Cobalt Boats OUTBOARDS Series, 23SC, 30SC, 25SC Owner's Manual

Outboards Owner’s Manual

A WARNING

FUEL SYSTEMS

Boats manufactured for use in California for model year 2018 and after meet the California EVAP Emissions regulation for spark-ignition marine watercraft. Boats meeting this requirement will have a label affixed near the helm.

Operating, servicing and maintaining a recreational marine vessel can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, service your vessel in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing this vessel. For more information go to: www.P65warnings.ca.gov/marine.

The fuel system in this boat complies with U.S. EPA mandated evaporative emission standards at time of manufacture using certified components.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

Outboards Owner’s Manual

FUEL SYSTEMS............................................................................................i

GENERAL INFORMATION

WELCOME................................................................................................. 1-1

CERTIFICATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY................................................. 1-2

ADDENDUM A – SERVICE ASSIST SERVICE AGREEMENT ................. 1-3

CALIFORNIA EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM

WARRANTY STATEMENT .................................................................. 1-4

Your Warranty Rights and Obligations................................................. 1-4

INTRODUCTION........................................................................................ 1-6

Intended Use........................................................................................ 1-6

Craft Design Category.......................................................................... 1-6

OWNER RESPONSIBILITY/WARRANTY PROCEDURE ......................... 1-7

Before Operating .................................................................................. 1-7

Warranty Service Requirements .......................................................... 1-7

If You Sell Your Cobalt Boat................................................................. 1-7

CERTIFICATIONS ..................................................................................... 1-7

NMMA .................................................................................................. 1-7

FEATURES/CONSTRUCTION .................................................................. 1-8

Amenities.............................................................................................. 1-8

Construction Standards/Certifications .................................................. 1-8

Serial Number Locations ...................................................................... 1-8

WARNING LABELS ................................................................................... 1-9

PUBLICATIONS....................................................................................... 1-12

NAUTICAL TERMS.................................................................................. 1-12

SYMBOLS................................................................................................ 1-15

SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................... 1-16

LAYOUT................................................................................................... 1-17

23SC .................................................................................................. 1-17

25SC .................................................................................................. 1-18

30SC .................................................................................................. 1-19

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PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART ..................................................... 1-20

23SC .................................................................................................. 1-20

25SC .................................................................................................. 1-20

30SC .................................................................................................. 1-20

ALPHABETICAL INDEX .......................................................................... 1-21

RESPONSIBILITIES AND SAFETY

OWNER/OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES .............................................. 2-1

Registration/Documentation................................................................. 2-1

Required Safety Equipment ................................................................. 2-2

Recommended Safety Equipment ....................................................... 2-2

Recommended Spare Parts................................................................. 2-3

Education Opportunities....................................................................... 2-3

Insurance ............................................................................................. 2-3

BOAT THEORY ......................................................................................... 2-3

Outboards ............................................................................................ 2-3

Remote Control System ....................................................................... 2-4

Steering System................................................................................... 2-4

Fuel System ......................................................................................... 2-4

Freshwater System (Optional) ............................................................. 2-4

DC Electrical System ........................................................................... 2-4

Bilge ..................................................................................................... 2-5

Seaworthiness Inspection .................................................................... 2-5

Operation Checklist.............................................................................. 2-5

Environmental Considerations ............................................................. 2-5

Components, Maintenance and Repairs.............................................. 2-7

Emergency Considerations .................................................................. 2-7

Lifesaving Equipment......................................................................... 2-10

SAFETY ................................................................................................... 2-12

Signal Words/Definitions .................................................................... 2-12

General Safety ................................................................................... 2-13

Water Sports Safety ........................................................................... 2-18

Safety Alert From August 28, 2001: ................................................... 2-20

Navigation ......................................................................................... 2-20

Aids to Navigation .............................................................................. 2-22

UTBOARDS

ERIES

OPERATING INFORMATION

PRECAUTIONS ......................................................................................... 3-1

Before You Start................................................................................... 3-1

Fire/Explosion ...................................................................................... 3-1

FIRST-TIME OPERATION......................................................................... 3-1

FUEL .......................................................................................................... 3-2

Fuel Requirements............................................................................... 3-2

Fueling ................................................................................................. 3-2

LAUNCHING.............................................................................................. 3-5

Launching Checklist ............................................................................. 3-5

On the Water........................................................................................ 3-5

Boarding............................................................................................... 3-5

Loading ................................................................................................ 3-5

Shipshape ............................................................................................ 3-5

Outboards Owner’s Manual

ABLE OF

GETTING UNDERWAY ............................................................................. 3-6

Before Starting Checklist...................................................................... 3-6

Handling Dock and Mooring Lines ....................................................... 3-7

Starting/Shifting/Steering/Stopping ...................................................... 3-8

Basic Maneuvering............................................................................. 3-13

Environmental Considerations ........................................................... 3-17

Entertainment System........................................................................ 3-18

23SC / 25SC FEATURES AND OPTIONS

HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................. 4-1

CAPTAIN’S CHAIR ADJUSTMENTS AND OPERATION.......................... 4-5

FLIP DOWN SWIM STEP .......................................................................... 4-6

Boat in the Water.................................................................................. 4-6

Boat on a Trailer................................................................................... 4-6

WINDSHIELD LATCH................................................................................ 4-7

COCKPIT DINETTE TABLE - OPTIONAL ................................................. 4-7

ICE CHEST ................................................................................................ 4-7

AIR COMPRESSOR - OPTIONAL............................................................. 4-8

ANCHOR LIGHT ........................................................................................ 4-8

CRUISE CONTROL - OPTIONAL.............................................................. 4-8

AUTOMATIC CHARGING RELAY (ACR).................................................. 4-9

BATTERY SWITCH ................................................................................... 4-9

BATTERY CHARGER - OPTIONAL .......................................................... 4-9

WATER SYSTEM ...................................................................................... 4-9

MARINE TOILET (HEAD) AND MACERATOR - OPTIONAL .................... 4-9

Instructions ........................................................................................... 4-9

Porta Potti........................................................................................... 4-10

Electrically Operated Head................................................................. 4-10

Macerator Pump................................................................................. 4-11

Dockside Waste Disposal................................................................... 4-11

Waste Disposal with Optional Macerator ........................................... 4-11

BOW TONNEAU COVER - OPTIONAL................................................... 4-12

COCKPIT TONNEAU COVER - OPTIONAL ........................................... 4-12

PREMIUM BIMINI TOP - OPTIONAL ...................................................... 4-13

PREMIUM BIMINI TOP WITH EASY FOLD - OPTIONAL ....................... 4-13

FOLDING ARCH W/BIMINI...................................................................... 4-14

ELECTRIC ARCH WITH BIMINI .............................................................. 4-14

SPORT TOP WITH RETRACTABLE SHADE.......................................... 4-15

Installation .......................................................................................... 4-15

SKI TOW PYLON (OPTIONAL) ............................................................... 4-15

TIE-DOWN LOCATIONS ......................................................................... 4-16

TOOL KIT - OPTIONAL ........................................................................... 4-16

ONTENTS

30SC FEATURES AND OPTIONS

HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................. 5-1

CAPTAIN’S CHAIR ADJUSTMENTS AND OPERATION.......................... 5-5

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COBALT

FLIP DOWN SWIM STEP.......................................................................... 5-5

Boat in the Water ................................................................................. 5-5

Boat on a Trailer................................................................................... 5-5

EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM/BOARDING LADDER (OPTIONAL)....... 5-6

BOW / COCKPIT DINETTE TABLE - OPTIONAL ..................................... 5-6

BOW CUSHION INSERTS - OPTIONAL ................................................... 5-6

AIR COMPRESSOR .................................................................................. 5-6

BATTERY SWITCHES............................................................................... 5-7

Remote Battery Switches..................................................................... 5-7

BATTERY CHARGER - OPTIONAL .......................................................... 5-8

AUTOMATIC CHARGING RELAY (ACR).................................................. 5-8

WATER SYSTEM ...................................................................................... 5-8

HEAD SHOWER AND SINK ...................................................................... 5-8

TRANSOM SHOWER WASHDOWN......................................................... 5-8

MARINE TOILET........................................................................................ 5-9

Instructions........................................................................................... 5-9

Porta Potti ............................................................................................ 5-9

VacuFlush Toilet System (Optional)..................................................... 5-9

MACERATOR (OPTIONAL)....................................................................... 5-9

Manual Discharge Pump Operation ..................................................... 5-9

Dockside Pump-out............................................................................ 5-10

MACERATOR PUMP - OPTIONAL ......................................................... 5-10

BOW TONNEAU COVER - OPTIONAL................................................... 5-10

COCKPIT TONNEAU COVER - OPTIONAL ........................................... 5-11

PREMIUM BIMINI TOP WITH EASY FOLD - OPTIONAL ....................... 5-11

HARDTOP WITH MANUAL SURESHADE .............................................. 5-12

Transporting Your Boat ...................................................................... 5-12

Winter Storage ................................................................................... 5-13

Recommissioning the Manual Sunshade System.............................. 5-13

Cleaning ............................................................................................. 5-13

HARDTOP WITH AUTOMATED SURESHADE ...................................... 5-13

Transporting Your Boat ...................................................................... 5-13

Winter Storage ................................................................................... 5-14

Recommissioning the Automated Sunshade System ........................ 5-14

Cleaning ............................................................................................. 5-14

SKI TOW PYLON - REMOVABLE ........................................................... 5-14

TIE-DOWN LOCATIONS ......................................................................... 5-15

TOOL KIT - OPTIONAL ........................................................................... 5-15

UTBOARDS

ERIES

SYSTEMS

INTRODUCTION........................................................................................ 6-1

FUEL ROUTING ........................................................................................ 6-2

23SC / 25SC ........................................................................................ 6-2

30SC .................................................................................................... 6-3

Outboards Owner’s Manual

ABLE OF

WATER/PLUMBING .................................................................................. 6-4

23SC Fresh Water................................................................................ 6-4

25SC Fresh Water................................................................................ 6-5

30SC Fresh Water................................................................................ 6-6

30SC Gray Water ................................................................................. 6-7

30SC ELECTRICAL ................................................................................... 6-8

30SC STEERING HYDRAULICS............................................................... 6-9

Water System..................................................................................... 6-10

FIRE EXTINGUISHER ............................................................................. 6-10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ........................................................................... 6-10

CIRCUIT BREAKER PANEL.................................................................... 6-10

FUSES ..................................................................................................... 6-10

BATTERY CONNECTIONS ..................................................................... 6-10

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CARE

VINYL INTERIOR AND UPHOLSTERY..................................................... 7-1

Care and Cleaning of Vinyl................................................................... 7-1

SEA GRASS FLOOR COVERING CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS.............. 7-2

General Maintenance Instructions........................................................ 7-2

Maintenance Techniques ..................................................................... 7-2

Spot and Stain Removal....................................................................... 7-4

CABINETRY AND WOOD ......................................................................... 7-5

Cabinetry .............................................................................................. 7-5

Woodgrain Dash................................................................................... 7-5

Teak Swim Platform ............................................................................. 7-5

Cedar.................................................................................................... 7-5

CARPET..................................................................................................... 7-5

DECK AND HULL ...................................................................................... 7-5

Cleaning Deck and Hull........................................................................ 7-5

Deck and Hull Care .............................................................................. 7-6

Swim Platform Mat Care and Maintenance.......................................... 7-6

STAINLESS STEEL AND CHROME ......................................................... 7-7

Preventive Steps .................................................................................. 7-7

Cleaning Stainless Steel ...................................................................... 7-7

CORROSION PROTECTION .................................................................... 7-7

CorrosionX ........................................................................................... 7-7

Topside................................................................................................. 7-7

Inside the Bulkhead.............................................................................. 7-8

Other Areas .......................................................................................... 7-8

Galvanic Corrosion............................................................................... 7-8

Salt Water............................................................................................. 7-8

CANVAS .................................................................................................... 7-9

Cleaning Canvas .................................................................................. 7-9

Special Cleaning Problems .................................................................. 7-9

OTHER CANVAS COMPONENTS .......................................................... 7-10

Clear Vinyl “Isinglass”......................................................................... 7-10

Zippers ............................................................................................... 7-10

Snap Fasteners.................................................................................. 7-10

ONTENTS

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WINDSHIELD........................................................................................... 7-10

BILGE....................................................................................................... 7-10

MARINE GROWTH.................................................................................. 7-10

STATIONARY ARCH WITH AWLGRIP TOPCOAT................................. 7-11

MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING

SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ........................................ 8-1

Maintenance Schedule......................................................................... 8-1

Break-In................................................................................................ 8-2

Before Each Use .................................................................................. 8-2

Every 50 Hours .................................................................................... 8-2

Every 100 Hours .................................................................................. 8-2

Quarterly .............................................................................................. 8-2

UNSCHEDULED MAINTENANCE............................................................. 8-2

Outboard .............................................................................................. 8-3

Electrical System.................................................................................. 8-3

Fuel System ......................................................................................... 8-3

Freshwater System (if equipped) ......................................................... 8-3

LIFTING THE BOAT .................................................................................. 8-4

Using Lifting Slings............................................................................... 8-4

Storage Cradle ..................................................................................... 8-4

STORAGE/WINTERIZATION .................................................................... 8-4

Reactivating the Boat After Storage..................................................... 8-5

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................... 8-5

Engine .................................................................................................. 8-6

Electrical............................................................................................... 8-7

Plumbing .............................................................................................. 8-7

UTBOARDS

ERIES

REFERENCE AND FORMS

OPERATION QUICK REFERENCE .......................................................... 9-1

Before Launching ................................................................................. 9-1

Pre-Operation....................................................................................... 9-1

Starting Engine..................................................................................... 9-2

Casting Off ........................................................................................... 9-2

During Operation.................................................................................. 9-2

Returning to Port .................................................................................. 9-2

Stopping the Engine............................................................................. 9-2

After Boating ........................................................................................ 9-2

SERVICE LOG........................................................................................... 9-3

FUEL LOG ................................................................................................. 9-4

FLOAT PLAN ............................................................................................. 9-5

BOAT INFORMATION ............................................................................... 9-6

WARRANTY TRANSFER FORM............................................................... 9-7

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

WELCOME

Dear New Cobalt Owner,

From all of us at the factory and from your authorized Cobalt dealer, thank you for purchasing a Cobalt boat. We greatly appreciate your business and look forward to a long and enjoyable relationship with you as part of the Cobalt family.

GENERAL

INFORMATION

ECTION

This manual is designed to help you maximize the enjoyment of your Cobalt boat, and to acquaint you with proper operation, care, storage and maintenance of your investment.

Even if you’re a seasoned boater and have previously owned a Cobalt boat, I recommend you take time to read through this Owner’s manual. As you read this manual, please remember that “common sense” and “courtesy” are the most valuable traits you can have to fully enjoy safe boating. It is also to your personal advantage to become well acquainted with the rules and general “know how” of boating.

For service and for assistance, contact your authorized Cobalt dealer. The dealership staff will be happy to answer questions concerning maintenance, warranty or any other operational questions you may have about your Cobalt boat.

All the best in boating,

The Cobalt Team

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COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

CERTIFICATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY

Subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions in this warranty, Cobalt Boats, LLC, a Delaware limited liability corporation doing business as Cobalt Boats (“Cobalt”), warrants to the original retail purchaser (and any subsequent owner) (“Owner”) of a new Cobalt boat purchased from an authorized Cobalt dealer for personal, non-racing and non-commercial use, as follows:

Ten (10) Year Limited Transferable Warranty on Hull and Deck. Cobalt warrants to the Owner that the hull and deck including floor, stringers, bulkheads, motor mounts, transom and deck/hull joints of a new Cobalt boat are free from structural defects in material and workmanship under normal, non-racing and non-commercial use for a period of ten (10) years from the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser.

Five (5) Year Limited Transferable Bow to Stern Component Warranty. Cobalt warrants that the upholstery, canvas, components (excluding hull and deck structural components), whether purchased or manufactured by Cobalt, with respect to a new Cobalt boat are free from structural defects in material and workmanship under normal, non-racing and non-commercial use for a period of five (5) years from the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser.

Three (3) Year Limited Transferable Warranty on Gelcoat Finish.

with respect to a new Cobalt boat are free from defects in material and workmanship under normal, non-racing and non-commercial use for a period of three (3) years from the date of delivery of such Cobalt boat to the original retail purchaser. Because local area operating conditions and customer care have an effect on gelcoat finishes, the gelcoat finish warranty does not cover (1) damage or deterioration (for example: fading, oxidation, discoloration) due to in-water storage or improper care of the gelcoat surface; or (2) deterioration (for example: fading, oxidation, discoloration) to the gelcoat finish of any Cobalt boat with colored (non-white) gelcoat located below the static waterline; or (3) blisters due to in-water storage without the proper application of a marine barrier coating to the bottom of the hull.

THERE ARE NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES OTHER THAN THE ABOVE LIMITED EXPRESS WARRANTIES. TO THE EXTENT APPLICABLE, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WILL NOT EXTEND BEYOND THE DURATION OF THESE EXPRESS WRITTEN WARRANTIES.

Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.

Exclusions. The above described limited warranties do not apply (1) if such Cobalt boat has been used at any time commercially, industrially, for racing or other competition or for revenue producing purposes; (2) to engines, outdrives, propellers, controls (each of which may be separately warranted by the engine manufacturer thereof); (3) engines, outdrives, propellers, controls, batteries, trailers, equipment or accessories installed by persons or parties other than Cobalt or an authorized Cobalt dealer; (4) windshield leakage, rainwater leakage, windshield or window damage or breakage; (5) deterioration or damage, fading or shrinkage of upholstery, carpet or canvas; (6) damage related to the alteration or modification of such Cobalt boat with any structurally affecting addition, component or accessory not specifically in accordance with Cobalt’s specifications or offered as an option by Cobalt; (7) damage, deterioration (for example: fading, oxidation, corrosion) of surface finishes, vinyls, fabrics, aluminum and stainless steel finishes; (8) damage or failures caused by operation of the Cobalt boat outside of the maximum horsepower specifications recommended by Cobalt; (9) damage or failure related to repairs made by any service provider not approved by Cobalt; (10) damage (for example: scratches, fading, oxidation, discoloration) to the gelcoat finish; (11) deterioration (for example: fading, oxidation, discoloration) to the gelcoat finish of any Cobalt boat with colored (non-white) gelcoat located below the static waterline; or (12) damage or failure related to alteration, modification, misuse, neglect, negligence, accident or failure to provide reasonable care and maintenance of such Cobalt boat.

Cobalt warrants that the gelcoat finish,

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ENERAL

Remedies.

General. During the applicable limited warranty period, as set forth above, covered warranty repairs shall be

made and any replacement parts or components used as part of such warranty repairs shall be provided without charge by an authorized Cobalt dealer or, at the option of Cobalt, by Cobalt at its plant in Neodesha, Kansas or at a facility specifically authorized by Cobalt. All warranty repairs and replacement parts or components shall be subject to the authorization of factory trained personnel of Cobalt. Transportation to and from an authorized Cobalt dealer, and/or to and from the Cobalt plant in Neodesha, Kansas, for warranty repairs, shall be at Owner’s expense.

Service Assist Service Agreement (see Addendum A). Service Assist is not covered under this limited warranty. Service Assist is covered under the separate Service Assist Service Agreement.

The rights and benefits granted under the above described limited warranty extend to (1) the original retail purchaser of a new Cobalt boat, and (2) any owner of such Cobalt boat during the applicable warranty period, commencing with the date of delivery of such Cobalt boat to the original retail purchaser, provided that such limited warranty is validated, as set forth herein. COBALT’S ONLY RESPONSIBILITY, AND THE

OWNER’S ONLY REMEDY, IS AS DESCRIBED IN THIS WARRANTY. COBALT SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT OR SPECIAL DAMAGES.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other legal rights which vary from state to state.

NFORMATION

How to obtain Warranty Service. To validate the above described limited warranty, (1) the authorized Cobalt dealer must complete the warranty registration process with Cobalt Boats at 1715 N. 8th Street, Neodesha, KS 66757, within ten (10) days after purchase of a new Cobalt boat, and (2) any subsequent owner of a Cobalt boat during the applicable limited warranty period must give written notice of the acquisition of a Cobalt boat to Cobalt within ten (10) days after such purchase. Notification of any warranty claim arising within the applicable warranty period, as set forth above, must be made in writing by the owner of such Cobalt boat or by an authorized Cobalt dealer to Cobalt within thirty (30) days after the discovery of the alleged basis for any warranty claim. With respect to any condition for validating a limited warranty or obtaining any remedy, the authorized Cobalt dealer is Owner’s agent, and Owner is solely responsible for and bears the risk for the authorized Cobalt dealer’s failures.

ADDENDUM A – SERVICE ASSIST SERVICE AGREEMENT

In consideration of the purchase of a new Cobalt boat from an authorized Cobalt dealer for personal, non-racing, and non-commercial use, for the term of this agreement Cobalt Boats, LLC (“Cobalt”) agrees to provide to the original retail purchaser or any subsequent owner (each an “Owner”) of such Cobalt boat, for which the registration process under Cobalt’s Certificate of Limited Warranty has been completed, the services described in this agreement.

Obligation. either the Cobalt Five (5) Year Bow to Stern Component Warranty or any express warranty made by the engine manufacturer with respect to the engine or powertrain of such new Cobalt boat (the “Applicable Warranties”); (2) Owner incurs costs for on-water towing, hoist/lift-out, haul-out, or dockside repair call (“Covered Services”) in association with such claim; and (3) the Applicable Warranties claim is made and Covered Services costs are processed through an authorized Cobalt dealer (“Dealer”), then Cobalt will reimburse Owner for or pay such costs.

