Cobalt Digital Inc 343 PERFORMANCE Owner's Manual

Download

343 Owner’s Manual

Table of Contents

GENERAL INFORMATION

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

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

INTRODUCTION........................................................................................ 1-4

Intended Use........................................................................................ 1-4

Craft Design Category.......................................................................... 1-4

OWNER RESPONSIBILITY/ WARRANTY PROCEDURE ........................ 1-5

Before Operating .................................................................................. 1-5

Warranty Service Requirements .......................................................... 1-5

Extended Powertrain Warranty ............................................................ 1-5

If You Sell Your Cobalt Boat................................................................. 1-5

CERTIFICATIONS ..................................................................................... 1-6

NMMA .................................................................................................. 1-6

MerCruiser............................................................................................ 1-6

Volvo Penta.......................................................................................... 1-6

FEATURES/CONSTRUCTION .................................................................. 1-6

Amenities.............................................................................................. 1-6

Construction Standards/Certifications .................................................. 1-6

Serial Number Locations ...................................................................... 1-6

WARNING LABELS ................................................................................... 1-7

PUBLICATIONS......................................................................................... 1-9

NAUTICAL TERMS.................................................................................... 1-9

SYMBOLS ................................................................................................ 1-12

SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................... 1-13

LAYOUT ................................................................................................... 1-14

PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART ..................................................... 1-15

ALPHABETICAL INDEX .......................................................................... 1-16

343 Owner’s Manual

Performance Yacht

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

Remote Control System ....................................................................... 2-3

Steering System................................................................................... 2-3

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

Ventilation System ............................................................................... 2-3

Electrical Systems................................................................................ 2-4

Cooling System .................................................................................... 2-4

Exhaust System ................................................................................... 2-4

Lubrication System............................................................................... 2-4

Seaworthiness Inspection .................................................................... 2-4

Operation Checklist.............................................................................. 2-4

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

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

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

Lifesaving Equipment ........................................................................... 2-9

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

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

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

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

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

OPERATING INFORMATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

Boarding ............................................................................................... 3-4

Loading ................................................................................................ 3-4

Shipshape ............................................................................................ 3-4

GETTING UNDERWAY ............................................................................. 3-5

Before Starting Checklist...................................................................... 3-5

Handling Dock and Mooring Lines ....................................................... 3-6

Starting/Shifting/Steering/Stopping ...................................................... 3-6

Basic Maneuvering............................................................................. 3-11

Environmental Considerations ........................................................... 3-18

Entertainment System ........................................................................ 3-19

HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION ........................................................... 3-20

Remote Controls ................................................................................ 3-24

Gauges and Functions....................................................................... 3-25

343 Owner’s Manual

Table of Contents

STANDARD EQUIPMENT ....................................................................... 3-27

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT......................................................................... 3-28

CAPTAIN’S SEAT/BOLSTER .................................................................. 3-30

EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM / BOARDING LADDER......................... 3-30

COCKPIT/CABIN DINETTE TABLE - OPTIONAL ................................... 3-31

FENDER LOCKERS ................................................................................ 3-31

FOREDECK SUN PAD ............................................................................ 3-31

AIR COMPRESSOR ................................................................................ 3-32

SPOTLIGHT ............................................................................................. 3-32

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR ........................................................ 3-32

CUDDY CABIN ACCESS DOOR............................................................. 3-33

CABIN DISTRIBUTION PANELS............................................................. 3-33

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS......................................................................... 3-34

Shore Power Inlet Breaker Switch...................................................... 3-34

DC Electrical....................................................................................... 3-35

BATTERY SWITCH PANEL AND FUNCTIONS ...................................... 3-35

JUMP START STUDS ............................................................................. 3-35

BATTERY SWITCHES............................................................................. 3-36

SHORE POWER CONNECTION............................................................. 3-36

GENERATOR – OPTIONAL .................................................................... 3-38

FRESH WATER ....................................................................................... 3-38

Water Level Indicator ......................................................................... 3-38

MARINE TOILET (HEAD) AND MACERATOR - OPTIONAL .................. 3-39

Instructions ......................................................................................... 3-39

Manually Operated Head ................................................................... 3-39

