Boston Whaler 280 Dauntless, Owner'S Manual

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3-9
Chapter 3 • Systems Overview and Operation
R
280 Dauntless
compatible materials. This can lead to operational
problems or safety issues such as clogged filters,
leaks or engine damage.
This vessel was manufactured and shipped from the
factory with ethanol compatible materials. Before
introducing gasoline with ethanol into the fuel tank,
ask the dealer if any components have been added
or replaced that are not recommended by Boston
Whaler, Mercury, or may not be ethanol compatible.
It is best to maintain a full tank of fuel when the
vessel is not in use. This will reduce air flow in and
out of the tank due to changes in temperature as
well as limiting ethanol exposure to humidity and
condensation in the tank.
Phase Separation
Humidity and condensation create water in the fuel
tank which can adversely effect the ethanol blended
fuel. A condition called phase separation can occur
if water is drawn into the fuel beyond the saturation
point. The presence of water in the fuel beyond the
saturation level will cause most of the ethanol in the
fuel to separate from the bulk fuel and drop to the
bottom of the tank, significantly reducing the level
of ethanol in the fuel mixture in the upper level
(phase). If the lower level (phase), consisting of
water and ethanol, is deep enough to reach the fuel
inlet, it could be pumped directly to the engine(s)
and cause significant problems. Engine problems can
also result from the reduced ethanol/fuel mixture left
in the upper phase of the tank. There is no practical
additive that can prevent or correct phase separation.
The only solution is to keep water from accumulating
in the tank. If phase separation does occur, drain the
fuel, clean and dry the tank completely and refill
with fresh fuel.
Fuel/Water Separators
A fuel water separator (filter) is provided for the
engine. The addition of another in-line filter to the
system may create a possible flow restriction that can
starve the engine of fuel.
It is advisable to carry extra on-engine filters in case
filter plugging from debris in the fuel tank becomes
a problem during boating. Consult a Boston Whaler
dealer for recommendations regarding filters that
meet Mercury’s specifications.
For maintenance information refer to chapter 5,
Care
and Maintenance .
Fuel and Boat Storage
Long periods of storage and/or non-use, common to
boats, create unique problems. When preparing to
store a boat for a period of two months or more, it
is best to completely remove all fuel from the tank.
If not possible, fill tank and add fuel stabilizer per
manufacturer’s instructions. Maintaining a partially
full tank during storage is not recommended because
the void above the fuel allows air movement that can
introduce water through condensation.
VesselView
®
Mobile (Option)
If equipped, VesselView allows the operator to
receive critical operational information using the
VesselView cell-phone app. The VesselView system
continuously monitors and reports information
ranging from basic operating data to detailed vessel
environment information. It also includes:
• Maintenance reminders
• Mapping
• Performance summary
• Fault code diagnostics
REFER TO OWNER’S PACKET FOR COMPLETE
INSTRUCTIONS AND WARRANTY INFORMATION.
NOTICE
Carry spare filters onboard as contaminated fuel
can easily clog a filter.