Subject to the conditions and limitation of this agreement, if (1) Owner makes a valid claim under

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COBALT

Conditions. As a condition for Cobalt’s obligations under this agreement, if Covered Services are provided by anyone other than a Dealer, Owner must provide the following documentation (as applicable) to the Dealer prior to the time the Dealer submits the Applicable Warranty claim:

• Copy of Towing, Hoist/Lift out, Haul-Out or Dockside Repair bill

• Copy of warranty claim to the engine manufacturer

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Limitations. AS PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW, COBALT MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, UNDER THIS AGREEMENT OR REGARDING THE SERVICES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. COBALT WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT OR SPECIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties or limitation of remedies for their breach, so the above provision may not apply to you. This agreement gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other legal rights which vary from state to state.

Term. through the end of the warranty periods for the Applicable Warranties.

Assignment. Otherwise, Owner may not transfer or assign any of Owner’s right, title, or interest under this agreement.

General. changed or modified except in writing signed by an authorized officer of Cobalt. This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Kansas, ignoring the rules on conflicts of law. No failure or delay by Cobalt to exercise any right or remedy will operate as a continuing waiver. Headings used in this agreement will have no legal significance. This agreement will not be construed against a party simply because the party may have drafted such provision.

Cobalt’s liability under this agreement will not exceed a maximum of $100 per claim. EXCEPT

This agreement begins on the original purchaser delivery date of the new Cobalt boat and is effective

This agreement is transferable to subsequent Owners within the term of this agreement.

This agreement embodies the entire understanding of the parties. This agreement cannot be

CALIFORNIA EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY STATEMENT

Your Warranty Rights and Obligations

The California Air Resources Board is pleased to explain the evaporative emission control system’s warranty on your 2019 Boat. In California, new spark-ignition marine watercraft (SIMW) must be designed, built, and equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards. Cobalt Boats, LLC must warrant the evaporative emission control system on your boat for the period listed below provided there has been no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your SIMW.

Your evaporative emissions control system may include parts such as: canisters, carburetors, clamps, connectors, filters, fuel caps, fuel lines, fuel tanks, valves, vapor hoses, and other associated evaporative emissions control system components.

MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY COVERAGE:

This evaporative emission control system is warranted for two years. If any evaporative emission-related part on your SIMW is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by Cobalt Boats, LLC.

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OWNER’S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• As the boat owner, you are responsible for performance of the required maintenance listed in your owner’s manual. Cobalt Boats, LLC recommends that you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your boat, but Cobalt Boats, LLC cannot deny warranty solely for the lack of receipts.

• As the boat owner, you should however be aware that Cobalt Boats, LLC may deny you warranty coverage if your spark-ignition marine watercraft or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance or unapproved modifications.

• You are responsible for presenting your boat to a Cobalt Boat, LLC distribution center or service center as soon as the problem exists. The warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days. If you have a question regarding your warranty coverage, you should contact Cobalt Boats, LLC at 1-(620) 325-2653.

The California evaporative emissions control system warranty covers the following list of components:

(1) Canister Mounting Brackets (11) Fuel Line

(2) Carbon Canister (12) Fuel Line Fittings

(3) Carburetor Purge Port Connector (13) Fuel Tank

(4) Clamps* (14) Liquid/Vapor Separator

(5) Control Cables* (15) Pressure Relief Valves*

(6) Control Linkages* (16) Purge Valves

(7) Control Solenoids* (17) Vacuum Control Diaphragms*

(8) Control Valves* (18) Vapor Hoses

(9) Electronic Controls* (19) All other parts not listed that may affect the evapora-

(10) Fuel Cap

tive emissions control system

NFORMATION

* Your craft may or may not be equipped with these components.

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COBALT

A WARNING

UTBOARDS

INTRODUCTION

This manual was created following International Organization for Standards (ISO) 10240:2004 as a guideline. Not all information to conform to the standards set forth by ISO can be included in this manual without certain manufacturer’s consent of the equipment included on your boat.

This owner’s manual contains information that is necessary to run the boat properly, safety topics, and operation and maintenance hints.

Even if everything has been planned and designed for the safety of the boat and its users, boating is highly dependent on the weather conditions, the sea state, and the experience and physical shape of the crew, and one can never ensure full safety. It is your responsibility as the owner or user to know the boat’s equipment, its capabilities and the boat’s intended use.

The specific information on the operation of the equipment and systems your boat is supplied with or fitted with should be supplied by that manufacturer. Read, understand and keep all the information supplied, and familiarize yourself and all users with the boat before you put it into use.

All persons should wear a suitable life preserver/personal flotation device when on deck. In some countries it is a legal requirement to wear a suitable life preserver/personal flotation device that complies with those countries’ regulations at all times.

ERIES

Avoid serious injury or death.

• Children, disabled people and non-swimmers should wear a personal flotation device at all times. Children and non-swimmers need special instruction in the use of life preservers. Inform all passengers on the proper use of personal flotation devices and of the location of safety equipment, man overboard recovery equipment, and the location and deployment of the ladder.

• Avoid contact with any running machinery moving parts, such as an engine, generator or propeller. Contact can result in loss of body parts, strangulation, burns and/or severe loss of blood. Keep all machinery guards in place when machinery is operating.

Intended Use

Your Cobalt boat is intended for use as a pleasure and sport craft.

Craft Design Category

Significant Wave Height – is the mean height of the highest one-third of the waves, which approximately corresponds to the wave height estimated by an experienced observer. Some waves will be double this height.

ECTION

OCEAN – Category A

Craft designed to operate in winds that may exceed wind Beaufort force 8 and in significant wave heights of 13' 1.44" (4 m) and above, and is largely self-sufficient. Abnormal conditions such as hurricanes are excluded. Such conditions may be encountered on extended voyages, for example across oceans, or inshore when unsheltered from the wind and waves for several hundred nautical miles.

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NFORMATION

OFFSHORE – Category B

Craft designed to operate in winds up to Beaufort force 8 and the associated wave heights and in significant wave heights up to 13' 1.44" (4 m). Such conditions may be encountered on offshore voyages of sufficient length, or on coastal waters when unsheltered from the wind and waves for several dozens of nautical miles. These conditions may also be experienced on inland seas of sufficient size for the wave height to be generated.

INSHORE – Category C

Craft designed to operate in winds up to Beaufort force 6 and the associated wave heights and significant wave heights up to 6' 6.7" (2 m). Such conditions may be encountered in exposed inland waters, in estuaries and in coastal waters in moderate weather conditions.

SHELTERED WATERS – Category D

Craft designed to operate in winds up to Beaufort force 4 and the associated wave heights (occasional maximum waves of 1' 7.7" [0.5 m] height). Such conditions may be encountered in sheltered inland waters, and in coastal waters in fine weather.

OWNER RESPONSIBILITY/ WARRANTY PROCEDURE

Before Operating

Before operating your new Cobalt boat, it is necessary that you read and understand this manual. Also, take the time to read the other component manuals supplied to you in your owner’s packet.

Warranty Service Requirements

All Cobalt warranty service must be completed by an authorized Cobalt dealer. If you are not able to return your boat to your selling dealership, you must contact him so he may assist you in coordinating the warranty repairs. Any claims against Cobalt Boats without prior approval from Cobalt Boats on repairs completed by an unauthorized dealership may be denied.

If You Sell Your Cobalt Boat

Your warranties are transferable. If you sell your Cobalt boat to anyone other than an authorized Cobalt dealer, please refer to the Warranty Transfer Form on the last page of this manual. If the proper transfer procedures are not followed, future warranty may be denied.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

CERTIFICATIONS

NMMA

Cobalt Boats is a member of the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). This independent organization’s members include boat, engine and marine equipment manufacturers that are focused on the improvement and safety of boating.

Your new Cobalt boat is NMMA certified. An NMMA certification not only satisfies the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations but also the more rigorous equipment and system standards based on those established by the American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc. (ABYC).Your Cobalt boat meets or exceeds NMMA safety-based certifications.

1-7

COBALT

UTBOARDS

FEATURES/CONSTRUCTION

Amenities

Your Cobalt boat incorporates classic styling with the long, clean lines that have defined Cobalt design for over 40 years.

Performance features include a hand-laid reinforced Kevlar with an all-fiberglass stringer system and AME 1000 vinylester resins used on the deck and hull for superior strength, toughness and weight savings.

Construction Standards/Certifications

A Warranty Statement explaining terms and conditions is supplied in this section. Please familiarize yourself with this statement. Failure to follow operating instructions and proper maintenance can void the warranty.

ERIES

ECTION

Construction Standards detailing industry standards followed in building your Cobalt boat are explained in this section. Please contact your authorized Cobalt dealer for additional construction information.

Serial Number Locations

Your Cobalt boat, its engines and propulsion units, and other equipment onboard will have a serial number for identification. It is a good practice to prepare a list of all serial number items and store it in a safe place other than onboard the boat. A page is supplied at the end of this manual for this purpose. The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is located on the upper starboard side of the transom. Please refer to the equipment operator’s manuals supplied in your owner’s packet for location of serial numbers.

1-8

Outboards Owner’s Manual

COB_0529_A

Transom of Boat

COBALT BOATS “MEET U.S. EPA EVAP

STANDARDS USING CERTIFIED COMPONENTS”

WARNING

This tower is designed to tow a wakeboarder. Do not tow other boats, tubes, parasails, etc. Do not climb, jump or dive off the tower. Do not sit behind the tower where you could come in contact with the rope. Do not allow loose ropes to hang from the tower. Do not trailer the boat with boards or skis in the racks. Before and during each use make sure all bolts and fasteners are tight. Make sure you have sufficient clearance above the tower when it is up. Watch for bridges, power lines, tree limbs and other low hanging obstacles. Failure to follow these instructions can lead to serious injury or death.

Eclipse Arch

WARNING

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

FROM FIRE, EXPLOSION OR

ELECTRICAL SHOCK.

• This device must be connected to a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Protected AC outlet.

• When using an extension cord, connect charger AC plug before connecting to the GFCI protected AC outlet.

• Make connection in an open atmosphere free of explosive fumes.

• Make connection in a secure manner that will avoid contact with water.

Battery Charger

Engine Compartment

ENERAL

NFORMATION

WARNING LABELS

The warning labels on your Cobalt boat must remain legible. If a label is damaged or you suspect a label is missing, contact your authorized Cobalt dealer for immediate replacement.

There are several labels used to point out hazards. All of these labels shown may not be included on your boat. The general location of the labels is as follows:

Helm

WARNING

PROPELLER LOCATED BEHIND THIS BOAT. CONTACT MAY CAUSE SEVERE INJURY OR FATALITY. DO NOT APPROACH OR USE LADDER AND PLATFORM WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.

WARNING

Keep hands and feet away from drive unit

Transom of Boat

when tilting.

Transom of Boat

Helm (U.S. Only)

Engine Compartment

(All models except 302, 336 and A40)

NOTE: ON OCCASION, YOU MAY HAVE TO CLEAR

THE PILE OF ROPE FROM UNDER THE HAWSE

PIPE TO MAKE ROOM FOR THE REMAINING RODE.

Near Windlass, Where Applicable

Outboards Owner’s Manual

1-9

COBALT

Helm

(actual capacity varies by model)

Helm (California Only)

COB_0530_A

COBALT CHECK LIST

For maximum enjoyment and safety, check each of these items BEFORE you start your engine: — DRAIN PLUG (securely in Place?) — LIFE-SAVING DEVICES (One for every person on board?) — STEERING SYSTEM (Working smoothly and properly?) — FUEL SYSTEM (Adequate fuel? Leaks? Fumes?) — BATTERY (Fully charged? Proper water level) — ENGINE (In neutral?) — CAPACITY PLATE (Are you overloaded or overpowered?) — WEATHER CONDITIONS (Safe to go out) — ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT (Lights, horn, pump, etc?) — EMERGENCY GEAR (Fire extinguisher, bailer, paddle,anchor and line, signaling device, tool kit, etc?)

RECOMMENDED SAFETY RULES

— REMAIN SEATED WHILE UNDERWAY — AVOID USING REAR PAD OR SUNDECK WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING — DO NOT USE BOARDING LADDER WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING — TURN OFF ENGINE AND ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS WHILE RE-FUELING — TURN OFF ENGINE WHEN SWIMMERS ARE NEAR BOAT

Helm Area

P/N 451160

ROTATING PROPELLER MAY CAUSE

SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

SHUT OFF ENGINE WHEN

NEAR PERSONS IN THE WATER.

NW-207-15

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Storage Area

1-10

WARNING

SKI TOW MAXIMUM LOAD - 1,000 POUNDS

REMOVE TOW POLE BEFORE OPENING ENGINE HATCH

Ski Tow

P/N 450797

Outboards Owner’s Manual

COB_0531_A

Cockpit Area

P/N 451397

WARNING

BIMINI AND ATTACHED ANCHOR LIGHT

MUST BE INSTALLED FOR NIGHTTIME

BOATING

Bimini

P/N 452937

WARNING

FUEL TANK LOCATED IN THIS AREA

FUEL LEAK, FIRE, OR EXPLOSION CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

DO NOT PUNCTURE, DRILL INTO OR DAMAGE THIS AREA.

Fuel Tank Area

P/N 451459

WARNING

SKI TOW MAXIMUM LOAD – 1,000 POUNDS

REMOVE SKI PYLON BEFORE TILTING ENGINE UP

Ski Area

P/N 453064

WARNING

SKI TOW MAXIMUM LOAD – 1,000 POUNDS

REMOVE SKI PYLON BEFORE TILTING ENGINE UP

Ski Area

P/N 453029

WARNING

AVOID DAMAGE OR INJURY. DO NOT EXCEED

TOW POINT MAXIMUM LOAD OF 1000 POUNDS.

Ski Area

P/N 451078

WARNING

AVOID DAMAGE OR INJURY. DO NOT USE

AS A TOW POINT.

Ski Area

P/N 452695

EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM INFORMATION

MEETS U.S. EPA EVAP STANDARDS USING CERTIFIED COMPONENTS

AND MEETS 2019 MY CALIFORNIA EVAP EMISSIONS REGULATIONS

FOR SPARK-IGNITION MARINE WATERCRAFT

MANUFACTURER: COBALT BOATS, LLC

CALIFORNIA EVAP FAMILY: KCOBCVSSL001 EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM: CP

Helm Area

P/N 453120

ENERAL

NFORMATION

Outboards Owner’s Manual

1-11

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

PUBLICATIONS

Your owner’s packet includes information about onboard systems and equipment furnished by suppliers other than Cobalt Boats. Please refer to these manufacturer’s manuals for additional operation and maintenance instructions not covered in this manual.

NAUTICAL TERMS

ABOARD – On or in the boat.

ABYC – American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc.

AFLOAT – On the water.

AFT – Toward the rear or stern of the boat.

AGROUND – Touching bottom.

AMIDSHIP – Center or middle of the boat.

ANCHOR – (1) An iron casting shaped to grip the

lake bottom to hold the boat. (2) The act of setting the anchor.

CAPACITY PLATE – A plate that provides maximum weight capacity and engine horsepower rating information. It is located in full view of the helm.

CAPSIZE – To turn over.

CAST-OFF – To unfasten mooring lines in

preparation for departure.

CENTER LINE – A lengthwise imaginary line which runs fore and aft with the boat’s keel.

CHINE – The point on a boat where the side intersects (meets) the bottom.

CLEAT – A deck fitting with ears to which lines are fastened.

CONSOLE – Also called helm. The steering wheel area of the boat.

CRANKING BATTERY – The main battery used for engine starting and electrical circuits.

CURRENT – Water moving in a horizontal direction.

ASHORE – On the shore.

ASTERN – Toward the stern.

BAIL – To remove water from the bottom of the

boat with a pump, bucket, sponge, etc.

BEAM – The widest point on the boat.

BEARING – Relative position or direction of an

object from the boat.

BILGE – The lowest interior section of the boat hull.

BOARDING – To enter the boat.

BOUNDARY WATERS – A body of water between

two areas of jurisdiction; i.e., a river between two states.

BOW – The front of the boat.

BULKHEAD – Vertical partition (wall) in a boat.

BUNKS – Carpeted trailer hull supports.

BURDENED BOAT – Term for the boat that must

“give-way” to boats with the right-of-way.

DECK – The open surface on the boat where the passengers walk.

DEEP CYCLE BATTERIES – Special long-running batteries which can be repeatedly discharged and recharged without significant loss of power.

DOLLY WHEEL – A rolling jack assembly at the front of the trailer used for positioning the coupler during trailer hookup.

DRAFT – The depth of the boat below the water line, measured vertically to the lowest part of the hull.

ELECTROLYSIS – The break-up of metals due to the effects of galvanic corrosion.

EPIRB – Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.

FATHOM – Unit of depth or measure; 1 fathom equals 6 feet.

FENDERS – Objects placed alongside the boat for cushioning. Sometimes called bumpers.

1-12

Outboards Owner’s Manual

ENERAL

NFORMATION

FORE – Toward the front or bow of the boat. Opposite of aft.

FREEBOARD – The distance from the water to the gunwale.

FUEL SENDING UNIT – The electrical device that is mounted on the outside of a built-in fuel tank and controls the dashboard fuel gauge.

GIVE-WAY BOAT – (1) Term for the boat that must take whatever action necessary to keep well clear of the boat with the right-of-way in meeting or crossing situations. (2) The burdened boat.

GUNWALE – The rail or upper edge of a boat’s side.

HEAD – A marine toilet.

HELM – The steering wheel or command area.

HULL – The body of the boat.

HYPOTHERMIA – A physical condition where the

body loses heat faster than it can produce it.

IN-LINE FUSE – A type of protective fuse located in the power wire of a direct current (DC) circuit usually near the battery.

KEEL – The lowest portion of the boat; extends fore and aft along the boat’s bottom.

LIST – Leaning or tilt of a boat toward the side.

LOA – Length overall.

NO-WAKE SPEED – The speed at which a boat

travels to produce an imperceptible wake.

PFD – Personal flotation device.

PITOT TUBE – See SPEEDOMETER PICKUP

TUBE.

PLANING HULL – A hull designed to lift, thereby reducing friction and increasing efficiency.

PORPOISE – A condition in which the bow bounces up and down caused by trimming the engine too far out.

PORT – (1) The left side of a boat when facing the bow. (2) A destination or harbor.

PRIVILEGED BOAT – Term used for the boat with the right-of-way.

RIGHT-OF-WAY – Term for the boat that has priority in meeting or crossing situations. The stand on or privileged boat.

RULES OF THE ROAD – Regulations for preventing collisions on the water.

SPEEDOMETER PICKUP TUBE – Also called pitot tube. The plastic device that extends below the bottom of the boat. It connects to the speedometer with plastic flexible tubing.

STAND ON BOAT – Term for the boat that must maintain course and speed in meeting or crossing situations. The privileged boat.

MAKING WAY – Making progress through the water.

MARINE CHART – Seagoing maps showing depths, buoys, navigation aids, etc.

MOORING – An anchor, chain, or similar device that holds a boat in one location.

NAVIGATION AID – Recognizable objects on land or sea such as buoys, towers or lights which are used to fix position to identify safe and unsafe waters.

NMMA – National Marine Manufacturers Association.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

STARBOARD – The right side of the boat when looking toward the bow.

STERN – The back of the boat.

STOW – To pack the cargo.

SURGE BRAKES – A type of trailer braking system

designed to automatically actuate when the tow vehicle’s brakes are applied.

TRANSDUCER

signals for the depth sounder.

TRANSOM – The transverse beam across the stern.

TRIM – Fore to aft and side to side balance of the boat when loaded.

1-13

– The unit that sends/receives

COBALT

UNDERWAY – Boat in motion, i.e., not moored or anchored.

USCG – United States Coast Guard.

VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNAL – A device used to

signal the need for assistance such as flags, lights and flares.

WAKE – The waves that a boat leaves behind when moving through the water.

WATERWAY – A navigable body of water.

WINDLASS – An electric winch to raise the anchor.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

1-14

Outboards Owner’s Manual

SYMBOLS

ENERAL

NFORMATION

Light Filter Sling Point Compass Anchor

Lights

Boat

Profile

STOP

Engine

Stop

Bow Tr im

Engine Fuel

Do Not

Use Water

Tank

Draft Engine

Caution

Grease Height

Above Water

Blower Boat

Engine

Hour Meter

Holding

Tank

Engine

Key

Horn

Ignition

Switch

Outboards Owner’s Manual

Overall Length

Tr im

Tabs

Lift

Point

Water

Tank

Light Navigation

Lights

Windshield

Wipers

1-15

Safety Alert

Symbol

Oil Tank

COB_0030_A

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

SPECIFICATIONS

23SC 25SC 30SC

Length Overall w/Swim Platform 23' 2" (7.06 m) 24' 9" (7.54 m)

Length Overall w/o Engines 29' 8" (9.04 m) Beam 8' 6" (2.59 m) 8' 6" (2.59 m) 9' 9" (2.97 m) Interior Cockpit Width 87" (2.21 m) 87" (2.21 m) 101" (2.57 m)

Deadrise at Transom 21° 21° 21° Fuel Capacity 59 gal (223 L) 73 gal (276 L) 130 gal (492 L) Freshwater Capacity 10 gal (37.8 L) 10 gal (37.8 L) 18 gal (68 L)

Holding Tank Capacity 10 gal (37.8 L) 10 gal (37.8 L) 9 gal (34 L) Bridge Clearance w/o Bimini 4' 11" (1.50 m) 4' 11" (1.50 m) Bridge Clearance w/Arch or Tower 8' 1" (2.46 m) 8' 1" (2.46 m)

Bridge Clearance (windshield only) 5' 0" (1.52 m) Draft Drive Up 20" (0.50 m) 20" (0.50 m)

Draft Drive Up, Twin Engines 26" (0.66 m) Draft Drive Down 38" (0.97 m) 38" (0.97 m) Draft Drive Down, Twin Engines TBA

Dry Weight 4200 lbs (1905 kg) 4500 lbs (2041 kg) Dry Weight, w/Twin Engines 9000 lbs (4082 kg) Boat Certified Capacity 12 persons 13 persons Yacht Certified

Boat Certified Capacity w/Gear 1595 lbs (723 kg) 1850 lbs (839 kg) Yacht Certified

1-16

Outboards Owner’s Manual

LAYOUT

COB_0342d_A

XXX

23SC

ENERAL

NFORMATION

1. Navigation Light

2. Anchor Locker

3. Bow Storage

4. Bow Storage

5. Circuit Breaker Panel

6. Ignition Safety Switch

7. Fuel Inlet

XXX

8. Bilge Pump

9. Cockpit Storage

10. Ice Chest

11. Optional Ski Tow

12. Optional Stereo Remote

13. Optional Flagpole

14. Anchor Light

15. Cockpit Storage

16. Battery Switch/Storage

17. Fuel Tank Access

18. Ski Locker

19. Glove Box/12V Outlet

20. Optional XM Antenna

21. Bilge Pump Outlet

22. Ice Chest

23. Head Compartment

24. Fold Down Swim Step

Outboards Owner’s Manual

12 Designated

Occupant

Positions

1-17

25SC

COB_0342a_B

XXXXX

XXXXXXX

1. Navigation Light

2. Anchor Locker

3. Bow Storage

4. Bow Storage

5. Circuit Breaker Panel

6. Ignition Safety Switch

7. Optional Cockpit Galley

8. Optional Refrigerator (Galley Option Only)

9. Fuel Inlet

10. Bilge Pump

11. Starboard Cockpit Seating

12. Ice Chest

13. Optional Ski Tow

14. Optional Stereo Remote

15. Optional Flagpole

16. Anchor Light

17. Cockpit Storage

18. Battery Switch/Storage

19. Fuel Tank Access

20. Ski Locker

21. Glove Box/12V Outlet

22. Optional XM Antenna

23. Bilge Pump Outlet

24. Ice Chest

25. Head Compartment

26. Fold Down Swim Step

If no galley, sit aft of helm (11). With galley, sit aft of galley.