Electrically Operated Head................................................................. 3-39

Macerator Pump................................................................................. 3-40

BATTERY CHARGER.............................................................................. 3-41

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING - OPTIONAL ......................................... 3-41

COCKPIT TONNEAU COVER - OPTIONAL ........................................... 3-42

BIMINI TOP - OPTIONAL ........................................................................ 3-42

TIE DOWN LOCATIONS ......................................................................... 3-43

TOOL KIT - OPTIONAL ........................................................................... 3-43

343 Owner’s Manual

SYSTEMS

INTRODUCTION........................................................................................ 4-1

ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESS ............................................................ 4-2

FUEL ROUTING ........................................................................................ 4-3

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

Fresh Water, Grey Water and Raw Water ........................................... 4-4

WATER SYSTEM ...................................................................................... 4-6

FIRE SUPPRESSION EQUIPMENT.......................................................... 4-6

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS........................................................................... 4-6

iii

Performance Yacht

CIRCUIT BREAKER PANEL...................................................................... 4-7

LIGHTING/BULB REPLACEMENT............................................................ 4-7

BATTERY CONNECTIONS ....................................................................... 4-8

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CARE

VINYL INTERIOR AND UPHOLSTERY..................................................... 5-1

Care and Cleaning of Vinyl .................................................................. 5-1

Special Cleaning Problems .................................................................. 5-1

CABINETRY AND WOOD ......................................................................... 5-3

Cabinetry .............................................................................................. 5-3

Rosewood Dash................................................................................... 5-3

Waterfall Bubinga or Birdseye Maple Dash ......................................... 5-3

Teak Swim Platform............................................................................. 5-3

Cedar ................................................................................................... 5-3

CARPET..................................................................................................... 5-3

DECK AND HULL ...................................................................................... 5-4

Cleaning Deck and Hull........................................................................ 5-4

Deck and Hull Care .............................................................................. 5-4

STAINLESS STEEL AND CHROME ......................................................... 5-4

Preventive Steps .................................................................................. 5-4

Cleaning Stainless Steel ...................................................................... 5-4

CORROSION PROTECTION .................................................................... 5-5

CorrosionX ........................................................................................... 5-5

Topside ................................................................................................ 5-5

Inside the Bulkhead.............................................................................. 5-5

Other Areas.......................................................................................... 5-6

Galvanic Corrosion............................................................................... 5-6

Salt Water ............................................................................................ 5-6

CANVAS .................................................................................................... 5-7

Cleaning Canvas.................................................................................. 5-7

Special Cleaning Problems .................................................................. 5-7

OTHER CANVAS COMPONENTS ............................................................ 5-8

Clear Vinyl “Isinglass” .......................................................................... 5-8

Zippers ................................................................................................. 5-8

Snap Fasteners.................................................................................... 5-8

WINDSHIELD............................................................................................. 5-8

BILGE......................................................................................................... 5-8

MARINE GROWTH.................................................................................... 5-8

MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING

SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ........................................ 6-1

Maintenance Schedule......................................................................... 6-1

Break-In................................................................................................ 6-2

Before Each Use .................................................................................. 6-2

Every 50 Hours .................................................................................... 6-2

Every 100 Hours .................................................................................. 6-3

Monthly................................................................................................. 6-3

Quarterly .............................................................................................. 6-3

343 Owner’s Manual

Table of Contents

UNSCHEDULED MAINTENANCE............................................................. 6-3

Engine/Propulsion/Cooling System...................................................... 6-3

Electrical System.................................................................................. 6-3

Fuel System ......................................................................................... 6-3

Water System (if equipped).................................................................. 6-4

LIFTING THE BOAT .................................................................................. 6-4

Using Lifting Slings............................................................................... 6-4

Storage Cradle ..................................................................................... 6-4

STORAGE/WINTERIZATION .................................................................... 6-5

Re-activating the Boat after Storage .................................................... 6-5

Cockpit Heater...................................................................................... 6-6

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................... 6-6

Engine .................................................................................................. 6-7

Electrical ............................................................................................... 6-8

Plumbing .............................................................................................. 6-8

