Malibu Boats 21 VLX, Owner'S Manual

Page: 258 / 309

water intake, aft of the engine near the steering
system’s tiller arm. The sea strainer serves the
purpose of keeping debris from entering the
raw water cooling system and causing eventual
engine failure. As with any kind of strainer, it is
necessary to regularly clean it so that water can
flow unimpeded.
When operating the boat in “dirty” water
that is brackish or has a noticeable degree of
weeds and other flora, it may be necessary to
clean out the strainer in boats equipped with
sea strainers even during an outing. Pay close
attention to the engine temperature, which
appears on a gauge or video screen. (See the
Dashes and Video Screens section of this Owner’s
Manual for more information.) An overheating
engine is probably due to inadequate water flow.
Continuing
to operate a
boat that is
overheating the
engine and drive train will result in engine
failure eventually. Boat operators should
routinely review the engine temperature
information provided on the gauge or video
screen on the instrument panel. Ignoring or
failing to take proper steps to reduce the
engine temperature, resulting in damage, is
not covered under the warranty.
Leave the engine OFF.
To inspect the sea strainer, open the
engine compartment. Note the sea strainer’s
appearance as shown in the accompanying photo.
(If you cannot locate the sea strainer, ask for assistance from your authorized Malibu dealer. This step is critical
and cannot be overlooked. Also shown in the photo is the adjacent optional flush kit, which does not require
normal consumer maintenance.)
Open and lift the cover to expose the filter.
Remove the filter and examine for any debris that has accumulated within it. When necessary, clean out the
filter and then reinstall it in the housing. Hand tighten the lid so that water will not leak out and into the engine
compartment.
If it is necessary to check the sea strainer during an outing, turn OFF the engine first and then close the
valve on the water pickup feeding the sea strainer. Make sure you open the valve prior to running the engine;
otherwise, it will overheat. Whenever the engine is running, water is being drawn in and you will not be able to
inspect the sea strainer.
2020 Malibu Boats LLC • Owner’s Manual • Page 244