Malibu Boats 21 VLX, Owner'S Manual

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2020 Malibu Boats LLC • Owner’s Manual • Page 219
Equipped with START-STOP button—Mechanical button (Response premium)
Step 5: Press the power button and check that power to the electrical system appears by way of the video
screen lighting, and begin a check of the system. Enter the boat code on the 7” screen. The default
is 1-2-3-4, but boat owners can change this by following directions provided in the
Dashes and
Video Screen section of this Owner’s Manual.
Step 6: If the electrical system has responded, press and hold the START-STOP button for approximately one
(1) second and then release. The engine starter should engage and begin the process that will allow
the engine to run. If for some reason, the engine does not start, repeat Steps 5 and 6. Never press the
button for an extended period. If the engine does not start as it should, make sure the throttle/shifter
is in neutral. If it still does not start, then refer to the
Troubleshooting section at the conclusion of this
Owner’s Manual for assistance in determining the cause. If any alarms sound or warning lights appear,
turn OFF the engine and troubleshoot. There is also a back-up ignition key on the starboard shifter
panel, next to the breaker panel. Start this as you would a land-based vehicle.
For both types of starting systems
Step 7: Allow the engine to run for several minutes with the engine compartment open! It is extremely
important for any accumulated fumes to be vented in this way. It also assures that any new issues that
arise involving the engine, fuel system and ventilation system are noted. Accumulation of fumes within
the engine compartment can also lead to an explosion.
To prevent a possible explosion, always operate the blower for several
minutes prior to starting the engine, and continue to operate with the engine
compartment open for several minutes after starting the engine. Always
operate the blower when the engine is idling or at a low running speed.
Improper ventilation can lead to accumulation of gasoline or exhaust fumes in the compartment. This
can lead to a fire or explosion, either of which can result in serious injury or death!
To Turn OFF—Response & TXi
On an ignition-only boat, turn the key to OFF. On a boat equipped with a START-STOP button, press
the button. If the outing is done, also turn the key to OFF. Click the power button to turn the system off on
boats equipped with the power button. (Failing to do so allows the electrical system to continue to function;
eventually, this will drain the battery or batteries.)
Note that, unlike a dry-land vehicle, turning OFF the boat does not immediately stop its momentum. The
boat will continue to move. Shifting to neutral will slow progress, but allowance must be made for continued
movement. See information following for suggestions regarding docking.
The power button is a safety measure. It allows the operator an opportunity to briefly and visually check
the electrical system operation prior to starting. The key also reduces the likelihood of theft of the boat or
unauthorized use. Always remove and take the key with you when the outing is done.
Break-In Period—All Boats
The first hours of the boat operation have critical requirements for engine break-in. This information is
contained in the Engine section of this Owner’s Manual, where appropriate. Be sure to review this information
carefully. Failure to follow the instructions will void the engine warranty!
With regard to the boat, pay close attention to the screens, and monitor the readings. Pay particular