26
Operation
Notice:
If the engines have been run at high speed
for a long period of time, allow them to cool
down by running the engines at idle speed
for 3 to 5 minutes.
• Turn the ignition keys to the OFF position.
• Raise the trim tabs to the full up position.
After Operation
• If operating in saltwater, wash the boat and
all equipment with soap and water. Flush the
engines using fresh water. Refer to the engine
owner’s manual for instructions on ushing
your outboard engines.
• Check the bilge area for debris and excess wa-
ter. Remove any debris and pump out excess
water as necessary.
• Fill the fuel tank to near full to reduce the
potential for condensation accumulation in
the tank. Allow enough room in the tank for
the fuel to expand without being forced out
through the vent.
• Turn o all electrical equipment except the
battery charger and automatic bilge pumps.
• If you are going to leave the boat for a long
period of time, put the battery main switches
in the OFF position and close all seacocks.
• Make sure the boat is securely moored.
TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO THE BOAT, CLOSE ALL SEACOCKS
BEFORE LEAVING THE BOAT.
2.5 Docking, Anchoring & Mooring
Docking and Dock Lines
Maneuvering the boat near the dock and secur-
ing the boat require skill and techniques that are
unique to the water, wind conditions and the layout
of the dock. If possible, position a crew member
at the bow and stern to man the lines and assist
in docking operations. While maneuvering close to
the dock consideration must be given to the wind
and current. You should anticipate the eect these
forces will have on the boat and use them to help
put the boat where you want it. It is important
to practice in open water using an imaginary dock
enough to develop a sense for the way your boat
handles in a variety of docking scenarios. You
must be able to foresee the possibilities and have
solutions in mind before problems occur.
Approaching a dock or backing into a slip in high
winds or strong currents requires a considerable
amount of skill. If you are new to boat handling,
you should take lessons from an experienced
pilot to learn how to maneuver your boat in tight
quarters in less than ideal conditions. You should
also practice away from the dock during windy
conditions.
Dock lines are generally twisted or braided nylon.
Nylon is strong and stretches to absorb shock. It
also has a long life and is soft and easy on the
hands. The line’s size will vary with the size of the
boat. Typically a 30 to 40 foot boat will use 5/8-
inch line and a 20 to 30 foot boat will use 1/2-inch
line. The number of lines and their conguration
will vary depending on the dock, the range of the
tide, and many other factors. Usually a combi-
nation of bow, stern and spring lines are used to
secure the boat.
Maneuvering - Single Engine Boats
Maneuvering to the Dock
Approach the dock slowly at a 30 to 40 degree
angle. Whenever possible, approach against
the wind or current. Turn the engine straight &
shift to neutral when you feel you have enough
momentum to reach the dock. Use reverse while
turning the steering wheel toward the dock to slow
the boat and pull the stern toward the dock as the
boat approaches. Straighten the engine and use
reverse to stop the boat if it is still moving forward
against the pilings. If you executed your approach
properly, the boat will lightly touch the pilings at
the same time the forward momentum is stopped.
Have the dock lines ready and secure the boat as
soon at it stops. Use fenders to protect the boat
while it is docked. Keep the engine running until
the lines are secured.
Backing into a Slip
Approach the slip with the stern against the wind
or current and the engine straight ahead. Use the
engine and turn the steering wheel to maneuver
the boat into alignment with the slip. Reverse the
engine and slowly back into the slip. Shift from
reverse to neutral frequently to prevent the boat
from gaining too much speed. Move the stern
right and left by shifting the engine in and out of
gear or turning the wheel. When nearly in the
slip all the way, straighten the engine and shift
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