Malibu Boats 21 VLX, Owner'S Manual

Page: 248 / 309

Salt Water Care and Maintenance
When boating in brackish or salt water, the post-outing cleaning is
critical for the protection of the finishes. The cleaning process, internally and
externally, are critical to maintaining the warranty in effect and to preserving
the engine components. This is a safety matter.
The potential for corrosion means that boats operating in this type
of condition must be equipped with self-sacrificing zinc anodes. These
anodes are attached in several locations, including the transom, driveshaft
and rudder. (Check with your authorized Malibu dealer to be certain that
you are aware of all locations of these anodes as they will require periodic
replacement.) The anodes serve to significantly reduce the potential for
corrosive damage to the permanent metal components on the boat.
Malibu boats are equipped with a closed cooling system, (see the Engine
section of this owner’s manual), which reduces the amount of water utilized
from the body of water during operation. However,
SOME water is necessary
and must be drawn on-board and circulated. This function exposes interior
portions of the boat, particularly some engine components, to operational
exposure to salt or brackish water. The explanation of how properly flush the
engine following an outing appears later in this section.
Failure to follow ANY of the Salt Water
Care and Maintenance instructions for care
and maintenance will void the warranty.
Significant damage occurs to the engine and boat if proper maintenance
is not followed as outlined in this owner’s manual.
Stainless Steel, Chrome and Aluminum
Components
The boat has been constructed with various metal components, all of
which require special attention during routine care. Decomposition occurs,
resulting in rust and/or corrosion, and it is accelerated when the boat is
operated in salt water. (Read carefully the Salt Water Care and Maintenance
information that follows.)
Damage that occurs to the boat as result of
corrosion is not covered under the warranty!
While Malibu uses quality metal components chosen for their durability as
well as attractive appearance, all metal eventually reacts to exposure to water.
Therefore, part of the care and maintenance of metal requires that it is kept
clean and dry. After an outing, rinse the metal pieces as well as the rest of the
boat, allowing a thorough air drying. To avoid spotting and discoloring, drying
with a soft rag or towel will keep the new-boat look for many seasons to
come. It is also recommended to wash all metal components when you wash
your boat as this will help prevent moisture from affecting the surface.
2020 Malibu Boats LLC • Owner’s Manual • Page 234
salt water
care and
maintenance