p. 14
Owners Manual
With the engine running (over 1500 RPM), voltmetre
readings of 13 to 14 Volts are considered normal.
Readings below this indicate a severely discharged
battery or a non-functioning charging system.
Check the battery electrolyte level regularly.
Remove the caps on top of the battery and
observe the level of the fluid inside. If the zinc
plates are exposed, add distilled water until they
are covered again. Corroded terminals can impair
battery performance and charging ability.
Clean terminals with baking soda and water; then
coat with a preservative or a light film of grease. Be
sure all battery connections are tight. When storing
the boat, it is best to remove the battery, give it a
full charge and store inside away from extreme
temperatures.
Before each trip ensure the battery is
fully charged and the charging system
(if applicable to your model) is fully
operational. Insure the battery CCA (cold
cranking amps) rating is suitable for the
engine fitted to the vessel.
HOT TIP
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
In addition to instructions found elsewhere in this
manual and in the literature specific to certain
components, the following information is provided
for general maintenance and repair.
Because conditions vary widely in different areas
and the frequency and type of use can differ
greatly between owners, intervals for maintenance
are not listed here. Use the appropriate engine
owners’ manual and common sense to determine
the frequency of maintenance. Your vessel will
require maintenance to insure the condition of
your vessel doesn’t deteriorate. For specific engine
usage, maintenance and repair guidelines refer to
the appropriate outboard owners’ manual.
YOUR ENGINE
If you use your boat infrequently, it is advisable
to buy a freshwater engine flushing connection
appropriate to your particular engine. Turn the
hose on, then when water is coming through the
tell-tail, start the engine and run it for a few
minutes. This will flush away residual salt
and keep the motor in good shape.
A common cause of outboard failure is a blockage
in the fuel supply, or contaminated fuel. If operating
off a carry tank fuel supply and the motor simply
sputters out, check two things first.
Ensure the tank has not been placed on a section
of the hose pinching it closed.
If you have the type of tank that requires it, make
sure the cap is ventilating properly.
Some models are set up with a water separator,
which takes care of water in the fuel. This can be
caused by something as simple as condensation
in the tank. If using carry tanks, familiarise yourself
with the position of the small filter fitted to the
engine. Cleaning this will often get you underway
again.
Because water sinks to the bottom of a fuel tank,
placing the carry tank on an angle - or parking the
boat on an angle in the case of underfloor fuel
tanks - causes all the water to collect in the lowest
corner of the tank. A syphon pump can then be
used to remove all of the water.
Contaminated fuel is rare, but it is
advisable to understand its implications.
CABIN AND TOP SIDE AREAS
Check your entire boat from time to time. Check
bow rails, ladders and grab rails for loose screws,
breaks, sharp edges, etc., that might be hazardous.
Check inventory and inspect life jackets for tears
and deterioration. Check signaling equipment.
Inspect anchor, mooring and towing lines and
repair or replace as required. Do not stow wet lines
since mould and mildew may result.
WINDSCREENS
Salt and brackish water are capable of etching and
damaging windscreens and windows. Keeping
windscreens clean is the best preventative
measure to take.
When windscreen cleaning, flush with fresh water
only. Exercise caution when cleaning windscreens
because they can scratch easily.
Note the following instructions:
• Use generous amounts of fresh water to wash
off dust.
• Use bare hands with plenty of water to
dislodge any caked dirt.