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

14 Designated

Occupant

Positions

1-18

Outboards Owner’s Manual

30SC

1. Bow Navigation Light

2. Docking Lights

3. Anchor Lid

4. Wet Storage

5. Fire Extinguisher

6. Storage

7. Air Compressor

8. Ski Locker

9. Helm

10. Ignition Safety Switch

11. Remote Battery Switches

12. Fuel Fill

13. Ice Chest

14. Aft Trunk Switch

15. Fuel Vent Carbon Canister

16. Wet Locker

17. Cockpit Drains

18. Ski Tow

19. Aft Bilge Pump in Aft Storage Compartment

20. Forward Bilge Pump in Aft Storage Compartment

21. Anchor Light Receptacle without Arch or Bimini

22. Water Fill

23. Manual Battery Switches Located in Floor Storage

24. Cockpit Filler Receptacle

25. Removable Trash Can

26. Breaker Panel Jumper Studs

27. Removable Ice Chest

28. 12V Accessory Outlet

29. Head

30. Waste Pump Out Fitting

31. Vacuflush Tank

COB_0506_A

ENERAL

NFORMATION

Outboards Owner’s Manual

1-19

COBALT

UTBOARDS

PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART

23SC

ERIES

ECTION

MFGR ENGINE HP

MERC 200 Verado 200

MERC 225 Verado 225 1.85 3 w/prop 14.5 x 17 RH 481843 48-898994A46

MERC 250 Verado 250 1.85 3 w/prop 14.2 x 18 RH 481806 48-898996A46

MERC 250 Verado (V8) 250 1.85 4 w/prop 14 5/8 x 19 Rev 4 RH 481900 8M0127031

MERC 300 Verado 300 1.85 3 w/prop 14 x 19 RH 481796 48-898998A46

YAMAHA F200 200

YAMAHA F250 250 1.75 2 w/engine 15 1/2 x 17 RH 481799 6CE-45978-00-00

YAMAHA F300 300 1.75 2 w/engine 481798

EVINRUDE 250 250 1.85 2 481884 15.5 x 19 481807 763990

GEAR RATIO

PLACEMENT

HUB KIT SS PROP SS PART# SS MFG PART#

25SC

MFGR ENGINE HP

MERC 200 Verado 200

MERC 225 Verado 225

MERC 250 Verado 250 1.85 3 w/prop 14.6 x 18 4 blade 481808 3850318-1

MERC 300 Verado 300 1.85 3 w/prop 14 x 19 RH 481796 48-898998A46

MERC 300 Verado (V8) 300 1.85 4 w/prop 14 5/8 x 20 Rev 4 RH 481899 8M0127033

MERC 350 Verado 350 1.75 481809 14.6 x 18 4 blade 481808 3850318-1

YAMAHA F200 200

YAMAHA F250 250 1.75 2 w/engine 15 1/2 x 17 RH 481799 6CE-45978-00-00

YAMAHA F300 300 1.75 2 w/engine 15 1/4 x 18 RH 481798 6CE-45934-00-00

YAMAHA F350 350

EVINRUDE E250X 250

EVINRUDE E300XU 300 1.85 2 414884 15 1/2 x 19 3 Blade 481807 763990

GEAR RATIO

PLACEMENT

HUB KIT SS PROP SS PART# SS MFG PART#

30SC

MFGR ENGINE HP

TWIN

MERC 250 Verado 250

MERC 300 Verado 300 1.85 4 w/prop

MERC 350 Verado 350 1.75 4 481601

TWIN

YAMAHA F250 250 1.75 3 w/prop 15 1/4 x 19

YAMAHA F300 300 1.75 3 w/prop 15 x 20

YAMAHA F350 350

GEAR RATIO

PLACEMENT

HUB KIT SS PROP SS PART# SS MFG PART#

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 RH 481861 48-857028A46

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 LH 481862 48-857029A46

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 RH 481861 48-857028A46

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 LH 481862 48-857029A46

1-20

481881 6CF-45932-20-0

481882 6CE-45932-20-0

Outboards Owner’s Manual

ENERAL

NFORMATION

ALPHABETICAL INDEX

Addendum A – Service Assist Service

Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

After Boating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

After Boating: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

After Fueling: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Aids to Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22

Air Compressor - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Air Compressor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Alphabetical Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21

Amenities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Anchor Light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Anchoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Approaching a Mooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Approaching a Slip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Audible/Visual Distress Signals . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Automatic Charging Relay (ACR) . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Automatic Charging Relay (ACR) . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Basic Maneuvering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Battery Charger - Optional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Battery Charger - Optional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Battery Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Battery Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Battery Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Before Each Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Before Launching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Before Operating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Before Starting Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Before You Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Bilge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Bilge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

Boarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Boat in the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Boat in the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Boat Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6

Boat on a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Boat on a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Boat Theory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Bow / Cockpit Dinette Table - Optional . . . . . . 5-6

Bow Cushion Inserts - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Bow Tonneau Cover - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Bow Tonneau Cover - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Break-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Burdened Boats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Cabinetry and Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Cabinetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

California Air Resource Board (CARB) Label California Evaporative Emissions Control

System Warranty Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

. . 2-6

Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Captain’s Chair Adjustments and Operation . . 4-5 Captain’s Chair Adjustments and Operation . . 5-5

Carbon Monoxide Detectors, if equipped . . . . . 3-8

Care and Cleaning of Vinyl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Carpet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Casting Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Cedar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Certificate of Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Certifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Circuit Breaker Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Cleaning Agents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Cleaning and Disinfecting the Freshwater

System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Cleaning Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

Cleaning Deck and Hull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Cleaning Stainless Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14

Clear Vinyl “Isinglass”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

Cobalt Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Cockpit Dinette Table - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Cockpit Tonneau Cover - Optional . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Cockpit Tonneau Cover - Optional . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Collisions/Leaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Components, Maintenance and Repairs . . . . . 2-7

Construction Standards/Certifications . . . . . . . 1-8

Corrosion Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

CorrosionX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Craft Design Category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Crossing Situation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Cruise Control - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Dark Stowage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

DC Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Deck and Hull Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

Deck and Hull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Discharge of Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Discharge/Disposal of Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Distress Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Dockside Pump-out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Dockside Waste Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Drowning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Drugs/Alcohol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

During Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

During Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Education Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Electric Arch with Bimini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Outboards Owner’s Manual

1-21

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

Electrically Operated Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Emergency Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Emission Control Warranty Information. . . . . . 2-6

Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

Entertainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

Environmental Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Environmental Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

EPA Fuel Tank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Every 100 Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Every 50 Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Excessive Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Excessive Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Exhaust Emissions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Extended Swim Platform/Boarding Ladder

(Optional). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Features/Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Federal, State and Local Regulations . . . . . . 2-17

Fire Extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Fire Extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Fire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Fire/Explosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

First-Time Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Fishery Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Flip Down Swim Step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Flip Down Swim Step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Float Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

Flooding/Swamping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Focused Refracted Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

Folding Arch w/Bimini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Foreign Species. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Freezing Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

Freshwater System (if equipped). . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Freshwater System (Optional). . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Fuel Log. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Fuel Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Fuel System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Fuel System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Fuel/Spillage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Fueling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Fuses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Galvanic Corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

General Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

General Maintenance Instructions. . . . . . . . . . 7-2

General Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Getting Underway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Grounding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Handholds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Handling Dock and Mooring Lines . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Hardtop with Automated SureShade . . . . . . . 5-13

Hardtop with Manual SureShade . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

Head Shower and Sink. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Helm and Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Helm and Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

High-Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Horn or Whistle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Ice Chest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

If You Sell Your Cobalt Boat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

INSHORE – Category C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Inside the Bulkhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Isolated Danger Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26

Lateral Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

Launching Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Launching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Leather Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Leaving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Life Raft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Lifesaving Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Lifesaving Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Lifting the Boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Light Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26

Lighthouses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27

Lines and Knots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

Loading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Loading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Lowering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

Macerator (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Macerator Pump - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Macerator Pump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Maintenance Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Maintenance Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Manual Discharge Pump Operation . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Marine Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

Marine Sanitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Marine Toilet (Head) and Macerator -

Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Marine Toilet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

MARPOL Treaty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

1-22

Outboards Owner’s Manual

ENERAL

NFORMATION

Material Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

Medical Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Meeting Head-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Minor Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26

Mooring Buoys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23

Nautical Terms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Navigation Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

NMMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

OCEAN – Category A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

OFFSHORE – Category B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Operating in Shallow Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Operation Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Operation Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Operation Quick Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Other Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

Other Canvas Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

Other Navigation Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Outboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Outboards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Overtaking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22

Owner Responsibility/Warranty Procedure . . . 1-7

Owner/Operator Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Paints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Passengers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Periodic Comprehensive Cleaning . . . . . . . . . 7-3

Personal Flotation Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Platform Dragging (“Teak Surfing”) . . . . . . . . 2-19

Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

Porta Potti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Porta Potti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Power Trim and Tilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Premium Bimini Top - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Premium Bimini Top with Easy Fold -

Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Premium Bimini Top with Easy Fold -

Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Pre-Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Pre-Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Preventive Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Privileged Boats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Propeller Application Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

Proposition 65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Qualified Boat Operators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Quarterly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Radar Reflectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Radio Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Range Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27

Reactivating the Boat After Storage . . . . . . . . . 8-5

Recommended Safety Equipment . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Recommended Spare Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Recommissioning the Automated Sunshade

System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14

Recommissioning the Manual Sunshade

System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Registration/Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Regulatory Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23

Remote Battery Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Remote Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Rendering Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Reporting Accidents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Required Safety Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Returning to Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Returning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Rules of the Road/Sound Signals . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Safety Alert From August 28, 2001: . . . . . . . . 2-20

Safety While Boating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Salt Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

Salt Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

Scheduled Maintenance and Service. . . . . . . . 8-1

Sea Anchors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Sea Grass Floor Covering Cleaning

Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Seating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Seaworthiness Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Serial Number Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Service Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

SHELTERED WATERS – Category D . . . . . . . 1-7

Shifting/Running . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Shipshape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Signal Words/Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Ski Tow Pylon - Removable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14

Ski Tow Pylon (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Skill/Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Snap Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

Solid Waste Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Special Cleaning Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9

Special Situations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

Sport Top with Retractable Shade . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Spot and Stain Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Stainless Steel and Chrome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Starting Engine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Starting the Engine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Outboards Owner’s Manual

1-23

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Starting/Shifting/Steering/Stopping . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Stationary Arch with Awlgrip Topcoat . . . . . . 7-11

Steering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Stopping the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Stopping the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

Storage Cradle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

Storage/Winterization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Storms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Swim Platform Mat Care and Maintenance . . . 7-6

Symbols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Teak Swim Platform. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Tie-Down Locations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16

Tie-Down Locations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15

Tool Kit - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16

Tool Kit - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15

Topside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

Transom Shower Washdown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Transporting Your Boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

Transporting Your Boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

Types of Buoys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22

Unscheduled Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Using Lifting Slings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

VacuFlush Toilet System (Optional) . . . . . . . . 5-9

Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Vinyl Interior and Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Visual Distress Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Wake/Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Wake/Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Warning Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28

Warranty Service Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Warranty Transfer Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

Waste Disposal with Optional Macerator. . . . 4-11

Water Rescue (Man Overboard) . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Water Sports Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10

Water/Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Weather/Seas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Weighing (May require two persons). . . . . . . 3-16

Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

When Fueling: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Whistle/Horn Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Windshield Latch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

Winter Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Winter Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14

Woodgrain Dash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Your Warranty Rights and Obligations. . . . . . . 1-4

Zippers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10

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RESPONSIBILITIES AND

SAFETY

ECTION

Your safety, the safety of your passengers, and other boaters are among your responsibilities as operator of this boat. Your boat must be in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) safety equipment regulations. You should know how to react correctly to adverse weather conditions, have good navigation skills and follow the “Rules of the Road” as defined by the USCG and state/county/local regulations.

OWNER/OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

At the time of delivery, the owner/operator is responsible for:

• Understanding warranty terms and conditions of the outboard and boat.

• Obtaining insurance.

• Examining boat to ensure proper operation of all systems.

Before operating the boat, the owner/operator is responsible for:

• Obtaining state registration of the boat.

• Providing the proper USCG required safety equipment.

• Following proper break-in procedure for the outboard.

While operating the boat, the owner/operator is responsible for:

• Knowing that all safety equipment and personal flotation devices are in good condition and suitable for your boat and passenger load.

• Having at least one other passenger who is capable of handling the boat in an emergency.

• Following safe operating practices and the rules of the road.

• Understanding proper maintenance and knowledge of the boat’s operating systems.

• Providing safety training for the passengers.

• Avoiding use of alcohol and other drugs.

• Providing assistance to other boaters.

Registration/Documentation

The USCG requires that all power boats operated on the navigable waters of the U.S. must be registered in the state of main use; also, many states require registration in that state whenever boating on waters within their state boundary. Contact your state boating authorities (and neighboring states) for registration information on boats and trailers.

Your authorized Cobalt dealer can supply you with the appropriate forms.

• Understanding safety information and proper operating procedures within this manual.

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COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Required Safety Equipment

The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 (FBSA/71) established minimum safety standards for boats and associated equipment, specified by the USCG. In addition, the ABYC and the NMMA work with boat builders to develop voluntary standards that exceed base requirements.

The included safety equipment on your Cobalt boat meets or exceeds the standards of the USCG, ABYC and the NMMA. Some required safety equipment such as personal flotation devices are not included with your Cobalt boat. Your authorized Cobalt dealer can help you choose the appropriate equipment.

NOTICE: Many states’ equipment requirements go beyond USCG requirements. Contact your state boating office for further information. Equipment requirements for coastal and inland waters differ. Check with local authorities or the USCG for further information about coastal water requirements.

Navigation Lights

All power boats underway between sunset and sunrise must display proper navigation lights. All boats at anchor must display a proper anchor light. Anchor light must be visible 360 degrees. Your Cobalt boat is equipped with navigation lights to meet Inland Rules and may meet International Rules.

Horn or Whistle

All boats over 16 ft (4.8 m) in length must be equipped with an operable horn or whistle, audible from one mile. Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a USCG approved horn.

Compass

To aid in navigation, your Cobalt boat may have a compass mounted at the helm. Refer to the compass user’s manual in your owner’s packet for operating information. The compass may require calibration. Contact your authorized Cobalt dealer for more information.

Other Navigation Equipment

Other navigation equipment, such as depth sounder, radar, LORAN system or global positioning system, can be installed by your authorized Cobalt dealer. Operation and maintenance of that equipment is provided by the manufacturer.

Fire Extinguisher

All outboard boats must carry an appropriate portable marine type fire extinguisher in operable condition and accessible location. Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a portable fire extinguisher and may have a fixed system fire extinguisher.

Lifesaving Devices

All boats must carry one USCG approved Type I, II or III, wearable, personal flotation device, of the proper size, for each person onboard. All boats over 16 ft (4.8 m) in length must carry one USCG approved Type IV throwable lifesaving device, such as a ring buoy or buoyant cushion. To meet requirements, each lifesaving device must have a currently legible USCG approval stamp permanently affixed. Your authorized Cobalt dealer can help you select appropriate PFDs and throwable lifesaving devices for your area.

Visual Distress Signals

All boats over 16 ft (4.8 m) must have onboard day and night visual distress signals. Your authorized Cobalt dealer can help you select appropriate visual distress signals for your area.

Recommended Safety Equipment

In spite of all efforts to the contrary, problems or mishaps sometimes occur while boating. Stock these items listed below on your boat to help make unexpected events more manageable.

• Anchor and anchor line

• Compass

• First aid kit

• Distress signals (flag for daytime, flares for darkness)

• Flashlight and spare batteries

• Portable radio

• Cellular phone

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ESPONSIBILITIES

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AFETY

• Sea anchor

• Binoculars

• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

• Boat hook

• Sun glasses and sun block lotion

Recommended Spare Parts

The following list contains common spare parts you should carry onboard. Review all the equipment on your boat. Be sure to have spare parts available to maintain and make minor repairs if necessary. Refer to all operator’s manuals in your owner’s packet for the manufacturer’s recommended spare parts.

• Lanyard for ignition safety switch

• Engine oil

• Ignition keys

• Tape, tie straps and rope

• Light bulbs and fuses

• Propeller with attaching hardware

Contact state and local boating offices to find boating safety courses in your area. In Canada, consult Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons.

Insurance

You must get insurance before operating your new boat. Insurance for loss by fire, theft or other causes, or liability protection against accidents is a must for responsible boaters. The boat owner is legally responsible for any damage or injury caused when he, or someone else operating the boat, is involved in an accident. Many states have laws detailing minimum insurance needs. Your insurance agent or your dealer may be able to supply you with more information.

BOAT THEORY

The following information briefly explains main system theory.

Outboards

Education Opportunities

Be boat smart from the start, take a boating safety course and get a free vessel safety check annually for your boat. For more information, contact: United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, www.cgaux.org; United States Power Squadrons, 888-FOR-USPS, www.usps.org. Most boaters can enhance their enjoyment of boating experiences through increased knowledge of safe operation, navigation and regulation of pleasure boats. The following is a list of some other agencies and organizations that offer Water Safety, First Aid and CPR courses or information.

Use the following resources for safety and other information not covered in this manual:

• U.S. Coast Guard - www.uscgboating.org

• Canadian Coast Guard - www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca

• American Red Cross - www.redcross.org

• U.S. Power Squadrons - www.usps.org

• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary - nws.cgaux.org

Always check bilge for fuel fumes before starting the engine. If there is an odor of fuel, do not start the engine until the problem has been fixed and fumes have been eliminated.

Always keep hands, feet, hair and clothing away from the water intake of the outboard. Do not attempt to clear debris or perform other maintenance while the engine is running. Always remove the clip from the emergency stop switch to prevent accidental starting of the engine while working on the outboard.

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COBALT

CAUTION

A DANGER

A WARNING

CAUTION

Do not exceed the posted engine rating of your boat. Boat power capacity has been rated for maximum performance and safety. Exceeding power capacity is illegal in many areas.

Never use a propeller that allows the engine to exceed recommended RPM under normal wide-open throttle operation.

Remote Control System

The shift lever controls the direction of the boat, and the throttle lever controls the speed of the boat.

Steering System

UTBOARDS

ERIES

DC Electrical System

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a battery-powered direct current (DC) system. The DC system supplies electricity to lights, pumps and engine ignition.

Never use an open flame in the battery storage area. The battery will explode if a flame or spark ignites the free hydrogen gas given off during charging. Be sure to prevent sparks near the battery.

ECTION

The steering wheel (helm) is connected to a hydraulic cylinder. As you turn the helm, hydraulic fluid directs movement of a steering cylinder. The cylinder is mechanically connected to the outboards. In an emergency the outboards can be turned manually by connecting a line to the outboards and directing them.

Fuel System

The fuel system consists of a permanent tank with an air vent system, fuel level sensor and fuel fill components. The tank has an anti-siphon valve to prevent fuel from accumulating in the bilge if a hose should break.

Freshwater System (Optional)

The optional freshwater system consists of a tank, pump, tank pressure switch and system ON/OFF switch. The system supplies fresh water to the sink and the transom shower. The red LED on the ON/OFF switch indicates the system is activated. The pump operates only when pressure is required in the system.

Only a qualified marine electrical technician may service the boat’s electrical system.

• Disconnect the electrical system from its power source before performing maintenance. Never work on the electrical system when it is energized.

• Electrical appliances must not exceed the rated amperage of the boat circuit.

• Observe the electrical system carefully while it is energized. The only electrical components that can be left unattended are the automatic bilge pump, fire protection and alarm circuits.

Always turn off the engine before servicing the battery. Disconnect the battery cables before working on the electrical system to prevent arcing or damage to the engine’s alternator. Disconnect the negative (-) cable first, and then disconnect the positive (+) cable.

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ESPONSIBILITIES

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AFETY

Bilge

A drain plug is located in the transom to allow water to drain before trailering and storing. Before every use, inspect the drain plug and bilge pump. Routinely clean pump strainer, float switch, intake and area under the pump. It is a violation of federal law to pump overboard bilge that contains oil or fuel.

Always install the drain plug before launching to prevent the boat from sinking.

Seaworthiness Inspection

The following checks are essential to safe boating and must be performed before starting the engines. Get into the habit of performing these checks in the same order each time so that it becomes routine.

• Check the weather report, wind and water conditions.

