LARSON Bass - Stopping

OPERATING THE BOAT
© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co.
SECTION
7
Bass l 7 - 11
STOPPING
A boat does not have brakes. Controlling the boat to a stop and while stopped are
important skills that must be learned. Reverse thrust is commonly used to slow and
stop a boat. The continued momentum of a boat will vary according to the boat
design, load and speed. You must also consider and learn to compensate for the
effects of wind and current. Stopping in wind or water currents is difficult and
requires skill to be able to anticipate and compensate for these effects.
• To stop or slow forward motion, always gradually return the throttle(s) to
the slow IDLE position, pause and shift into NEUTRAL, then pause and
shift into REVERSE.
Control Hazard: Gradually return the throttle(s) to the
slow IDLE position. Failure to do so can cause loss of boat control and engine
propulsion system damage.
• If the boat has been driven for a long period of time at high speed, allow
the engine a two- to three-minute cool-down period at low idle in
NEUTRAL.
• Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
Never pull the lanyard from the engine emergency stop
switch for normal shutdown. Doing so may impair your ability to restart the engine
quickly.
• Avoid collisions; at high speeds the boat will require more time and
distance to stop or slow.
• The proper use of trim tabs and outdrive trim angle is important when
slowing to a stop. Qualified local boating authorities can provide proper
instruction in slowing and stopping your boat.