Skeeter SALTWATER Owner's Manual

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SALTWATER OWNER'S MANUAL

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Summary of Contents for Skeeter SALTWATER

  • Page 1 SALTWATER OWNER’S MANUAL...
  • Page 2 Skeeter Dealer. Because Skeeter has a policy of continuing product improvement, this product may not be exactly as described in this Owner’s/Operator’s Manual. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
  • Page 3 INTRODUCTION BOATING CHECKLIST For improved safety and enjoyment, check each of these items: BOATING TERMINOLOGY An easy way to remember PORT side from STARBOARD side is “PORT” and “LEFT” both have four letters.
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Pre-Operation Checks Checklist ....1-8 Post-Operation Checks ......... 8-3 Check Points ..........1-8 Trailering ............8-4 Enjoy Your Skeeter Boat Responsibly ..1-11 Care / Maintenance ........9-1 Basic Rules of the Road ......2-1 Repairs and Modifications ......9-1 Rules of the Road ..........
  • Page 5: Boating Safety

    States Coast Guard (USCG), the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, or your local Power Squadron. • This Skeeter boat has maximum capacities for number of passengers and weight on board. Never exceed these maximum load limits. Weight distribution affects performance. Keep weight in the boat low and evenly distributed from side-to-side and front-to-back.
  • Page 6 DO NOT overpower or overload your boat. Your boat is equipped with a required capacity plate indicating the maximum acceptable power and load as determined by the manufacturer following certain Federal guidelines. In doubt, contact your Skeeter Dealer. Typical Capacity Plate...
  • Page 7: Boat Setup

    A jack plate is sometimes used on boats to adjust engine installation height. Do not use a jack plate on your Skeeter boat unless it is specifically designed for one, and then only use the Skeeter- recommended jack plate. Other jack plate installations are considered misuse and are not covered by warranty.
  • Page 8: Design And Construction

    The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has regulations which describe minimum standards of safety. All Skeeter boats have been certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) to meet or exceed all USCG requirements and American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) standards such as: •...
  • Page 9: Operational Requirements

    13 years old. However, some foreseeable accidents could happen so quickly on any boat that there would not be time to put on a life jacket. Therefore, Skeeter recommends life jacket use at all times while the boat is in operation.
  • Page 10: Hazard Information

    When at anchor in the dark, the stern light must be lit. See Section 6 for more information. WATER-SKIING • Some Skeeter boats are equipped to tow a waterskier, using the tow cleat or ski pylon provided. • It is the boat operator’s responsibility to be alert to the safety of the water-skier and others. Know and follow all state and local water-skiing regulations in effect for the waters in which you will be operating.
  • Page 11: To Get More Boating Safety Information

    BOATING SAFETY WATER-SKIING (Cont.) • When preparing to pull a skier, operate the boat at the slowest possible speed until the boat is well away from the skier and slack in the towrope is taken up. Make sure that the rope is not looped around anything.
  • Page 12: Accident Reporting

    BOATING SAFETY ACCIDENT REPORTING Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident Report with their state boating law enforcement agency if their boat is involved in any of the following accidents: 1. There is loss of life or probable loss of life. 2.
  • Page 13 Bilge Pump: Your Skeeter boat is equipped with a drainage system that channels water entering the boat from the storage compartments to the bilge under the engine compartment. When the pump is on, most of the water in the bilge will drain through the outlet.
  • Page 14 BOATING SAFETY CHECK POINTS (Cont.) Lights Check for proper operation of the bow, stern, and instrument lights by pressing the switch on the control panel. If the stern light is not installed, remove it from the storage area, lift the socket cover, and install it into the socket to check operation.
  • Page 15: Enjoy Your Skeeter Boat Responsibly

    Use caution when operating around smaller crafts, in channels and marinas, and in congested areas. ENJOY YOUR SKEETER BOAT RESPONSIBLY You share the areas you enjoy when operating your boat with others and with nature. So your enjoyment includes a responsibility to treat these other people, and the lands, waters, and wildlife with respect and courtesy.
  • Page 16: Basic Rules Of The Road

    BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD RULES OF THE ROAD Operation of your boat must be in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the waterway on which it is used. Just as there are rules that apply when you are driving on streets and highways, there are waterway rules that apply when you are operating your boat.
  • Page 17: Rules When Encountering Vessels

    BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD RULES WHEN ENCOUNTERING VESSELS There are three main situations that you may encounter with other vessels which could lead to a collision unless the Steering Rules are followed: • Meeting: you are approaching another vessel head-on •...
  • Page 18 BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD RULES WHEN ENCOUNTERING VESSELS (Cont.) Crossing In crossing situations, the boat to the right from the 12 o’clock to the 4 o’clock position has the right-of-way and must hold course and speed. The boat without right-of-way must yield and pass to the stern of the privileged boat.
  • Page 19 BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD RULES WHEN ENCOUNTERING VESSELS (Cont.) Overtaking If you are passing another vessel, you are the giveway vessel. This means that the other vessel is expected to maintain its course and speed. You must stay out of its way until you are clear of it. Likewise, if another vessel is passing you, you should maintain your speed and direction so that the other vessel can steer itself around you.
  • Page 20: Regulated / Limited Access Areas

    BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD RULES WHEN ENCOUNTERING VESSELS (Cont.) Sailing Vessel Right-of-Way Sailing vessels should normally be given the right-of way. The exceptions to this are: 1. When the sailing vessel is overtaking the powerdriven vessel, the power-driven vessel has the right-of-way.
  • Page 21: Saltwater Boats

    SALTWATER BOATS This section is specific to your Skeeter saltwater boat. The picture or pictures used to show feature(s) and location may show more than your actual boat is equipped with. If you have any questions regarding your specific boat, you can always contact your Skeeter Dealer.
  • Page 22: Saltwater Boats

    SALTWATER BOATS SAFETY LABELS (Cont.) Table Of Contents www.SkeeterBoats.com...
  • Page 23 SALTWATER BOATS HELM LAYOUT 22 23 11 12 Figure 3-1 1. Bluetooth Stereo 13. Remote Engine Control 2. Steering Fluid Fill Cap 14. Ignition Switch 3. Fish Locator/Depth Locator 15. Engine Stop Switch and Lanyard 4. Speedometer/Fuel Gauge 16. Tilt Steering Latch 5.
  • Page 24 SALTWATER BOATS SX240 GENERAL DECK LAYOUT 1. LED Recessed Bow Light 2. Pull-Up Cleat 3. Trolling Motor Terminal 4. Anchor Storage Box 5. Front Storage Box 6. Starboard Rod Box/Fish Box 7. Step-Up Cooler 8. Port Rod Box 9. Cast Net Storage 10.
  • Page 25 SALTWATER BOATS SX2250 GENERAL DECK LAYOUT 1. LED Recessed Bow Light 2. Pull-Up Cleat 3. Trolling Motor Terminal 4. Anchor Storage Box 5. Front Storage Box 6. Starboard Rod Box/Fish Box 7. Step-Up Storage 8. Port Rod Box 9. Baitwell (14 Gal) 10.
  • Page 26 SALTWATER BOATS SX220/220T GENERAL DECK LAYOUT 1. Bow Light Receptacle 2. Pull-Up Cleat 3. Trolling Motor Terminal 4. Anchor Storage Box 5. Front Storage Box 6. Fish Box 7. Port Rod Box 8. Cast Net Storage Box 9. Baitwell (14 Gal) 10.
  • Page 27 SALTWATER BOATS SX200 GENERAL DECK LAYOUT 1. Bow Light Receptacle 2. Pull-Up Cleat 3. Trolling Motor Terminal 4. Anchor Storage Box 5. Front Storage Box 6. Baitwell (14 Gal) 7. Side Rod Storage 8. Storage and Battery Access 9. Leaning Post Storage 10.
  • Page 28: Equipment

    SALTWATER BOATS EQUIPMENT Bayboat Circuit Protection Console Circuit Breakers Figure 3-6 The main circuit breaker and auto bilge fuse are located by the battery switch inside the console. Fuses for optional equipment are located near the equipment either in the console or the rigging compartment.
  • Page 29 SALTWATER BOATS Battery Switch Figure 3-7 The battery switch is located inside the console door. The switch has four positions: • OFF: Power to all boat functions is off except to the auto bilge pump. • 1: Power to the starter battery only.
  • Page 30: Saltwater Boats