Operation Checklist

While operating your boat, frequently check that the control and steering systems continue to operate smoothly. Monitor your gauges for signs of abnormal behavior. Beware of any excessive vibration. Refer to Section 3, Before Starting

Checklist.

Avoid the risk of creating a hazardous situation. DO NOT operate the boat if any problem is found during this inspection.

Problems found during this inspection should be handled by your authorized Cobalt dealer.

Environmental Considerations

As a boater, you already appreciate nature’s beauty and the peace of the great outdoors. It is a boater’s responsibility to protect the natural environment by keeping waterways clean.

• Check that required safety equipment is onboard.

• Check that fire extinguisher is fully charged.

• Check that bilge drain plug is properly installed.

• Check that no fuel, oil or water is leaking or has leaked into the bilge compartment.

• Check all hoses and connections for leakage and damage.

• Check that battery(ies) is fully charged and has the proper level.

• Check electrical circuits (lights, pumps, horn, etc.) for proper operation.

• Check that steering system operates properly.

• Be sure the boat is not overloaded.

• Check that all maintenance has been performed.

MARPOL Treaty

The USCG enforces the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from ships, commonly referred to as the MARPOL Treaty (MARine POLlution). This treaty prohibits the overboard dumping of all ship-generated plastics, chemicals, garbage and oil.

Fuel/Spillage

The spilling of fuel or oil into our waterways contaminates the environment and is dangerous to wildlife. Do not discharge or dispose of fuel or oil into the water; it is prohibited and you can be fined. These are two common, accidental types of discharge:

• Overfilling the fuel tank(s)

• Pumping contaminated bilge water

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COBALT

A DANGER

COB_0016_A

A WARNING

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

California Air Resource Board (CARB) Label

Your boat may have an environmental star label affixed on the bow, port side of the boat as part of the California Air Resource Board (CARB) SD/I rule. This label must stay affixed to the boat if it is operated in California. The label identifies your boat is equipped with a California Certified Engine. The label is positioned so it will be at the leading or trailing edge of the state registration numbers.

Avoid fire or explosion. Fumes from rags can collect in bilge and be extremely hazardous. DO NOT store rags used to wipe up fuel or solvent spills in the boat. Dispose of rags properly ashore.

Emission Control Warranty Information

The engine in your Cobalt boat meets the strict requirements set forth by CARB. The engine has a special environmental tag and the boat has this label

affixed to it. The tag and the label are required by CARB. The label has 1, 2, 3 or 4 stars. The label MUST be affixed to the boat, if the boat is operated in the state of California and/or bordering waters.

Proposition 65

A wide variety of components used on this vessel contain or emit chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.

EXAMPLES INCLUDE:

• Outboard exhaust

• Outboard fuel, and other liquids such as motor oil

• Cooking fuels

• Cleaners, paints and substances used for vessel repair

• Waste materials that result from wear of vessel components

• Lead from battery terminals and from other sources such as fishing sinkers

TO AVOID HARM:

• Keep away from outboard exhaust fumes.

• Wash areas thoroughly with soap and water after handling the substances above.

Refer to Section 1, California Evaporative Emissions Control System Warranty Statement

for information about your rights and obligations and for components covered under this warranty.

Discharge/Disposal of Waste

Waste means all forms of garbage, plastics, recyclables, food, wood, detergents, sewage and even fish parts in certain waters - in short, nearly everything. We recommend you bring back everything you take out with you for proper disposal ashore. Use an approved pump-out facility at your marina. Many areas prohibit the discharge of sewage overboard or even an operable overboard waste discharge.

Excessive Noise

Noise means engine noise, radio noise or even voices. Many bodies of water have adopted noise limits. Music and loud conversation can carry a considerable distance on water, especially at night.

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AND

AFETY

Wake/Wash

Be alert for NO WAKE zones. You may be responsible for any damage or injury caused by your wake/wash. Prior to entering a no wake zone, come off plane to the slowest steerable speed.

Exhaust Emissions

Increased exhaust (hydrocarbon) emissions pollute our water and air. Keep your engine tuned and boat hull clean for peak performance. Consult your authorized Cobalt dealer and outboard operator’s manual for information.

Paints

If your boat is kept in water where marine growth is a problem, the use of anti-fouling paint may reduce the growth rate. Be aware of environmental regulations that may govern your paint choice. Contact your local boating authorities for information.

Cleaning Agents

Household cleaners should be used sparingly and not discharged into waterways. Do not mix cleaners and be sure to use plenty of ventilation in enclosed areas. DO NOT use products which contain phosphates, chlorine, solvents, nonbiodegradable or petroleum based products. Citrus-based cleaners are excellent for marine cleaning purposes and are safe for you and the environment. Do not use citrus-based cleaners on stainless steel.

Fishery Resources

There is a tremendous drain on our fishery resources. Over-fishing and pollution have strained the fish population. Do your part by keeping only what you will eat and practice catch-and-release.

Foreign Species

If you trailer your Cobalt boat from lake to lake, you may unknowingly introduce a foreign aquatic species from one lake to the next. Thoroughly clean the boat below the waterline, remove all weeds and algae, and drain the bilge before launching the boat in a new body of water.

Components, Maintenance and Repairs

Only your authorized Cobalt dealer should make any alterations, modifications or repairs that could affect safety, design integrity or warranty coverage. Included with your owner’s packet is your outboard manual. This manual was prepared by the manufacturer and contains information concerning the operation and care of your engine and drive unit. Please read this manual thoroughly and become acquainted with this information.

It is advisable to maintain a service log to record service checks, such as outboard oil changes, so you can determine when it is time for servicing. A maintenance log is helpful when requesting warranty service using the extended warranty coverage. Be sure to collect receipts for work performed and make an entry in the Service Log in the back of this manual.

Emergency Considerations

Be prepared to deal with emergencies before they happen. Try to formulate a plan for each type in advance so that decisions can be made quickly and without hesitation. Precious moments lost can mean the difference between losing and saving a life.

Fire

You must be prepared and act quickly when dealing with a fire. It is not recommended to battle a fire for an extended period of time. Turn engines off and abandon the boat if the fire cannot be extinguished quickly. Swim at least 25 yards (23 meters) upwind from the boat and use the visual distress signals to get assistance. Onboard fires involving the fuel system usually result in either an explosion that completely destroys the boat, or the boat burning to the waterline and self-extinguishing. Deciding on abandoning the boat or staying to fight the fire is difficult and depends on many factors. Try to formulate a fire plan in advance to make that decision quickly and without hesitation.

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COBALT

A WARNING

KC-0083C

A WARNING

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

The USCG and other law enforcement agency requirements for fire extinguishers are only the minimum needed. Your Cobalt boat is equipped with at least one portable fire extinguisher. For the location of your fire extinguisher, refer to Section 1, Layout. Remember, install extra extinguishers where they might be needed. Inspect extinguishers on a regular basis.

Avoid injury or death. Gasoline will float on top of water and can burn. If the boat is abandoned, swim upwind, far enough to avoid fuel that may spread over the surface of the water.

Collisions/Leaks

If a collision occurs, immediately account for all passengers. Assess the hull for damage and activate the bilge pumps to reduce any water intake. Try to operate the boat to keep the damaged area above water. If necessary, call or signal for assistance. If a leak is discovered, immediately determine the cause. A collision with an underwater object could cause the hull to develop a leak. A loose fitting or hose clamp on a piece of equipment could cause a leak. Try to repair the leak if possible. If a leak is threatening the safety of you and your passengers, call or signal for assistance.

Operating in Shallow Water

COLLISION HAZARD – Use extra caution in shallow water or where underwater/floating objects may be present. Hitting an object at high speed or severe angle can seriously injure people and damage your boat.

1– Recharge 2 – Overcharge

Be sure to:

• Use caution and do not smoke when refueling.

• Verify that fuel does not leak.

• Use only marine approved equipment on your boat.

Flooding/Swamping

Improper loading, handling, water conditions, weather and anchoring are the most common causes of flooding. Insist on a safe, stable load. Do not operate the boat exceeding your ability to maneuver it. Use extreme caution in hazardous weather and rough water conditions. Anchor from the bow when using one anchor.

• Shallow water presents obvious hazards including insufficient water depth, sand bars, stumps, or other unmarked obstructions.

• Other hazards in shallow water include mud, sand, weeds, rocks, logs and debris. These hazards can damage your boat hull or underwater gear and can foul your engine cooling water intakes, which could cause overheating.

• Know the area in which you are operating. Consult charts and ask local boaters. If you know or suspect shallow water, post a lookout and proceed slowly.

• When beaching, be aware how tide can affect the boat. Never leave a beached boat unattended or unanchored.

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AND

AFETY

Grounding

In the event you run aground, assess the situation before proceeding. Immediately stop any water from entering the boat. Inspect the outboard, steering and control systems, and the hull for damage. Maneuver the boat to safe water only if the hull and all operating systems are in satisfactory operating condition. Otherwise, call or signal for assistance.

Storms

Take common sense precautions if you are forced to operate your boat in stormy conditions.

• Wear personal flotation devices (PFDs).

• Stow gear below deck and batten down equipment on deck.

• Reduce speed and head for a safe place that you can easily reach.

• If you lose power, keep the boat headed into the waves by using the anchor.

Water Rescue (Man Overboard)

Immediately react to a person that has fallen overboard. Keep the victim constantly in your sight. Safely return to the victim as soon as possible. Throw the person a PFD. Turn the engines off and help the person into the boat.

Medical Emergency

Be prepared in the event of an emergency. Know how to use your first aid kit. Be aware of any special medical conditions of your passengers.

Drowning

React to a drowning victim the same as described in Water Rescue. Handle victims with care; they could be injured. If necessary, resuscitate the victim. Immediately signal for help and keep the victim warm.

Operation Failure

Have equipment available and be prepared to rig an emergency steering system in case of an emergency with the outboards.

If you experience an outboard, steering or control failure, immediately turn off the engines. Release the anchor to prevent drifting. Try to determine the failure and repair, if possible. Otherwise, call or signal for assistance.

Distress Signals

Federal law also requires boats 16 ft (4.8 m) and longer to carry day and night visual distress signals when operating on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas or those waters directly connected to them, up to a point where the body of water is less than two miles wide. Carry several types of signaling devices to handle a variety of conditions. Have enough signals onboard to last three days.

NOTICE: Some pyrotechnics are restricted from use on certain bodies of water, so check with local authorities.

Radio Communication

Radio communication is the most important avenue of receiving and sending information. Use a VHF/FM radio for short-range communication, and a single-sideband radio (SSB) for long-range. For all U.S. waters, the National Weather Service operates the NOAA Weather Radio (NWR). This service provides continuous weather information on the following VHF/FM frequencies:

• 162.400 MHz • 162.500 MHz

• 162.425 MHz • 162.525 MHz

• 162.450 MHz • 162.550 MHz

• 162.475 MHz

Coast Guard Marine Information Stations

• 2670.0 kH • 8765.4 kH

• 4428.7 kH • 13113.2 kH

• 6506.4 kH

It is good practice to periodically monitor the weather.

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COBALT

TYPE II

BUOYANT VESTS

KC-0051C

KC-0042C

TYPE III

FLOTATION AIDS

VHF-FM Channel 16 and SSB 2182 kHz are designated for emergency use. Such situations can be categorized as:

• Emergency – “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY” – Used when a life or vessel is in imminent danger.

• Urgency – “PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN” (pronounced PAHN-PAHN) – Used when a person or vessel is in some jeopardy less than indicated by a Mayday call.

• Safety – “SECURITY, SECURITY, SECURITY” (pronounced SAY-CURE-IT-TAY) – Used for navigational safety or weather warning.

An emergency situation will be hectic and there will not be time to learn proper radio procedure.

LEARN WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOU NEED TO DO IT.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

TYPE I

LIFE PRESERVERS

Type II Buoyant Vest: Good for calm water near shore on most inland waters where quick rescue is likely.

ECTION

KC-0041C

If you hear a distress call, stop all radio transmissions. If you can directly assist, respond on the emergency frequency. If you cannot assist, do not transmit on that frequency. However, continue to monitor until it is obvious that help is being provided.

Note that some areas may require a license to operate radiotelephone equipment. Consult your authorized Cobalt dealer for information.

Lifesaving Equipment

The following equipment may or may not be required by federal/local regulations.

Personal Flotation Devices

Federal law requires at least one Type I, II, III or V Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each person onboard or being towed, and at least one Type IV throwable PFD in the boat.

There are four types of PFDs to wear and one type used for throwing in emergency situations.

Type I Life Preserver: Most buoyant PFDs are effective on all waters, especially open, rough water.

Type III Flotation Aid: Good for most inland water applications where quick rescue is likely. Comes in various styles and some are designed for water sport activities.

Type IV Throwable Device: Intended for heavy traffic inland waters where help is available. Designed to be thrown to a person in the water and should never be worn.

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TYPE IV

THROWABLE DEVICES

KC-0071C

TYPE V HYBRID PFD

MUST BE WORN

WHEN UNDERWAY

KC-0043C

ESPONSIBILITIES

Type V Hybrid PFD: Inflatable design for special use activities and may be used instead of a Type I, II, or III PFD if used in accordance with the approval conditions on the label and if worn when the boat is underway. Some Type V PFDs provide increased protection against hypothermia.

AND

AFETY

Make certain all passengers know how to put on and properly adjust their PFDs. Also, selecting the proper type PFD for your kind of outing helps ensure your time on the water can be the safest possible. At the beginning of each season, check PFDs for damage and test for proper flotation. Refer to the PFD manufacturer’s information.

Audible/Visual Distress Signals

A distress call is transmitted on VHF/FM radio channel 16 (156.800 MHz) or 2182 kHz (SSB). Know your audible signals:

• For emergency, the call sign is “Mayday.”

• For an urgent situation, the call sign is “Pan-Pan.”

• For navigational safety and weather warnings, the call sign is “Security.”

NOTICE:

• A Type V PFD must be worn to be counted toward the minimum carriage requirements.

• Special PFDs are available for skiing and other water sports. These PFDs are constructed with materials suitable for high impact falls.

PFDs are intended to help save lives. The operator should set an example by wearing a PFD whenever boating. It is especially important that children and non-swimmers wear a PFD at all times.

Repeat the call sign three times. Immediately react to a distress call. Assist, if possible, using an emergency frequency. Otherwise, continue to monitor the situation until help has arrived.

VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS

RED DISTRESS FLARE (HAND)

USE DAY ONLY

ARMS SIGNALS (USE BRIGHT CLOTH)

USE DAY ONLY

ELECTRIC DISTRESS LIGHT

USE NIGHT ONLY

USE DAY AND NIGHT

USE DAY ONLY

SIGNAL (HAND)

RED METEOR FLARE USE DAY AND NIGHT

DYE MARKER

USE DAY ONLY

COB_0031_A

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COBALT

A WARNING

A DANGER

UTBOARDS

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ECTION

If you are required to carry distress signals, you must have three USCG-approved pyrotechnic devices. Be sure they are in serviceable condition, not exceeding the expiration date and stored in a cool, dry location in a waterproof container.

Sea Anchors

You should have a separate sea anchor onboard to slow drifting. In heavy seas, a sea anchor is set from the bow to control the boat’s behavior. The sea anchor holds the bow to the sea and a slow drift.

Radar Reflectors

Radar reflectors allow you to be seen by other vessels’ radar within your area. Mount the reflector as high as possible on the radar arch.

Life Raft

If operating offshore, you should consider carrying an inflatable life raft. A USCG-approved life raft meets a number of stringent specifications. The life raft must be large enough to hold all the boat’s occupants and have its own equipment pack including a paddle.

SAFETY

The popularity of boating and other water sports has undergone an immense growth over the past few years. Because of this, safety is an important issue for everyone who shares in the use of our waterways. Be smart when boating and using your equipment.

In emergency situations, it may be necessary to resort to measures which are not commonly practiced. Always assess the dangers of being in harm’s way versus the protection of equipment. Keep a sound mind during an emergency and always think safety.

• Know the conditions of your boat and the environment.

• Have a float plan and inform others when you will return.

• Secure or store loose items before getting underway.

• Avoid sudden maneuvers at high speed and reduce speed in waves.

A life raft can be stored in the aft storage area or in any other accommodating place on your boat.

Avoid fire, explosion, injury or property damage from improperly handled pyrotechnic signaling devices. Follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Signal Words/Definitions

Throughout this manual specific precautions and symbols identify safety related information.

The Safety Alert Symbol means ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

A WARNING

CAUTION

A WARNING

ESPONSIBILITIES

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE: Indicates a property damage message.

AND

Handholds

Avoid injury or death.

• Passengers should use handholds whenever the boat is underway.

• DO NOT allow passengers to sit on or in the stern sun lounges when the boat is underway.

• Read and understand this manual and the outboard manual, and be sure that you understand all controls and operating instructions before attempting to operate the boat.

AFETY

The precautions listed in this manual and on your Cobalt boat are not all-inclusive. If a procedure, method, tool or part is not specifically recommended, you must satisfy yourself that it is safe for you and others, and that the boat will not be damaged or made unsafe as a result of your decision. REMEMBER - USE COMMON SENSE WHEN OPERATING YOUR BOAT!

General Safety

Before each outing you should check all safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, PFDs, flares, distress flags, flashlights and engine stop switches. They should be operable, in good condition, readily visible and easily accessed.

Check local weather reports before casting off; do not leave the dock area when strong winds and electrical storms are in the area or predicted to be in the area.

Tell someone your travel plans and leave them a float plan. A float plan makes the job of search and rescue much easier for authorities. A float plan template can be found in the back of this manual.

• Be in control of your boat. DO NOT operate your boat under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

Handholds are provided for your passengers’ safety. Be sure your passengers use the handholds whenever the boat is underway. Failure to use handholds could result in a man overboard situation or personal injury.

Capacity

Know the weight capacity of your boat. Do not overload your boat. Overloading of passengers, personal equipment and supplies could result in an accident, especially in rough waters.

Loading

Be sure that passengers, personal equipment and supplies are in their proper location before operating the boat. This does not necessarily mean you can carry a passenger for every seat. Keep personal equipment and supplies to an “as needed” basis. Maintain a balanced load (front to back and side to side) at all times.

Seating

Keep your passengers seated in seats. The boat’s bow, gunwale, transom platform and seat backs are not intended for use as seats while underway.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

2-13

COBALT

DAYTIME

WARNING

NIGHTTIME

WARNING

DESCRIPTION

COB_0032_A

Small Craft Advisory - Winds

greater than 18 knots,

sustained for two hours or more

or hazardous wave conditions.

Following a storm, hazardous

wave conditions can persist

long after the high winds have

subsided.

Gale Warning - Sustained

winds (2 or more hours),

of 34-47 knots.

Storm Warning - Sustained

winds of 48 knots or greater.

Hurricane Warning - Forecast

winds of 64 knots and above.

Displayed only in connection

with a hurricane.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Operating Conditions

Every waterway poses hazards that you should avoid, such as shallow water, tree stumps and sand bars. Ask local boaters for information and consult a marine chart when boating on unfamiliar waters. As the operator of the boat, you should try to avoid all hazards, known and unknown. The following information does not contain all possible water hazards. Operating in shallow water presents a number of hazards. Mud, sand, weeds and debris can foul the outboard propeller or its cooling water. If the outboard strikes an underwater object, check the outboard and boat for damage. If the outboard unit vibrates after striking an object, it may indicate a damaged propeller.

Sand bars in narrow inlets are constantly shifting, making it difficult to mark them with buoys. Tides in coastal areas affect water levels, producing sand bars. Sometimes sand bars are indicated by waves as they form into breakers when passing over the sand bar. Refer to Grounding, in this section, if you run aground on a sand bar. The water level around a dam spillway is a hazardous area. It is subject to rapid changes caused by currents and turbulence. Keep clear of the spillway areas below dams.

Weather/Seas

Getting caught in severe weather is hazardous. It is recommended to check the weather, sea and wind conditions not only before you boat, but also periodically while you are boating. Refer to Radio Communication, in this section, for weather channel information. A change in wave height, wind direction and speed indicates deteriorating weather. Take common sense precautions if you are forced to operate your boat in stormy conditions:

• Wear PFDs.

• Stow gear below deck and batten down equipment on deck.

• Reduce speed and head for a safe place that you can easily reach.

Learn the storm signals.

It is best to avoid operating your boat in foggy weather. When fog sets in, use your GPS and radar unit, if equipped, to take bearings and log courses and speeds. You are required to emit a five-second blast from your horn or whistle once every minute. Additionally, have passengers wear PFDs and observe for oncoming vessels.

If you lose power, keep the boat headed into the waves by using the anchor.

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A WARNING

ESPONSIBILITIES

AND

AFETY

Skill/Experience

Avoid injury or death from drowning. Wear your Personal Flotation Device and remain seated when operating the boat.

Practice your boat operating skills often in calm water. Avoid windy conditions and rough water. Be sure to maintain good visibility at all times. Do not practice close to any obstructions such as piers, bridges, swim areas or moored boats.

Proceed slowly and give yourself plenty of time to react. Remember, your boat is not an automobile. It requires additional time to maneuver and stop.

Visibility

Avoid injury or death. Maintain clear visibility at all times. If necessary, arrange passengers and equipment. Designate a passenger to assist when visibility is limited due to operating conditions.

Visibility is not only sight, but also hearing. It is very important the operator maintains good visibility at all times. Arrange passengers and equipment to ensure you have unobstructed vision at all times. Check for other boats or any obstacles before turning the boat.

Drugs/Alcohol

Boating, alcohol and the use of other drugs just do not mix. Mixing boating, alcohol and other drugs results in many marine accidents and deaths. These substances reduce your reaction time and affect your better judgment. Combined with the sun, wind, waves and noise of other watercraft, the effects of drugs are increased and will significantly reduce your reaction time. Do not operate your boat under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. As the owner/operator, you are responsible for the alcohol/drug use and onboard behavior of your passengers.

