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Fill in the information below and keep a copy of it in a safe place. Hull Date Purchased Dealer/Phone Ignition Key Number Registration Number/State Engine(s) Model # Serial # Trailer Model # Serial # Accessory 1 Model # Serial # Accessory 2 Model # Serial # Accessory 3 Model # Serial # Scout Boats...
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Introduction BOATING TERMINOLOGY LENGTH OVERALL (LOA) PORT SIDE STARBOARD SIDE HELM TRANSOM FORWARD GUNWALE STERN WATERLINE FREEBOARD DRAFT 240-001 * An easy way to remember PORT side from STARBOARD side is “PORT” and “LEFT” both have four letters. Scout Boats...
Before boating, check with Local, State and Federal authorities to identify restricted areas. Because of the threat of terrorism, the U.S. Coast Guard has and will continue to implement strict limits on watercraft near U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships and other potential targets. Scout Boats...
Water Safety, First Aid, and CPR. To find boating safety courses in your area, call your state’s local boating agency or the Coast Guard boating safety Courseline at 1-800-336-2628 (1-800-245-2628 in Virginia), United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, www.cgaux.org and United States Power Squadrons, 1-888-FOR-USPS, www. usps.org. Scout Boats...
PFDs. Also, selecting the proper type PFD for your kind of outing helps ensure your time on the water can be the safest possible. There are four types of PFDs to wear and one type used for throwing in emergency situations. Scout Boats...
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Make sure the PFD fits properly; this is ● especially important for children and non- swimmers. At the beginning of each season, check PFDs for ● damage and test for proper flotation. TYPE V HYBRID PFD MUST BE WORN WHEN UNDERWAY KC-0043 Scout Boats...
Verify that the fire 240-002 has been extinguished. If so, check damage and get assistance immediately. If not, get out and swim at least 23 meters (25 yards) upwind from the boat and use the visual distress signals to get assistance. Scout Boats...
Before starting out on your boat, 240-003 you must listen to the current forecast, and plan a way to receive warnings and weather advisories while underway. Scout Boats...
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Chapter 1 Every six hours the National Weather Service issues marine forecasts for coastal ares of the U.S. , for offshore water and the high seas. Each forecast covers a different coastal area. It contains a summary of the weather patterns in and around the area, plus a prediction of winds, seas, weather and visibility.
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Gale Warning - Sustained winds (2 or more hours), of 34- 47 knots. Storm Warning - Sustained winds of 48 knots or greater. Hurricane Warning - Forecast winds of 64 knots and above. Displayed only in connection with a hurricane. KC-0371 Scout Boats...
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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. 1-10 Scout Boats...
KC-0260 KC-0250 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. 1-11 Scout Boats...
CO may still be present in accommodation spaces under certain conditions. To reduce CO accumulation, always ventilate the boat interior KC-5032 by opening the deck hatches, windows or canvas to provide adequate ventilation. 1-12 Scout Boats...
OPERATION BY MINORS Minors must always be supervised by an adult whenever operating a boat. Many states have laws regarding the minimum age and licensing requirements of minors. Be sure to contact the state boating authorities for information. 1-13 Scout Boats...
Coast Guard and state/county/local regulations. WARNING Read and understand this manual and the engine operator’s manual, and be sure that you understand all controls and operating instructions before attempting to operate the boat. Improper operation can be extremely hazardous. 1-14 Scout Boats...
DO NOT stand or allow passengers to stand in the boat, or sit on ● the transom, seat backs, engine cover, or sides of the boat while the engine is running. You or others may be thrown from the boat. 1-15 Scout Boats...
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Seek shelter from open water if there is a threat of lightening. ● Operate slowly in congested areas such as marinas and mooring areas. The bow may be slippery. Do not go forward while the engine is ● running. 1-16 Scout Boats...