    Figure 3-8 Figure 3-9 There are two livewells on saltwater boats: A rear livewell and a right console livewell. On the rear livewell, the drain is separate from the other hoses. On the console livewell, the drain and overflow tee together. Both the livewells have fill, aerator, and recirculation switches on the console.
  • Page 31 Optional Equipment Your Skeeter boat may be equipped with many options which cannot all be covered in this manual. Make sure you read and understand the optional equipment’s safety, use, and maintenance literature provided by the manufacturer to maximize the benefits and uses these options have to offer. Contact your Skeeter Dealer for more information or explanation.
  • Page 32: Controls/Indicators

    • For Hydraulic Steering, the fluid level should be checked periodically to determine the correct level. Your Skeeter Dealer should investigate any steering system irregularities immediately. DO NOT continue to operate the boat if the steering system is malfunctioning.
  • Page 33 CONTROLS/INDICATORS Figure 4-1 WARNING DO NOT trim the outboard motor out too far or the boat may begin to “porpoise” (bounce up and down). Porpoising reduces control and visibility and lowers top speed and fuel efficiency. Failure to maintain control or visibility could result in serious injury or death. See your outboard motor operator’s manual for power trim operation information.
  • Page 34: Instruments

    Some outboard motors are equipped with a multigauge to monitor the engine motor management system and other functions. See the outboard motor operator’s manual if your Skeeter boat is equipped with such a system.
  • Page 35: Switches

    CONTROLS/INDICATORS SWITCHES Power Switch This switch activates the gauges, most of the other switches, and most boat systems. The power switch is the main supply switch to all boat systems except the trolling motor system. No systems will work when this is set to OFF. Bilge Switch The bilge switch activates the bilge pump, which eliminates excess water in the bilge.
  • Page 36: Circuit Breakers / Fuses

    CONTROLS/INDICATORS CIRCUIT BREAKERS / FUSES – ALL MODELS EXCEPT FX The main power supply at the battery, automatic bilge pump switches, and trolling motor systems is protected from current overloads by circuit breakers or fuse holders at their power supply or at the battery in the positive (+) lead.
  • Page 37: Boat Systems

    Typical Marine Battery Figure 5-1 FUEL SYSTEM Your Skeeter boat is equipped with an internal fuel system meeting current federal requirements. WARNING Leaking fuel is a fire and explosion hazard. Inspect system regularly. Examine fuel system for leaks or corrosion at least annually.
  • Page 38: Bilge

    BOAT SYSTEMS BILGE Bilge Pump Figure 5-2 A bilge pump is designed to remove excess water which may accumulate in the bilge area. Make sure the bilge pump is not blocked with debris and is in proper working order. Check the pump screen occasionally and monitor the stream from the bilge pump outlet.
  • Page 39 BOAT SYSTEMS Battery Connections See the manufacturer’s engine manual for battery requirements. Maintain the battery or batteries following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Disconnect all battery cables before servicing the boat, its electrical system, battery, or the outboards and make sure metal objects do not touch the battery posts. Figure 5-3 Figure 5-3 shows a typical 12-, 24-, and 36-volt connection.
  • Page 40 Never check your connections by running either of your outboards out of the water. Bow Light Your Skeeter boat is equipped with a bow light and a map light which can be turned on or off at the light. Press the button (1) to turn the map light off or on.
  • Page 41 Electric Trolling Motor See the electric trolling motor Operator’s Manual supplied in your owner’s kit for electric trolling motor operation and maintenance procedures. Many Skeeter models are pre-wired with an electric trolling motor panel with plug. Table Of Contents www.SkeeterBoats.com...
  • Page 42 Before Starting the Engine SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH MAY RESULT IF YOU IGNORE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: • Before operating your Skeeter boat, become familiar with all controls. Consult your Skeeter Dealer about any control or function you do not fully understand.
  • Page 43: Driving Your Skeeter Boat