KC-0153C

If the operator’s blood alcohol content is above the state’s legal limit, violators are subject to a civil or criminal penalty, imprisonment or both. Operating a boat under the influence can also result in a loss of automobile driving privileges.

Passengers

Whenever you are going for an outing, make sure that at least one passenger is familiar with the operation and safety aspects of the boat in case of emergency. Show all passengers the location of emergency equipment and explain how to use it. Do not allow passengers to drag their feet or hands in the water, or sit on the bow, deck, gunwale or transom platform while engines are running.

Avoid injury or death from impaired operation. Federal and state law prohibit operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. These regulations are actively enforced.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

Ventilation

Your Cobalt boat may be equipped with carbon monoxide (CO) detector(s), if your boat is a cabin type or built with an enclosed changing area.

2-15

COBALT

A DANGER

Avoid the possibility of injury or death from exposure to carbon monoxide (CO). All gasoline and diesel engines and fuel burning appliances such as heaters, stoves and generators produce CO. CO is a colorless, odorless and dangerous gas. Direct and prolonged exposure to CO will cause brain damage or death. Signs of exposure to CO include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, ears ringing, headaches, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color. Avoid exposing your passengers or yourself to carbon monoxide. Test the carbon monoxide detector operation before each trip, at least once a week and after the boat has been in storage. DO NOT tamper with the operation of the carbon monoxide detector. It is installed for your safety.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

A carbon monoxide (CO) detector will only detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas at its sensor and will not detect other vapors such as gasoline. Carbon monoxide may be present in other areas.

Carbon monoxide poisoning should not be confused with seasickness, intoxication or heat stress. If someone complains of irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness or dizziness, or you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, immediately move the person to fresh air, investigate the cause and take corrective action. Seek medical attention if necessary.

To reduce CO accumulation:

• Ventilate the boat interior by opening the deck hatches, windows and cabin door to provide adequate ventilation.

• Do not operate the engines or generator with the canvas installed.

• Avoid idling or using the generator while at idle for extended periods.

ECTION

Blockage of boat exhausts by obstruction. Operating with high bow angle.

Exhausts traveling along obstruction. Exhausts from other vessels in confined areas.

Operating at slow speed or while dead in the water. Operating with canvas tops and side

curtains in place without ventilation.

2-16

COB_0033_A

Outboards Owner’s Manual

ESPONSIBILITIES

AND

AFETY

Qualified Boat Operators

This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of boat operation. We strongly recommend that all operators of this boat seek additional training on boat handling and safety. Have all operators become familiar with the handling characteristics, and proper steering and control system usage before attempting high-speed operation.

Some states require youths 16 years of age and younger to complete a boating safety course before operating any watercraft. Many others require operators under the age of 18 to be licensed in small boat operation.

Minors must be supervised by an adult whenever operating a boat. Many states have laws regarding the minimum age and licensing requirements of minors. Be sure to contact the state boating authorities for information.

Safety While Boating

Discharge of Oil

The discharge of fuel, oil and other chemicals into the water is prohibited. Be sure to clean up all fuel and oil spillage in the bilge using rags and sponges. Properly store and dispose of them when you get to shore. Do not allow any fuel or oil spills to be pumped out into the water. If fuel or oil leaks continue to be a problem, immediately have the problem repaired.

When refueling, do not “top-off” the fuel tanks. Allow for expansion which will reduce fuel spills from the fuel tank vents.

Solid Waste Disposal

NOTICE: It is illegal to dispose of any plastic trash into waters of the U.S.

The disposal of solid waste and plastics into the water is prohibited. Bag all refuse and properly dispose of it when you get ashore.

Your Cobalt boat is affixed with various safety labels at the time of manufacture. These labels appear at specific locations on the craft where safety is of particular concern. Refer to Section 1, Warning Labels.

Safety labels must remain legible. If you suspect a label is missing or becomes damaged, contact your authorized Cobalt dealer for immediate replacement.

Federal, State and Local Regulations

The USCG is the authority of the waterways; it is there to help the boating public. State boating regulations are enforced by local authorities. You are subject to marine traffic laws and “Rules of the Road” for both federal and state waterways; you must stop if signaled to do so by enforcement officers, and permit to be boarded as asked.

Marine Sanitation

NOTICE: Direct disposal of sanitation waste into some waters could result in fines. Be sure to check local regulations.

NOTICE: Avoid damage to the waste disposal system and the environment. Do not place facial tissues, paper towels or sanitary napkins in the head.

Have your authorized Cobalt dealer properly service the waste disposal system when needed.

Excessive Noise

Noise limits are regulated in many areas. Be sure to follow regulations and be courteous.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

2-17

COBALT

A WARNING

A DANGER

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Wake/Wash

Avoid injury, death or damage to property. Observe “No Wake” markers. Use caution when operating around smaller crafts, in channels and marinas, and in congested areas. You are responsible for injury and damage caused by your wake.

Reporting Accidents

The USCG requires the owner or operator of a boat involved in an accident to report the incident to the proper marine law enforcement agency for the state in which the accident occurred.

Immediate notification to the nearest state boating authority is required if a person dies or disappears as a result of a recreational boating accident. If a person dies or sustains injuries requiring more than first aid, a formal report must be filed within 48 hours of the accident. A formal report must be filed within 10 days for accidents exceeding $500 in property damage or complete loss of boat.

Water Sports Safety

Larger boats produce a larger wake which may be too big for skiers. Only boats equipped with a ski tow eye or ski tow pylon should be used to pull water skiers. If you use your Cobalt boat for water sports, you should be familiar with water sport safety and hand signals.

CIRCLE

TURN LEFT

TURN RIGHT

NOTICE: It is unlawful to participate in water sports while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

When participating in water sports, be safe and courteous and follow these guidelines:

BACK TO DOCK

SKIER IN WATER

WATER SPORT HAND SIGNALS

CUT ENGINE

SPEED FASTER

SPEED SLOWER

SPEED OK

STOP

SKIERS O.K.

KC-0271C

Rendering Assistance

If you see a distress signal or suspect a boat is in trouble, you must assume it is a real emergency and render assistance immediately. By law, the operator in charge of the craft is obligated to provide assistance to any individual in danger if such assistance can be provided safely. Failure to render assistance can result in a fine and/or imprisonment.

The 1971 Boating Safety Act grants protection to a “Good Samaritan” boater providing good faith assistance, and absolves a boater from any civil liability arising from such assistance.

• Be considerate to fishermen and others you share the water with.

• Do not perform water sports in congested areas.

• Stay away from navigation markers.

• Stay away from other boats and water sport participants.

• Return immediately to a fallen water sport participant and turn off engines.

• Regularly inspect water sport equipment to ensure it is safe.

• Do not use any fuel burning appliances with a transom exhaust port when swimming from the stern swim platform.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT practice unsafe water sports.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

A WARNING

ESPONSIBILITIES

AND

AFETY

• Water sport participants must wear a USCG approved flotation device. A Type III water ski vest is an approved and practical PFD.

• Keep at least 100 ft (30 m) away from all other objects.

• Have an experienced driver and aft-facing observer in the boat when water sporting.

• Do not water sport in shallow water or at night.

• Do not jump from a moving boat.

• Keep a downed water sporter in sight.

• Turn the engine(s) off before you get close to someone in the water.

• Do not use the boarding ladder with engine(s) running.

Skiers and/or passengers are obligated to be aware of the same safety rules as operators. If you are new to water sports, seek certified training before starting. You will find it especially helpful to join a ski club, World Wakeboard Association and/or the U.S.A. Water Ski when it is possible. Always remember the majority of water sport injuries result from impact with other objects.

Always look where you are going and be aware of your surroundings.

Platform Dragging (“Teak Surfing”)

READ, KNOW and UNDERSTAND the information on warning labels and adhere to the boat operation practices described on them. The USCG issued a SAFETY ALERT on August 28, 2001, which covers some issues regarding improper use of the boarding ladder/swim platform. The SAFETY ALERT and portions of the information follow:

Tragic deaths occur from the negligence of unsafe boating and dangerous activities. Experts say, “many of these deaths may have been caused by an invisible hazard, carbon monoxide poisoning.” Taking the risk of swimming under a boarding platform when the engine is running, skiing within 20 ft (6.1 m), or “teak surfing” or “dragging” behind a moving boat, can be fatal. Dangerous activities which can result in serious injury or death are not considered water sports. Cobalt Boats does not promote unsafe boating risks or jeopardizing any boater’s safety. “Teak Surfing” or “Platform Dragging” may be illegal in your state, or the states you operate in.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT use the swim platform for any other purpose than boarding the boat or preparation of entering the water, and do not use the swim platform when engines are running.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

2-19

COBALT

A WARNING

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Safety Alert From August 28, 2001:

The United States Coast Guard advised boaters not to “Teak/Drag Surf.” Recent boating fatalities revealed carbon monoxide (CO) emitted from a vessel’s exhaust resulted in CO poisoning and death. Do not allow persons in the vicinity of the Swim Platform (in the water or in the boat) with the engine(s) or generator operating, while at rest or underway at slow speed. “Teak/Drag Surfing” places the individual in a position directly exposed to the CO in the engine’s exhaust. This can result in a loss of coherent responses and even death. In addition, “Teak/Drag Surfing” dangerously exposes the individual to a possible propeller injury. Since “Teak/Drag Surfing” is done without a life jacket (PFD), it significantly increases the probability of drowning. The Coast Guard stresses, “Teak/Drag Surfing” is a very dangerous activity and advises boaters not to participate in it.

The Coast Guard also stated that carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous gases. It strikes before you know you are exposed and it impairs in a way that can, and too often does, lead to death. This is why the Coast Guard feels it is critical that CO is avoided in every circumstance.

Navigation

Rules of the Road/Sound Signals

The General Prudential Rule regarding right-of-way is that if a collision appears unavoidable, neither boat has right-of-way. As prescribed in the “Rules of the Road,” both boats must act to avoid collision.

The information in this section outlines only the most basic of the nautical “Rules of the Road.” For more information, contact your local USCG Auxiliary.

Whistle/Horn Signals

Signaling other boats with a whistle or horn is similar to using turn signals on an automobile. It is not necessary to sound a signal every time a boat is nearby. In general, boat operators should signal their intention, as to avoid potentially confusing or hazardous situations.

It is customary for the privileged boat to signal first, and the burdened boat to return the same signal to acknowledge she understands and will comply. Use the danger signal (five or more short and rapid blasts) if intent is not clear.

Use the following signal blast early enough to be noticed and understood by other boaters:

• One long blast: Warning signal (coming out of slip or passing astern)

• One short blast: Pass on my port side

• Two short blasts: Pass on my starboard side

• Three short blasts: Engines in reverse

• Five or more short and rapid blasts: Danger signal!

Privileged Boats

Privileged boats have right-of-way and can hold course and speed. Sailboats and boats paddled or rowed have the right-of-way over motor boats. Sailboats under power are considered motorboats. Small pleasure craft must yield to large commercial boats in narrow channels.

Burdened Boats

The burdened boat is the boat that must make the necessary adjustment to course and speed to keep out of the way of the privileged boat.

Avoid injury, death or collisions. Like traffic laws for automobiles, the operator is legally required to follow the rules.

In general, boats with less maneuverability have right-of-way over more agile craft. You must stay clear of the vessel with right-of-way and pass to his stern.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

4 O'CLOCK

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

DANGER ZONE

12 O'CLOCK

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL

COB_0005_A

ESPONSIBILITIES

AND

AFETY

Crossing Situation

In crossing situations, the boat to the right from the 12 o’clock to the 4 o’clock position has the right-of-way. It must hold course and speed. The burdened boat keeps clear and passes behind the privileged boat. Boats going up and down a river have the privilege over boats crossing the river.

Meeting Head-On

Neither boat has the right-of-way in this situation. Both boats should decrease speed, should turn to the right and pass port-to-port. However, if both boats are on the left side of the channel, each vessel should sound two short blasts and pass starboard-to-starboard.

HONK

HONK HONK

PASSING PORT TO

PORT

MEETING

HEAD TO

HEAD

PASSING

STARBOARD TO

STARBOARD

COB_0034_A

Outboards Owner’s Manual

2-21

COBALT

COB_0035_A

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL BEING

OVERTAKEN

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

OVERTAKING

HONK

(LONG)

HONK

(LONG)

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Overtaking

The boat that is overtaking one ahead of it is the burdened boat and must make any adjustments necessary to keep out of the way of the privileged boat. The privileged boat should hold its course and speed.

The size, speed and direction of the other vessels are determined at night from their running lights. A green light indicates the starboard side of the boat, and a red light indicates the port side. Generally, if you see a green light, you have the right-of-way; if you see a red light, give-way to that vessel.

Aids to Navigation

Learn to recognize the different buoys and day markers; they are the signposts of the waterways. The United States Aids to Navigation System (USATONS) is the primary marking system used on inland water, coastal waters and rivers. This system is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).

Types of Buoys

There are several types and shapes of buoys. Buoys may be unlighted, lighted, with sound or may have both an audible and a visual signal. Lights, bells and horns are used on buoys for night or poor visibility conditions. Different shapes of buoys are shown below.

Special Situations

Boats operating between sunset and sunrise (hours vary by state) must use navigational lights, nighttime operation, especially during bad weather or fog can be dangerous. All “Rules of the Road” apply at night; it is best to slow down and stay clear of all boats, regardless of who has right-of-way.

Protect your night vision by avoiding bright lights and have a passenger, if possible, help keep watch for other boats, water hazards and aids to navigation.

UNLIGHTED

BELL BUOY

LIGHTED BUOY

SPAR BUOY

NUN BUOY

CAN BUOY

SPHERICAL SAFE

WATER MARKER

KC-1908

Buoys with unique light-flashing characteristics are identified on nautical charts with the specific flashing pattern.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

CONTROLLED

AREA

DANGER BOATS

KEEP OUT

INFORMATION

KC-1903

ESPONSIBILITIES

Mooring Buoys

The only buoys you are permitted to moor to are mooring buoys. Mooring buoys are white with a blue horizontal stripe. Mooring to a navigation buoy, regulatory markers or lateral markers is illegal.

KC-1901

Regulatory Markers

Regulatory markers indicate dangerous or restricted controlled areas. These markers are used to indicate speed zones, areas set aside for particular use, general information and directions.

AND

AFETY

Regulatory markers are white with orange geometric shapes and also have orange bands near the top and at the water line of the buoy. You must obey regulatory markers (see below).

Outboards Owner’s Manual

2-23

COBALT

KC-1909

Lateral Aids Marking the Sides of Channels as Seen When Entering From Seaward

Port Side Odd Numbers

Starboard Side Even Numbers

Lighted Buoy

Nun Buoy

Daymark

Can Buoy

GREEN LIGHT ONLY

Flashing (2) Flashing Occulting

Quick Flashing Iso

RED LIGHT ONLY

Flashing (2) Flashing Occulting

Quick Flashing Iso

KC-1910

Safe Water Aids Marking Mid-Channels and Fairways (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Lighted

Spherical Buoy

Daymark

WHITE LIGHT ONLY MORSE CODE

Mo (A)

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Lateral Markers

Lateral markers are oriented from the perspective of being entered from seaward (the boater is going toward the port). This means that red buoys are passed on the starboard (right) side of the vessel when proceeding from open water into port, and green buoys to the port (left) side.

The right side (starboard) of the channel is marked with RED, even-numbered buoys. The left side (port) of the channel is marked with GREEN, odd-numbered buoys.

Day markers are colored and numbered the same as buoys. RED, triangular day markers with even numbers mark the starboard side of the channel.

GREEN, square day markers with odd numbers mark the port side of the channel.

Fairways and mid-channels may be marked with safe water marks or buoys. These marks indicate safe water all around. Safe water marks are red and white striped and are round or have a red spherical topmark.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

Can Buoy

Preferred Channel Aids (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Preferred Channel to Starboard

Lighted Buoy

Preferred Channel to Port

Lighted Buoy

Nun Buoy

Daymark

KC-1911

GREEN LIGHT ONLY

RED LIGHT ONLY

Composite Group Flashing (2+1)

ESPONSIBILITIES

AND

AFETY

Obstructions, channel junctions, etc. are marked with RED and GREEN horizontally striped buoys.

A RED band at the top means the preferred channel is to the left of the buoy; a GREEN top band means the preferred channel is to the right of the buoy.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

2-25

COBALT

KC-1912

FI (2) 5s

WHITE LIGHT ONLY

Isolated Danger (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Lighted Unlighted

BLACK-STRIPED

WHITE BUOY

KC-1902

Isolated Danger Markers

Isolated danger markers indicate an isolated danger which may be passed on all sides. These markers are colored black with one or more broad horizontal red bands and are equipped with a topmark of two black spheres, one above the other.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

On inland waters, a buoy with alternating vertical black and white stripes may be used to indicate that an obstruction or other danger exists between the buoy and the nearest shore. DO NOT pass between the buoy and the shore.

Light Structures

Maneuvering a boat at night can be dangerous and confusing. To aid boaters with navigation and warn of hazards, the USCG and the state and local authorities maintain a variety of light structures. Some light structures may be equipped with radio beacons, radar reflectors and/or signals.

Minor Lights

Minor lights are colored according to the buoyage marking system in use. They are similar to lighted buoys, except they are usually higher and on more stable platforms to increase visibility. Most minor lights are part of a series to mark a channel, river or harbor.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

COB_0038_A

FRONT MARKER

REAR MARKER

ON RANGE LINE

LEFT OF RANGE LINE RIGHT OF RANGE LINE

RANGE LIGHTS

ESPONSIBILITIES

Range Lights

Range lights are usually visible in one direction and help a boat operator navigate in a generally safe direction. Steering a course to keep range lights arranged in a line (one on top of the other) will help guide a boat through a channel.

AND

AFETY

Lighthouses

Lighthouses can be found at harbor entrances, prominent headlands, isolated danger areas and along the coast. These striped or patterned structures have unique flashing characteristics to help identify them.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

2-27

KC-0443C

COBALT

WORLDWIDE

VESSELS

ENGAGED

IN DIVING

OPERATIONS -

DOES NOT

INDICATE

DIVER'S

POSITION

INDICATES

FELLOW

BOATER IS IN

NEED OF

ASSISTANCE

COB_0039_A

DIVERS FLAG

ALPHA FLAG

DISTRESS FLAG

USED BY

RECREATIONAL

DIVERS -

INDICATES

DIVER'S

POSITION

KC-0250C

Warning Markers

It is a good idea to ask local authorities if there are hazardous areas in the waters in which you plan to boat, and how they are marked. Boaters must also recognize the flag designs which indicate that skin divers are present and keep well clear of the area.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Watch for swimmers. Swimming areas may not be marked. Steer clear from the area and remain alert.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

A WARNING

OPERATING

INFORMATION

ECTION

This section is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of boat operation.

We strongly recommend that all operators of this Cobalt boat seek additional training on boat handling and safety. Have all operators become familiar with the handling characteristics and proper steering and control system usage before attempting operation and especially high-speed operation.

PRECAUTIONS

Before You Start

Become familiar with the location and operation of all equipment. Have emergency plans in place. Be sure to perform a safety check before operating your boat.

Fire/Explosion

Most fires are the result of fuel and oil accumulating in the bilge from careless fueling practices. Use the fire extinguisher at the base of the flames using a sweeping motion. Prudent and accurate use of the available chemicals should contain all but the worst fires. Verify that the fire has been extinguished. If so, check damage and get assistance immediately. If not, get out and swim at least 25 yards (23 meters) upwind from the boat and use the visual distress signals to get assistance. Refer to

Section 2, Safety, for additional information.

FIRST-TIME OPERATION

Avoid injury or death. Improper operation can be extremely hazardous. Read and understand this manual, the outboard operator’s manual and any other accessory or components of your boat. Be sure that you understand all controls and operating instructions before attempting to operate the boat.

Your safety, the safety of your passengers, and the safety of other boaters are among your responsibilities as operator of this boat.

Your boat must be in compliance with USCG safety equipment regulations.

You should know how to react correctly to adverse weather conditions, have good navigation skills and follow the “rules of the road” as defined by the USCG and state, county and local regulations.

We cannot stress enough the importance of reading your outboard operator’s manual and following the manufacturer’s instructions for breaking in your engine.

Before each outing you should check all safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, PFDs, flares, distress flags, flashlights and engine stop switch. They should be operable, in good condition, readily visible and easily accessed.

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FUEL

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Fuel Requirements

Refer to your outboard operator’s manual for fuel requirements.

Cobalt fuel systems are designed to meet all current ABYC and NMMA regulations using gasoline with up to 10% ethanol.

DO NOT use fuels containing methanol (methyl alcohol) or other fuels with more than 10% ethanol (ethyl alcohol) content such as E85, which contains 85% ethanol.

Fuel that contains more than 10% ethanol voids all warranties and will increase the risk of damage to the engine, fuel system components and will also lead to the following:

• Corrosion of metal parts

• Deterioration of plastic, rubber parts or permeation of fuel through rubber fuel lines

• Leaking fuel resulting in explosion and/or fire

• Starting and operating difficulties

• Potential damage to your engine

Fueling

Take care not to spill gasoline. If gasoline is accidentally spilled, wipe up all traces of it with dry rags and immediately dispose of the rags properly ashore. Spilled fuel may yellow the gelcoat finish and damage gunwale trim.

Avoid injury, fire or explosion. Take all precautions every time you fuel your boat, regardless of the fuel type. Certain fuel is extremely flammable and highly explosive under certain conditions. Fumes from rags can collect in bilge and be extremely hazardous. DO NOT store rags used to wipe up fuel or solvent spills in the boat. Dispose of rags properly ashore.

NOTICE: Prevent unwarranted engine damage. Use the recommended fuel type and octane rating. Refer to your outboard operator’s manual.

Avoid injury, fire or explosion. Fuels are extremely flammable and highly explosive under certain conditions.

• Stop engines, generators and any fuel operated machinery.

• DO NOT smoke or allow open flames or sparks within 50 ft (15 m) of the fueling area.