REFERENCE AND FORMS

OPERATION QUICK REFERENCE .......................................................... 7-1

Before Launching: ................................................................................ 7-1

Pre-Operation:...................................................................................... 7-1

Starting Engines................................................................................... 7-2

Casting Off: .......................................................................................... 7-2

During Operation: ................................................................................. 7-2

Returning to Port .................................................................................. 7-2

Stopping the Engines ........................................................................... 7-2

After Boating:........................................................................................ 7-2

SERVICE LOG........................................................................................... 7-3

FUEL LOG ................................................................................................. 7-4

FLOAT PLAN ............................................................................................. 7-5

BOAT INFORMATION ............................................................................... 7-6

343 Owner’s Manual

NOTES

Performance Yacht

343 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.

Section 1

General

Information

Figure 1-1

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,

Pack St. Clair, Chairman and C.E.O.

343 Owner’s Manual

1-1

Performance Yacht

Section 1

CERTIFICATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY

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

Ten (10) Year Limited Transferable Warranty on 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 (10) years from the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser.

Two (2) Year Limited Transferable Warranty on Gelcoat Finish, Upholstery, Components Not Separately Warranted by the Manufacturer and All Components Manufactured by Cobalt Other Than the Hull and Deck. Cobalt warrants that the gelcoat finish, upholstery, components not separately

warranted by the manufacturers thereof and all components 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 two (2) years from the date of delivery of such Cobalt boat to the original retail purchaser.

THERE ARE NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES OTHER THAN THE ABOVE LIMITED EXPRESS WARRANTIES. IN THE EVENT ANY LAW DOES NOT PERMIT THE DISCLAIMER OF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY, THEN IN NO EVENT SHALL ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE, EXTEND BEYOND THE DURATION OF THESE EXPRESS WRITTEN WARRANTIES.

Some states do no allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.

Exclusions

time commercially, industrially, for racing or other competition or for revenue producing purposes, and also do not apply to: (1) engines, outdrives, propellers, controls, batteries, or other equipment or accessories which are separately warranted by the manufacturers thereof; (2) engines, outdrives, propellers, controls, trailers, equipment or accessories installed by persons or parties other than Cobalt or an authorized Cobalt dealer; (3) windshield leakage, rainwater leakage, windshield or window damage or breakage; (4) deterioration or damage, fading or shrinkage of upholstery, carpet or canvas; (5) 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; (6) damage or deterioration of gelcoat or other surface finishes, vinyls, fabrics, steel and steel finishes; (7) damage or failures caused by operation of the Cobalt boat outside of the maximum horsepower specifications recommended by Cobalt; (8) damage or failure related to repairs made by any service provider not approved by Cobalt; and (9) damage or failure related to alteration, modification, misuse, neglect, negligence, accident or failure to provide reasonable care and maintenance of such Cobalt boat.

. The above described limited warranties do not apply if such Cobalt boat has been used at any

. Cobalt warrants that the hull and deck

Remedies

be made 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 shall be subject to the authorization of factory-trained personnel of Cobalt, whose decision shall be final. 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. Repair of blisters, when authorized by Cobalt, are covered by this warranty, provided the original factory gelcoat surface has not been altered in any way.

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

1-2

343 Owner’s Manual

General Information

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 by such subsequent owner, as set forth herein. COBALT’S ONLY

RESPONSIBILITY, AND THE OWNER’S ONLY REMEDY, IS REPAIR 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.

How to obtain Warranty Service

purchaser or authorized Cobalt dealer must complete and return the warranty registration card to Cobalt Boats at 1715 N. 8th Street, Neodesha, KS 66757, within ten (10) days after purchase of any new Cobalt boat covered by such limited warranty, 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.

. To validate the above described limited warranty, (1) the original retail

343 Owner’s Manual

1-3

Performance Yacht

Section 1

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, 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.

WARNING

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.

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.

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.

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.

1-4

343 Owner’s Manual

General Information

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.

Extended Powertrain Warranty

Your Cobalt warranty includes an Extended Limited Powertrain Warranty. Your dealer submitted the necessary forms to implement this warranty. Please read the extended warranty manual supplied to you by Passport Premiere or Passport I.

