Robalo 2014 Robalo User Manual

2014 Owner’s Manual
OWNER’S/OPERATOR’S MANUAL
P.O. Drawer 928
300 Industrial Park Blvd.
Nashville, GA 31639
Phone: 229-686-7481 Fax: 229-686-3660
This manual has been compiled to help you operate your boat with safety
and pleasure. It contains details of the craft, typical equipment supplied
or fi tted, its systems and information on its operation and maintenance.
Please read it carefully and familiarize yourself with your boat before us-
ing it.
If this is your fi rst boat, or you are changing to a new type, for your own
comfort and safety please ensure that you obtain handling and operat-
ing experience before “assuming command” of the boat. Your dealer or
national sailing federation or yacht club will be pleased to advise you of
local sea schools or competent instructors.
Please keep this manual in a secure place and hand it over to the
new owner when you sell the craft.
For a complete list of standard and optional features and equipment, consult your local Robalo dealer. Due to a policy of continual product improvement, specifi ca-
tions are subject to change without notice. The weights and volumes shown are estimated and can vary from boat to boat because of equipment, etc.
Robalo boats meet or exceed both NMMA and U.S. Coast Guard standards.
Est.9/18/13

Robalo 2014 Robalo Specifications

General

Brand	Robalo
Model	2014 Robalo
Category	Boat
Language	English

Summary

Introduction

Welcome Aboard!

Welcomes new owners and introduces the Robalo boat family and the manual's purpose.

About This Manual

Explains the manual's target audience and the importance of illustrations and references.

Construction & Standards

Details Robalo boats' compliance with USCG, NMMA, and ABYC construction standards.

Responsibilities

Outlines the responsibilities of both Robalo dealers and boat owners for satisfaction and maintenance.

Laws and Regulations

Provides information on government regulations for boaters, including registration and safety.

Owner’s Logs and Records

Guides on using forms like Boat Data Record, Travel Plan Log, and Fuel Usage Chart.

Warranty Transfer Policy

Explains the process and conditions for transferring the Robalo boat limited warranty.

Boating Safety

Hazard Communication

Explains hazard symbols, signal words (danger, warning, caution), and their meanings.

Safety Recommendations

Emphasizes the owner's responsibility for passenger and boater safety and understanding procedures.

Safe Operation

Covers essential practices for safe boat operation, including regular inspection and fuel management.

Swimming

Provides safety guidelines for swimming near boats, emphasizing designated areas and propeller safety.

Safe Boating Courses

Recommends safety courses offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and Power Squadrons.

Voluntary Inspections

Suggests courtesy inspections by state officials or U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliaries for safety compliance.

Rules of the Road

Explains marine traffic laws, including U.S. Inland and International Rules.

Warning Markers

Advises on recognizing marine flag designs, swimmer caution, and navigation markers.

Drugs and Alcohol

Warns about the dangers of operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Safety Equipment

Details required safety equipment like PFDs, fire extinguishers, and visual distress signals.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Describes different types of PFDs (Type I, II, III, IV, V) and their proper use and accessibility.

Fire Extinguishers

Specifies types and quantities of U.S. Coast Guard-approved fire extinguishers required for boats.

Visual Distress Signals

Outlines requirements for visual distress signals on U.S. coastal waters and general waters.

Sound Signaling Device

Explains requirements for sound signaling devices based on boat length for audible warnings.

Running and Navigation Lights

Details the necessity and operation of running and navigation lights for nighttime safety.

Safety Afloat

Covers awareness of surroundings, weather, and conditions for safety while underway.

Weather

Advises on checking forecasts, listening to reports, and observing weather changes.

Fog

Provides guidelines for operating in fog, including using running lights and navigating cautiously.

Storms

Offers advice on monitoring weather, preparing the boat, and actions to take during storms.

Man Overboard

Details immediate actions and procedures to follow if someone falls overboard.

Fire

Emphasizes immediate action for onboard fires and outlines basic response steps.

Guidelines for Fire Prevention

Lists preventative measures for fire safety, including checking bilges and proper ventilation.

Flooding, Swamping or Capsized Boat

Explains causes of flooding/swamping and procedures to prevent or manage these situations.

Hypothermia

Describes hypothermia as a concern for persons overboard and the role of PFDs in survival time.

Collision

Provides steps to take after a collision, including checking injuries and assessing damage.

Running Aground

Outlines procedures for running aground, including checking for injuries and seeking towing services.

Carbon Monoxide Hazard During Operation

Warns about carbon monoxide hazards from engines and generators and ventilation needs.

Navigational Aids Chart

Provides information on various navigational signals, buoys, and warnings for safe navigation.