• Avoid damaging fuel lines and connectors, and the contact of fuel on hot engine parts.

• DO NOT store fuel in any containers or compartments which are not designated for fuel storage.

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• Clean up any spilled fuel immediately and dispose of rags properly ashore.

• Know the dangers associated with fuels.

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PERATING

NOTICE:

• Each time you refuel, inspect all fuel lines, hoses and connections for leaks and deterioration.

• The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil or oily waste into the water. Violators can be fined $5,000.00. We urge you to protect our fragile environment by avoiding any type of discharge, trash or litter into our waterways.

When Fueling:

1. Know your fuel tank capacity. Be sure to have enough fuel to reach your destination. If departing for an extended cruise, know the availability of fuel along your route. Practice the One Third Rule: one third to reach the destination, one third to return and one third in reserve.

NFORMATION

When your boat is equipped with the pop-up fuel filler cap, open by pressing the cap and turning the cap counterclockwise (approximately 10°); remove cap.

2. Avoid fueling at night, except under well-lighted conditions.

3. Moor your boat securely to the dock. Know the location of the fire extinguisher in case of emergency.

4. Keep accurate records of your fuel consumption. A fuel log tracking fuel use over time will help determine average consumption.

5. Close all doors, hatches, windows and other compartments.

6. Extinguish cigarettes, pipes and all other flame producing items.

7. Make sure all power is off, and do not operate any electrical switches.

8. Remove the fuel filler cap.

9. Insert the hose nozzle and make sure nozzle is in contact with or grounded against fill opening. This will reduce the risk of static spark.

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To close: Reinstall cap, press and turn clockwise. The fuel cap key is not necessary unless the cap is overtightened.

10. Add fuel in accordance with the outboard operator’s manual. Do not overfill, and allow enough room for fuel expansion.

The fuel cap is retained by a chain, to prevent losing the cap after it is opened. Be careful when fueling to avoid damaging the chain. If it breaks, have it replaced.

After Fueling:

1. Tighten the fuel fill cap. Wipe up any fuel spills.

2. Check all fuel lines, hoses and connections for leaks and deterioration.

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EPA Fuel Tank

Your Cobalt boat may be equipped with a fuel system that has been designed and manufactured to meet the latest U.S. Coast Guard and EPA EVAP (evaporation) regulations. A decal located at the helm will indicate if your boat is equipped with this fuel system.

Some of the new features in the fuel system:

• There is no “spitback” at the deck plate when fueling. The filler nozzle automatically shuts off when the tank is full. Do not attempt to continue fueling after the nozzle automatically shuts off, indicating the tank is full.

• A carbon canister is present to capture hydrocarbon molecules before air is vented outside the fuel system.

When filling the tank for the first time:

• Fuel vapor will expand within the tank, causing back pressure that may close the inlet check valve and cause the filler nozzle to prematurely shut off. To eliminate this problem, slowly add only about 2 gal (7.5 L) of fuel and stop. Wait a few minutes to let the pressure within the system stabilize; then proceed filling the tank.

Troubleshooting

New tank is hard to fill / nozzle keeps shutting off:

This is called the “Green Tank Effect.” With a new tank that has never seen fuel before, you must let the internal tank volume become completely filled with the fuel vapor, very similar to what occurs in non-diurnal tanks currently. The difference is now you do not get the huge amount of spitback; instead the nozzle just shuts off. When filling a tank for the first time, the fuel vapor expands and builds back pressure, shutting the inlet check valve and causing the nozzle to shut off.

To eliminate this problem, add a few gallons to the tank very slowly and let sit for several minutes. Then proceed with normal filling.

Hot air comes out of vent and it drips liquid:

This is completely normal. When you fill a tank for the first time, the canister becomes saturated with hydrocarbons and generates heat as it performs its intended function. The water from the vent is just water vapor condensation as a result of the carbon canister operating correctly and stopping hydrocarbons (fuel vapor) from venting to the atmosphere. After the first two or three fills, the system will stabilize and these issues will go away.

Cannot “top off” / keep filling tank after it shuts off:

This is due to EPA regulations preventing overfilling the tank to prevent expansion from causing fuel to overflow through the vent.

DO NOT CONTINUE TO FILL THE TANK ONCE IT IS FULL AND THE NOZZLE SHUTS OFF.

• During the first few fills, the new carbon canister within the vent line may generate heat from being initially saturated with hydrocarbons and cause water droplets to emit from the outside air vent. This is normal. After the first two or three fills, this should not happen.

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A DANGER

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NFORMATION

LAUNCHING

Launching Checklist

Federal and local laws require certain safety equipment to be onboard at all times. In addition, responsible boaters carry other equipment in case of an emergency. Check with local boating authorities for any additional requirements over and above federal requirements.

For maximum enjoyment and safety, check each of these items BEFORE launching:

• Install drain plug.

• Have enough personal flotation devices for every person onboard.

• Be sure the steering system operates smoothly and properly.

• Verify the amount of fuel in the fuel tank(s).

• Verify the battery(ies) is fully charged.

• Check weather conditions.

• Be sure the lights, horn, bilge pumps and other electrical equipment are in proper operating condition.

Loading

Do not overload your boat. The performance of your boat is dependent on load weight and distribution. Passengers should distribute themselves to maintain trim. Remember to distribute weight from right to left, and also from front to back.

• Avoid excess weight in the bow or stern.

• Securely stow all extra gear in stowage areas to prevent load shifting. Do not stow gear on top of safety equipment; safety equipment must be quickly accessible.

• In adverse weather, reduce the load in the boat. People/load capacity ratings are based upon normal boating conditions.

• Do not use the outboard as a boarding ramp; use the boarding ladder. To prevent injury, make sure the engine is off when swimmers, divers and skiers are boarding.

Overloading of passengers, personal equipment and supplies could result in an accident, especially in rough waters. Maintain a balanced load at all times.

• Be sure the fire extinguisher, signaling devices and other emergency gear are onboard and in proper operating condition.

On the Water

Start your engine before casting off. Remember, the boat turns from the stern. Allow plenty of space between the boat and the dock before trying to move away.

Boarding

When boarding the boat, always step in. Do not jump. Avoid stepping on fiberglass or other potentially slippery surfaces. Board one person at a time.

Do not board the boat while carrying gear. Set the gear on the dock, board the boat and then pick up the gear.

Shipshape

Keep the weight distributed evenly. Store all gear in secure areas. Safety equipment must be immediately accessible at all times.

Avoid injury or death. All passengers should be carefully seated while the boat is moving. DO NOT sit on the bow, bow pulpit, deck, gunwale or sundeck pads when the boat is moving.

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GETTING UNDERWAY

There are many things to consider when planning a safe and enjoyable boating trip.

You are responsible for the safety of all passengers, the boat and any damage the boat or its wake may cause. Keep passengers from blocking your view so that you do not run into other boats, swimmers, water skiers, personal water vehicles or aids to navigation.

Before Starting Checklist

The following checks are essential to safe boating and must be performed before starting the engine. Get into the habit of performing these checks in the same order each time so that it becomes routine.

Always check bilge for fuel fumes before starting the engine. If there is an odor of fuel, do not start the engine until the problem has been fixed and fumes have been eliminated.

Do not exceed the posted engine rating of your boat. Boat power capacity has been rated for maximum performance and safety. Exceeding power capacity is illegal in many areas.

Never use a propeller that allows the engine to exceed recommended RPM under normal wide-open throttle operation.

Pre-Operation:

•Refer to Section 8, Before Each Use.

•Refer to Launching Checklist, in this section.

• Test operation of carbon monoxide detectors.

• Open all seacocks and check for leaks.

• Check seawater strainers for leaks and accumulation of debris.

• Open windows, doors and hatches.

• Check that no fuel, oil or water is leaking or has leaked into the bilge compartment.

• Check all hoses and connections for leaks and damage.

• Verify the shift lever is in the NEUTRAL position.

• Check that the steering system operates properly.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT operate the boat if any problem is found during this inspection. A problem could lead to an accident when using an unsafe boat. Immediately have any problem attended to by your authorized Cobalt dealer.

• Do not overload your boat.

During Operation:

• Check gauges frequently for signs of abnormal operation.

• Check that steering, shift and throttle controls continue to operate smoothly.

• Check for excessive vibration.

• Monitor your fuel supply.

• Verify battery(ies) are charged.

After Boating:

• To prevent marine growth from accumulating on the outboard, make sure the outboard is in the full trim DOWN position.

• Remove the ignition key(s).

• Stow and secure all equipment.

• Pump bilge(s) dry with manual switch.

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PERATING

NFORMATION

• Close all water inlet seacocks.

• If possible, inspect the hull and propeller(s) for damage.

• Check for fuel, oil and water leaks.

• Clean any spills, stains or moisture from the boat. Inspect sea strainers.

• Turn battery select switches off.

• Turn off DC breaker on electrical panel and if not using shore power, turn off AC breaker.

• Remove any food, garbage and wet gear from the boat.

• Secure canvas as equipped.

• Secure bimini top and covers.

• Verify that bilge pump is operating properly and pump the bilge dry with manual switch.

• Clean the bilge and check for fuel, oil and water leaks.

• Stow PFDs, other safety gear and equipment dry.

• Fill fuel tanks (allow for expansion) to prevent condensation.

• Turn battery select switches off.

• Notify person with whom you filed a float plan of your return.

• If boat is removed from the water, wash the hull and deck exterior with fresh water.

Handling Dock and Mooring Lines

Be sure to use enough fenders to protect your boat from damage. Only use good quality, double-braided nylon line. Protect your boat’s finish by using chafing protectors on the lines. Only use the cleats, bow eye and stern eyes to secure your boat. Do not use the handrails or windshield. The foredeck handrails should only be used for tying a “Jackline” in an emergency situation. If possible, tie up your boat with the bow toward the waves and leave a little slack in the lines to allow for some wave movement or tidal action.

1 – Stern Line 2 – Forward Quarter Spring 3 – Aft Bow Spring 4 – Bow Line

Use your dock lines to help maneuver the boat near the pier and to secure it. Use the following information to secure your boat to a pile or dock cleat:

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

The bow line is fastened to the bow cleat and is pulled forward at about a 45° angle. This line keeps the boat from moving astern.

The stern line is fastened to an aft cleat and pulled astern at about a 45° angle. This line keeps the boat from moving forward.

The spring lines can help you control the boat when leaving a dock. Be sure to use spring lines when boating in waters where the tide movement is significant. The forward quarter spring line is fastened to a forward cleat and heads aft. The aft bow spring is fastened to a stern cleat and heads forward.

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Starting/Shifting/Steering/Stopping

Your Cobalt boat may be equipped with a warning system that will sound an alarm if an engine problem develops. The horn may emit a short chirping sound during starting to verify operation. If the warning horn sounds when operating the boat, IMMEDIATELY throttle back to idle speed and shift into the NEUTRAL position. IMMEDIATELY check the gauges and stop the engine.

NOTICE: Continued operation after the warning alarm has sounded may cause severe engine damage.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors, if equipped

Avoid the possibility of injury or death from exposure to carbon monoxide (CO). All gasoline and diesel engines and fuel burning appliances such as heaters, stoves and generators produce CO. CO is colorless, odorless and dangerous. Direct and prolonged exposure to CO will cause brain damage or death. Signs of exposure to CO include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, ears ringing, headaches, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color. Avoid exposing your passengers and yourself to carbon monoxide. Test the CO detector operation before each trip, at least once a week and after the boat has been in storage. Do not tamper with the operation of the CO detector. The detectors are installed for your safety.

Starting the Engine

Cobalt Checklist

For maximum enjoyment and safety, check each of these items.

• PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES (One for every person onboard?)

• STEERING SYSTEM (Working smoothly and properly?)

• FUEL SYSTEM (Adequate fuel? Leaks? Fumes?)

• BATTERY (Fully charged? Proper water level?)

• REMOTE CONTROL LEVER (In the NEUTRAL position?)

• CAPACITY PLATE (Are you overloaded or overpowered?)

• WEATHER CONDITIONS (Safe to go out?)

• ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT (Lights, horn, pump, etc.?)

• EMERGENCY GEAR (Fire extinguisher, bailer, paddle, anchor and line, signaling device, tool kit, etc.?)

RECOMMENDED SAFETY RULES

• REMAIN SEATED WHILE UNDERWAY.

• AVOID USING REAR PAD OR SUNDECK WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING.

• DO NOT USE BOARDING LADDER WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING.

• TURN OFF ENGINE AND ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS WHILE REFUELING.

• TURN OFF ENGINE WHEN SWIMMERS ARE NEAR BOAT.

After launching and pre-start checks and procedures have been followed, the engine can be started. Please refer to the engine operator’s manual for additional starting procedure information.

Start the engine with the shift control lever in the NEUTRAL position. Your boat is equipped with a neutral safety switch which will not allow engine to be started unless the shift control levers are in the NEUTRAL position.

Make sure remote control is in the NEUTRAL position.

BEFORE you start your engine:

• DRAIN PLUG (Securely in place?)

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

CAUTION

A DANGER

A WARNING

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NFORMATION

1. Turn the ignition key to START position. Release the key immediately after the engine starts. If the engine fails to start, refer to the outboard operator’s manual for additional information.

NOTICE: Release the ignition key after the engine starts. Do not run the start motor for more than 10 seconds at a time. Failure to follow this procedure can damage an engine and the engine’s starter motor.

2. Operate the engine at approximately 1,000 RPM and check the oil pressure gauge. If oil pressure is not within specified range, stop the engine immediately. Have your authorized Cobalt dealer service the engine.

3. Make sure the water pressure gauge indicates water pressure immediately after starting the engine. If it does not, turn off the engine and contact your authorized Cobalt dealer.

4. Allow the engine to warm up. Check the water temperature gauge to be sure water temperature remains within the specified range.

Steering

Avoid injury or death. The steering system is the most important system in the entire boat from a safety standpoint. The boat’s steering system is not self-centering. Propeller torque, trim setting, water condition and boat speed affect the steering. Constant attention to the steering system is required for safe operation. Have the system inspected and maintained on a quarterly basis by a qualified service technician.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a tilt steering wheel. Adjust the tilt position with the release lever.

If the temperature gauge reads abnormally high, stop the engine immediately. Check the outboard’s drive unit water inlets for blockage. If the inlets are open, have your authorized Cobalt dealer service the engine.

Shifting/Running

Avoid injury, swamping the boat or taking water in over the transom. Go slowly when traversing in reverse.

Follow these guidelines when shifting your boat:

• Pause in the NEUTRAL position before shifting

from FORWARD to REVERSE, or REVERSE to FORWARD.

• Avoid shifting into REVERSE while the boat is

traveling forward at speed.

• Keep the control area clean and clear of

obstructions.

1 – Release Lever

Avoid loss of control and/or injury. DO NOT adjust the steering wheel tilt position while the boat is moving. Sudden boat movement may cause loss of balance resulting in loss of control.

The steering system must be working correctly and properly maintained. Be sure to:

• Keep mooring lines, tow lines and other obstructions clear of the steering system.

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BACKING TO LEFT Turn wheel to left—Stern will pull to left.

RIGHT TURN Turn wheel to right—Stern will move to left.

LEFT TURN Turn wheel to left—Stern will move to right.

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• Keep the steering system’s moving parts clean and lubricated.

• Regularly inspect the steering system for kinks, damage and corrosion.

Refer to Basic Maneuvering, in this section, for additional steering information.

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NFORMATION

Stopping the Engine

Avoid creating a hazardous condition. DO NOT use the engine stop switch and lanyard for normal stopping of the engine. Using the stop switch will impair your ability to restart the engine quickly if a hazardous situation arises.

1. Slowly bring the remote control lever to the

IDLE position, or the NEUTRAL position.

2. After operating at high speeds, allow a 2-3

minute engine cooldown period at low idle.

3. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.

NOTICE: If any problems are encountered during the outing, have your boat inspected by your authorized Cobalt dealer and request any necessary repairs before your next outing.

Returning

Avoid injury. DO NOT use your hands, arms or another part of your body to attempt to keep the boat from hitting the dock.

Approach a dock slowly and use caution. Plan your maneuvers ahead of time. Allow wind and current movement to help maneuver your boat.

Be sure to read Basic Maneuvering, in this section.

Leaving

Use caution when casting off. Wind, water conditions and other boat traffic will affect your boat’s movement. Move slowly and:

• Be sure the engine is warmed up before casting off.

• Have enough space between the boat and the dock to allow you to swing the boat’s bow away from the dock. The boat’s stern will move toward the dock as the bow moves away. Allow for enough room or the stern will hit the dock.

• Retrieve all mooring lines and fenders.

• Proceed slowly. Sound a long blast to alert other boaters that you are departing.

When leaving a mooring, you should already have enough space around the boat to maneuver. Untie from the mooring and move back slowly until you can see it. Proceed slowly while giving the buoy wide clearance.

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Docking

Follow these guidelines when docking:

• Come to a stop a short distance from the dock, then proceed slowly.

• Have your fenders, mooring lines and the crew ready.

• Observe how the wind and current are moving your boat. Approach the dock with the boat pointed into the wind, if possible. If the wind or current is pushing you away from the dock, use a sharper angle of approach. If you must approach the dock downwind or down current, use a slow speed and shallow angle. Be ready to reverse in order to stop and maintain position.

• If there is no wind or current, approach the dock at a 10° to 20° angle.

• If possible, throw a line to a person on the dock and have that person secure a bow line. If no one is on the dock, maneuver as close as you can, then secure any line to a piling or dock cleat.

• With the bow secure, swing the stern in using engine thrust, or pull it in with a boat hook.

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PERATING

NFORMATION

Approaching a Slip

This maneuver is similar to backing an automobile into a garage or parking space. When approaching a slip:

• Have fenders, mooring lines and the crew ready.

• Turn the boat’s stern toward the slip.

• Shift to REVERSE.

• Maneuver slowly into the slip then shift to FORWARD. Use your steering wheel and throttles to align the boat with the slip.

• Once aligned, shift to REVERSE and continue to back in slowly. Shift into FORWARD when completely in to stop the movement of the boat.

• Shift to the NEUTRAL position, secure the mooring lines and stop the engine.

Approaching a Mooring

1 – Mooring Buoy

The only buoys you are permitted to moor to are mooring buoys. Mooring to a navigation buoy or other navigational aids or regulatory marker is illegal.

Approach a mooring buoy by heading into the wind or current. Observe the direction of other boats that already lie at mooring buoys. Since they are heading into the wind or current, approach your buoy at the same heading.

• When you think you can move enough forward without using your engine, shift to the NEUTRAL position.

• Have a crew member positioned on the bow with a hook to retrieve the mooring line. At that point, the crew member should be guiding your maneuvers toward the buoy.

• Turn off the engine after the mooring line is attached to the boat.

Basic Maneuvering

Techniques

Wandering is a characteristic of all deep V-hulls at slow speed. There is no cure for wandering; however, a very basic operational technique can be applied which will minimize this characteristic.

If the steering wheel is moved back and forth to compensate for wandering, invariably, the situation will be magnified. If the steering wheel remains in a centered position, the boat will wander back and forth slightly; however, the overall course of the boat will be a straight one.

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Power Trim and Tilt

See the outboard operator’s manual for information on your power tilt operation, adjustment and maintenance.

The outboard’s power tilt generally operates in conjunction with the power trim system, which is commonly called power trim and tilt. This system allows you to raise and lower the lower drive unit and propeller to adjust trim (the planing and running angle of the boat while under way) and tilt (used to position the lower drive unit up beyond the power trim range used for trailering, launching or beaching). Never use power tilt while the engine is running.

High-Speed Operation

Avoid injury, death or property damage. Sudden turns may cause loss of control. Your Cobalt boat is not designed for wake jumping. When crossing another boat’s wake, throttle back to prevent your boat from leaving the water. Wake jumping is very dangerous. It is possible for the boat to re-enter the water on its side, transom or bow. You and your passengers could suffer serious injury. Also, damage to the boat could take place causing a hazardous condition.

When operating any boat at high speed, exercise a great deal of caution. This is particularly true during turns. Gradual turns can be completed at high speed by a competent driver, but it must be emphasized that sudden turns at any speed, and particularly at high speed, can be especially dangerous. It is possible to throw passengers from their seats and even from the boat if caution is not exercised. Remember, common sense is the rule for safe boating.

• Keep bottom of the hull clean and free of barnacles and other growth. Growth on the hull can slow the boat down considerably.

• Prepare the boat. Be sure all gear is properly stowed and compartments are latched.

• Weight distribution affects performance. Keep weight in the boat to a minimum and evenly distributed.

• The propellers should be of the proper pitch to turn the recommended RPM rating for the engine with an average boat load. Refer to your propulsion unit operator’s manual for additional information.

• Watch the tachometer. Keep the engine within the full throttle operating range. Refer to the outboard operator’s manual for full throttle operating range.

Avoid injury, death or loss of control. Do not make aggressive turns at high speed. Keep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the throttle control at all times. If the boat begins to operate in an unsafe way, pull back on the throttle. Trim the drive unit in at the same time and maintain control.

High-speed operation requires quick reactions and adjustments are needed to maintain control. Know your limits and stay within them. Keep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the throttle; constant adjustments are necessary for rapidly changing conditions. Small inputs of throttle, steering and trim movement are exaggerated at high speeds. Keep watch well ahead so that you have enough time to react.

Anchoring

We recommend that you have 10 hours of experience with the boat before any full throttle operation. Do not operate your boat until you are completely experienced with its handling characteristics. The following are some guidelines for performance operation.

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Avoid injury, death or swamping. Anchor from the bow, not from the stern. A strong current can pull a boat underwater, anchored by the stern, and keep it there.

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A WARNING

PERATING

Be sure the anchor is adequate for your boat. Use caution when anchoring. Look for signs of underwater pipes or cables. With the engine off, you have no control of the boat. Water and wind conditions will affect an anchored boat. Be sure the anchor will hold before leaving the boat.

