2013 Chaparral H2O Owner’s Manual
Chaparral Boats, Inc.
Nashville, GA
chaparralboats.com
5-7
OPERATING YOUR BOAT
Starting the Engine
Important: Falls from moving boats are a major cause of fatal rec-
reational boating accidents. Do not allow passengers to ride on the
bow with feet hanging over the side or ride while sitting on the stern,
gunwales, or seat backs. The Coast Guard considers these acts to
be negligent or grossly negligent operation and prohibits them by
law.
The following information is only a general guide. Chapter 4 has specifi c
starting instructions for boats with battery selector switches. Detailed in-
structions are also in the engine owner’s manual. Be sure to read and
follow all of those instructions.
1. Secure boat to the dock or mooring slip before attempting to start en-
gine. Keep boat secure until engine is running and warmed up.
2. Check lubricating fl uid levels. Check fuel supply to make sure you have
enough fuel for your planned excursion.
3. To prevent an explosion or fi re, look for leaks in fuel, oil, coolant, ex-
haust, and power steering systems. Be aware of any odors of these
fl uids.
4. Make sure the throttle is in the neutral position.
5. Start the engine. Refer to your engine owner’s manual for recommend-
ed procedures for break-in, service, and other related operation.
6. Turn ignition key to START. Release key and allow to return to RUN af-
ter engine starts. If engine fails to start, wait one minute. Move throttle
only once to maximum position then back to the neutral position. Try
to start engine again.
Note: Transmission must be in neutral position before engine will
turn over.
Important: Do not operate starter continuously for more than 15
seconds without pausing. Allow starter to cool at least three min-
utes between start attempts.
7. Warm up a cold engine by running it at fast idle speed (as recom-
mended in engine manual) approximately one to two minutes.
Leaving the Dock
After the engine has warmed up, you are ready to leave the dock. Be-
fore you cast off, check all gauges, particularly the oil pressure gauge,
for proper readings. Check the operation of the steering by turning the
steering wheel to full port and to full starboard while observing outdrive
movement. Check that charging system is working properly. Check again
for fuel, oil, and exhaust leaks.
When you are sure your boat is ready, check wind, tide, current or other
forces that will affect the way you maneuver your boat away from the
dock. Then cast off mooring lines and stow fenders.
DANGER
: Gasoline vapors are highly explosive. Run bilge blower
for at least 4 minutes before starting engine. Check engine and
fuel compartments for fumes or accumulation of fuel
DANGER: Carbon Monoxide Hazard!
A cold engine produces
more carbon monoxide than a warm engine. Provide adequte
ventilation in the cabin and cockpit to prevent exposure and reduce
the possibility of carbon monoxide accumulation. Open all hatches,
doors, windows, and side vents to increase air movement.