Fuel System

Emphasizes fire safety in fuel systems and warns against using high-alcohol content fuels.

Systems

Electrical Systems

Details the boat's 12-volt DC battery system, including safety precautions and component descriptions.

Safety Precautions

Lists crucial safety steps when working with electrical systems or equipment.

12 Volt DC Power

Explains the role of batteries, alternators, and voltmeters in the DC power system.

Battery

Describes the function of the boat's battery, including dual battery systems.

Battery Isolator System

Explains the battery isolator system's function for maintaining house battery charge.

Battery Selector Switch

Details the operation and recommended settings for the boat's battery selector switch.

Single Selector Switch with Two Batteries

Describes the four-position selector switch for boats with two batteries.

Four Selector Switches with Three Batteries and Twin Engines

Explains the function of four selector switches for boats with three batteries and twin engines.

Three Selector Switches with Two Batteries and Twin Engines

Details the operation of three selector switches for boats with two batteries and twin engines.

Three Selector Switches with Two Batteries and Single Engine

Explains the function of three selector switches for boats with two batteries and a single engine.

AC/DC Converter and Battery Charger

Describes the automatic battery charging system powered by shore power or generator.

Shore Power

Provides instructions and precautions for connecting and using shore power safely.

Shore Power Connection

Details the procedure for connecting the shore power cord, including polarity checks.

Ground Fault Interrupter Outlet

Explains the function of GFCI outlets for electrical shock protection and periodic testing.

General Electrical System Information

Advises on checking electrical panel and inlet wire connections for loosening over time.

Lighting

Covers the operation of interior and exterior lighting via the 12-volt DC system.

Electrolysis and Zinc Anodes

Explains electrolysis issues and the role of sacrificial anodes in protecting underwater hardware.

Fuel System

Describes the boat's internal fuel system, emphasizing leak prevention and tank maintenance.

Fresh Water System

Details the boat's fresh water system, including standard and optional pressurized systems.

Sanitizing the Fresh Water System

Provides step-by-step instructions for sanitizing the fresh water tank and system with bleach.

Optional Water Pump and Filter

Explains the operation and maintenance of the optional water pump and filter system.

Livewell Pump, Raw Water Pump and Filter

Covers the operation and maintenance of the livewell and raw water systems.

Marine Sanitation Devices

Describes standard and optional sanitation equipment like Porta-Potti and VacuFlush heads.

Porta-Potti

Details the operation and installation of the Porta-Potti marine sanitation device.

VacuFlush® Head

Explains the operation of the VacuFlush head system, including vacuum flushing and waste disposal.

Overboard Discharge

Discusses regulations and procedures for overboard discharge of sewage and macerator use.

Air Conditioners

Provides general instructions for operating the air conditioner, including shore power and generator use.

Transom Shower

Describes the optional or standard transom shower for rinsing off with fresh water.

Sump Pump

Explains the function of the sump pump for draining water from various boat systems.

Fire Extinguishers

Details the required number and types of fire extinguishers approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.

High Water Alarm

Explains the high water alarm system, its function, and periodic testing procedures.

Components

Dashboard and Instrument Panel

Explains the importance of dashboard instruments for monitoring boat performance and issues.

Fuel Gauge

Describes the fuel gauge's function and accuracy, noting it's an approximate reading.

Voltmeter

Explains the voltmeter's indication of battery voltage and potential issues.

Tachometer

Details the tachometer's function in showing engine speed (RPM) and not boat speed.

Speedometer

Explains the speedometer's function in indicating boat speed through water pressure.

Compass

Covers the compass function for indicating direction and the importance of calibration.

VHF Radio

Refers to the owner's manual for VHF radio instructions and warranty information.

Windlass System

Explains the windlass operation for raising/lowering the anchor and associated safety tips.

Windlass Safety Tips

Provides essential safety practices for operating the windlass system to prevent accidents.

Hydraulic Steering System

Details the boat's hydraulic steering system, including helm pump, cylinder, and maintenance.

Power Steering Unit

Explains the optional power steering unit and its operation relative to the hydraulic system.

Multifunction Navigation Display System

Describes the optional multifunction display's features like chart-plotting and digital technology.

Throttle

Explains how the throttle controls boat speed and direction, and the neutral position requirement.

Controls

Discusses operator attention factors for safe steering, including engine torque and trim settings.

Steering

Focuses on steering as a critical safety system and factors affecting operator attention.

Power Trim

Details the power trim system's function for adjusting engine drive angle during operation.

Stove

Covers optional electric or butane stoves, emphasizing safety precautions and manual references.