It is important you have your Cobalt boat serviced per the engine manufacturer’s recommended instructions. You must keep, in your possession, records of all service performed should the extended powertrain warranty be needed. This is to prove the required maintenance has been performed. Be sure to collect receipts for work performed and make an entry in the Service Log in the back of this manual.

If you have any questions referencing your Extended Powertrain warranty, please contact your authorized Cobalt dealer.

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 call Cobalt Boats for the appropriate warranty transfer information (800-468-5764 or 620-325-2653). If the proper transfer procedures are not followed, future warranty may be denied.

343 Owner’s Manual

1-5

Performance Yacht

Section 1

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.

Cobalt Boats has made a significant contribution to the boating industry by successfully completing the Mercury MerCruiser certification program and the Volvo Penta Certified OEM Program.

MerCruiser

The MerCruiser Program partners boat builders with MerCruiser to improve product quality and enhance boating-enthusiast satisfaction. The certification program is designed to review all facets of manufacturing and installation processes and to identify opportunities to implement Lean Six Sigma processes and training programs. Key areas of focus include assembly and component specifications, propulsion-installation processes and industry-standard end-of-line test procedures.

Volvo Penta

propulsion-installation quality

FEATURES/CONSTRUCTION

Amenities

Your Cobalt boat incorporates classic styling with the long, clean lines that have defined Cobalt design for over 35 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.

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. Please refer to the equipment operator’s manuals supplied in your owner’s packet for location of serial numbers.

The Volvo Penta Program requires the boat builder commitment to follow the established training requirements, installation procedures and documentation processes throughout the engine installation and testing process. Ultimately, the goal of the program is to improve integrated product quality and customer satisfaction as well as to reduce warranty visits and costs.

1-6

343 Owner’s Manual

General Information

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.

Transom of Boat

WARNING

Gasoline vapors can explode

Before starting engine:

• Check engine compartment for gasoline or vapors.

• Operate blower for 4 minutes.

Run blower below cruising speed

Helm

CARBON MONOXIDE IS COLORLESS, ODORLESS AND

DANGEROUS. ALL GASOLINE POWERED ENGINES AND

GENERATORS EXHAUST CARBON MONOXIDE (CO).

DIRECT AND PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO CO WILL

CAUSE BRAIN DAMAGE OR DEATH. SIGNS OF EXPOSURE

TO CO INCLUDE NAUSEA, DIZZINESS AND DROWSINESS.

Keep Cabin and cockpit Areas Well Ventilated.

Avoid Blockage of Exhaus t Outlets.

See Owner’s Manual for More Details.

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

DANGER

Helm

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

Transom of Boat

WARNING

LEAKING FUEL IS A FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD. INSPECT SYSTEM REGULARY. EXAMINE FUEL SYSTEM FOR LEAKS OR CORROSION AT LEAST ANNUALLY.

NMMA 1990/NO.200

Carbon monoxide will cause brain damage or death.

DO NOT OCCUPY THIS AREA AT-ANY TIME

Engine Compartment

DO NOT OCCUPY EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM WHILE

ENGINE IS RUNNING OR ENGAGED. PROPELLER

CONTACT MAY CAUSE SEVERE INJURY OR FATALITY.

ALL GASOLINE POWERED ENGINES PRODUCE

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO). CO IS COLORLESS,

ODORLESS, AND DANGEROUS. DIRECT AND

PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO CO WILL CAUSE BRAIN

WARNING

DAMAGE OR DEATH.

Extended Swim Platform Extended Swim Platform

WARNING

Ventilation is not provided.

Unvented Storage Areas

WARNING

EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM MUST BE

ATTACHED WHILE BOAT IS IN USE TO AVOID

POSSIBLE INJURY OR DROWNING. SWIM

LADDER IS ATTACHED TO THE PLATFORM.

REMOVABLE FEATURE IS FOR BOAT

STORAGE PURPOSES ON LY.

WARNING

AVOID OBSTRUCTION OF NAVIGATION

LIGHTS AND POSSIBLE COLLISION. REMOVE CANVAS

BEFORE USING NAVIGATION OR ANCHOR LIGHTS.

