Malibu Boats Wakesetter 20VTX 2018, Owner'S Manual

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twenty-five (25) feet, and at least 600 square inches on boats greater than twenty-five (25) feet.
Protect all underwater gear protruding from the boat hull from damage. None of these components is rated to support any of the
boat’s weight.
For Extended Storage of One (1) Month or More and Winterization
There are multiple steps required to prevent damage to the boat when it will not be used for an extended period, especially during
colder-weather months. Malibu recommends having an authorized Malibu dealer execute the storage/winterization process, followed
by recommissioning when ready to begin use.
It is important to ensure that all required drive train precautions are taken; for these, see the engine owner’s manual. Malibu
reminds you that you will need to use a gasoline stabilizer for any fuel that is in the system. Reminder: stabilizers work in fresh gasoline
only. Adding a stabilizer after storage during the recommissioning period will not eliminate the gumming or water-separation that
may have occurred.
Stabilizers are preventatives, not curatives.
Gasoline should never be stored for a period to exceed one (1) year.
If it is necessary to remove gasoline from the tank and dispose of it,
be certain to do so in compliance with local, state and federal environmental laws/rules/ordinances.
All water than can be removed from the boat must be. This includes water in the engine, ballast and bilge areas. Water that is not
removed may freeze. Expansion and contraction that takes place as a result will damage affected areas of the boat. Such damage is not
covered under warranty. This damage can be extensive and very expensive to repair.
If the batteries are removed for storage, they should be fully charged prior to removal. Batteries should be stored in cool (but not
cold), dry locations. Never store batteries near heat devices or anything that causes a spark or electrical charge. Fully recharge the
battery prior to reinstallation.
(NOTE: If the battery is removed from the boat, the automatic bilge system will not operate and water will not be discharged
from the bilge.)
Additional steps to complete for storage:
• Thoroughly wash and clean the boat, inside and out, as instructed in the On-Going Care section of this Owner’s Manual.
• Leave the bow slightly elevated so that any further draining of water from the bilge system will run out and not accumulate inside
the bilge system.
• Remove the drain plug(s) and place them in see-through plastic sacks or containers. Place them inside the boat so that they will
be immediately locatable for recommission.
• Disconnect hoses to heaters and/or showers-wash down tanks. Drain, if necessary.
• Using low-tack tape, tape around the exhaust flap so that vermin cannot chew their way into and nest inside the exhaust system.
• Apply wax to the entire exterior surface to protect the hull and deck finishes, particularly from dampness and condensation that
may occur.
• Disconnect the heater hoses (where equipped) and blow out all water using compressed air.
• Remove the propeller and store in a safe place.
• Remove the seat cushions and store in cool, dry location. Open all storage compartments and areas to allow air circulation.
(Without it, mold and mildew may invade the compartments.)
• Prop the engine compartment lid open several inches to allow for air circulation.
• If the boat will be outdoors, use an optional Malibu canvas cover that has been sewn to fit the boat deck snugly and not allow
intrusions of rain and/or snow.
• Chock the trailer wheels if the boat is stored on a trailer.
When recommissioning the boat for the following boating season, reverse the above steps, plus add the following:
• Check all fluids, oil and coolant (where used). Add, replace or change as necessary.
• Check the engine for cracks and leaks that may have been caused by freezing temperatures and/or water.
• Check all hose clamps to be certain they are secure and that the rubber hoses have not deteriorated over the period.
• Reinstall the propeller if it was removed. Grease the shaft taper prior to reinstalling the propeller.
• Have the alignment between the output flange on the transmission and the propeller shaft flange checked. An authorized Malibu
dealer has the measurement detail for correct alignment.
• Prior to starting the engine in the water, key it ON and OFF two or three times, allowing several seconds between key-on cycles,
prior to cranking the engine to fully start. The purpose of this is to prime the fuel system. If the engine appears reluctant to start,
allow a couple minutes of cool-down for each attempt to crank and start the engine. Watch the gauges/video screen for readings and
listen for abnormal sounds. Keep speeds low until the engine temperature rises to the normal operating temperature.
Failure to properly perform annual maintenance, plus storage/winterization procedures as
described in this Owner’s Manual is likely to result in damage to the boat, components, drive train
and features. Such damage is not covered under warranty!
Malibu Owners Manual • 2018 • Care and Maintenance • Page 7-15