Do not perform water sports in congested areas. ● Stay away from navigation markers. ● Stay away from other boats and water sports participants. Return immediately to a fallen water sport participant. ● Regularly inspect water sport equipment to ensure it is safe. ● 1-17 Scout Boats...
● DO NOT put your arm, head, or any other part of your body through the handle-bridle of the ski line nor wrap the line around any part of the body at any time. 1-18 Scout Boats...
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Be sure the engine is OFF. The operator should always keep the skier in view when the skier ● is entering or exiting the boat. Communicate skiing speed with the skier before starting. ● Scout Boats 1-19...
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Be sure to approach a downed skier on the operator’s side, always keeping the skier in view. ● Display a skier down flag whenever the skier is in the water and not skiing. ● Be sure to follow the approved towing pattern on each lake. 1-20 Scout Boats...
Carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous gases. It impairs and can often lead to death. It is important to the Coast Guard that it be avoided in every circumstance. 1-21 Scout Boats...
Don’t put anything in the water you wouldn’t want to eat or drink! Conserve Fishery Resources There is a tremendous drain on our fishery resources. Over-fishing and pollution have strained the fish population. Do your part by keeping only what you will eat by practicing catch-and-release. 1-22 Scout Boats...
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Noise means engine noise, radio noise or even yelling. Many bodies of water have adopted noise limits. Don’t use thru-transom exhaust unless you’re well off shore. Music and loud conversation can carry a considerable distance on water, especially at night. 1-23 Scout Boats...
DO NOT use products which contain phosphates, chlorine, solvents, non-biodegradable or petroleum based products. Citrus based cleaners are excellent for marine cleaning purposes and are safe for you and the environment. Refer to MAINTENANCE for more information. 1-24 Scout Boats...
Learn to recognize the different buoys and day markers; they are the signposts of the waterways. The United States Aids to Navigation System (USATONS) is the primary marking system used on inland water, coastal waters and rivers. This system is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Scout Boats...
Mooring Buoys The only buoys you are permitted to moor to are mooring buoys. Mooring buoys are white with a blue horizontal stripe. Mooring to a navigation buoy, regulatory markers, or lateral markers is illegal. KC-1901_2C Scout Boats...
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Regulatory markers are white with orange geometric shapes and also have orange bands near the top and at the water line of the buoy. You must obey regulatory markers. CONTROLLED DANGER BOATS INFORMATION AREA KEEP OUT = ORANGE KC-1903_bw Scout Boats...
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Can Buoy Lateral Aids Marking = Green the Sides of Channels as seen When Entering RED LIGHT ONLY From Seaward Flashing (2) Quick Flashing Flashing Occulting Starboard Side Even Numbers Daymark Nun Buoy Lighted Buoy = Red KC-1904_bw Scout Boats...
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Obstructions, channel junctions, etc. are marked with RED and GREEN horizontally striped buoys. A RED band at the top means the preferred channel is to the left of the buoy; a GREEN top band means the preferred channel is to the right of the buoy. Scout Boats...
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On inland waters, a buoy with alternating vertical black and white stripes may be used to indicate that an obstruction or other danger exists between the buoy and the nearest shore. DO NOT pass between the buoy and the shore. BLACK-STRIPED WHITE BUOY KC-1902 Scout Boats...
It must hold BURDENED course and speed. The VESSEL burdened boat keeps clear and passes behind the privileged boat. Boats going up and down a river have the privilege over boats crossing the river. 4 O'CLOCK 240-004 Scout Boats...
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HONK HONK HONK HONK PASSING PORT TO PORT PASSING STARBOARD TO STARBOARD MEETING HEAD TO HEAD 240-005 Scout Boats...
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A green light indicates the starboard side of a boat and a red light indicates the port side. Generally if you see a green light, you have the right-of-way; if you see a red light, give way to the vessel. Scout Boats...
Powered systems consist of a blower which “pulls” air out from the engine compartment and bilge area; one or more vents allow fresh air in. Natural systems have both intake and exhaust vents; as the boat moves, air is forced into the intake and escapes through the exhaust vents. Scout Boats...
