Wellcraft 180 Sportsman, Owner'S Manual

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Releasing the Anchor
Release the anchor by driving the boat slowly to the
point where the anchor line becomes vertical. It should
release when you pass that point. If the anchor doesn't
release right away, stop the boat directly above the
anchor and tie the line to the cleat as tight as possible.
The up and down movement of the boat will usually
loosen the anchor within a minute. Make sure you
secure the anchor and properly stow the line before
operating the boat.
9.6 Controls, Steering, or
Propulsion System Failure:
If the propulsion, control or steering system fails while
you are operating the boat, bring both throttles to idle
and shift to neutral. Decide whether you need to put out
the anchor to prevent the boat from drifting or to hold
the bow into the seas. Investigate and correct the
problem if you can. Turn the engine(s) off before going
into the engine compartment to make repairs. If you are
unable to correct the problem, call for help.
If only one engine has failed, you can usually run home
on the other engine. Be careful not to apply too much
power to the engine that is running. When only one
engine is used to power a twin engine boat, that engine
is over propped and can be overloaded if too much
throttle is applied. You should contact your dealer or the
engine manufacturer for the maximum power settings
when running on one engine.
9.7 Collision
If your boat is involved in a collision with another boat,
dock, piling or a sandbar, your first priority is to check
your passengers for injuries and administer first aid if
necessary. Once your passengers situations are
stabilized, thoroughly inspect the boat for damage.
Check below decks for leaks and the control systems for
proper operation. Plug all leaks or make the necessary
repairs to the control systems before proceeding slowly
and carefully to port. Request assistance if necessary.
Haul the boat and make a thorough inspection of the
hull and running gear for damage.
9.8 Grounding, Towing and
Rendering Assistance
The law requires the owner or operator of a vessel to
render assistance to any individual or vessel in distress,
as long as his vessel is not endangered in the process.
If the boat should become disabled, or if another craft
that is disabled requires assistance, great care must be
taken. The stress applied to a boat during towing may
become excessive. Excessive stress can damage the
structure of the boat and create a safety hazard for
those aboard.
Freeing a grounded vessel, or towing a boat that is
disabled, requires specialized equipment and knowledge.
Line failure and structural damage caused by improper
towing have resulted in fatal injuries. Because of this,
we strongly suggest that these activities be left to those
who have the equipment and knowledge, e.g., the U.S.
Coast Guard or a commercial towing company, to safely
accomplish the towing task.
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