Four winns 378 VISTA, Owner'S Manual

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378 Vista™ Owner’s Manual
Section S
Page 2
™
378
S - 2 FUELING
Do not smoke, extinguish all open flames, STOP
all engines and other devices that could cause
sparks, including the bilge blower. Do not use
electrical switches or accessories. Shut OFF
all stoves that may produce a spark or flame.
Close all openings into the cabin area of the
boat.
A. Recommendations
When fueling or having your boat fueled by an
attendant, be sure the waste pump-out or fresh
water fitting is not mistaken for the gas fill.
Although alcohol boosts the octane level of gasoline, it
also attacks the rubber fuel distribution lines and even
metal fuel system components. Alcohol will permeate
most fuel hoses and other components such as fuel
pump, gaskets and seals, and can also contribute to
fuel system contamination.
The hoses we use in our boats are alcohol-resistant as
are the materials used by the engine manufacturers. If
only fuel containing alcohol is available, or the pres-
ence of alcohol is unknown, you must perform more
frequent inspections for leaks and abnormalities. Any
sign of leakage or deterioration requires your immedi-
ate attention. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s rec-
ommendations on fuel type and octane ratings.
B. Preliminary Guidelines
1. Safely secure your boat to the dock.
2. Close all hatches, windows, doors and compart-
ments to prevent accumulation of fuel vapors.
3. Ensure that a fire extinguisher is readily available.
4. Do not store fuel in areas that are not adequately
ventilated.
5. Use only fuel lubricants recommended by the en-
gine manufacturer.
C. Pumping Fuel
Follow engine manufacturer’s recommendations
for types of fuel and oil. Use of improper prod-
ucts can damage the engine and void the war-
ranty.
1. Be sure to fuel in a well-lit area gasoline spills are
unnoticeable under poor lighting or in the dark.
2. Remove the gas fill cover.
3. Insert the fuel supply nozzle, keeping it in contact
with the fuel fill plate to guard against static pro-
duced sparks.
4. Stand away from the fuel tank vent and gas fill dur-
ing fueling. Splashback may occur and can be an
eye irritant and/or a fire hazard.
5. Avoid spillage. Wipe up any excess fuel immedi-
ately.
6. After pumping approximately 10 gallons of fuel into
the fuel tank, inspect the engine and fuel tank area
for any signs of leakage. If no leaks or other prob-
lems are detected, resume fueling.
7. Allow space at the top of the tank for thermal ex-
pansion.
8. If fuel cannot be pumped in at a reasonable rate,
check for fuel vent blockage or a kink in the line.
D. After Fueling
1. Replace the gas fill cover and wipe up any fuel
spilled. Discard rags used in a safe place ashore.
2. Open the engine compartment and all hatches, win-
dows, doors and other compartments that were
closed during fueling. Inspect these areas for the
odor of fuel vapors and visible fuel leakage.
Investigate and correct any sign of fuel leak-
age or indication of vapors before starting en-
gine. Do not run blower or operate any electri-
cal switch until problem is corrected. Fire or
explosion may result.