined channels are marked with red and black buoys. Lateral means the sides of the channel are marked and the boat should pass between them. The USWMS Cardinal System is used when there is no well defined channel or where an obstruction may be approached from more than one direction.
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FWMS System The FWMS Lateral System is for use on navigable waters except Western Rivers and Intracoastal Waterways. The markings on these buoys are oriented from the perspective of being entered from seaward (the boater is going towards the port). This means that red buoys are passed on the starboard (right) side of the vessel when proceeding from open water into port, and green buoys to the port (left) side.
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1-10 Right-Of-Way Notice In general, boats with less maneuverability have right-of-way over more agile craft. You must stay clear of the vessel with right-of-way and pass to his stern. Privileged Boats 12 O'CLOCK Privileged boats have right-of-way and can hold course and speed. Sailboats and boats paddled or rowed have the right-of-way over motor boats.
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1-11 Overtaking The boat that is overtaking one ahead of it is the burdened boat and must make any adjustments necessary to keep out of the way of the privileged boat. BURDENED PRIVILEGED VESSEL VESSEL BEING OVERTAKING OVERTAKEN KC-0601 The General Prudential Rule The general prudential rule regarding right-of-way is that if a collision appears unavoidable, neither boat has right-of-way.
ONTROLS No other ski boat manufacturer incorporates in their product, as many innovative and technically advanced features, as Malibu. Standard Gauges The following standard gauges are included on all models except where noted. It is important for the safe and proper operation of your boat to fully understand these gauges.
Fuel Gauge The fuel gauge indicates the quantity of fuel remaining in the tank when the ignition is in the “ON” position. Although your fuel fuel tank will still have some fuel remaining even though the gauge reads empty, it is recommended that the tank be filled when the gauge indicates 1/4 full.
Voltmeter Gauge The voltmeter indicates whether the battery is charging or volt discharging. The needle should be in the normal range (approximately 14 volts) while the engine is running. Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system.
Accessory Switch Panels These panels are located on the dash directly below the standard gauges and are used to activate the following accessory features. STEREO BLOWER BILGE LIGHTS LIGHTS OFF ON OFF ON OFF ON OFF ON OFF ON Warning Gasoline Vapors Can Explode Before Starting Engine, Operate Blower 4 Min.
MEMS Control System Malibu Electronic Management System (MEMS) is Malibu’s state of the art dashboard design that uses solid state technology to provide seven separate monitoring functions for your convenience. The MEMS control panel consists of six indicator lights and an hourmeter. If the high water temperature, low oil pressure or check engine lights illuminate, check the gauges and immediately stop the engine.
Computron ATD System ® Your Malibu may be equipped with the optional Computron ® ATD system. This on-board software-based computer system is the only one of its kind installed on today’s tournament tow boats. The Computron user-friendly system allows the driver complete...
Notice: The four buttons described above have corresponding switches located on the optional steering wheel. The buttons located on the steering wheel are powered by a 9-volt battery located in the steering wheel front panel directly behind the buttons. These separate switches are provided in the event the battery should lose power during a competition.
ICON KEY that provide additional benefits for enjoyment of your new Function Up Malibu Boat. Complete control of the Computron ATD system is performed with the use of only six buttons located on the Function Down control panel and an optional panel for use on the steering wheel.
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Engine Hours The engine hours display acts as an odometer for the engine. Engine hours should always be noted so maintenance and lubricant changes may be performed at proper intervals. Trip Log This function displays and allows the reset of the Computron mileage trip log. To reset the trip log, press the (SR) button.
2-10 Demo Mode This function is provided to allow dealers and owners to demonstrate the functions of the Computron ATD system while the boat is out of the water. To start the “Demo” mode, simply press and hold the (FU) and (FD) switches on the Ignition Control Panel while turning the ignition switch from the “OFF”...
2-11 Steering System It is important that you get the “feel” of your Malibu boat’s steering system. Turn the wheel from full left to full right, and make sure the rudder is turning accordingly. The system should operate freely and smoothly.
2-12 Motorbox Cover The upholstered motorbox reduces engine noise and provides protection for the passengers on board. To open, stand on the port side of the box near the observer seat, grasp the handle near the floor and pull open. The motor box is equipped with either one or two gas-filled shock absorbers (depending on model) to provide support for the compartment when opened.
2-13 Sundeck The passenger seats located in the rear of the boat are designed to comfortably seat three persons. Some boat models are equipped so that the bottom of the rear passenger seat can be slid forward and placed on top of the arm supports to provide a sun deck. Figure 17 - Sundeck Warning The sun deck is not to be used while the boat is in operation.
Figure 20 - Swim Platform Navigational Lights As required by the U.S. Coast Guard, all Malibu boats are equipped with the proper bow and stern navigational lights. The bow light is located at the tip of the bow near the lifting ring.
2-15 Storage Areas Bow Storage Area Access to a large storage area located in the bow of all models is accessible by lifting up the bottom lifting strap of the observer’s seat back. The size of this storage area differs between the open and closed bow versions.
2-16 Speedometer Pickups The speedometer pickups are located on each side of the boat at the bottom of the transom. The pressure applied to these pickups determines the measured speed of the boat. Notice: Clean pickup tubes frequently to keep lake debris from lodging in tubes.
2-17 Notice: If the canvas top is wet, allow to air dry before storing to prevent mildew. Figure 27 - Bimini Top Stereo The stereo is located under the starboard driver’s armrest. To access, simply lift the armrest. To turn on power to the stereo, turn on the power switch located on the dash panel.
2-18 Warning Labels Warning labels are displayed at various locations throughout your new Malibu to point out safety hazards. It is important that you take the time to locate these labels. Do not remove or cover warning labels. Replace when illegible.
