OPERATIONS
Final Checks Before Starting
Before getting underway, operations checks should be completed
to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing. Verify that:
q
All safety requirements as outlined in the
Safety section of this
manual have been met.
q
Review the prelaunch requirements as outlined by the trailer
manufacturer, and the preparations as required by the engine/
drive-train manufacturer.
q
The total number of people and gear onboard does not exceed the
maximum allowed and as indicated on the capacity plate. These
informational plates are located in the interior walk-thru.
q
All gear is properly stowed. Gear that is left loose on the deck can
become dislodged, move about during operation and could poten-
tially go overboard or strike an individual onboard, resulting in
potential injury.
q
A float plan or outing information has been left with someone
ashore. This means that if any issues arise, there is a person to
fuel pump as it attempts to compensate. Also, even with the best of
care, some water may get into the fuel tank or separate from the
fuel that is pumped into it. If there is water present, it will settle on
the bottom of the tank. If the pump begins to reach any water, it may
cause malfunctioning in the engine.
128—Get Ready
When pumping fuel, do not leave the nozzle unattended in the fuel
fill. Although the fuel system has been manufactured to avoid spit-
back of fuel, and most gasoline dispensers will shut off if removed
from fuel fill, it is always a wise consideration to provide full atten-
tion to the process.
raise an alarm if you do not return as planned. (Cell phones are
helpful, but sometimes service is not available, so this should not
be the only plan in the event of problems.)
q
Ensure there is sufficient fuel in the fuel tank for the outing or
have a plan for refueling.
q
Be sure that the weather forecast does not include threatening
conditions. Also check predicted wind and water conditions.
q
Check that the drain plugs are fully and correctly installed.
q
Ensure that PFDs and other safety gear are onboard.
q
Be sure that all onboard fire extinguishing equipment is fully
charged and easily accessible.
q
Go through the pre-outing maintenance checklist, as outlined in
the
Care and Maintenance section of this manual.
q
Give all the onboard equipment and components (such as the tow-
er) a final check to be certain that everything is secure and ready
for the expected boating conditions.
STARTING AND OPERATION
Prior to staring the boat for the first time, read this entire manual.
Before towing to the body of water the first time, read the entire
Trailer section of this manual as there is important safety informa-
tion contained within it also. If the boat came with additional handout
materials or other owner’s manuals specific to various boat compo-
nents, also read that material in its entirety.
All of these publications have been developed to protect boaters,
their passengers, other people on the highways on the way to the body
of water, and others who are also boating. Information is provided to
enhance enjoyment of the Malibu experience, as well as how to care
for and maintain the boat, engine, drive train, components, and trailer
so that this will be a long-term, ongoing source of enjoyment.
Starting the Engine—Wakesetters & M Series
Step 1: Be certain the boat’s shifter/throttle is fully upright in the
neutral position. Additional information follows regarding
shifting and throttle response.
Step 2: Perform the pre-start routine, including the bilge inspection
and engine compartment inspection. (Details are provided in
the
Care and Maintenance section.) Leave the engine com-
partment open for the starting process.
Step 3: Attach the emergency
safety switch tether/lan-
yard to the switch of the
shifter/throttle, and also
to a piece of the opera-
tor’s clothing.
Step 4: Turn on the battery iso-
lator switch. Press the power button and ensure the 12” and
7” displays power up. After the screens boot, the blower
should start automatically. Allow the blower to run for at
least four (4) minutes with the engine compartment open
while the boat is in the water. It is extremely important for
any accumulated fumes to be vented in this way. It also as-
sures 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 explo-
sion.
Step 5: Press the Start/Stop button for approximately one (1) sec-
ond and enter the Start Code on the 12” display.
The default
is 1-2-3-4, but boat owners can change this by following
directions provided in the
Dashes and Video Screens sec-
tion of this manual.
If using the key switch to power ON
the system, please be aware that a safety feature will be
enabled that turns the navigation and anchor lights on.
Step 6: If for some reason the engine does not start, repeat Step 5.
Never press the button for an extended period. If the engine
does not start as it should, make sure the throttle/shift-
er is in neutral. If it still does not start, then refer to the
Troubleshooting section at the conclusion of this manual for
assistance in determining the cause. If any alarms sound
or warning lights appear, turn OFF the engine and trouble-
shoot. 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.
T
o prevent a possible explosion, always
operate the blower for four (4) minutes
prior to starting the engine and con-
tinue 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.