    Boating with your new Skeeter boat can be a very enjoyable activity, providing you with hours of pleasure. But it is essential to familiarize yourself with the operation of the Skeeter boat to achieve the skill necessary to enjoy boating safely. Before operating this Skeeter boat, read this Owner’s Manual, the Owner’s Manual for your outboard motor, all Warning and Caution labels on the boat and motor,...
  • Page 44 OPERATION Docking 1. Make sure no obstructions, boats, or swimmers are close to the boat. Come to a stop before you reach the dock. 2. Notice how wind and water currents are affecting boat movement as you attach your mooring lines and fenders.
  • Page 45: Boat Trim

    10°, it can be very strong. Be prepared to steer and balance as necessary. BOAT TRIM Proper Distribution Getting To Know Your Boat Figure 6-2 The performance of your Skeeter boat depends on load weight and distribution. Distribute weight evenly, from bow to stern, and also from port to starboard. Improper Distribution After loading, the boat’s trim can...
  • Page 46: Safety Checklist

    Problems found during this inspection should be handled by your Skeeter Dealer. The following checks are essential to safe boating and must be performed before starting the engine.
  • Page 47: Maneuvering Techniques

    RUNNING Skeeter urges you and all others operating your 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 principles in this manual are limited to the facts related directly to the operation of your boat, while the responsibility for the proper application of these principles belongs to you.
  • Page 48: Anchoring

    PERFORMANCE BOATING Your Skeeter boat is a high-speed, high-performance boat. DO NOT be tempted to push your boat to its limits until you are completely familiar with its operating characteristics. We recommend that you never operate the boat without first having an initial orientation and familiarization/demonstration ride with your dealer or an operator experienced with the boat/outboard combination.
  • Page 49: Post-Operation Checks

    Leaving the boat in the water for extended periods will accelerate the rate of normal deterioration of the outboard motor and hull finish. Stray electrical voltage in the water, marine organisms, and saltwater corrosion are a few of the conditions that can adversely affect the life of many Skeeter boat components.
  • Page 50 A trailer is provided as standard equipment with your Skeeter boat. If you need to obtain another trailer, choose one that is manufactured to carry a boat of the size and weight of your Skeeter boat. Check the certification label on the left forward side of the trailer. This label is required to show the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is the load carrying capacity of the trailer plus the trailer’s weight.
  • Page 51 • Have a second person stand by to help direct you with hand signals. Launching As a courtesy to other boaters, prepare your Skeeter boat for launching before using the ramp. Each launch may have particular differences, such as ramp angle, prevailing wind, waves, and water currents.
  • Page 52 RUNNING WARNING Using too much throttle can cause the boat to jump over the front of the trailer which can result in injury to the boat operator and bystanders. Use only enough throttle to maneuver the boat into the correct position. 3.
  • Page 53 RUNNING CAUTION Avoid damage to outboard lower unit. Transom Savers must be properly fitted to trailer roller and secured to outboard lower unit. Outboard motor must have power tilt and trim for use of this product. Boat must be tied down to trailer during use.
  • Page 54: Repairs And Modifications

    In addition, DO NOT attempt to make repairs unless you are certified to do so, have the necessary authorized repair information, and use approved marine replacement parts. Your Skeeter Dealer is qualified to make such repairs, additions, or modifications to your boat that will not compromise safety, design integrity, or warranty coverage.
  • Page 55 CARE / MAINTENANCE Battery Periodically check the battery restraint system, making sure the battery is secured. WARNING • Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns. Wear protective clothing to avoid acid contact with your skin and eyes. Failure to do so could result in severe injury.
  • Page 56: Corrosion Protection

    The entire boat, outboard, and trailer should be rinsed with fresh water and washed immediately after use in salt water. If the boat is used primarily in salt water, wax the hull monthly and apply corrosion inhibitor to all hardware. See your Skeeter Dealer for products suitable for the marine salt water environment.
  • Page 57: General Maintenance