Water Heater

Explains the water heater's operation on AC power, safety features, and winterizing advice.

Refrigerator

Describes the refrigerator/freezer operation on AC or DC power and battery drain considerations.

Microwave Oven

Details the microwave oven's electronic controls and safety instructions for use.

Bilge Pump

Explains the automatic bilge pump's function, troubleshooting for pump issues, and manual operation.

Running and Navigation Lights

Covers the legal requirement and operation of running/navigation lights for safe boating.

Docking Lights

Describes available docking lights for safe night time docking and their operation.

Underwater Lights

Explains the enhancement of underwater lights and their power management responsibilities.

Stereo Sound System

Details the boat's stereo system features, including radio, MP3 jack, and speakers.

Television with Dockside Cable Inlet and DVD Player

Covers the television and DVD player features, including cable inlet and A/B switch operation.

Generator

Describes the optional onboard generator for AC power and precautions for safe operation.

Underway

Transporting Your Boat

Provides guidance on selecting and using trailers, ensuring proper support and weight distribution.

Launching and Loading

Offers tips for smooth launching and loading, emphasizing practice and safety.

Roller Trailers – Launching & Loading

Recommends following trailer manufacturer guidelines for launching and loading roller trailers.

Bunk or Custom Trailers—Loading

Provides specific tips for loading boats onto bunk or custom trailers safely.

Common Cause of Boat Misalignment

Explains common causes of boat misalignment during loading and basic correction procedures.

Boarding Your Boat

Covers safe boarding procedures, including capacity plate awareness and weight distribution.

Fueling

Details proper fueling procedures, emphasizing fire prevention and leak checks.

Preliminary Procedures

Lists essential steps to take before fueling, such as mooring the boat and extinguishing flames.

Fueling Procedures

Describes the process of fueling the boat, including nozzle contact and leak inspection.

Post-Fueling Procedures

Outlines steps to take after fueling, including cleaning spills and checking for fumes.

Operating Your Boat

Covers general procedures for operating the boat, from starting the engine to docking.

Starting the Engine

Provides instructions for starting the engine, emphasizing neutral position and break-in period.

Leaving the Dock

Guides on safely maneuvering the boat away from the dock, checking gauges and conditions.

Getting Up To Cruising Speed

Explains how to safely accelerate to cruising speed and achieve a planing attitude.

Trimming Your Boat

Covers boat trim, including power trim, drive angle adjustments, and trim tabs for optimal performance.

Power Trim

Details the power trim system for adjusting drive angle for trailering, beaching, or shallow water.

Drive Angle

Explains the relationship between drive angle and boat performance, and how to adjust it.

Trim Tabs

Describes how trim tabs help the operator trim the boat by adjusting hull angle.

Stopping Your Boat

Provides instructions on how to stop a boat, noting the lack of brakes and the use of reverse.

Anchoring Your Boat

Covers anchoring techniques, anchor selection, and guidelines for securing the boat at anchor.

Dropping Anchor

Details the procedure for carefully lowering the anchor while maintaining tension on the line.

Mooring Your Boat

Explains how to attach mooring lines to deck cleats and secure the boat safely.

Shutting Down the Engine

Provides general instructions for shutting down the engine, including allowing it to cool.

Preventive Maintenance and Repair

Engine

Directs users to the engine owner's manual for detailed maintenance and repair information.

Checking the Oil (On 4-Stroke Models)

Provides instructions on how to check the engine oil level, recommending checks during break-in.

Adding Oil

Explains the procedure for adding engine oil, emphasizing not to overfill.

Fuel Filter

Warns about gasoline vapor explosion risks when changing the fuel filter.

Tune-Up

Highlights the importance of tune-ups for maintaining engine performance and refers to the engine manual.

Fuel System

Describes the fuel system's role and emphasizes the need for regular inspection and maintenance.

Monthly Inspection

Lists key inspection points for the fuel system, recommending professional service for repairs.

Outboard Drive Unit

Refers to the engine owner's manual for recommended frequency of checking the drive unit and oil.

Propellers

Advises on checking propellers for wear or damage and refers to the manufacturer's manual.

Steering System

Emphasizes the need for periodic maintenance of the hydraulic steering system for safety and trouble-free operation.

Bilge

Covers bilge inspection for water, fuel, or oil, and emphasizes cleaning procedures.

Inspection

Instructs users to check the bilge before each use for normal water levels and leak detection.

Cleaning

Provides instructions for cleaning the bilge, including removing debris and avoiding flammable solvents.

Troubleshooting

Engine will not crank (Ignition system)

Lists potential causes and solutions for engine ignition system issues preventing starting.

