Welcraft 232 Coastal, Owner'S Manual

Page: 48 / 98

Note: Storms and wave action can cause
buoys to move. You should not rely on buoys
alone to determine your position.
10.3 Pre-Cruise Check
Before Starting the Engines:
• Have a tool kit aboard. The kit should include
the following basic tools:
Hammer Electrician’s tape
Screwdrivers Offset screwdrivers
Lubricating oil Pliers
Jackknife Adjustable wrench
Basic 3/8" ratchet set Vise grip pliers
Hex key set Needle nose pliers
Wire crimping tool Wire connector Set
End wrench set Medium slip-joint Pliers
Diagonal cutting pliers DC electrical test light
• Have the following spare parts on board:
• Check the weather forecast and sea conditions
before leaving the dock. Decide if the planned
cruise can be made safely.
• Be sure all required documents are on board.
• Be sure all necessary safety equipment is on
board and operative. This should include items
like the running lights, spotlight, life saving
devices, etc. Please refer to Safety Equipment
chapter for additional information on safety
equipment.
• Make sure you have signal kits and flare guns
aboard, and they are current and in good
operating condition.
• Be sure you have sufficient water and other
provisions for the planned cruise.
• Leave a written message listing details of your
planned cruise with a close friend ashore (Float
Plan). The float plan should include a description
of your boat, where you intend to cruise, and a
schedule of when you expect to arrive in the
cruising area, and when you expect to return.
Keep the person informed of any changes in
your plan to prevent false alarms. This
information will tell authorities where to look
and the type of boat to look for in the event you
fail to arrive.
• Check the amount of fuel on board. Observe the
“rule of thirds”: one third of the fuel for the trip
out, one third to return and one third in reserve.
An additional 15% may be consumed in rough
seas.
• Check the water separating fuel filters for water.
The engine fuel filters also should be checked
for leaks or corrosion.
• Turn the battery switches on.
• Check the bilge water level. Look for other signs
of potential problems. Monitor for the scent of
fuel fumes.
• Test the automatic and manual bilge pump
switches and high water alarm switches to make
sure the systems are working properly. This is
particularly important before running offshore.
10.4 Operating Your Boat
After Starting the Engines:
•
Check the engine gauges. Make sure they are
reading normally.
• Visibly check the engines to be sure there are no
apparent water, fuel or oil leaks.
• Check the operation of the engine cooling
systems by inspecting the transom exhaust
ports for water flow.
• Check the steering and engine controls for
proper operation.
• Make sure all lines, cables, anchors, etc. for
securing a boat are on board and in good
condition. All lines should be coiled, secured and
off the decks when underway.
Extra light bulbs Spark plugs
Fuses and circuit breakers Main 12-volt fuses
Assorted stainless screws Assorted stainless bolts
Flashlight and batteries Drain plugs
Engine oil and transmission oil Propellers
Fuel filters Propeller nuts
Fuel hose and clamps Wire ties
Engine cooling pump impeller Hydraulic steering oil
Assorted hose clamps Rags
Steering fluid Pump & alternator belts
• Make sure all fire extinguishers are in position
and in good operating condition.
48