Malibu Boats 21 VLX, Owner'S Manual

Page: 228 / 309

malibu
fuel
system
All Malibu models are equipped with the most up-to-date fueling system
available in the marine industry. The boats feature pump-in-tank (PIT) fuel
systems, which means the fuel pump is located securely inside the fuel
tank rather than at the engine. There are many benefits to the PIT system,
most significantly in the prevention of vapor lock and improved filtration of
contaminants.
To maximize the benefit of this type of fuel pump, the entire system is
under high pressure. That means that access to the pump and fuel filter is only
through fuel lines with a significant pounds-per-square-inch (PSI) pressure
to ensure proper operation. As such, no one can or should ever attempt to
access any portion of the fuel system without proper training and proper
equipment. The fuel lines are covered in orange “fire-sleeve” protective
covering so that they are easily identifiable, and consumers should
always avoid these lines, unless it is noted that one is squeezed or
pinched. If it is possible to alleviate this situation safely, then do so. The
preferable method, however, is to have an authorized Malibu dealer’s trained
service technician do so and verify that no damage has been done to the line
or other equipment.
Normally, if there is any issue arising from damage or leakage in the
fuel system a strong odor of gasoline will be present and signifies that the
engine should not be started due to the danger of explosion from fumes.
Even in the absence of a gasoline odor, owners and operators should always
visually check the fuel system prior to operation, as directed in the Care and
Maintenance section of this Owner’s Manual.
The fuel system, including the fuel lines,
filter and pump, should never be serviced by
any person other than an authorized Malibu
dealer’s trained service technician. Special
tools and training are required to safely service the fuel system on all
models. When opened or penetrated, the high-pressure lines can cause
serious injury or death.
The flammability of gasoline and its
explosive properties must always be
respected. At the first odor of gasoline, the
engine should be shut off and remain off
until the source of the odor has been identified and the issue has been
rectified.
Never smoke or operate any spark-
producing object within a fifty-foot (50’)
range of the boat when fueling. Fumes from
gasoline are more likely to produce an
explosion and/or fire than the actual fuel.
2020 Malibu Boats LLC • Owner’s Manual • Page 214