The Dometic SeaStar Hydraulic Jackplate is an engine jackplate designed to enhance boat performance, fuel economy, and the ability to operate in shallow water. This device allows for vertical adjustment of an outboard engine, optimizing its position relative to the water surface.

Function Description:

The SeaStar Hydraulic Jackplate is a system that allows boat operators to adjust the height of their outboard engine. This adjustment is crucial for fine-tuning the boat's performance characteristics. By raising or lowering the engine, the operator can change the propeller's depth in the water, which can lead to increased speed, improved fuel efficiency, and better handling, especially in varying water conditions. The jackplate is operated via a rocker switch, which controls the hydraulic actuator to move the engine up or down. The system is designed for ease of installation and operation, with clear instructions provided for mounting to the boat's transom and connecting the outboard engine. It includes a relay wiring harness for electrical connections and a rocker switch for control. Safety is a paramount concern, with warnings about proper installation, clearance checks, and maintenance to prevent injury or damage.

Important Technical Specifications:

Supported Horsepower:
- SeaStar Standard Duty Jackplates: Maximum 300 HP
- SeaStar Xtreme Jackplates: Maximum 400 HP
Mounting Hardware:
- Transom to Jackplate: Stainless steel outboard engine bolts, washers, and brass nuts with nylon locking elements (supplied by or approved by engine manufacturer).
- Outboard Engine to Jackplate: Stainless steel outboard engine bolts, washers, and brass nuts with nylon locking elements (supplied by or approved by engine manufacturer).
- For setbacks of 10" or more, or outboard engines >250 HP, 6 mounting bolts are recommended for transom connection.
Electrical System:
- Relay Wiring Harness: Included.
- Rocker Switch: Included.
- Switch Power Line: Requires 16 AWG wire and an inline 10A fuse (not supplied).
- Battery Connection: Ring terminal from circuit breaker to 12V positive (+) post, black ring terminal to negative (-) post.
- Actuator Voltage: Must be between 10.5V and 14V for proper operation.
Anode Pocket:
- Size: 2.92" x 1.40"
- Holes: 1/4"-20 UNC (on centers)
- Depth: 0.66"
Lift Offset: At its lowest position, the jackplate provides a 2-1/2" lift offset between the transom and the engine.
Torque Specification: Engine mounting bolts should be tightened to 90 ft-lbs (122 Nm) or to the engine manufacturer's recommended value.

Usage Features:

Performance Optimization: Allows for quick and easy adjustment of engine height to optimize boat speed, handling, and fuel efficiency.
Shallow Water Operation: Enables raising the engine to navigate shallower waters, reducing the risk of propeller damage.
Rocker Switch Control: Intuitive control for raising and lowering the engine from the helm.
Clearance Checks: Essential procedure to ensure no interference between the jackplate, steering components, and engine throughout its full range of motion. This includes checking for interference with steering cylinders, tiebars, steering hoses, outboard engine, and engine hoses.
Safety Lanyard: Users are advised to always wear a Coast Guard Approved personal flotation device (PFD) and use an engine shut-off cord (lanyard) to reduce the risk of severe injury or death.
Water Pressure Monitoring: Critical to maintain proper water pressure to prevent outboard engine overheating, especially when raising the engine.
Tilt Limitations: Do not attempt to steer with the engine at full tilt, as this can damage the jackplate and/or steering components.

Maintenance Features:

Regular Inspections: After first use and every 100 hours or 6 months (whichever comes first), inspect the jackplate for damage, cracks, wear, binding, and leaks. Check the jackplate brackets, guide rods, actuator shaft, and seal.
Bolt Torque Verification: Ensure transom bolts and engine bolts are torqued to recommended values during regular maintenance.
Electrical Cable Inspection: Inspect electrical cables for any damage.
Cleaning: Rinse the jackplate thoroughly with fresh, clean water after each use. Avoid cleaning fluids containing ammonia, acids, or other corrosive ingredients.
Corrosion Protection: The jackplate includes a machined pocket for adding an anode to protect against corrosion.
Professional Servicing: Any work performed on the system must be completed by a qualified mechanic with a working knowledge of the system.
Troubleshooting Guide: A comprehensive guide is provided to diagnose and resolve common issues such as fluid leaks, failure to reach limits, slow or erratic operation, and complete non-functionality. This includes checks for supply voltage, circuit breakers, thermal breakers, electrical connections, and relays.
Warranty: The product comes with a 2-year limited warranty for defects in materials and workmanship from the date of original retail purchase, with specific periods for commercial use (90 days for mechanical/electrical, 1 year for hydraulic). The warranty covers repair or replacement but excludes issues arising from improper installation, misuse, alterations, or use with incompatible components.

Dometic Seastar JackPlate - Page 23

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