N
OTE: If you are operating this boat for the first
time, you must follow the engine and drive
train break-in procedures as described in the
previous section and engine manual. Failure to fol-
low these procedures may result in serious damage
and may void any warranties!
Before Starting
Familiarize yourself with the controls and indicators used
on your MasterCraft boat. Perform all Safety Checks and
Services as described earlier. Also perform all Scheduled
Maintenance Checks and Services.
Step 1:
Lift the engine cover and inspect the bilge and
engine compartment for any fluid/vapor leakage. Master
-
Craft recommends lifting the engine compartment cover
for inspection before each use. Check the hull drain
plugs. Make sure they are installed and secure.
Step 2:
Operate the bilge blower for at least four (4) min-
utes. Leave the bilge blower ON through the starting pro-
cess and until the boat has planed.
To prevent a possible explosion, operate the blow-
er for at least four (4) minutes before starting the
engine and always when at idle or slow-running
speed. Explosive gasoline and/or battery fumes
may be present in the engine compartment. Fail-
ure to do so may result in serious injury or death!
Before starting the engine, open the engine com-
partment and check for gasoline fumes, fuel and
oil leaks or the presence of fuel or oil in the bilge.
NOTE: Always start the engine with the control lever
in the neutral position or with the shift disengaged.
Your boat is equipped with a neutral-start safety
switch that will not allow the engine to be started
when in gear.
Starting the Engine
Step 1:
Attach the emergency engine safety switch tether
(lanyard) to an article of your clothing and to the switch.
Step 2:
For normal starting, leave the throttle lever in
neutral. The electronic controls will meter the correct fuel
and air automatically.
Step 3:
Turn the key switch to the start position and hold
until the engine starts. Release the key as soon as the
engine starts.
Do not operate the starter motor continuously
for more than fifteen (15) seconds without at least
two (2) minutes for a “cool-down” period. Failure
to do so may cause the starter to overheat, result-
ing in damage. Failure to release the ignition key
after the engine has started may cause damage to
the starter motor and drive.
Note: While the engine is warming up, check to see
that all lights and gauges operate properly. Check
that the steering system operates freely. There
should be no apparent leaks under pressure. Re-en-
gage the control lever after warm-up by returning the
lever to neutral and pushing the throttle button back
into the engage position.
starting and
basic operation
2008 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 9-1
starting and
basic operation