343 Owner’s Manual

Navigation LightAft Sun Pad

COB_0018_A

1-7

Performance Yacht

Section 1

WARNING

Keep hands

and feet away from

drive unit when tilting.

Transom of Boat

WARNING!

SECURE DOOR WHEN CRUISING

DO NOT SIT, STAND, OR PLACE

HEAVY OBJECTS ON DOOR.

KEEP CABIN DOOR CLOSED WHEN

ENGINES OR GENERATOR ARE RUNNING.

CAUSTIC MATERIALS TO CLEAN.

WASH WITH MILD SOAP AND WATER.

To minimize shock and fire hazards:

(1) Turn off the boat’s shore connection switch before connecting or disconnectong short cable (2) Connect shore power cable at the boat first. (3) If polarity warning indicator is activated. immediatly disconnect cable. (4) Disconnect shore power cable at shore outlet first. (5) Close shore power inlet cover tightly.

DO NOT ALTER SHORE POWER

DO NOT USE

Cabin Door

WARNING

CABLE CONNECTORS

CAUTION

UNLOCK & REMOVE

KEY TO AVOID

BREAKING

Cabin Door

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, signalling device, tool kit, etc?)

— 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

COBALT CHECK LIST

RECOMMENDED SAFETY RULES

Engine Compartment, Generator

CAUTION

TO AVOID INJURY, GLASS DOOR MUST BE SECURED IN A CLOSED AND LOCKED POSITION WHEN BOAT IS UNDER WAY. USE BOTH TURN LOCKS TO SECURE DOOR.

Walk-Through Door/Windshield

Engine Compartment

Shore Power Connection Helm

Helm Helm (California Only)

COB_0019_A

1-8

343 Owner’s Manual

General Information

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

1-9

Performance Yacht

Section 1

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.

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 – The unit that sends/receives 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.

1-10

343 Owner’s Manual

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.

General Information

343 Owner’s Manual

1-11

SYMBOLS

Performance Yacht

Section 1

Light Sling Sling Point Compass Anchor

Lights

Boat

Profile

STOP

Engine

Stop

Bow Tr im

Do Not

Use Water

Engine Fuel

Tank

Draft Engine

Caution

Grease Height

Above Water

Blower Boat

Engine

Hour Meter

Holding

Tank

Engine

Key

Horn

Ignition

Switch

Overall Length

Tr im

Tabs

Lift

Point

Water

Tank

Light Navigation

Lights

Windshield

Wipers

1-12

Safety Alert

Symbol

Oil Tank

COB_0030_A

343 Owner’s Manual

General Information

SPECIFICATIONS

Hull Length Overall (LOA) 35' 4" (10.78 m)

Length Overall (LOA) W/ extended Swim Platform 37' 2 1/2" (11.34 m) Beam Overall 9' 8" (2.95 m)

Height Overall 87 1/2" (2.22 m)

Height Overall w/ optional Arch or Tower 116 1/2" (2.96 m) Height, Bridge Clearance (waterline to Windshield) 69" (1.75 m)

Height, Freeboard Forward 40" (1.02 m)

Height, Freeboard Aft 28" (0.71 m) Draft Drive Up, twin engine 28" (0.71 m)

Draft Drive Down, twin engine 37" (0.94 m)

Deadrise at Transom 24.5 Degrees Weight*, Dry w/ Twin Big Block Engine 11750 lbs. (5330 kg)

Capacity, Fuel 200 gallons (757 L)

Capacity, Water - optional 10 gallons (37.9 L) Capacity, Weight Yacht certified

Capacity, Persons Yacht certified

* Weights are estimated and can vary from the options and equipment added.

