CHAPTER 1
OPERATION
- 6 -
34z
1.1 GENERAL
This manual has been compiled to help you operate your yacht with safety and pleasure. It
contains details of the yacht; the equipment supplied or fitted, its systems, and information on its
operation and maintenance. Please read it carefully, and familiarize yourself with the yacht
before using it.
If this is your first yacht, or you are changing to a type of yacht you are not familiar with, for your
own comfort and safety, please insure that you obtain handling and operating experience before
assuming command of the yacht. Your dealer or yacht club will be pleased to advise you of local
schools, or competent instructors.
PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SECURE PLACE ON THE BOAT, AND HAND IT OVER TO
THE NEW OWNER IF YOU EVER SELL THE CRAFT.
This Owner’s Manual is not intended to be a course in boating safety, boat handling, navigation
or general boating skills. It is the responsibility of the user to independently gain these skills.
Instead, this manual will serve as a reference for matters specific to the 40z. Standard options
are included in the manual with which your particular yacht may or may not be fitted. Custom
options may be addressed in an addendum.
1.2
QUICK START GUIDE (See CHAPTER 16)
A separate “Quick Start Guide” is included that briefly reviews the key items to check before
departure. Please review the topics in this manual before relying on the checklist – it is simply an
“at-a-glance” sheet to insure that you don’t overlook anything important.
1.3 OPERATING
PROCEDURES – ENGINE INSPECTION
To access the propulsion system, the cockpit engine hatch must be raised. The procedure is as
follows:
Make sure personnel and equipment are clear of any moving parts before
operating.
- Turn ON house battery switch (located under the electrical panel)
- Turn ON DC main disconnect breaker & engine hatch breaker at the DC panel
- Activate the lift with the small black toggle switch located in the starboard cockpit seat locker.
1.4 NAVIGATION
The builder installed navigation system includes autopilot w/compass, depth sounder, chart-
plotter, and radar. Modern marine electronics are a subject unto themselves and you should refer
to the manuals that came with the equipment you purchased. However, here are a few points to
consider:
If you are unfamiliar with navigation, educate yourself before using the boat.
Electronic
equipment is NOT a substitute for dead-reckoning navigation skills.
It is not recommended to rely solely on electronic charts- bring paper chart back-ups.
It is prudent to check (or have checked) your compass alignment once the boat is in your
primary area of operation. See the Ritchie instructions for compensation.
Check that all equipment is functioning, even if you intend not to use it.
Radar and its overlay projection on the plotter should be properly aligned (Double-check
when underway) See manual to adjust, tune and operate.