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Stern drive engines, like automobile engines, use a continuous loop lubrication system that must be periodically serviced. Consult the engine operator’s manual for oil recommendations. Scout Boats...
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WATER INTAKE KC-2351 CAUTION Never run the engine with the lower unit water intake trimmed above the water line. A constant stream of water must be present at the check port while running or engine damage will occur. Scout Boats...
Improperly maintained controls are hazardous and may cause sudden loss of control. Make sure all steering and shift/throttle hardware, cables and fluid levels are regularly inspected and maintained. Improper maintenance may result in a loss of control, resulting in serious injury or death. Scout Boats...
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B. Forward Position - Press release button under handle to allow shifting to forward (or reverse) position. C. Reverse Position - Do not shift quickly from forward to reverse. D. Throttle Position - Pushing in forward or pulling in reverse increases engine speed. KC-0620.1 Scout Boats...
When not using the boat, keep this switch in the OFF position. Fuel Gauge Switch – Allows you to check the amount of fuel in the fuel tank when the navigation lights are OFF or the ignition switch is OFF. Scout Boats...
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One battery selector switch, one on/off or selector switch, two alternators, one isolator, two batteries – In the example, the isolator separates both alternators so both batteries will charge simultaneously, automatically charges lowest battery first. Both batteries can be used for start or accessory source. Scout Boats...
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Trim Switch – If your engine is equipped with power trim and tilt, this switch activates that function. Push and hold the switch until the engine TYPICAL is at the desired angle. Use this switch in TRIM combination with the trim gauge. SWITCH KC-0931 Scout Boats...
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Once a month: Check switch for proper operation. With engine running, pull lanyard. If engine does not stop, see your DEALER for replacement of switch. NOTICE The engine will not start unless the engine stop switch lanyard is attached. Scout Boats...
On models with a permanent fuel tank, this gauge / 1 2 registers approximate fuel level in the gas tank. The Ignition switch must be in the RUN position or the Fuel Gauge switch ON to activate the gauge. FUEL KC-0720 3-10 Scout Boats...
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Consult the engine manual for the normal operating range. KC-0760 C x 10 Engine Water Temperature Gauge 10 15 F x 10 Indicates the water/coolant temperature inside the engine. Consult the engine manual for the normal TEMP operating range. KC-0770 3-11 Scout Boats...
IMMEDIATELY check the gauges and stop the engine. On some models, the horn may emit a short chirping sound during starting to verify operation. CAUTION Continued operation after the warning alarm has sounded may cause severe engine damage. 3-12 Scout Boats...
Always stop the engine and never smoke or allow open flames or sparks within 15 m (50 ft.) of the fueling area. CAUTION To prevent unwarranted engine damage, consult your engine operator’s manual for manufacturer recommended fuel/oil ratios and mixing specifications. Scout Boats...
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. If you need assistance, consult your dealer. Scout Boats...
Follow these guidelines when shifting your boat: Pause in neutral before shifting from forward to reverse, or reverse to ● forward. ● Avoid shifting into reverse while the boat is traveling forward at speed. ● Keep the shifter control clean and clear of obstructions. Scout Boats...
Practice steering your boat. Make sure that the steering system is working correctly and is properly maintained. Follow these guidelines to keep your boat handling well: Keep the cable end clear of obstructions such as wiring, control cables, ● fuel lines, tow lines and mooring lines. Scout Boats...
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Invariably, the compensation will result in oversteer and only worsen the effect. Keep the steering wheel in the center position, the boat will wander back and forth somewhat, but the overall course will be a straight one. Scout Boats...
If you must approach the dock downwind or down current, use a slow speed and shallow angle. Be ready to reverse to stop and maintain position. Scout Boats...