343 Owner’s Manual

1-13

LAYOUT

Windlass/Windlass

Windlass/Windlass Control (Optional)

Control (Optional)

Performance Yacht

Anchor/Anchor

Anchor/Anchor Rope Locker

Rope Locker

Section 1

Cabin Electrical PanelCabin Electrical Panel

Ignition Safety SwitchIgnition Safety Switch

Tank Level

Tank Level Monitor

Monitor

Fender LockerFender Locker

Ice ChestIce Chest

Battery Selector

Battery Selector Switch/Jumper Studs/

Switch/Jumper Studs/ Shore Power Switch

Shore Power Switch

Waste Tank Pumpout/

Waste Tank Pumpout/ Waste Tank Vent/

Waste Tank Vent/ Shore Power Connections

Shore Power Connections (Optional)

(Optional)

Fire ExtinguisherFire Extinguisher

Front Bilge

Front Bilge Pumps Outlets

Pumps Outlets

Fender LockerFender Locker

Table Storage

Table Storage (optional)

(optional)

Fuel FillFuel Fill

Fuel Tank VentsFuel Tank Vents

Air Compressor/

Air Compressor/ Tool Kit/Sea Cock

Tool Kit/Sea Cock Valve Access

Valve Access

Nav Light ReceptacleNav Light Receptacle

Fresh Water Fill/

Fresh Water Fill/ Water Tank Vent/

Water Tank Vent/ Transom Shower (Optional)

Transom Shower (Optional)

COB_0072_A

1-14

343 Owner’s Manual

General Information

PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART

MFGR ENGINE DRIVE PHP

MERC TWIN 496

MERC TWIN 525

MERC TWIN 600

** Standard w/Thru Hull Exhaust

MAG MPI**

MAG HO**

MAG HO-XR

EFI XR

EFI XR ITS

SCI

BRAVO 1 375 MPI 1.50 1.65

BRAVO 1X 425 MPI 1.50 1.65 24’S B-1 480843/844 831912A55/

BRAVO 1 425 MPI 26’S B-1 XR

BRAVO 1 500 MPI 1.50 28’S LH RH 480854/855 831916A65/

BRAVO 1 500 MPI 1.50

BRAVO 1XR 600 SEI 1.50 1.50 30’S B-1

FUEL

SYSTEM

STD RATIO OPT RATIO SS PROP SS PART# SS MFG #

11A55

4-BL

480815/816 831913A55/

480838/839 831918A65/

14A55

5A65

7A65

343 Owner’s Manual

1-15

ALPHABETICAL INDEX

Performance Yacht

Section 1

After Boating:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

After Boating:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

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

Air Compressor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

Air Conditioning/Heating - Optional . . . . . . . . 3-41

Alphabetical Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

Amenities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Anchoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

Audible/Visual Distress Signals . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Basic Maneuvering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Battery Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41

Battery Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Battery Switch Panel and Functions . . . . . . . 3-35

Battery Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36

Before Each Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Before Launching: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Before Operating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Before Starting Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

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

Bilge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Bimini Top - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-42

Boarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Boat Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

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

Break-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Cabin Distribution Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

Cabinetry and Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Cabinetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

California Air Resource Board (CARB) Label . 2-5

Canvas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

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

Captain’s Seat/Bolster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30

Carbon Monoxide Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

Carbon Monoxide Detectors, if equipped . . . . 3-6

Care and Cleaning of Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Casting Off: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Cedar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

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

Certifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Circuit Breaker Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Cleaning Agents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Cleaning Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Cleaning Deck and Hull . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Cleaning Stainless Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Clear Vinyl “Isinglass” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Cobalt Check List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Cockpit Heater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

Cockpit Tonneau Cover - Optional. . . . . . . . . 3-42

Cockpit/Cabin Dinette Table - Optional . . . . . 3-31

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

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

Construction Standards/Certifications . . . . . . . 1-6

Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Corrosion Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

CorrosionX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Craft Design Category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Cuddy Cabin Access Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

Dark Stowage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

DC Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35

Deck and Hull Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Deck and Hull. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

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

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

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

Docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Drive Unit Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Drowning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

During Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

During Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

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

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Electrical Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Electrical Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34

Electrical Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Electrical Wiring Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Electrically Operated Head. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

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

Emission Control Warranty Information . . . . . . 2-5

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

Engine Oil Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

Engine Water Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

Engine Water Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Engine/Propulsion/Cooling System . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Entertainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19

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

Environmental Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

Every 100 Hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Every 50 Hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

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

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

Exhaust Emissions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Exhaust System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Extended Powertrain Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

1-16

343 Owner’s Manual

General Information

Extended Swim Platform / Boarding Ladder . 3-30

Features/Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

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

Fender Lockers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31

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

Fire Suppression Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

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

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

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

Fishery Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Float Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