There are many types of anchors available on the market. The choice of one anchor over another depends on many factors. An anchor will usually hold best in a mixture of mud and clay or in hard sand. A Danforth anchor is recommended for general boating. For more information on anchors, contact your authorized Cobalt dealer.

NFORMATION

Avoid injury and/or property damage.

• Keep hands, feet, loose clothing and hair well clear of the winch and rope/chain during operation.

• Keep clear view of the winch, rope, chain and anchor when operating the winch. This may require a second person when operating.

• Run the boat’s engine while raising or lowering the anchor. Not only is this a safety precaution, it also prevents draining of the batteries.

• DO NOT use the winch as a bollard. When anchored, secure the anchor line directly to a bollard or deck cleat.

DANFORTH

ANCHOR

KC-1571

The windlass, if equipped, gets its power from the 12V DC system. The windlass can be operated at the driver’s helm or from the foredeck on some models and only from a switch located in the anchor locker area on others.

Included with your optional windlass is a crank to be used for clutch adjustment.

Please consult the operator’s manual supplied with the windlass system for proper operation.

The circuit breaker on the battery switch panel under the port aft seat must be in the ON position to operate the windlass. When not in use, turn the circuit breaker to the OFF position.

• Secure the anchor with a rope or fastener pin when operating the boat at high speed, in heavy weather or while transporting.

• Turn the WINDLASS switch off when the winch is not in use and before leaving the boat.

• Keep the rope in good condition and free from twists, knots, heavy abrasions and salt buildup. In the event of the rope slipping or jamming, reverse the direction of the winch and check the rope for damage.

• Ensure the size and type of chain used with this switch is compatible with the rope/chain.

Use caution when anchoring. Look for signs of underwater pipes or cables. With the engine off, you have no control of the boat. Water and wind conditions will affect an anchored boat. Be sure the anchor will hold.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

Lowering

Bring the boat to a stop with the bow facing into the wind or current. Lower the anchor. On dash control, place safety switch in the ON position.

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Press and hold the toggle switch down to pay out sufficient rope/chain to set the anchor.

Setting

When the anchor hits bottom, slowly back up the boat, keeping tension on the line. The anchor line should be five to seven times the depth of the water.

Weighing (May require two persons)

To weigh (retrieve) the anchor, start the engine and slowly move forward. Press the toggle switch up while taking in anchor line as you go. Carefully retrieve the last meter (36 inches) of rope/chain, then seat the anchor in the bow fitting.

The anchor must be secured with anchor snubber (clip, shackle, etc. with short piece of line) when it is stored to prevent accidental deployment. When anchor is deployed and in use, the rode (rope or chain) must be secured to a cleat or secure holding point. Do not use windlass to hold vessel.

Refer to the windlass operator’s instructions for additional operating information, if equipped.

Lines and Knots

Learn and become familiar with tying and using knots. Knowing how to use knots and lines properly can prevent personal injury and property damage.

Practice tying lines to docks, cleats and anchors, and connecting two lines together. Consult other qualified boaters or local marine authorities, or visit your local bookstore, library or the Internet for information on the proper use of nautical lines and knots. The following illustrations represent a few examples of securing mooring lines.

Cleating an open line

Securing to a dock bit

Towing

If seas are rough, it may not be easy to extend the tow line from one boat to another. In these cases,

Cleating an eye-spliced line

Securing to a piling

using a clove hitch

KC-0248-A

use a light throwing line with a weight on one end and with the heavier towing line secured to it.

Do not attempt to tow a larger or grounded vessel.

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Outboards Owner’s Manual

A DANGER

PERATING

NFORMATION

Because of the tremendous stress caused by towing, use a tow line that is rated at least four times the gross weight of the boat being towed.

Tow ropes must be in good condition, free of any cuts or abrasions.

Attach the tow line (2) to the bow eye (3) on the disabled boat. Attach the opposite end of the bridle only to the stern cleats (1) of the tow boat. Wrap the bridle with chafing gear where it rubs against the boat.

Adjust the tow line to match wave action. Keep the boats on the crest or in the trough of the waves at the same time. In protected, calm waters, shorten the line for better handling. Tow at moderate speed, allowing for adverse wind and wave conditions. Have the operator of the towed boat steer with you, if possible.

If you need a tow, or wish to tow another boat, use great care. The boat structure can be damaged by excessive pulling strain. You should offer help to a boat in trouble. However, towing a capsized, grounded or hull-damaged boat is dangerous. Give assistance to the occupants, then call the proper authorities.

Leave at least two boat lengths between the boats for adequate movement.

Avoid injury, death or property damage. When towing, only use the bow eye and stern eyes. DO NOT use deck cleats or handrails. DO NOT allow anyone to be in line with the tow rope.

Environmental Considerations

Using your boat in different environments requires special operating considerations.

Salt Water

During long periods of mooring, if possible, tilt the outboard out of the water – except in freezing temperatures. Refer to the outboard owner’s manual for more information on saltwater operation and protection.

Freshwater flushing of the engine is recommended after operating in salt, polluted or brackish water. Refer to your outboard operator’s manual for additional information.

COB_0003_A

Outboards Owner’s Manual

Freezing Temperatures

When boating in temperatures below freezing, keep the outboard tilted down (submerged) at all times. This will help prevent damage from freezing.

Upon removing your Cobalt boat from the water, leave the outboard in the vertical position until cooling system has drained.

Refer to your outboard operator’s manual for additional information regarding winterization.

3-17

COBALT

Entertainment System

To operate your entertainment system, you must first supply power to the unit(s). Make sure the battery switch is on. For additional operating information, refer to the operator’s manual for your stereo and accessories supplied to you in your owner’s packet.

The audio speakers in your Cobalt are designed to deliver maximum fidelity in a marine environment. The speakers can be damaged if struck by a sharp object or if the moving elements are restricted from movement. Do not store or place any sharp objects near the speakers, or restrict the element movement.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

3-18

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A WARNING

23SC / 25SC FEATURES

AND OPTIONS

HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION

ECTION

Your Cobalt boat helm will monitor and provide operation of the boat’s functions. The gauges are illuminated for night operation.

On occasion, a small fluctuation in a gauge reading is not unusual. If an instrument reading is outside the normal or recommended ranges, determine the cause or see your authorized Cobalt dealer.

Refer to the engine operator’s manual for normal recommended ranges.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

4-1

Avoid the risk of injury, death or equipment damage. If the safety of you or others depends on running the engine during an abnormal condition, make the right decision on saving equipment or lives. Do not jeopardize the safety of you or others to protect your boat.

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

1. GLASS COCKPIT DASH UNIT

Smart Mode screens are preprogrammed by Cobalt. To access screens:

1. Press HOME, if not already there.

2. Press Smart Mode.

3. Select desired mode from Smart Mode screen.

NOTICE: To reset to default settings, contact your Cobalt dealer.

A/V, Gauges/Control settings are auto-populated, depending on options; however, they can be customized.

To adjust screen brightness, press and release power button quickly.

If your boat is equipped with EVC, when the engine is turned off, turn the key back to the ON position within 2 seconds. The screens will stay on. From Power Off, it takes approximately 60 seconds for displays to boot up.

If your boat is equipped with EVC, the functions on page 2 of the engine data will not populate without the Volvo trip computer option.

For more detailed information, you can review your owner manual on the screen under Info or the Garmin Quick Start Manual in your boat bag. You can also go to garmin.com under Marine Device Software Updates for the latest software updates, if desired.

2. BILGE PUMP - This switch manually controls the bilge pump.

3. INTERIOR LIGHTS - This switch provides illumination within the cockpit area.

4. DOCKING LIGHTS (Optional) - This switch operates the docking lights.

Docking lights are to be used for docking only. It is illegal to use your docking lights while cruising.

NOTICE: Operate the boat between sunset and sunrise using your navigational lights. Navigational lights are legally required to indicate direction and right-of-way at night.

7. ANCHOR / MOORING LIGHT - All boats at

anchor or moored must display a proper white anchor light.

The anchor light (all-around light) is the white light that is installed into a receiver located aft of the cockpit. The anchor light must be visible from 360° and will remain on when operating the navigational lights.

8. NAVIGATION LIGHTS - For Inland Rules only. Do not use in international waters.

You must use your navigation lights and anchor/ mooring light when operating your Cobalt boat between sunset and sunrise, and when daytime visibility is limited. Check with your local authorities for other requirements concerning the use of navigation lights before operating your boat.

The navigation lights are identified by a red light on the port side of the vessel and a green light on the starboard side.

9. ACC - This switch is available to operate switched accessory items. If you have the RGB underwater light option, this switch will be utilized. See RGB manual for details.

NOTICE: DO NOT connect an accessory drawing more than 10 amps to the accessory switch. A hazardous situation or damage to the electrical system can occur.

10. STEREO REMOTE CONTROL (standard on dash, transom mount – optional) - This panel

provides remote control of the stereo system from the helm.

5. HORN - This switch activates the horn. Press the switch to activate.

6. PLATFORM LIGHTS (Optional) - This switch provides illumination within the platform area.

11. IGNITION SWITCH - This switch starts the engine. It also supplies accessory power when turned to the left.

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A WARNING

A DANGER

A WARNING

Avoid injury, death or explosion.

• Check engine compartment for gasoline or vapors.

• Operate blower for four minutes.

• Verify blower operation.

• Run blower below cruising speed.

12. TILT STEERING RELEASE LEVER - This lever

adjusts the steering wheel angle to a comfortable position when the boat is not moving.

EATURES AND

PTIONS

NOTICE: Do not use the shift levers when the engines are not running. Do not shift too quickly from FORWARD to REVERSE. Damage to the engine and transmission can result. When shifting from FORWARD to REVERSE, pause in the NEUTRAL position until the engine is at idle speed and the boat has slowed. When shifting from NEUTRAL to FORWARD or REVERSE, shift briskly and decisively.

13. USB/ACCESSORY POWER RECEPTACLE -

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with one USB port at the dash (this replaces the round receptacle) and one USB port in the port side bow (located next to the port bow speaker and drink holders). Please note that these USB ports are for charging only; they are not connected to the stereo. Only the USB port at the glove box is connected to the stereo. There is an accessory plug on the port side.

Remote Control

Avoid injury or death. Make sure all shift/throttle hardware and cables are regularly inspected and maintained. Improperly maintained controls are hazardous and may cause sudden loss of control.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a safety switch for “start-in neutral-only” operation. The shift lever must be in the NEUTRAL position before attempting to start the engine.

The following information relates to the general description of your controls. Refer to the engine operator’s manual or the control operator’s manual for specific use.

14. SHIFT/THROTTLE LEVER - Your control is a single lever which operates as both a gear shifter and a throttle. The control has a detent to position NEUTRAL for starting.

To shift, move the lever to FORWARD or pull it back for REVERSE. Advancing the lever beyond the shift position increases engine RPM. DO NOT shift when the engine is not running. Refer to the engine operator’s manual for more information and functions of the remote control.

15. OUTBOARD TRIM SWITCH - Outboard trim switch controls the trim angle of the drive unit. This switch will maximize the performance and ride of the boat.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

16. IGNITION SAFETY SWITCH

Avoid injury, death or damage to equipment. Do not allow your boat to be operated without the proper use of the ignition safety switch and lanyard.

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COBALT

COB_0042_A

A DANGER

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with an ignition safety switch located on the lower lip of the helm. The ignition safety switch and lanyard will stop the engine in case of an emergency. Attach the lanyard to the boat operator whenever the engine is running, but be aware there will be a loss of boat control if the switch is activated. If the operator is thrown from the seat or moves too far from the helm, the lanyard will become disconnected from the ignition safety switch, shutting off the engine.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

Avoid injury or death. Attach the ignition safety switch lanyard to the operator before starting the engine. This will prevent the boat from becoming a runaway if the operator is accidentally thrown away from the helm. The ignition safety switch can only be effective when it is in good working condition. Observe the following:

• Do not remove or modify the ignition safety switch and/or lanyard.

• The lanyard must be free from obstructions that could interfere with its operation.

• DO NOT operate the boat if the ignition safety switch does not function properly.

ECTION

1 – Ignition Safety Switch 2 – Lanyard 3 – Hook

• Attach the ignition safety switch lanyard to a secure place on your clothing, your arm or leg while operating.

• DO NOT attach the lanyard to clothing that could tear loose. DO NOT route the lanyard where it could become entangled, preventing it from functioning.

• Avoid accidentally pulling the lanyard during normal operation. Loss of engine power means loss of most steering control. Also, without engine power, the boat could slow rapidly. This could cause occupants and objects in the boat to be thrown forward.

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COB_0093_A

EATURES AND

PTIONS

17. ACCENT LIGHT SWITCH AND DIMMER

It is the operator’s responsibility to know and comply with local laws. Although not universally regulated, some color lights may not be compliant with certain local ordinances. Please know your local marine lighting regulations before use.

CIRCUIT BREAKERS - The breakers for the helm labeled protected device are located in the starboard bow storage area. These breakers will activate if overloaded, and cut power to the switch. To restore power, turn off the device, push the breaker button in and release. If the button continues to pop out when the device is used, see your authorized Cobalt dealer. Your boat may not be equipped with all of these features or options. These breakers will activate, if overloaded. Cut power to the switch. Clear fault before resetting. the event the fault cannot be cleared, contact your dealer immediately before resetting.

18. WATER PRESSURE - OPTIONAL - This switch activates the water pressure pump. Water pressure is required for the transom shower.

CAPTAIN’S CHAIR ADJUSTMENTS AND OPERATION

Your captain’s chairs have the flip-up position for greater visibility and maneuverability while docking. You can sit on the raised cushion or stand in front of the cushion.

Standing while driving your boat should only be done while maneuvering at an idle by an experienced driver.

The chairs are adjustable fore and aft and also rotate. Some fore and aft adjustment may be necessary when swiveling your seat(s) to avoid damage to the chair or side panel. Some seating configurations do not allow all seats to rotate completely.

ENGINE HATCH - This switch operates the electric motor box assembly. Do not continue to operate the switch when the motor box is closed or fully open. Lower the motor box support after the motor box is opened. Be sure to return the support to its stowed position before lowering the box.

The motor box switch is located inside of the starboard gunwale opposite the sundeck.

REMOTE COURTESY LIGHTS w/KEY FOB OPTIONAL - The courtesy lights can be controlled

by using an optional remote control light switch, contained on a key fob for your convenience. One remote control light switch button allows you to control the lights within the cockpit and the other switch button controls the lights at the swim platform.

1. Lift lever to adjust fore and aft.

2. Turn rotation friction handle clockwise to increase friction and counterclockwise to decrease friction. The chair should always be operated with slight friction.

3. Rotation lever for chair - move chair slightly forward, then lift lever to rotate. The lever will rest in its detent when the seat is in its forward direction.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

4-5

COBALT

A WARNING

COB_0312_A

UTBOARDS

FLIP DOWN SWIM STEP

Boat in the Water

First, lower the drive all the way.

To deploy the step:

1. Kneel down to reach the plunger; pull the plunger out and pull up on the step at the same time.

2. Push the step over into the water. The step will be buoyant.

3. Sit on the platform and push the step down with your feet; it will automatically lock into place.

To raise the step:

1. Push down slightly on the step with your feet while sitting on the platform.

2. Pull the plunger and allow the step to float up.

3. Move to the side and pull the step onto the platform. It will automatically lock into place.

ERIES

1 – Swim Step 2 – Plunger

ECTION

Boat on a Trailer

Lower the drive as low as possible without hitting the ground or trailer.

To deploy the step:

1. Stand behind the platform; pull the plunger out and pull up on the front of the step at the same time.

2. Pull the step towards you; do not let go.

3. Gently let the step down; it will lock into place automatically.

To raise the step:

Pull the plunger and raise the step at the same time. Be careful when folding the step over onto the platform. Do not allow the step to slam down.

Always make sure the area in the platform is clear before closing the step.

Avoid the possibility of injury or death. DO NOT occupy the platform when the engine is running or engaged. Propeller contact or exposure to CO can cause severe injury or death. All gasoline engines produce CO. CO is colorless, odorless and dangerous. Direct and prolonged exposure to CO will cause brain damage or death. The stern drive unit and the propeller have many sharp edges.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT overload the flip down swim step. The swim step maximum load is 400 lbs (181 kg).

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COB_0095_A

COB_0096_A

EATURES AND

PTIONS

WINDSHIELD LATCH

To open the windshield make sure the vertical slots in the mechanism are aligned. Swing the windshield open until the windshield post falls into the vertical slots and the mechanism locks.

To close the windshield, release the locking mechanism by pulling the forward-facing button. Swing the windshield into place.

COCKPIT DINETTE TABLE OPTIONAL

Remove the j-shaped table leg from the storage area. Slide the leg into its mounting support. Slide the table top onto the leg. If your table top has a lever, tighten the lever.

Your optional dinette table may be made of teak. To keep teak in top condition, clean it occasionally with a teak cleaner and re-oil it at least once a season.

ICE CHEST

The ice chest can be accessed by lifting the cushion UP and OUT.

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COB_0336

4-7

COBALT

COB_0101_A

Switch

Air Flow

A WARNING

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

AIR COMPRESSOR OPTIONAL

A high-volume air compressor is conveniently located in the starboard aft walk-thru storage compartment to inflate your favorite water toys. Plug into the accessory receptacle on the dash or in the air compressor area.

ANCHOR LIGHT

To install anchor light insert pole into socket and turn clockwise until it locks into place.

COB_0097_A

Cap the anchor light socket when the anchor light is removed.

CRUISE CONTROL OPTIONAL

Avoid direct exposure to water and keep stowed when not in use.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT use the cruise control feature as a means for navigation or for “no hands” operation.

To operate the Cruise Control speed control system, set desired speed. Once your boat reaches the set speed, the Cruise Control will hold the speed constant. For additional operating information, refer to Cruise Control operator’s manual in your owner’s packet.

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A WARNING

EATURES AND

PTIONS

AUTOMATIC CHARGING RELAY (ACR)

The automatic charging relay (ACR) automatically combines the batteries when the engine is running. It also isolates the batteries when discharging to prevent the starting battery from discharging while using the house battery when the engine is off. The ACR has the following features:

• 120 amp continuous rating

• 12/24V DC auto ranging voltage input

• Senses charging on two battery banks

• Side and bottom knockouts for cable connections

• Clip-on cover insulates terminal connections

• Integrated LED indicates ACR status

• Waterproof – rated IP67 for temporary immersion

BATTERY SWITCH

The dual battery switch provides isolation and positive disconnect from the batteries to protect against tampering, electrical fire hazards and battery rundown. The switch should normally be in the ON position rather than the COMBINE BATTERIES position. In the OFF position, the boat will be isolated from the batteries except for the automatic bilge pump.

NOTICE: COMBINE BATTERIES position should only be used for emergency start.

NOTICE: On dual battery installations, there is an ACR installed that will allow the engine to charge the house battery.

WATER SYSTEM

If your Cobalt boat is equipped with a transom shower, galley sink, icemaker, etc. (optional), the system allows for potable (drinkable) water to be stored onboard. Refer to Section 1, Specifications, for the capacity of the water system.

As standard procedure, the water system is winterized from the factory and water is non-potable. DO NOT DRINK. The system must be cleaned and disinfected before the first use.

The system is operated by a 12V DC water pump located in the engine compartment. It is necessary for the 12V DC system to be energized and the WATER PRESSURE switch to be turned on to operate the water system. The water pump works on demand. It will not automatically shut off when the freshwater tank is empty.

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING OR

ROTATING PARTS HAZARD

Poisonous CO gases are present at the rear of the craft when the engine is running. Exposure to CO gases can cause death or serious injury. A rotating propeller can cut or entangle causing death or serious injury. DO NOT use the swim/boarding platform when the engine is running.

To clean and disinfect the water tank, refer to Section 8, Freshwater System (if equipped).

Consult your authorized Cobalt dealer for winterization requirements.

MARINE TOILET (HEAD) AND

BATTERY CHARGER OPTIONAL

See specific operating instructions located in your boat bag or consult your Cobalt dealer for further information.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

MACERATOR - OPTIONAL

Instructions

Before operating the head for the first time, refer to the marine toilet owner’s manual in your owner’s packet.

4-9

COBALT

A CAUTION

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

Porta Potti

1. Depress the bellows pump to fill the bowl with water.

2. To flush, pull out the slide valve handle, located on the front of the unit. Depress the bellows pump one or more times until all waste is removed.

3. Close the slide valve by pushing the handle fully in.

The marine toilet (head) has its own holding tank and can be emptied manually, or if the “pump out with or without macerator” option is installed, the waste can be pumped out through a deck plate fitting marked “WASTE”, or overboard with the optional macerator.

NOTICE: Overboard discharge of waste water should only be used in approved areas. It is your responsibility to comply with local regulations regarding the discharge of waste. You could be fined if your boat has an operable overboard discharge system.

To avoid a fine, remove the handle of the seacock (in the CLOSED position) or disable the system by other means such as locking the “Y” valve in the “pump-out” position.

Electrically Operated Head

The Jabsco electric marine toilet will provide years of trouble-free service if properly used. It will handle waste and toilet tissue. It will NOT handle rags, sanitary napkins or hard, solid objects.

If the bowl does not pump out and begins to fill, partially close the inlet valve until the bowl is cleared and completely pumped out. Then operate for a few seconds with both valves open to clear the entire toilet and discharge system. For maximum safety, when the toilet is not in use or the vessel is unattended, close both the inlet and discharge seacocks.

To drain for winter lay-up, close the inlet valve and operate for a few seconds until all water is pumped out.

After long periods of nonuse, the toilet and pump may dry out. To ease initial start-up, put about 1 qt (1 L) of water in bowl and let stand a while before initial use.

Your boat is fitted with a waste holding tank. It is emptied through the deck plate fitting marked “WASTE”. Waste is pumped from the head through a sanitary waste hose to the top portion of the tank. A sanitary waste hose is attached to the bottom of the tank, and runs to the dockside pump-out plate. An overboard vent keeps the tank at atmospheric pressure regardless of waste levels.