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When the stern moves away from the dock, turn the engine away from ● the dock. Cast off bow line and back away. ● If the wind or current is pushing away from the dock, cast off all lines and allow to drift until you are clear. Scout Boats...
Distribute weight evenly, from bow to stern, and also from port to starboard. After loading, the boat’s trim can be adjusted by changing the engine trim angle. PROPER DISTRIBUTION KC-1262 IMPROPER DISTRIBUTION (BOW HEAVY) KC-1272 IMPROPER DISTRIBUTION (STARBOARD HEAVY) KC-1282 Scout Boats...
If the engine is trimmed out too far (away from the boat bottom), steering torque may increase, the boat may be difficult to get on a plane, and may bounce. TRIM CORRECT TRIM IN TOO FAR TRIM OUT TOO FAR 240-008 Scout Boats...
Using trim tabs in conjunction with the power trim will compensate for uneven weight distribution, listing, water conditions, and other factors that cause inefficient operation. Remember that trim tabs are trimming the hull while power trim is trimming the engine drive. 4-10 Scout Boats...
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To use the trim tabs with the power trim: 1. Adjust the trim tabs to achieve a planing attitude. 2. Use the power trim to position the prop path parallel to the waterflow. EXCESSIVE UNTRIMMED SPRAY “DIGGING” 4-11 Scout Boats...
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4. Do not overtrim because bow will dig in, causing the boat to veer. 5. To avoid listing, do not move one tab significantly further down than the other while underway. WARNING Improper use of trim tabs at high speeds can cause an accident or injury. 4-12 Scout Boats...
DO NOT launch the boat if any problem is found during the Safety Check. A problem could lead to an accident during the outing causing severe injury or death. Have any problem attended to immediately; see your dealer. Scout Boats...
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. Scout Boats...
In adverse weather, reduce the load in the boat. People/load capacity ● ratings are based upon normal boating conditions. Do not use the engine unit as a boarding ramp. Make sure engine is off ● when swimmers, divers, and skiers are boarding to prevent injury. Scout Boats...
Overloading causes handling to become sluggish, making it difficult to react quickly. Overpowering on outboard-powered craft is extremely dangerous. Overpowering will make the boat unstable and could cause loss of control. Scout Boats...
Since both thrust and steering are at the stern of the boat, the stern will push away from the direction of the turn. The bow follows a smaller turning circle than the stern. KC-1473 Scout Boats...
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Practice using the throttles to control the boat. You should try these ● maneuvers in open water before attempting them near docks or other boats. It is best to learn maneuvering skills in open water away from traffic. Adequate practice is the only way to develop your boating skills. Scout Boats...
Wrap the bridle with chafing gear where it rubs against the boat or any corners. Leave at least 2 boat lengths between the boats for adequate movement. STERN EYES TOW LINE 240-012 Scout Boats...
KC-1571 WARNING Always anchor from the bow; NEVER anchor from the stern. A small amount of current will make the boat unsteady…a strong current can pull a boat, anchored by the stern, under water and keep it there. Scout Boats...
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If the anchor remains stuck, let out a few more feet of line and attach it to the bow cleat. Slowly maneuver the boat around the anchor until the anchor pulls loose. Be sure to keep the line tight during this procedure. Scout Boats...
Engine RPM must be within the recommended operating range. Refer to the engine operator’s manual. Higher propeller pitch reduces: RPM, acceleration, engine noise, and ● usually improves fuel economy and top speed. ● Lower propeller pitch increases: RPM, acceleration, engine noise, reduces fuel economy and top speed. Scout Boats...
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Problems associated with propellers include ventilation, cavitation, and blow-out. These problems have similar symptoms and are best diagnosed by an expert. If you think you have a propeller related problem, consult your dealer. Scout Boats...
ELECTRICAL Battery WARNING Batteries contain sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns. Wear protective clothing to avoid acid contact with skin, eyes, etc. Failure to observe this warning could result in severe injury. Scout Boats...