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

Foredeck Sun Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31

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

Freezing Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19

Fresh Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

Fresh Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

Fresh Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Fresh Water, Grey Water and Raw Water. . . . 4-4

Fuel Level Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

Fuel Log. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Fuel Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

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

Fuel System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

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

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

FWMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

Galvanic Corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Gauges and Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

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

Generator – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

Getting Underway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Gray Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Grounding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

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

Handling Dock and Mooring Lines. . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Helm and Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20

High Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

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

Hour Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

If You Sell Your Cobalt Boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

INSHORE – Category C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Inside the Bulkhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

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

Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Jump Start Studs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35

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

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

Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

Leather Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Leaving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Life Raft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

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

Lifesaving Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Lifting the Boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Lighting/Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Load Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

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

Loading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Lowering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

Lubrication System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Macerator Pump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40

Maintenance Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Manually Operated Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

Marine Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

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

Marine Toilet (Head) and Macerator -

Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

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

Medical Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

MerCruiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Monthly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Nautical Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

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

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

Navigational Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22

NMMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

OCEAN – Category A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

OFFSHORE – Category B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Operation Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Operation Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Operation Quick Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-28

Other Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Other Canvas Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Owner Responsibility/ Warranty Procedure . . . 1-5

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

Paints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

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

Personal Flotation Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

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

Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

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

Pre-Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Pre-Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

343 Owner’s Manual

1-17

Performance Yacht

Section 1

Preventive Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Propeller Application Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

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

Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

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

Quarterly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Radar Reflectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

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

Re-activating the Boat after Storage . . . . . . . . 6-5

Recommended Cleaning Solutions for

Prefixx-Coated Nautolex Vinyls. . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

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

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

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

Remote Control System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Remote Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24

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

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

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

Returning to Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Returning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Rosewood Dash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

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

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

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

Salt Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

Salt Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Scheduled Maintenance and Service . . . . . . . 6-1

Sea Anchors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Seating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Seaworthiness Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Serial Number Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Service Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

SHELTERED WATERS – Category D. . . . . . . 1-5

Shifting/Running . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Shipshape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Shore Power Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36

Shore Power Inlet Breaker Switch. . . . . . . . . 3-34

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

Snap Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

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

Special Cleaning Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Special Cleaning Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

Stainless Steel and Chrome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Standard Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27

Starting Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Starting the Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Starting/Shifting/Steering/Stopping . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Steering System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Step 1 Cleaners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Step 2 Cleaners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Step 3 Cleaners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Stopping the Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Stopping the Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Storage Cradle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Storage/Winterization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

Storms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

Teak Swim Platform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Tie Down Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-43

Tool Kit - Optional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-43

Topside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

Trim Tabs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

Twin Engine Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Uniform State Regulatory Markers. . . . . . . . . 2-23

Unscheduled Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Using Lifting Slings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Ventilation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

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

Vinyl Interior and Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

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

Voltmeter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

Volvo Penta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Wake/Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Warranty Service Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Waste Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40

Waste Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

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

Water Level Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

Water Rescue (Man Overboard) . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

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

Water System (if equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Water System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Waterfall Bubinga or Birdseye Maple Dash . . . 5-3

Weather/Seas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Weighing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

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

When Fueling: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

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

Windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Zippers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

1-18

343 Owner’s Manual

Section 2

Responsibilities

and Safety

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 both the propulsion unit(s) 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 propulsion units.

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

2-1

Performance Yacht

Section 2

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

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 on board. 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 4.8 m (16 ft) 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.

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 international navigation lights.

Horn or Whistle

All boats over 4.8 m (16 ft) 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.

Fire Extinguisher

All inboard/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.

• Anchor and anchor line

• Compass

• First aid kit

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

• Flashlight and spare batteries

• Portable radio

• Cellular phone

• Sea anchor

• Binoculars

• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

• Boat hook

• Sun glasses and sun block lotion

2-2

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

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 and generator oil

• Hydraulic fluid for the steering system and trim system

• Ignition keys

• Tape, tie straps and rope

• Light bulbs and fuses

• Propeller with attaching hardware

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, 800-368-5647, 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.

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.

Remote Control System

The shift levers and throttle levers are connected to the engine and propulsion units by mechanical push/pull cables. The shift lever controls the direction of the boat, and the throttle lever controls the speed of the boat.