Engine cranks but will not start (Fuel system)

Addresses fuel system issues that may prevent the engine from starting after cranking.

Low cranking speed

Identifies causes like poor electrical connections or a weak battery for low cranking speed.

Starter will not crank engine(s)

Covers problems related to the starter motor, battery, or switch preventing engine cranking.

Poor acceleration

Lists potential causes for poor acceleration, such as throttle or air intake issues.

Engine runs but misfiring

Addresses engine misfiring issues, including spark plugs, fuel pump, and carburetor problems.

Excessive fuel consumption

Identifies causes for excessive fuel consumption, such as faulty fuel pump or incorrect timing.

Blue exhaust smoke

Explains causes of blue exhaust smoke, typically related to oil levels or lubrication.

White exhaust smoke

Covers potential causes of white exhaust smoke, often indicating engine misfiring or spark plug issues.

Low oil pressure

Addresses low oil pressure issues, including oil level, viscosity, and leaks.

No oil pressure

Covers troubleshooting for complete absence of oil pressure, related to gauge or engine oil.

High oil pressure

Identifies causes of high oil pressure, such as oil grade or obstructions in the oil line.

Knocking or pinging

Addresses engine knocking or pinging, often due to incorrect fuel type or timing.

Rough Running

Lists common causes for rough engine running, including fuel, ignition, and component issues.

Engine overheating

Covers causes of engine overheating, such as cooling system issues or obstructed water intake.

Sludge in oil

Explains causes of sludge in oil, primarily infrequent oil changes or dirty filters.

Poor Performance

Identifies factors affecting poor boat performance, including propeller, bilge water, and hull condition.

Vibration

Addresses causes of boat vibration, such as loose engine mounts or damaged propellers.

Interior & Exterior Care

Fiberglass and Gelcoat

Explains the composition of the hull and deck, and the properties of gelcoat.

Gelcoat Maintenance

Provides instructions for cleaning and maintaining the gelcoat surface to preserve its luster.

Repairing Gelcoat Damage

Guides on repairing minor scratches and chips in the gelcoat, suggesting dealer assistance for larger repairs.

Hull Bottom Maintenance

Covers hull bottom care, recommending barrier coating for boats kept in water and hull cleaning.

Bottom Paint (Anti-Fouling)

Explains the purpose of anti-fouling paint and the process for applying it to the boat bottom.

Deck Hardware and Fittings

Covers inspection and care for deck hardware and fittings, emphasizing tightness and cleaning.

Inspection

Instructs users to inspect hardware and fittings to ensure they are tight and secure.

Cleaning and Care

Provides guidance on cleaning stainless steel and other deck fittings, and removing rust spots.

Windshield and Porthole

Details how to clean windshield safety glass and portholes, warning against solvent use.

Carpet

Offers advice on carpet care, including drying to prevent mildew and cleaning spills promptly.

Seat Coverings and Vinyl

Provides guidance on cleaning and caring for seat coverings and vinyl, emphasizing mild methods.

Care

Advises on storing removable cushions indoors and ensuring proper ventilation for onboard cushions.

Cleaning

Explains how to remove stains from vinyl and carpet, recommending mild soap and water.

Canvas (Weather Coverings)

Describes the care and cleaning of canvas weather coverings, noting their acrylic yarn composition.

Care

Provides care instructions for canvas, including keeping it up when not in use and avoiding trailering with canvas up.

Cleaning

Details how to clean canvas material using mild soap and water, and how to prevent mildew.

Cabin Cushions, Side Curtains and Fabrics

Covers cleaning procedures for interior cabin cushions, side curtains, and fabrics.

Winterizing and Storage

Lifting the Boat

Provides safety warnings and procedures for lifting the boat out of the water using slings.

Dry Storage and Preparation

Covers preparation steps for dry storage, including deck, hull, and cradle considerations.

Deck

Instructs on washing deck surfaces and cleaning deck hardware for storage.

Hull

Details hull preparation for storage, including scraping marine growth and scrubbing.

General Housekeeping

Covers interior cleaning, removing items that hold moisture, and ensuring ventilation.

Systems and Components

Highlights the necessity of winterizing systems and components in freezing regions.

Engine

Emphasizes winterizing the engine per manufacturer's manual and changing oil before storage.

Fuel System

Advises adding a fuel stabilizer solution to the fuel tank for storage.

Battery

Instructs to remove the battery from the boat and store it in a cool, dry place away from freezing.

Recommissioning

Provides a checklist for recommissioning boat systems and equipment after storage.

Nautical Glossary

Warranty

Wiring Schematics