OPERATION | 72
Follow these guidelines when docking: • Approach docks slowly with the starboard side of the boat if possible.
STARTING • Run the blower for at least four minutes before starting the engine. If you
• Come to a stop a short distance from the dock, then proceed slowly.
smell gasoline fumes, do not start the engine. Continue to run the blower until
• Have fenders, mooring lines and crew ready.
fumes have dissipated.
• Observe how the wind and current are moving your boat. Approach the dock with the boat pointed into the wind, if possible. If the wind or current is
DANGER
pushing you away from the dock, use a sharper angle of approach. If you must approach the dock downwind or down current, use a slow speed and shallow
GASOLINE VAPORS CAN EXPLODE
angle. Be ready to reverse to stop and maintain position. • If there is no wind or current, approach the dock at a 10- to 20-degree angle.
RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURY
• If possible, throw a line to a person on the dock and have that person secure
OR DEATH
• Before starting engine, check the
a bow line.
engine compartment for gasoline or
• With the bow secure, swing the stern in with the engine, or pull it in with
gasoline vapors, then run blower for
a boat hook.
4 minutes. • Run blower at idle or below cruising
If the boat is to be moored for a long period of time, use chafing protectors on lines to protect the gelcoat finish. Leave slack in the lines to allow for some wave
speed and after stopping to clear
movement or tidal action if applicable.
vapors from engine compartment.
Follow these guidelines when departing: • Very slowly shift into forward at idle speed. • When the stern moves away from the dock, turn the engine away from the dock. • Cast off bow line and back away.
• Make sure the Saltwater Flush Kit shut-off valve (if equipped) and seacock on water pickup are open (handle in-line [OPEN] with hose, not perpendicular [CLOSED]). • Make sure the emergency stop switch is attached to the switch and the lanyard is attached to the operator.
If the wind or current is pushing away from the dock, cast off all lines and allow
• Make sure the shifter/throttle control handle is in NEUTRAL.
to drift until you are clear.
• Turn the key clockwise to the START position. After the motor starts, release the key. • Push shifter/throttle control handle forward to go forward, pull back for reverse. Always pause in NEUTRAL before going into REVERSE to avoid taking water in over the transom.
