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INTRODUCTION Welcome Aboard! This manual has been produced with the recreational boater in mind, as a guide to safe operating practices, general boating regulations and proper maintenance techniques. Included with this manual may be manufacturer literature for the engine, trailer and other major components. To ensure each boat- ing experience is a safe and enjoyable one, please read all the materials carefully before operating your newly purchased craft.
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY The popularity of boating and other water sports has undergone an explosion of growth in the past few years. Because of this, safety is an important issue for everyone who shares in the use of our waterways. This section covers general boating safety information.
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY Boat Safety Labels Your boat is affixed with various safety labels at the time of manufacture. These labels appear at specific locations on the craft where safety is of particular con- cern. Safety labels must remain legible. If you suspect a label is missing or one becomes damaged, contact your dealer for immediate replacement.
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CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY Personal Floatation Devices Federal law also requires at least one Type I, II, III or V Personal Floatation Device (PFD) for each person on board or being towed, and at least one Type IV throwable PFD in the boat. As the owner, it is your responsibility to obtain PFDs and other mandatory safety equip- ment not provided by the boat manufacturer, and to ensure all equipment is kept in good, serviceable...
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY Keep the following PFD points in mind: • Set an example and wear your PFD. Require your passengers to wear them also. • Make sure the PFD fits properly; this is especially important for children and non-swimmers.
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY Emergencies Be prepared to deal with emergencies before they happen. Try to formulate a plan for each type in advance so that decisions can be made quickly and without hesita- tion. Precious moments lost can mean the difference between losing and saving a life.
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY WARNING Gasoline will float on top of water and can burn. If the boat is aban- doned, swim up wind, far enough to avoid fuel that may spread over the surface of the water to avoid serious injury. Capsizing and Swamping A boat may capsize or swamp when least expected.
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CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY NOTICE Weeds can sometimes be removed by shifting to neutral, pausing a moment, then shifting to reverse to unwind the weeds from the propel- ler. Shallow Water Operation Operating in shallow water presents a number of hazards. Water of any depth may contain stump fields, sand bars, rocks, or other unmarked underwater hazards.
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY Navigation markers serve as a means of identifying navigable routes, and indicate water hazards. Boaters should become familiar with navigation markers and stay within marked boundaries and clear of hazards. Boating Under the Influence WARNING Federal and state laws prohibit operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and other drugs.
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY DANGER EXTREME HAZARD – Carbon monoxide gas (CO) is colorless, odor- less and extremely dangerous. All engines and fuel burning appliances produce CO as exhaust. Direct and prolonged exposure to CO will cause BRAIN DAMAGE or DEATH. Signs of exposure to CO include nausea, dizziness and drowsiness.
1-10 CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY When participating in water sports, be safe and courteous and follow these guide- lines: • Be considerate to fishermen and others you share the water with. • Do not perform water sports in congested areas. •...
CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY 1-11 WARNING Read and understand this manual and the engine manual, and be sure that you understand all controls and operating instructions before attempting to operate the boat. Improper operation can be extremely hazardous. Before each outing you should check all safety equipment, such as fire extinguish- ers, PFDs, flares, distress flags, flashlights, engine stop switch, etc.
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1-12 CHAPTER 1: BOATING SAFETY Discharge and Disposal of Waste Waste means all forms of garbage, plastics, recyclables, food, wood, detergents, sewerage and even fish parts in certain waters - in short, nearly everything. We recommend you bring back everything you take out with you for proper disposal ashore.
CHAPTER 2: BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD WARNING The nautical rules of the road must be followed to prevent collisions between vessels. Like traffic laws for automobiles, the operator is legally required to follow the rules. The following information outlines only the most basic of the nautical rules of the road.
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CHAPTER 2: BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD Uniform State Regulatory Markers USWMS regulatory markers are white with international orange geometric shapes; you must obey regulatory markers. UNIFORM STATE WATERWAY MARKING SYSTEM (USWMS) CONTROLLED DANGER BOATS INFORMATION AREA KEEP OUT DO NOT PASS SPECIAL NAVIGATE TO NAVIGATE TO...