The optional macerator system allows the discharging of waste water from the waste tank directly overboard. For additional operating information, refer to the macerator operator’s manual.

Avoid damage to the waste system. Do not flush into a full holding tank.

1. Make sure inlet and outlet seacocks are all open.

2. Push the button to operate.

3. Operate until the bowl is completely flushed and the discharge pump has scavenged water from the bottom of the bowl.

All components of the waste system are made of materials specially formulated to prevent odor permeation. It is strongly recommended you regularly add chemical to your tank by flushing it through the head. The chemical helps to control odor and break down the waste. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the chemical before using.

A waste tank level monitor is installed to provide a visual indication of the amount of waste in the tank. The ignition key may need to be on for the monitor or water pump to work.

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A CAUTION

COB_0190_C

COB_0189_C

EATURES AND

PTIONS

Macerator Pump

To avoid a fine, lock the “Y” valve in the “pump-out” position.

Avoid damaging the macerator unit. Do not run the macerator dry. Running it when there is no waste will shorten the life of the system.

Dockside Waste Disposal

Dockside Pump-out - This system directs all

waste to the holding tank. To clear the tank, you will need to use the dockside pump-out services provided at marinas or other facilities. To empty the tank, a suction hose is connected to the “WASTE” pump-out plate and to the dockside pump. The WASTE pump-out plate is always located at a “high point” on the boat. For the WASTE pump-out connection, refer to Section 4, Water/Plumbing.

Waste Disposal with Optional Macerator

1 – Thru-Hull Discharge Fitting 2 – Macerator Pump 3– “Y” Valve 4 – Waste Dockside Pump-out Fitting 5– Water Tank 6 – Holding Tank

The optional macerator system allows the discharging of waste water directly overboard. Refer to Section 6, Water/Plumbing for component location. For additional operating information, refer to the macerator operator’s manual supplied with your Cobalt boat.

1 – Water Tank 2– Head 3 – Waste Dockside Pump-out Fitting 4– Vent 5 – Holding Tank

A “Y” valve is installed in the holding tank outlet hose and permits you to use the dockside pump-out feature or to use the macerator to pump the waste from the holding tank overboard.

To pump out the holding tank using the macerator pump:

1. Move the “Y” valve lever to the OVERBOARD position.

2. Activate the macerator pump by turning its

Outboards Owner’s Manual

switch on.

4-11

COBALT

COB_0138_A

COBALT

BOW TONNEAU (BOW RIDERS ONLY)

COCKPIT TONNEAU

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

3. Turn off the macerator pump after the pump-out is complete.

4. Move the “Y” valve lever back to the “pump-out” position.

If your boat is equipped with a tank level monitor, the tank level monitor will illuminate the indicator light to monitor the tank level.

To avoid a fine, lock the “Y” valve in the “pump-out” position.

BOW TONNEAU COVER OPTIONAL

COCKPIT TONNEAU COVER OPTIONAL

Follow these directions for the cockpit tonneau cover.

1. Unroll the cover and snap to the deck, starting at the center of the windshield. Snap to the forward outside edge of the windshield only.

2. Install tonneau support pole(s) to underside of the cover (just in front of rear seat) with snap and adjust pole to approximate height of windshield. Some models have two support poles. Make sure the poles are perpendicular to the floor and adjust to “tent” the cover.

3. Pull elastic cords over discs on transom, starting in the center and working outboard (you may have to readjust the support poles for proper fit).

4. Continue snapping up the sides.

5. The walk-thru doors may be closed if desired.

Do not use cockpit tonneau cover for extended storage. It is not designed for storage, but can be used for overnight storage or trailering.

Follow these procedures to attach the bow tonneau cover:

1. Open walk-thru doors.

2. Starting at bow, slip bow opening over bow, work aft, and snap the cover to the boat.

3. Close windshield center door and snap the canvas to the underside of the windshield.

4. Install the adjustable tonneau cover support pole. Make sure the pole is perpendicular to the floor and adjust to “tent” the cover.

5. Walk-thru doors may be closed if desired.

Do not use bow tonneau cover for extended storage. It is not designed for storage, but can be used for overnight storage or trailering.

NOTICE: Always double-check snaps are secure.

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EATURES AND

PTIONS

PREMIUM BIMINI TOP OPTIONAL

NOTICE: Do not operate equipment that has loose or missing fasteners. Be sure all fasteners are installed and properly tightened before operating equipment.

1. Remove the stainless adjustable arms from the

storage area.

2. Unfold the top and install the stainless

adjustable arms (tensioners) into the quick-disconnect fittings on the deck, forward of the windshield. Secure the forward arms to the forward cross members with the pins.

3. Tighten the bimini by twisting the tensioners.

4. When the top is up, make sure the light wire is

routed correctly and the navigation light is properly secured.

PREMIUM BIMINI TOP WITH EASY FOLD - OPTIONAL

NOTICE: Do not operate equipment that has loose or missing fasteners. Be sure all fasteners are installed and properly tightened before operating equipment.

1. Remove the stainless adjustable arms from the storage area.

2. Unfold the top and install the stainless adjustable arms (tensioners) into the quick-disconnect fittings on the deck, forward of the windshield. Secure the forward arms to the forward cross members with the pins.

3. Tighten the bimini by twisting the tensioners.

4. When the top is up, make sure the light wire is routed correctly and the navigation light is properly secured.

COB_0455_A

1 – Navigation Light 2 – Light Wire

5. To assist in laying the bimini down for storage, there are 4 knobs and lanyards in the glove box that can be installed instead of the socket-head bolts and slotted screws, if desired.

Do not trailer with the bimini top up. Store and trailer the bimini top in the stowed position, in its canvas boot.

COB_0455_A

1 – Navigation Light 2 – Light Wire

5. To assist in laying the bimini down for storage, there are 4 knobs and lanyards in the glove box that can be installed instead of the socket-head bolts and slotted screws, if desired.

Do not trailer with the bimini top up. Store and trailer the bimini top in the stowed position, in its canvas boot.

6. To fold down the bimini top, release the port side lever.

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COBALT

COB_0456_A

COB_0458_A

COB_0457_A

1 – Port Side Lever

7. Move to the starboard side, lift up and hold the release lever and fold down the bimini top.

1 – Release Lever

8. Once the top is folded down, secure the locking levers into the aft locking position.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

3. Unfold canvas and deploy over the top of the arch, and put the hole in the canvas over the anchor light on top.

4. Move forward bimini bow to top quick release position, and attach the short bimini poles to the forward bow and quick release.

5. Unzip forward bow support pocket on the canvas and put over forward bimini bow and rezip canvas.

6. Pull the aft end of bimini down tight using adjustable poles to hold tight.

ECTION

ELECTRIC ARCH WITH BIMINI

NOTICE: Do not operate equipment that has loose or missing fasteners. Be sure all fasteners are installed and properly tightened before operating equipment.

1. To raise and lower, turn on the master switch in the helm area, and raise and lower with the switch located in the aft walk-thru area.

2. Fold aft bimini bow toward the back of the boat.

9. To deploy the bimini top, reverse the above procedure.

FOLDING ARCH W/BIMINI

NOTICE: Do not operate equipment that has loose or missing fasteners. Be sure all fasteners are installed and properly tightened before operating equipment.

1. Fold aft bimini bow toward the back of the boat.

2. Remove canvas boot.

3. Remove canvas boot.

4. Unfold canvas and deploy over the top of the arch, and put the hole in the canvas over the anchor light on top.

5. Move forward bimini bow to top quick release position, and attach the short bimini poles to the forward bow and quick release.

6. Unzip forward bow support pocket on the canvas and put over forward bimini bow and rezip canvas.

7. Pull the aft end of bimini down tight using adjustable poles to hold tight.

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A WARNING

EATURES AND

PTIONS

SPORT TOP WITH RETRACTABLE SHADE

NOTICE: Do not operate equipment that has loose or missing fasteners. Be sure all fasteners are installed and properly tightened before operating equipment.

Canvas should be stored in a protective covering to avoid damage to the canvas when not installed.

Installation

1. Remove the canvas from the protective covering. Unfold the canvas and identify the bow and stern areas of the canvas.

2. Position the canvas on the top side of the sport tube frame.

3. Open the forward flaps and wrap the flap around the forward tube.

4. Locate the flaps near the center of the underside of the canvas. These flaps will align with the tubing going side-to-side on the sunshade. Wrap the flaps around the tube and secure the Velcro flaps.

5. Open the aft flaps on the canvas and wrap the flaps around the aft tube.

6. Pull the canvas tight from bow to stern by rotating the canvas around the aft tube, and then secure the Velcro flaps.

7. Once the canvas is snug bow to stern, open and secure the side flaps to the outer tube framing of the sunshade. Pull the canvas tight side-to-side by rotating the flap around the tubing and securing the Velcro flap.

8. Install the canvas on the retractable shade by repeating the same installation process listed in steps 1-7.

SKI TOW PYLON (OPTIONAL)

The solid aluminum ski tow pylon is designed for a single skier only. The ski tow pylon may be located at the stern of the boat or on the ski tower.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT overload the ski tow or the ski tow pylon, or use them for anything other than water sports. The ski tow pylon maximum load is 1,000 lbs (454 kg).

9. To deploy the shade, loosen red clamps by turning counterclockwise. Slide the shade aft into desired location and tighten clamps to lock the shade in place.

10. To stow the shade, loosen red clamps by turning counterclockwise. Slide the shade forward into the towed position and tighten clamps to lock the shade in place.

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4-15

COBALT

A WARNING

COB_0342a_A

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

TIE-DOWN LOCATIONS

NOTICE: Only use properly positioned slings to lift your boat. Do not use deck cleats to anchor or for towing. If towing, only use the bow eye or the stern eyes in a bridle manner.

Tie-down locations are for keeping your Cobalt boat secured when moored. The bow eye and/or stern eyes can also be used. Refer to Section 3,

Anchoring.

TOOL KIT - OPTIONAL

A tool kit assists you with correcting minor mechanical and electrical problems. For location of the tool kit, refer to Section 1, Layout.

1– Bow Eye 2 – Cleats 3 – Stern Eyes

Avoid injury, death or property damage. Never anchor a boat from the stern, and keep the boat headed into the waves.

4-16

Outboards Owner’s Manual

A WARNING

30SC FEATURES AND

OPTIONS

HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION

ECTION

7 8

Your Cobalt boat helm will monitor and provide operation of the boat’s functions. The gauges are illuminated for night operation.

On occasion, a small fluctuation in a gauge reading is not unusual. If an instrument reading is outside the normal or recommended ranges, determine the cause or see your authorized Cobalt dealer.

Refer to the engine operator’s manual for normal recommended ranges.

3 4 5

C0B_0507_A

Outboards Owner’s Manual

5-1

COBALT

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

1. BILGE PUMP FWD - Switch manually controls the forward bilge pump.

2. BILGE PUMP AFT - Switch manually controls the aft bilge pump.

3. COCKPIT LIGHTS

4. OVERHEAD LIGHTS

5. ACCESSORY SWITCH

6. GLASS COCKPIT DASH UNIT

Smart Mode screens are preprogrammed by Cobalt. To access screens:

1. Press HOME, if not already there.

2. Press Smart Mode.

3. Select desired mode from Smart Mode screen.

NOTICE: To reset to default settings, contact your Cobalt dealer.

A/V, Gauges/Control settings are auto-populated, depending on options; however, they can be customized.

To adjust screen brightness, press and release power button quickly.

If your boat is equipped with EVC, the functions on page 2 of the engine data will not populate without the Volvo trip computer option.

8. PLATFORM LIGHTS (Optional) - This switch provides illumination within the platform area.

NOTICE: Operate the boat between sunset and sunrise using your navigational lights. Navigational lights are legally required to indicate direction and right-of-way at night.

9. ANCHOR / MOORING LIGHT - All boats at

anchor or moored must display a proper white anchor light.

10. NAVIGATION LIGHTS - For Inland Rules only. Do not use in international waters. You

must use your navigation lights and anchor/mooring light when operating your Cobalt boat between sunset and sunrise, and when daytime visibility is limited. Check with your local authorities for other requirements concerning the use of navigation lights before operating your boat.

The navigation lights are identified by a red light on the port side of the vessel and a green light on the starboard side.

11. DOCKING LIGHTS (Optional) - This switch operates the docking lights.

Docking lights are to be used for docking only. It is illegal to use your docking lights while cruising.

12. ENGINE DISPLAY

For more detailed information, you can review your owner’s manual on the screen under Info or the Garmin Quick Start Manual in your boat bag. You can also go to garmin.com under Marine Device Software Updates for the latest software updates, if desired.

7. UNDERWATER LIGHTS (RGB) (Optional) - This switch provides illumination of the underwater lighting.

13. TRIM TAB SWITCHES - The switches will not operate unless the engine is running. The left switch controls the starboard side and the right switch controls the port side. Press the UP and DOWN buttons for manual operation. Pressing the AUTO button will allow automatic leveling of the boat. When in AUTO mode, the auto light will be on.

14. Propulsion System Joystick - Refer to the Drive System operator’s manual, in your owner’s packet, for operation instructions.

5-2

Outboards Owner’s Manual

30SC F

A WARNING

COB_0042_A

15. THROTTLE/SHIFT CONTROLS

NOTICE: Do not shift too quickly from forward to reverse. Damage to the engines and transmissions can result. When shifting from forward to reverse, pause in neutral until the engines are at idle speed and the boat has slowed. Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a safety switch for “start-in neutral-only.”

Always keep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the throttle levers at all times. For all specific throttle/shift and related control operation information, refer to the engine operator’s manual or the specific control operator’s manual in your owner’s packet.

16. SHIFT CONTROL (Option on some models)

EATURES AND

1 – Ignition Safety Switch 2 – Lanyard 3 – Hook

PTIONS

17. OUTBOARD TILT AND TRIM

18. IGNITION SWITCH

Avoid injury, death or damage to equipment. Do not allow your boat to be operated without the proper use of the ignition safety switch and lanyard.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with an ignition safety switch located on the lower lip of the helm. The ignition safety switch and lanyard will stop the engines in case of an emergency. Attach the lanyard to the boat operator whenever the engine is running, but be aware there will be a loss of boat control if the switch is activated. If the operator is thrown from the seat or moves too far from the helm, the lanyard will become disconnected from the ignition safety switch, shutting off the engines.

Outboards Owner’s Manual

5-3

COBALT

A DANGER

Avoid injury or death. Attach the ignition safety switch lanyard to the operator before starting the engines. This will prevent the boat from becoming a runaway if the operator is accidentally thrown away from the helm. The ignition safety switch can only be effective when it is in good working condition. Observe the following:

• Do not remove or modify the ignition safety switch and/or lanyard.

• The lanyard must be free from obstructions that could interfere with its operation.

• DO NOT operate the boat if the ignition safety switch does not function properly.

• Attach the ignition safety switch lanyard to a secure place on your clothing, your arm or leg while operating.

• DO NOT attach the lanyard to clothing that could tear loose. DO NOT route the lanyard where it could become entangled, preventing it from functioning.

UTBOARDS

ERIES

22. MEDIA CENTER

23. USB/ACCESSORY POWER RECEPTACLE -

24. ACCENT LIGHT SWITCH AND DIMMER OPTIONAL

CIRCUIT BREAKERS - There are breakers located in the starboard bow storage compartment for the helm labeled protected device. These breakers will activate if overloaded, and cut power to the switch. Clear the fault before resetting. To restore power, turn off the device, push the breaker button in and release. If the button continues to pop out when the device is used, see your authorized Cobalt dealer. Your boat may not be equipped with all of these features or options.

ECTION

19. TILT STEERING RELEASE LEVER - This lever

adjusts the steering wheel angle to a comfortable position when the boat is not moving.

20. ENGINE ON/OFF SWITCHES - Refer to the engine operator’s manual in your owner’s packet for specific engine starting and stopping procedures.

21. HORN SWITCH - This switch activates the horn. Press the switch to activate.

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30SC F

A WARNING

COB_0312_A

EATURES AND

PTIONS

CAPTAIN’S CHAIR ADJUSTMENTS AND OPERATION

The captain’s chair can be adjusted fore and aft. Pull the lever on the side seat and slide the seat fore or aft. Make sure the lever and seat are rested in their detents before getting underway.

FLIP DOWN SWIM STEP

Boat in the Water

First, lower the drive all the way.

To deploy the step:

1. Kneel down to reach the plunger; pull the plunger out and pull up on the front of the step at the same time.

2. Push the step over into the water. The step will be buoyant.

3. Sit on the platform and push the step down with your feet; it will automatically lock into place.

Always make sure the area in the platform is clear before closing the step.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT overload the flip down swim step. The swim step maximum load is 400 lbs (181 kg).

To raise the step:

1. Push down slightly on the step with your feet while sitting on the platform.

2. Pull the plunger and allow the step to float up.

3. Move to the side and pull the step onto the platform. It will automatically lock into place.

Boat on a Trailer

Lower the drive as low as possible without hitting the ground or trailer.

To deploy the step:

1. Stand behind the platform; pull the plunger out and pull up on the front of the step at the same time.

2. Pull the step towards you; do not let go.

3. Gently let the step down; it will lock into place automatically.

To raise the step:

Pull the plunger and raise the step at the same time. Be careful when folding the step over onto the platform. Do not allow the step to slam down.

1 – Swim Step 2 – Plunger

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COBALT

A WARNING

COB_0101_A

Switch

Air Flow

UTBOARDS

ERIES

ECTION

EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM/BOARDING LADDER (OPTIONAL)

The swim platform was designed for use by people – not for the storage of personal equipment. Maximum platform weight capacity is 600 lbs (272 kg).

Make sure there is no one in the area behind the boat and the boarding ladder is properly stowed before starting the engine and engaging the shift mechanism.

To deploy the ladder:

Push the ladder in and down to unlock the ladder. Pull to extend down and swing down.

To stow the ladder:

Lift the bottom rung up to collapse the ladder. Swing up, and push in and up to lock in place.

Use caution when stowing the ladder to prevent pinching fingers.

BOW CUSHION INSERTS OPTIONAL

The bow area can be converted into a sun deck by placing the bow cushion insert. Position inserts to create the sun deck.

AIR COMPRESSOR

A high-volume air compressor is conveniently located in the starboard bow storage compartment to inflate your favorite water toys. Plug into the accessory receptacle on the dash or in the air compressor area.

Avoid direct exposure to water and keep stowed when not in use.

BOW / COCKPIT DINETTE TABLE - OPTIONAL

The table legs are located in the starboard bow flip storage compartment. Place the leg into its mounting support. Slide the table top onto the leg.

5-6

Outboards Owner’s Manual

Cobalt Boats OUTBOARDS Series, 23SC, 30SC, 25SC Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

FUEL SYSTEMS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME

CERTIFICATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY

ADDENDUM A – SERVICE ASSIST SERVICE AGREEMENT

CALIFORNIA EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY STATEMENT

Your Warranty Rights and Obligations

INTRODUCTION

Intended Use

Craft Design Category

OCEAN – Category A

OFFSHORE – Category B

INSHORE – Category C

SHELTERED WATERS – Category D

OWNER RESPONSIBILITY/ WARRANTY PROCEDURE

Before Operating

Warranty Service Requirements

If You Sell Your Cobalt Boat

CERTIFICATIONS

NMMA

FEATURES/CONSTRUCTION

Amenities

Construction Standards/Certifications

Serial Number Locations

WARNING LABELS

PUBLICATIONS

NAUTICAL TERMS

SYMBOLS

SPECIFICATIONS

LAYOUT

23SC

25SC

30SC

PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART

23SC

MERC 200 Verado 200

MERC 225 Verado 225 1.85 3 w/prop 14.5 x 17 RH 481843 48-898994A46

MERC 250 Verado 250 1.85 3 w/prop 14.2 x 18 RH 481806 48-898996A46

MERC 250 Verado (V8) 250 1.85 4 w/prop 14 5/8 x 19 Rev 4 RH 481900 8M0127031

MERC 300 Verado 300 1.85 3 w/prop 14 x 19 RH 481796 48-898998A46

YAMAHA F200 200

YAMAHA F250 250 1.75 2 w/engine 15 1/2 x 17 RH 481799 6CE-45978-00-00

YAMAHA F300 300 1.75 2 w/engine 481798

EVINRUDE 250 250 1.85 2 481884 15.5 x 19 481807 763990

25SC

MERC 200 Verado 200

MERC 225 Verado 225

MERC 250 Verado 250 1.85 3 w/prop 14.6 x 18 4 blade 481808 3850318-1

MERC 300 Verado 300 1.85 3 w/prop 14 x 19 RH 481796 48-898998A46

MERC 300 Verado (V8) 300 1.85 4 w/prop 14 5/8 x 20 Rev 4 RH 481899 8M0127033

MERC 350 Verado 350 1.75 481809 14.6 x 18 4 blade 481808 3850318-1

YAMAHA F200 200

YAMAHA F250 250 1.75 2 w/engine 15 1/2 x 17 RH 481799 6CE-45978-00-00

YAMAHA F300 300 1.75 2 w/engine 15 1/4 x 18 RH 481798 6CE-45934-00-00

YAMAHA F350 350

EVINRUDE E250X 250

EVINRUDE E300XU 300 1.85 2 414884 15 1/2 x 19 3 Blade 481807 763990

30SC

MERC 250 Verado 250

MERC 300 Verado 300 1.85 4 w/prop

MERC 350 Verado 350 1.75 4 481601

YAMAHA F250 250 1.75 3 w/prop 15 1/4 x 19

YAMAHA F300 300 1.75 3 w/prop 15 x 20

YAMAHA F350 350

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 RH 481861 48-857028A46

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 LH 481862 48-857029A46

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 RH 481861 48-857028A46

14 5/8 x 21 rev 4 LH 481862 48-857029A46

481881 6CF-45932-20-0

481882 6CE-45932-20-0

ALPHABETICAL INDEX

OWNER/OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Registration/Documentation

Required Safety Equipment

Navigation Lights

Horn or Whistle