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All electrical circuits are protected from overload by the use of fuses or circuit breakers. In the event of an overload or short circuit, the fuse will blow or circuit breaker will trip. If a circuit continuously overloads under normal operating conditions, have your boat inspected by the dealer immediately. Scout Boats...
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Some installed accessories, TYPICAL IN-LINE FUSE HOLDER such as the stereo, have an additional fuse located in the positive lead of the stereo. Some in-line fuse holders can (TWIST AND PULL TO OPEN) be found near the battery. KC-1640 Scout Boats...
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Water temperature sender to gauge Pink (Pk) Fuel gauge Fuel gauge sender to gauge Green/stripe (G/x) Tilt down and/or trim in Tilt and/or trim circuits (Except G/Y) Blue/stripe (Bl/x) Tilt up and/or trim out Tilt and/or trim circuits Scout Boats...
Flush the entire engine cooling system with fresh water for at least 5 minutes after use in these waters. See your dealer for appropriate flushing devices. Scout Boats...
After the scratched, stained or weathered surface has been removed, it should be waxed to enhance the gloss and color while providing a seal to retard staining or new soil accumulation. Scout Boats...
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It is better to apply slightly more patch than absolutely necessary to avoid having to fill the damaged spot a second time. • Allow to harden thoroughly for two to three hours. Scout Boats...
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Whenever cleaning stubborn stains, be sure to test the treatment in an unseen area first. The following stain treatments should be used with discretion. Between steps, be sure to rinse thoroughly with plenty of clean water and allow to dry. Scout Boats...
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Remove rust spots as soon as possible; irreversible pitting will develop under rust left on stainless for any period of time. In salt water areas, rinse all hardware with fresh water and apply a light coating of automotive wax or corrosion inhibitor oil to enhance appearance. Scout Boats...
1. Shut down engine, remove ignition key and disconnect engine stop switch. DANGER Gasoline is extremely flammable and highly explosive under certain conditions. Always stop the engine and never smoke or allow open flames or sparks within 15 m (50 ft.) of the fueling area. 7-10 Scout Boats...
Turn the steering wheel to a full starboard turn to expose the bar. Use a high quality waterproof marine grease and fully coat the bar. Turn the steering wheel back and forth to work the grease in. 7-11 Scout Boats...
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Hydraulic and power-assisted systems must also be inspected. Make sure hydraulic hoses are tight and leak-free. Cylinder seals should be checked for dampness indicating leakage. Check the fluid reservoir monthly and top- off if necessary. Consult the steering system manufacturer’s manual for more information. 7-12 Scout Boats...
● Weak battery ● Loose or corroded battery wiring connections Engine problem ● Engine cranks ● No fuel in tank but will not start ● Water separator clogged ● Fuel filter clogged Contaminated fuel ● Engine problem ● Scout Boats...
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Kink in cable ● ● Engine problem Excessive vibration Propeller damaged or fouled ● Bent propeller shaft ● Engine problem ● Electrical problems ● Blown fuse or open circuit ● Loose wiring connections Defective switch or gauge ● Scout Boats...
NOTICE Remove the bilge drain plug immediately after taking the boat out of the water. After washing, raise the bow of the boat high to allow as much water as possible to drain while performing other storage preparations. Scout Boats...
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See your dealer. ● Loosen tie-downs and winch line but be sure the boat is resting properly on hull supports. Jack up trailer and place blocks under trailer frame to relieve weight on ● trailer tires and springs. Scout Boats...
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15 seconds of cranking. When the engine starts, keep a close watch over the gauge readings and check for leakage and abnormal noises. Keep speeds low for the first 15 minutes until the engine has reached normal operating temperature. Scout Boats...
Attach guide lines to the bow and stern to control movement. ● ● Use spreader bars and keep lifting pressure vertical to prevent side load damage. Keep the bow slightly higher than the stern to prevent engine damage. ● Scout Boats...
