Hippo Ballast System - Supra Comp Owner's Manual

Hippo Ballast System

The optional Hippo Ballast System is an electronically
controlled 3 bag ballast system that can be operated from
the driver's seat. The switch panel is located directly below
the shifter mechanism and allows independent filling and
draining of each ballast bag. If bags fail to fill or drain, you
may check the hippo fuse block located under the dash area
to insure fuses have not blown. The 3 ballast bag system is
located in the front ski locker, starboard rear storage
compartment, and port rear storage compartment.
Care should be taken that the ballast bags are situated
properly with the fill hose on top and drain hose on bottom
and that all fittings are installed securely. The bags should
not be twisted and the bags should be free to expand and
drain completely. Care should be taken to prevent sharp
objects from coming in contact with the bags. Cuts and
punctures to the bags are not warrantable.
Each Hippo system also includes a manual shut off valve
in case of emergencies. If closed, the valve will prevent
any water from entering the system and is only used in
emergency situations. Under normal use the valve should
remain open to allow full flow of water into system.
To allow water into the system, Hippo ballast systems utilize
a scooped intake strainer to force water into the system
whether the boat is sitting still or underway. If air becomes
trapped in the system, it may be necessary to run the boat
at planning speeds to force air through the system and allow
the fill pump to prime fully. Once the pump has primed it is
no longer necessary to run the boat for filling. This situation
may occur if the boat is trailered for long distances.
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