CHAPTER 2: BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD The right side (starboard) of the channel is marked with RED, even numbered buoys. The left (port) side of the channel is marked with GREEN, odd numbered buoys. UNLIGHTED SPAR BUOY CAN BUOY LIGHTED BUOY NUN BUOY BELL BUOY...
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CHAPTER 2: BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD Crossing Situation 12 O'CLOCK In crossing situations, the boat to the right from the 12 o’clock to the 4 o’clock position has the PRIVILEGED right-of-way. It must hold course VESSEL and speed. The burdened boat keeps clear and passes behind the privileged boat.
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CHAPTER 2: BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD 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...
CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Knowing the systems, controls and indicators on your boat is essential for safe and proper operation. The systems, controls and indicators shown in this section may be optional or slightly different than those on your boat. Systems WARNING Regularly inspect and maintain all systems to prevent unexpected haz-...
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CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS When the engine is operating, the fuel pump “pulls” fuel from the tank, bringing it into the engine where it is dis- tributed to the cylinders and burned. Oil injected engines also include an oil reservoir and pump for injecting oil into the system.
CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Electrical The boat is equipped with a 12-volt direct current (12 VDC) negative ground elec- trical system. The positive (red) wire is hot and feeds current from the battery to the electrical systems. The negative (black) wire is ground and completes the cir- cuit back to the battery.
CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Shift/Throttle Control The shift/throttle control on your boat differs from model to model and may depend on the engine used. The following single lever and dual lever controls are typical of the operation of most controls used. Be sure to consult the engine or control manual for specific operational differences.
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CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Battery Switch – Connects the battery to the electrical system. Provides isolation and positive disconnect of bat- tery to protect against tampering, electrical fire hazards, and battery rundown. Rotate switch to the OFF position when the boat is not in use.
CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Engine Stop Switch and Lanyard – The engine stop switch stops the engine when engaged. Attach the lanyard to the boat operator whenever the SAFETY SWITCH engine is running. If the operator is thrown from the seat or moves too far from the helm, the lan- yard will engage the switch and shut off the engine.
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CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS x 100 KC-0700 KC-0710 Tachometer Registers engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). Use this gauge to keep the engine within the proper operating range. Consult the engine manual for the proper RPM operating range for your engine. Speedometer Registers forward boat speed in miles per hour.
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CHAPTER 3: SYSTEMS, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Voltmeter Indicates the condition of the main or cranking battery in volts DC. Normal operating range is 12+ volts. 10 13 VOLTS KC-0750 Ammeter Measures the charging current in the electrical system. Consult the engine manual for the normal operating range.
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION This section describes the basics of fueling, starting, running, steering, trimming, docking and stopping your boat. Since there is a variety of control and engine options, be sure to consult the other owner’s manuals provided with your boat. Fueling Portable tanks must be removed from the boat when fueling.
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION Lubrication (Outboards) Your engine may be equipped with an oil injection system that automatically feeds oil to the engine. Use lubricant that is recommended by the manufacturer, or NMMA TC-W3 certified. You will find the recommended lubricant listed in the engine manual.
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION Warning Alarm CAUTION Continued operation after the warning alarm has sounded may cause severe engine damage. Your boat may be equipped with a warning alarm that will sound if an engine problem develops. If the warning alarm sounds, IMMEDIATELY throttle back to idle speed and shift into neutral.
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION All boats have a tendency to wander somewhat at slow speeds. A natural reaction to this effect is to steer the boat back and forth in an attempt to compensate for wandering. Invariably, the compensation will result in oversteer and only worsen the effect.
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION WIND or CURRENT WIND or CURRENT KC-1120 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.
CHAPTER 4: OPERATION Drive Trim Angle Trim angle is the angular relationship between the lower drive unit and the tran- som of the boat. Boat trim while underway greatly affects boat performance and efficiency. For best results, the boat should be on plane and trimmed to reduce the wetted surface.
CHAPTER 5: GETTING UNDERWAY There are many things to consider to make your boating trip safe and enjoyable. This section includes a safety checklist, boarding guidelines, boat loading, and capacity information. The contents of this section should be read and understood before casting off. Remember, if you have a problem during your cruise, you canÕt get out and Þx it, or walk to safety or for help.