    Sunlight and dust can be your boat’s worst enemies. Keep your boat covered when not in use. A boat cover (option available from your Skeeter Dealer), preferably light in color, is a wise investment to help prevent damage while the boat is stored or on the road. DO NOT use sheet plastic or other nonporous materials, which can trap moisture between the cover and the boat’s surface.
  • Page 58 These seats and hardware should be periodically inspected for wear, tear, and/ or fatigue. If you notice these types of signs, please contact your Skeeter Dealer and have them replaced via the Skeeter Customer Service for a nominal fee.
  • Page 59 Having a solid connection between the motor and the boat is very important to prevent damaging structural integrity. Your Skeeter may be equipped with one or more of the following mounting systems. Check all mounting system bolts for the proper torque of 75 ft-lb (10.4 kg-m) every 6 months.
  • Page 60 CARE / MAINTENANCE Torgue Transfer System Bolts Figure 9-3 Jack Plate to Transom Bolts Figure 9-4 Table Of Contents www.SkeeterBoats.com...
  • Page 61 Have your Skeeter Dealer check for proper lubrication, any unusual backlash, and any component wear of the steering system at least once a year.
  • Page 62: Service / Maintenance Log

    CARE / MAINTENANCE SERVICE / MAINTENANCE LOG HOUR DATE SERVICE/REPAIRS PERFORMED READING Table Of Contents www.SkeeterBoats.com...
  • Page 63 TROUBLESHOOTING The following chart will assist you in finding and correcting minor problems with your Skeeter boat. See your outboard operator’s manual for any problem concerning the starting, shifting, or operation of the outboard. Some problems may require the skills of a trained technician and special service tools. Please contact your Skeeter Dealer for assistance.
  • Page 64: Preparing Boat For Storage

    STORAGE PREPARING BOAT FOR STORAGE Storage or winter lay-up requires special preparation to prevent damage to your boat. If the boat is stored in below freezing temperatures, water inside the boat and in the livewell systems may freeze causing damage. Damage to the boat due to improper storage will not be covered by the warranty. The following procedures should help prevent damage to your boat.
  • Page 65 Serious damage to the boat can occur. Use only a sling designed specifically for lifting boats. If you need to remove the Skeeter boat from the water without a trailer, use these guidelines: • Use a sling-type lifting mechanism designed for lifting boats. The sling should be covered with a protective material to prevent damage to the hull gelcoat.
  • Page 66 WARNING Read, understand, and follow the instructions for trailer ownership and use in the trailer owner’s manual included with your Skeeter owner’s package. 11-3 Table Of Contents www.SkeeterBoats.com...
  • Page 67: Glossary Of Terms

    GLOSSARY OF TERMS ABOARD – On or in the boat. ABYC – American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc. AFLOAT – On the water. AFT – Toward the rear or stern of the boat. AGROUND – Touching bottom. AMIDSHIP – Center or middle of the boat. ANCHOR –...
  • Page 68 GLOSSARY OF TERMS DOLLY WHEEL – A rolling jack assembly at the front of the trailer used for positioning the coupler during trailer hookup. DRAFT – The depth of the boat below the water line, measured vertically to the lowest part of the hull.
  • Page 69 GLOSSARY OF TERMS RULES OF THE ROAD – Regulations for preventing collisions on the water. SPEEDOMETER PICKUP TUBE – Also called pitot tube. The plastic device that extends below the bottom of the boat. It connects to the speedometer with plastic flexible tubing. SPLASHWELL –...
  • Page 70: Float Plan

    FLOAT PLAN Copy this page and fill out the copy before boating. Leave the filled out copy with a reliable person who can be depended upon to notify the USCG or other rescue organization, should you not return as scheduled. Do not file this plan with the USCG. Name __________________________________________Telephone ________________________ Description of Boat: Type__________________________Color____________________Trim ______________________...
  • Page 71: Limited Warranty

    If the repair requires the boat to be derigged and requires derigging, Skeeter Products will derig and rig the boat at a charge to the purchaser, which must be paid before the boat will be returned. After repair, the boat will be returned to the purchaser freight collect.
  • Page 72 Please Retain For Your Records DATE OF PURCHASE: ____________________________________________________________ SKEETER supports our country’s vast fisheries by promoting “catch and release,” and is committed to preserving the environment in our manufacturing practices. At SKEETER, we continually strive to improbe and enhance specifications without notice. Please confirm with your SKEETER dealer prior to purchase.

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