Trailer laws on things such as lighting, registration, trailer brakes, gross vehicle weight, etc., vary widely from state to state. Contact your state Department of Motor Vehicles (and that of other states through which you may be traveling) for laws with which you must be in compliance. 10-1 Scout Boats...
Rig the chains as tight BOTTOM VIEW OF HITCH COUPLING as possible with just enough KC-1691 slack to permit tight turns. Make sure the proper chains are correctly attached between the towing vehicle and trailer before and during each trip. 10-2 Scout Boats...
Consult your trailer manufacturer’s owner’s manual for more information on operation and adjustments. BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR FILLER CAP HAND WHEEL WHEEL LOCK SURGE BRAKE CABLE KC-1680 10-3 Scout Boats...
Chapter 10 TRAILERING CHECKLIST Below is a checklist to follow when trailering your boat: Consult your state laws as to brake and axle load requirements. Check brakes for proper operation and fluid level prior to departure on each trip. Check springs and undercarriage for loose parts. Check tires for proper inflation.
BACKING TO LEFT opposite direction you want the trailer to go. After the trailer begins mov ing, ● FOLLOWING THRU TURN turn the car to follow it. Have a second person assist ● you with hand signals. 240-016 10-5 Scout Boats...
“bursts” of propeller thrust to move towards the trailer at the slowest steerable speed. Guide the boat onto the support bunks. 3. Check to see that the boat is centered on the support rails and is headed in a straight line for the bow stop (bumper board). 10-6 Scout Boats...
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Winching the boat onto the trailer could cause severe injury. 5. Attach and tighten the winch bow strap. 6. Pull the trailer up the ramp and attach any additional tie-downs and connect the trailer light harness. 7. Pull drain plugs. 10-7 Scout Boats...
ON. The water level will be maintained to the height of the overflow. To empty the livewell; turn OFF livewell pump and remove the drain plug. 11-1 Scout Boats...
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240-018 Livewell Pump Switch - Switches the livewell pump ON and OFF. Some models may have an automatic setting which varies the on/off time cycle; the time cycle is approximately one minute ON and three minutes OFF. 11-2 Scout Boats...
ACCESSORY MOUNTING All models are equipped with specific areas of the deck reinforced for the addition of accessories, such as down riggers. Before mounting any accessories in your boat, be sure to consult with your dealer. 11-3 Scout Boats...
OUT TO SINK OR WASHDOWN OUTLET FRESH WATER WATER IN FROM IN FROM FRESH RAW WATER WATER PICK-UP TANK AERATOR PUMP HOSE TO LIVEWELL OUT TO PUMP CHECK VALVE DUAL HIGH SPEED HULL OF SEACOCK PICK-UP BOAT 240-017 11-4 Scout Boats...
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For this reason, only one outlet can be supplied with water at a time. To operate the raw water system: ● Open seacock ● Adjust flow control valve (if equipped) ● Turn raw water pump “ON” 11-5 Scout Boats...
Some models were not designed for the additional transom stress and may require reinforcement. Also, since the center of gravity is moved aft with the bracket installed, the boat may ride at a bow high attitude. 11-6 Scout Boats...
DRAFT – The depth of the boat below the water line, measured vertically to the lowest part of the hull. ELECTROLYSIS – The break-up of metals due to the effects of galvanic corrosion. FATHOM – Unit of depth or measure; 1 fathom equals 6 feet. 12-1 Scout Boats...
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WATERWAY – A navigable body of water. V-PAD – A modified vee hull design with a small, flat area in the keel aft. VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNAL – A device used to signal the need for assistance such as flags, lights and flares. 12-2 Scout Boats...
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S.O.S. SAVE OUR SEAS Scout Boats has made a commitment to quality since the very beginning. More importantly we’ve also made a commitment to saving our natural resources. Our boating and fishing waters are beautiful but often abused and neglected. With care, we can turn the tide in favor of preserving our shining seas for generations to come.
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