P
roper control of Mastercraft boats extends beyond
the steering wheel. Each boat is equipped with
several gauges that provide information to guide
the boat’s operator in maintaining control of the boat.
There are also a variety of switches and buttons within
the boat that control various functions from comfort and
enjoyment to safety-related features. It is important for
the boat owner and/or operator to become familiar with
all gauges and switches in the boat, their functionality,
and how to respond to alarms and warnings that the in-
strument panel may provide.
In the side panel, you will nd a listing of the locations of
gauges and switches for the various model instrument
panels. Operators should match up these listings with
the actual panel. Prior to boating, owners and operators
should also review and understand the following section
regarding the boat’s electrical components and opera-
tions through the battery or batteries, as well as the
circuit breaker system. A thorough understanding of
these systems is critical to avoiding potential issues that
may arise during an outing.
The following is an explanation of the functionality of the
gauges and switches that are listed for the various models.
Ignition Key Slot
MasterCraft boats come
equipped with an ignition key,
which must be inserted in the
ignition key slot and used to
activate the boat’s electrical
system. This, in turn, will al-
low the boat to be started and
operated.
The key will be in one of four
(4) positions:
• Off
• Accessory (including running the stereo without the
engine running)
• ON (engine is running)
• Start (turn the key to engage the engine starter, then
release to allow the key to automatically return to the
ON position)
Never leave the ignition switch in the ON position with-
out the engine running, as this will cause the battery to
discharge.
Note: The MariStar 280STS is equipped with two (2)
ignitions, one (1) for each engine, allowing the engines
to operate independently of each other. Be sure to turn
both ignitions OFF when the engine is not in use.
Video Display Gauge
Many MasterCraft
boats feature a
color display gauge.
The video display
gauge is capable of
displaying engine,
boat, and Perfect
Pass speed control
information.
Information is divid-
ed into manageable
pages or screens
and organized into
a straightforward menu structure for presentation to the
driver. Display controls, conveniently located along the
bottom of the gauge, allow rapid navigation of the menu
structure to display any desired information.
2008 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 5-1