CHAPTER 5: GETTING UNDERWAY Safety Equipment Federal and local laws require certain safety equipment to be on board at all times. In addition, responsible boaters carry other equipment in case of emergency. Check with local boating authorities for any additional requirements over and above federal requirements.
CHAPTER 5: GETTING UNDERWAY U.S. COAST GUARD MAXIMUM CAPACITIES 1150 PERSONS OR LBS. 1600 LBS. PERSONS, MOTOR, GEAR H.P. MOTOR OUTBOARD THIS BOAT COMPLIES WITH U.S. COAST POWERED GUARD SAFETY STANDARDS IN EFFECT BOATS ONLY ON THE DATE OF CERTIFICATION MANUFACTURER: MODEL: DESIGN COMPLIANCE WITH NMMA REQUIREMENTS BELOW IS...
CHAPTER 6: RUNNING We urge you and all others operating the boat to seek certified instruction from the local boating authorities. This section is designed to present the most basic operational principles. It is NOT intended to cover all conditions encountered during operation. Therefore, the prin- ciples presented in this manual are limited to the facts related directly to the oper- ation of the boat, while the responsibility for the proper application of these principles belongs to you.
CHAPTER 6: RUNNING Salt Water If boat is moored in salt water for long periods, tilt the engine out of the water (except during freezing temperatures). After removing the boat from the water, lower the engine to the run (down) position until the cooling system has drained thoroughly.
CHAPTER 6: RUNNING Adjust the tow line to match wave action. Keep the boats on the crest or in the trough of the waves at the same time. In protected, calm waters, shorten the line for better handling. Always tow at moderate speed, allowing for adverse wind and wave conditions.
CHAPTER 6: RUNNING Weighing (Pulling In) Anchor Start engine and move forward until anchor line is straight up and down. Pull hard to lift anchor from the bottom material. If the anchor is stuck, attach anchor line to the bow cleat so that it is taut. The up and down motion of the bow from wave action may lift the anchor from the bot- tom.
CHAPTER 6: RUNNING • Watch the tachometer to keep the engine within the full throttle operating range. See the engine operator’s manual for the proper tachometer reading at full throttle. High speed operation on smooth water is very stable, but quick reactions and adjustments are needed to maintain control.
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CHAPTER 6: RUNNING WARNING To prevent accidental start-up, complete the following before installing or removing the propeller: Put the remote control in the ÒNEUTRALÓ position. Put the main switch in the ÒOFFÓ position and remove the key. Failure to observe this warning could result in severe injury A smaller pitch propeller should be selected for water skiing or for heavy loads.
CHAPTER 7: CARE AND MAINTENANCE This section describes how to care and maintain your boat. It includes information about maintaining electrical components, corrosion protection, and general mainte- nance. Use the service/maintenance log provided to track maintenance performed. Repairs and Modifications Your boat has been designed for safety in the harsh marine environment and thor- oughly tested and certified for compliance with applicable safety standards.
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CHAPTER 7: CARE AND MAINTENANCE WARNING Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas. Never attempt starting your engine with jumper cables under any circumstances. Keep all sparks, flames and smoking materials away from batteries. Risk of spark at the battery post igniting gasoline or hydrogen fumes is too great. Always wear eye protection when near batteries and have adequate ventilation when charging.
CHAPTER 7: CARE AND MAINTENANCE Some installed accessories, such as TYPICAL IN-LINE FUSE HOLDER the stereo, have an additional fuse located in the positive lead of the stereo. Some in-line fuse holders can be found near the battery. (TWIST AND PULL TO OPEN) KC-1640 Corrosion Protection Galvanic Corrosion...
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CHAPTER 7: CARE AND MAINTENANCE Cleaning Periodic cleaning is the best way to keep your boat looking new. Regular washing and waxing keep dirt and scum from building up and deteriorating the finish. Keeping your boat in “show room” condition means greater personal satisfaction and higher resale value.
