Four winns 358 VISTA, Owner'S Manual

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Owner’s Manual Page 21 Operation - Section A
DO NOT shift from forward to reverse when
the boat is planing.
NOTICE
DO NOT shift if engine speed is above 800
RPM.
4. To go from FORWARD to REVERSE, or
REVERSE to FORWARD; always pause at
NEUTRAL and allow engine speed to return
to idle.
5. After shifting is completed, slowly push throttle
lever(s) forward/rearward until desired speed
is achieved.
Any time the boat is operated, be aware of
changes in shift system operation. A sudden
increase in shift effort of the shifter levers, or
other abnormal operation, indicates a possible
problem in the shift system. If this occurs, the
following precautions must be taken:
• With engine running and boat securely
tied to the dock, shift drive into forward
and reverse to ensure there is gear
engagement.
• When docking the boat, all docking
maneuvers must be performed at slow
speed. Pay special attention to other
boaters. Passengers should be
informed of potential problems and
precautions taken.
If you suspect there is a problem, see your engine
manufacturer’s authorized service center as soon as
possible for proper diagnosis and required service or
adjustment. Continued operation could result in
damage to the shift mechanism and loss of control.
E. Stopping Engine
1. Move shifter lever(s) to the NEUTRAL position.
Place throttle levers (if applicable) in idle position.
2. Turn ignition key to the OFF position.
NOTICE
DO NOT stop engine at speeds above idle or
“speed up” engine while turning off ignition.
Engine damage could result.
A - 10 GROUNDING AND TOWING
If the boat should become disabled, or if
assisting another craft that is dis abled, great
care must be taken. The stress applied to a
boat during towing may be come excessive.
Excessive stress can damage the structure of
the boat and create a safety hazard for those
aboard.
Four Winns
®
boats are not designed nor intended to
be used as a towing vessel. The mooring cleats on
Four Winns
®
boats are not designed or intended to be
used for towing purposes. These cleats are specifi -
cally designed as mooring cleats for secur ing the boat
to a dock, pier, etc. DO NOT use these fittings for
towing or attempting to free a grounded vessel.
Freeing a grounded vessel or towing a boat that is
disabled requires specialized equipment and knowl-
edge. Line failure and structural damage caused
by improper towing have resulted in fatal injuries.
Because of this, Four Winns strongly suggests that
these activities be left to those who have the equip-
ment and knowledge such as the US Coast Guard
or Sea Tow
®
, to safely accomplish the towing task.
Running aground can cause serious dam age
to a boat and associated underwater gear. If
the boat should become ground ed, distribute
personal flotation devices and inspect the boat
for possible damage. Thoroughly inspect the
bilge area for signs of leakage. An experi enced
service facility should check the hull and
under water gear at the first opportunity. DO
NOT continue to use the boat if the condi tion
of the hull or underwater equipment is
ques tionable.