Monterey Sport Cruiser 260SCR, Owner'S Manual

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Operating Your Boat
Cruiser
7-7
• Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
NOTICE: Never pull the lanyard from the
engine emergency stop switch for normal
shutdown. Doing so may impair your ability to
restart the engine quickly.
• Avoid collisions; at high speeds your boat will
require more time and distance to stop or slow.
• The proper use of trim tabs and outdrive trim
angle is important when slowing to a stop.
Qualified local boating authorities can provide
proper instruction in slowing and stopping your
boat.
Shifting
The following information is a basic guideline only
and may not apply to your specific shift control.
See the
Engine Operator’s Manual or control
manufacturer’s information for the shift control
operation, adjustment and maintenance.
• Most throttle and shift controls have a neutral
detent locking lever that must be released
before shifting from NEUTRAL.
• Always use a brisk and decisive movement
when shifting into or out of gear.
• Always pause in NEUTRAL before shifting from
FORWARD to REVERSE, or REVERSE to
FORWARD. Most throttle and shift controls
have a detent position for NEUTRAL,
FORWARD and REVERSE engagement
positions. These detent positions are important;
when shifting into and out of gear, always pause
in these positions.
• Never shift into REVERSE while your boat is in
FORWARD gear when traveling at a high
speed.
• Always keep the shift control clean and clear of
obstructions.
Accelerating and Running
Under Way
You must understand your boat’s equipment and
controls in order to drive and control your boat in
a forward direction at all speeds and in all
conditions. Learning to drive and control your
boat can be challenging; take this matter
seriously and spend plenty of time practicing.
WARNING! When accelerating the boat in the
forward direction, the bow can rise and
restrict visibility.
The phrase “on plane” is commonly used when
referring to the running angle of a boat in forward
motion. When a boat is “on plane,” its hull is
usually running level or almost level with the
water’s surface, which is considered level. The
level “plane” of the water’s surface is the most
efficient angle to run in. This basically means that
the boat is running on top of the water and not
plowing through it.
Factors to consider when accelerating a boat
forward and running at the most efficient planing
angle are:
• Boat design
• Hull type and condition
• Boat load and distribution of weight
• Engine capability and condition
• Propeller type, size and condition
• Outdrive and boat power trim equipment and
condition
Because all boats are different and vary in
design, purpose and load, planing angles and
characteristics will vary among all boats. Become
familiar with your boat’s characteristics and obtain
qualified assistance.
The following guidelines provide a basic
understanding of forward acceleration and
operating on plane while under way:
• Always look in front of and around you before
proceeding. Avoid collisions before
accelerating; be aware and stay clear of people
and obstacles in the water.
• Always advise all passengers on-board of your
intention to accelerate and get under way.
• Stow and fasten all loose gear.
• Make sure the engine emergency stop switch
lanyard is connected to your person.
• If equipped, adjust your boat trim tabs up or to a
neutral position with the hull.
• If equipped, adjust the engine power trim to the
full-in position.
• Shift from NEUTRAL into FORWARD detent
idle position.