the switch controls the port plate. On the single plate sys-
tem, there is only one switch control.
The system is set up this way to minimize the guesswork
while underway. To lower the starboard bow, press the
right (starboard) switch where it reads DOWN. To lower
the port bow, press the left (port) switch where it reads
DOWN. On the single plate system, press DOWN.
Since our models have different weights, lengths, speed
and performance, it will take some practice for the opera-
tor to understand how your boat reacts with the attitude
adjustment plates installed. The plates will allow your
boat to get on plane faster and continue planing at lower
speeds. This will improve visibility and the overall safety
of your boat.
When making adjustments with the at-
titude adjustment plates, use short momentary taps
of the switch.
Continued practice will help you become
familiar with how the plates perform.
Special Conditions
Head Sea:
Lower both plates slightly by pressing
BOW DOWN on both sides of a dual system, BOW
DOWN on a single system. This will bring the bow down
while maintaining speed. This also allows the hull of the
boat to absorb the impact of the waves. This adjustment
will result in a more efficient and smoother ride.
Following Sea:
Make sure the plates are fully re-
tracted by pressing BOW UP on both sides of a dual
system, and BOW UP on a single system. This will bring
the plate(s) up to a fully retracted position, decreasing lift
in the stern and will allow the bow to rise. If the plate(s)
is/are deployed, the bow may dig.
Windy Chop:
To raise the windward side of the boat
on dual systems, press BOW UP on that side. If this is
not sufficient press BOW DOWN on the leeward side of
the boat. Do not over-trim when attempting this. This will
allow the windward side of the boat to rise and will mini-
mize spray.
Shallow Water/Hole Shot:
Lower both plates com-
pletely on a dual system by pressing BOW DOWN on
both sides (the single plate on a single system). This
provides lift in the stern of the boat and will keep the bow
down. As you throttle up and speed increases, raise the
tab(s) by pressing BOW UP on both sides of a dual sys-
tem, and BOW UP on the single system.
Uneven Load:
When equipped with a dual system, if
one side of the boat is higher than the other while run-
ning, press BOW DOWN on the switch on that side. This
will lower the tab on the listing side (low side) to bring the
boat level.
2008 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 5-11
Porpoising:
To stop porpoising, press BOW DOWN
on both sides of a dual plate system, BOW DOWN on a
single system. The plate(s) needs only to be deployed
slightly to correct this adverse situation.
While operating attitude adjustment plates use
caution. Improper use of plates can cause acci-
dents, which may result in serious injury or death.
These cautions apply to the MariStar 280STS, X-
80 and 280 SST models only.
While the boat is underway do not move one plate
up or down significantly as this may cause listing.
While at higher speeds do not over-trim, as this
will cause the bow to lower quickly, resulting in a
reduction of speed and may cause the boat to veer.
When in following seas or when running an in-
let, the plates should be fully retracted. This will
allow for optimal performance.
ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATORS PROVIDE
AN INSTANT RESPONSE. WHEN MAKING AD-
JUSTMENTS, USE SHORT MOMENTARY TAPS OF
THE SWITCH.
Sink Switch
On the face plate panel adjacent to the sink is a two-
position switch. Turning the switch ON allows water to
run through the faucet into the sink. The water comes
from a ten-gallon freshwater tank that requires manual
refilling when the water has run out. Be sure to turn OFF
the switch after running water, and especially when the
freshwater tank has run dry.
Refrigerator Switch
On the same face plate panel is a two-position switch
that will run the refrigerator when turned ON. The refrig-
erator runs off the boat’s electrical and battery system.
Therefore, care should be given to ensure that the sys-
tem is not drained to such an extent that the voltmeter
alarm sounds.
