Axis Wake Research A20, Owner'S Manual

Page: 111 / 137

BEFORE STARTING
THE ENGINE
Raw water from the lake/river/sea is drawn into the boat to
cool the engine and drive train. Even in closed cooling systems,
it is necessary to circulate water in part of the system. To protect
the system, a sea strainer is installed near the raw water intake
and serves the purpose of keeping debris from entering the
cooling system and causing eventual engine failure. As with any
kind of strainer, it is necessary to regularly clean it so that water
can flow unimpeded.
When operating the boat in “dirty” water that is brackish
or has a noticeable degree of weeds and other flora, it may
be necessary to clean out the strainer in boats equipped with
sea strainers even during an outing. Pay close attention to
the engine temperature, which appears on a gauge. (See the
Instrument Panel and Gauges section of this Owner’s Manual
for more information.) An overheating engine is probably due to
inadequate water flow.
Continuing to operate a
boat that is overheating
the engine and drive train
will result in engine failure
eventually. Boat operators should routinely review
the engine temperature information provided on the
gauge on the instrument panel. Ignoring or failing to
take proper steps to reduce the engine temperature,
resulting in damage, is not covered under the warranty.
Leave the engine OFF.
To inspect the sea strainer, open the engine compartment. Note the sea strainer’s appearance as
shown in the accompanying photo. The sea strainer will be located in different places, depending on the
boat model. (If you cannot locate the sea strainer, ask for assistance from your authorized Axis dealer. This
step is critical and cannot be overlooked.)
Open and lift the cover to expose the filter.
Remove the filter and examine for any debris that has accumulated within it. When necessary, clean
out the filter and then reinstall it in the housing. Hand tighten the lid so that water will not leak out and
into the engine compartment.
If it is necessary to check the sea strainer during an outing, turn OFF the engine first and then close
the valve on the water pickup feeding the sea strainer. Make sure you open the valve prior to running the
engine; otherwise, it will overheat. Whenever the engine is running, water is being drawn in and you will
not be able to inspect the sea strainer.
Because batteries contain fluid that is caustic and potentially dangerous to skin and body parts, boat
operators need to ensure that the batteries are securely in place. Also, if the connections are loose,
erroneous readings may be sent to the boat system, which can cause running and functionality problems.
To avoid becoming stranded during an outing, it is important to have accurate voltage readings throughout
the period of time the boat is in use.
To check the batteries, be sure the engine is OFF.
Locate the batteries. While they will be in different places depending on the boat model, usually they are
found under the observer seat. Check your Quick Reference Guide in this Owner’s Manual to determine the
location.
If the posts show signs of corrosion or other debris, remove the battery and clean carefully. To do so,
follow these steps:
INSPECT
THE SEA
STRAINER
2016 Axis Wake Research Owner’s Manual . . . Page 4-10
CHECK THE
BATTERY
HOLDERS
AND THE
CONNECTIONS