Chapter 3 PERATION Everyone benefits from the safety of others. Trailering The trailering information contained in this section describes general guidelines and procedures used by many boaters. We recommend, in addition, that you always follow the specific information provided by the manufacturer of your trailer. Load Carrying Capacity The certification label attached by the manufacturer on the left forward side of the trailer will show the maximum load carrying capacity of the trailer.
Safety Chains Safety chains on your boat trailer CRISSCROSS SAFETY CHAINS provide added insurance that it will not become completely detached from the towing vehicle when underway. TRAILER VEHICLE Crisscross the chains under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the road if the trailer separates from the hitch ball.
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Backing the Trailer Backing the boat trailer may sometimes be a difficult task. It is recommended that you practice backing the trailer in a vacant lot or open area before attempting it at a congested boat launch. Follow these basic rules when backing: 1) Turn the front vehicle wheels in the opposite direction in which the trailer is to travel.
Starting Starting procedures will vary depending on the type and model of engine installed in your Malibu. Consult the engine owner’s manual for more specific information regarding starting, operation, and troubleshooting for your particular engine. Pay close attention to the information regarding the break-in period listed in your engine owner’s manual.
Shifting/Running The throttle lever is located to the right of the driver. When the throttle is vertical, it is in the “NEUTRAL” position. Located at the base of the throttle you will find the shift lock. Pulling outward on this button disengages the transmission, thereby allowing for use of the throttle without engaging the transmission.
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RIGHT TURN LEFT TURN BACKING TO LEFT Turn wheel to right—Stern Turn wheel to left—Stern Turn wheel to left—Stern will move to left. will move to right. will pull to left. KC-1071 The steering system must be in good operating condition for Warning safe boat operation.
Maneuvering Techniques Steering response depends on three factors: engine position, motion and throttle. STERN Like an automobile, high speed CIRCLE CIRCLE maneuvering is relatively easy and takes little practice to learn. Slow speed maneuvering, on the other hand, is far more difficult and requires time and practice to master.
Docking Docking procedures for the new boat owner usually bring surprising results. Remember, operate your boat at slow speeds to avoid accidents and practice docking to gain experience and confidence. Once away from the dock, practice docking in open water with an imaginary dock. Pull up to the dock at a slow rate of speed.
Before tying-up the boat, be sure to use enough fenders to protect the boat from damage. If possible, tie-up with the bow towards the waves with a good quality double-braided nylon line. Tie-up only to the lifting or tie-down eyes; never use the handrails or windshield frames.
3-10 CORRECT IN TOO FAR OUT TOO FAR KC-1150M Towing a Skier Water skiing is a collective effort involving driver, observer and skier. The degree of understanding and cooperation between them directly determines the success and enjoyment of the venture. All must understand that the skier is an extension of the boat. The driver is no longer responsible for a boat that is 20 feet long, but closer to 95 feet.
3-12 Towing Another Boat Towing is normally a last resort because damage can be created by stress from the towing lines or uncontrollability of the boat being towed. Only when ideal conditions arise; lake is calm, the disabled boat is smaller than yours, and both boat operators know correct technique, should a recreational boat be towed by another.
At least once a year, more often if you use your boat extensively, you should have your local Malibu dealer inspect the propeller for any possible damage. At least once a month, if you use your boat regularly, you should check and tighten the prop nut.
However, regular care and maintenance of your boat is a general responsibility for all Malibu boat owners. By following the boat care instructions listed below, you will be able to extend the life and beauty of your Malibu boat. Fiberglass and Gelcoat The fiberglass hull and deck of your Malibu boat consist of a molded shell and exterior gelcoat.
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1) Haul-out and clean your boat regularly (every 14 to 21 days). Use soap, water, and plenty of elbow grease. 2) Apply wax after cleaning. You should also check with your local Malibu dealer about anti-fouling paint and other products that can be applied to the hull bottom below the water line. Teak Care must be taken to keep teak wood from turning gray or rough.
It is recommended that any engine replacement parts used for maintenance or repair be supplied by an authorized Malibu dealer Fuel Filter A fuel filter is located 6 to 12 inches from the fuel pickup above the fuel tank. The filter is used to remove debris from the fuel being sent to the engine.
Electrical Battery Your Malibu boat is equipped with a standard 12-volt battery. The battery comes with a non-metallic box to help contain spills and prevent corrosion. TERMINAL VENT CAP POST VENT WELL MAXIMUM LIQUID LEVEL MINIMUM LIQUID LEVEL PLATES KC-1620M Figure 37 - Battery Level Check your battery terminals frequently for corrosion and tightness.
Windows and Windshields The windows and windshields on your Malibu boat are made of tempered safety glass and are similar to the windows in your car. The glass will scratch however, and abrasive cleaners should not be used to clean your windows. Soap and water or automotive glass cleaners may be used.
Malibu Boats West, Inc. or its selling dealer will, without charge, repair or replace at Malibu’s option, any boat or portion thereof proven to its satisfaction to be in defect during the above warranty period.
This limited warranty is given in place of and instead of any and all express or implied warranties, and may not be modified in whole or in part by anyone other than Malibu Boats. Some states do not allow a limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages;...
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Malibu dealer. Check the yellow pages of the telephone directory in the area. If you are unable to locate an authorized dealer in the area, contact Malibu directly. We will be happy to give you the name and number of a dealer in the area.
Vertical distance from the waterline of the boat to the lowest part of the boat. FibECS II: An engine mounting method using fiberglass instead of aluminum, patented by Malibu Boats West, Inc., that provides for major reductions in noise and vibration found on all other inboard boats. FIBERGLASS: Fibers similar to wool or cotton, but made from fibrous glass.
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