Malibu Boats M235 2019, Owner'S Manual

Page: 29 / 238

to the reduction in the operator’s forward visibility which can
lead to collisions and groundings. High bow-up angles cause
longer transition times from displacement mode (slow velocity, 0
to 5 mph) to planing speeds (18 to 20 mph and above). During
transition, it is important that the boat operator pays attention so
that they are able to see forward and that the time in transition (or
in the “hump” speed region) is minimized.
• Excessive weight placed in the bow of the boat can lead to very flat
planing trim angles which may lead the boat to turn aggressively,
unpredictably, and without steer input. The phenomenon of yaw
instability is caused by heavy bow weights and running very flat
(bow down or flat trim angles). This can occur with excessive
weight in the bow compared to weight in the stern of the boat.
Another ill effect of too much bow weight in comparison to stern
weight is that with extremely heavy bow loads, the boat’s bow may
dive or submerge when coming off plane (decelerating rapidly, or
encountering waves/wakes at slow speed). If the bow submerges,
then water will enter and flood your boat.
• When encountering conditions which may lead to bow diving or
bow submergence, it is recommended to accelerate the boat
before the wave/wake in order to help raise the bow and get over
the wave/wake.
• If the bow submerges, the recommended action is to reduce
throttle to stop forward speed, get passengers to move aft, and turn
on the bilge pump.
It is the boat operator’s responsibility to tell passengers to move to
other seats on the boat, so as to not overload the stern or bow of
the boat, nor restrict the boat operator’s forward visibility. (See Get
Ready section of this owner’s manual for additional information.)
There is no single recommended seating or load distribution for all
conditions. Experience with your boat will allow you to determine
where to properly allow passengers and gear to be placed.
Excess and improper loading
of bow area forward of
windshield may cause water
influx, operating instability,
and loss of control resulting in injury or death. Bow
Capacity Limit - X persons or XXX lbs. person, gear and
ballast. This is posted separately on your boat but still
included in overall capacity. Use good judgment when
weighting your boat for any towed water sports.
Visibility of the Operator
The operator of the boat is responsible, by law, to “maintain a
proper lookout by sight and hearing.” The operator must ensure that
he/she has appropriate visibility for safe operation. No passengers
or equipment should block the operator’s view, including the view of
other boats, skier(s), rider(s), swimmer(s), or anyone or anything else
in the water. Even momentary interference can result in the driver’s
inability to respond to a situation that requires avoidance of another
vessel or submerged or partially-submerged object(s).
Look carefully before turning, especially when you are turning
around to pick up a fallen skier/rider. Other boats in your vicinity may
not necessarily be following the Rules of the Road. Be alert and keep
a visual check for other boats in and around your intended path. Do
not turn or maneuver your boat without first checking that it is clear to
do so. Failure to look before turning can result in an encounter with
another boat where neither boat has enough time to avoid a collision.
This situation can develop very quickly if you fail to look first, and turn
in front of another oncoming boat.
Obstructed visibility can
cause death or serious
injury. The operator must
maintain clear visibility at
all times while operating the boat. Arrange passengers
and equipment appropriately or designate a passenger to
assist when visibility is limited.
Boating Under the Influence
Operating the boat or
boating under the influence
of alcohol and/or drugs
can cause serious injury or
death. Alcohol and drugs slow your reaction time and
impair your judgment. Do not operate a boat or allow
passengers to boat while under the influence of alcohol
and/or drugs.
2019 Malibu Boats, LLC Owner’s Manual • Page 16
https://www.boat-manuals.com/