CHAPTER 7: CARE AND MAINTENANCE Windshield A clean windshield is important. If your boat is equipped with a glass windshield, applying a non-abrasive glass cleaner with a soft cloth will remove most dirt and smudges. Smoked plexi-glass or plastic windshields should be cleaned with a mild soap solution and damp cloth only.
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CHAPTER 7: CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSPECT HARDWARE STEERING INSPECT HARDWARE KC-1645 TYPICAL OUTBOARD ENGINE STEERING LINK CHECK FILL PLUG AND FLUID LEVEL HELM PUMP/ RESERVOIR INSPECT CONNECTIONS AT PUMP INSPECT CYLINDER SEALS INSPECT FITTINGS AT CYLINDER INSPECT HARDWARE KC-1883 Hydraulic and power-assisted systems must also be inspected. Make sure hydrau- lic hoses are tight and leak-free.
CHAPTER 8: TROUBLESHOOTING The following chart will assist you in finding and correcting minor mechanical and electrical problems. If an engine problem is indicated, consult your engine owner’s manual. Some problems may require specialized skill and tools to correct them; see your dealer.
CHAPTER 9: STORAGE Storage or winter lay-up requires special preparation to prevent damage to the boat. Perform all annual maintenance at this time. Without proper preparation, storage for long periods of time may cause internal parts of the engine and drive unit to rust because of lack of lubrication. Or, if the boat is stored in below freezing temperatures, water inside the bilge or cooling system may freeze causing damage.
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CHAPTER 9: STORAGE • Store the bilge drain plug in a plastic bag and tape it to the throttle control lever so that it is easily found for reactivation. • Remove the battery from the boat. Clean, fully charge and store the battery in an area not subject to freezing temperatures.
CHAPTER 9: STORAGE Slinging/Lifting LIFT RINGS SLINGS SPREADER SPREADER KC-1861 If the boat is to be removed from the water without a trailer, follow these guide- lines: • Never attach lifting cables to cleats, ski tow eyes or hand rails. Attach cables only to the lifting eyes in the transom and bow.
10-1 CHAPTER 10: TRAILERING This section provides information about trailering. It describes the hitch and safety chains, backing your trailer, preparing to launch, launching, and loading your trailer. Also included is a trailering checklist. WARNING • The trailer must be matched for the boat’s weight and hull. •...
10-2 CHAPTER 10: TRAILERING Safety Chains CRISSCROSS SAFETY CHAINS Safety chains on your boat trailer provide added insurance that it will TRAILER VEHICLE not become completely detached from the towing vehicle when under- way. Crisscross the chains under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the road if the trailer sep- arates from the hitch ball.
CHAPTER 10: TRAILERING 10-3 • Convertible tops and detachable windshields are not designed to stay on boats at highway speeds. Before towing, take down the convertible top, side cur- tains, back cover and detachable windshield if so equipped. • Carry a spare tire for both your trailer and your towing vehicle along with suf- ficient tools to change them.
10-4 CHAPTER 10: TRAILERING Launching Before launching your boat, stay to one side and watch a couple of launchings to notice any problems on the ramp and the effects of the wind and current on launch- ing. It is a common courtesy to prepare the boat for launching away from the ramp especially during busy periods.
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CHAPTER 10: TRAILERING 10-5 CAUTION The winch bow strap is merely a means of securing the boat to the trailer and is not intended to winch or pull the boat onto the trailer. Winching the boat onto the trailer could cause severe injury. Attach and tighten the winch bow strap.
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11-1 CHAPTER 11: GLOSSARY ABOARD – On or in the boat. AFLOAT – On the water. AFT – Toward the rear or stern of the boat. AGROUND – Touching bottom. AMIDSHIP – Center or middle of the boat. ANCHOR – (1) An iron casting shaped to grip the lake bottom to hold the boat. (2) The act of setting the anchor.
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Pulling Ahead ® Owner's Manual 1982 – 1992 Models Manufacturers of Malibu and Flightcraft Boats...
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11-2 CHAPTER 11: GLOSSARY GIVE-WAY BOAT – (1) Term for the boat that must take whatever action necessary to keep well clear of the boat with the right-of-way in meeting or crossing situations. (2) The burdened boat. GUNWALE – The rail or upper edge of a boat’s side. HEAD –...