Steering System

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 drive units. In an emergency the drive units can be turned manually by connecting a line to the drive unit and directing them.

To find boating safety courses in your area, call your state’s local boating agency or the USCG boating safety course line at 800-336-2628 (800-245-2628 in Virginia).

• American Red Cross

• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

• U.S. Power Squadrons

• State Boating Offices

• Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons

• Yacht Clubs

343 Owner’s Manual

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.

Ventilation System

The engine compartment ventilation system consists of switch operated blowers installed within the engine compartment. When activated, the blowers exhaust dangerous fumes and intake fresh air through vents. Operate the blowers for at least four minutes before starting the engines.

2-3

Performance Yacht

Section 2

Electrical Systems

Your Cobalt boat can be equipped with one or two electrical systems. A direct current (DC) system is battery powered and supplies electricity to lights, pumps, blowers, engine ignition and sometimes a refrigerator. An alternating current (AC) system is shore power, or generator, and supplies electricity to the electrical outlet, air conditioning, battery charger and other 110 V AC or 220 V AC appliances or components.

Cooling System

The engines and generator, if equipped, are cooled by the continuous intake of raw water through independent water intakes. The water flows to water pumps on the engines and/or generator for circulation around internal components. The engine water intakes and outlets are located in the drive units. A generator water intake is in the bottom of the hull and the exhaust is usually on the side of the boat, above the water line. If your boat is equipped with an air conditioner, the air conditioner water intake is in the bottom of the hull and exits from the side. Your Cobalt boat may be equipped with a self-contained cooling system that pumps a mixture of fresh water and anti-freeze through a large heat exchanger to reduce temperatures. Raw water is circulated through the other side of the heat exchanger to dissipate heat absorbed by the coolant mixture.

Exhaust System

The engine and generator exhaust systems, if equipped, remove the gases produced by the running engine and vents them away from the boat. Engine exhaust is usually vented through the drive unit propeller but may be diverted through the transom with the optional captain’s call exhaust system. Engine and generator cooling water are also removed along with the exhaust gases.

Lubrication System

The engines and generator, if equipped, use a pressurized continuous loop lubrication system that must be periodically serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. The engines have electrical transducer units to provide oil pressure signals to gauges at the helm. Full oil pressure must be available for proper lubrication, so monitoring the gauges is important, especially when operating at cruising speeds and above.

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.

• Check that required safety equipment is onboard.

• Check that fire extinguisher(s) 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 all batteries are fully charged and have 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.

Operation Checklist

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

Checklist.

2-4

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

A WARNING

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.

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:

A DANGER

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 the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The

COB_0016_

has this label affixed to it. The tag and the label are required by the California Air Resources Board (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.

engine has a special environmental tag and the boat

• Overfilling the fuel tanks

• Pumping contaminated bilge water

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

2-5

Performance Yacht

Section 2

Proposition 65

A WARNING

A wide variety of components used on this vessel contains or emits chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.

EXAMPLES INCLUDE:

• Engine and generator exhaust

• Engine and generator fuel, and other liquids such as coolants and oil, especially used 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 ballast or fishing sinkers

TO AVOID HARM:

• Keep away from engine, generator and cooking fuel exhaust fumes.

• Wash areas thoroughly with soap and water after handling the substances above.

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. Don’t use thru-transom exhaust unless you’re well off shore. Music and loud conversation can carry a considerable distance on water, especially at night.

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 propulsion unit 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.

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.

2-6

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

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 water line, 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 are your propulsion unit manuals. These manuals were prepared by the manufacturer and contain information concerning the operation and care of your engine and drive unit. Please read these manuals thoroughly and become acquainted with this information.

It is advisable to maintain a service log to record service checks, such as oil changes, so you can determine when it’s 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 23 meters (25 yards) 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.

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 and may have fixed fire extinguishers in the generator compartment and in the engine compartment (fixed fire extinguishers are normally an option on most Cobalt boats). If you are in question of whether your boat is equipped with fixed fire extinguishers, contact your authorized Cobalt dealer. 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.

A WARNING

Avoid injury or death. Gasoline will float on top of water and can burn. If the boat is abandoned, swim up wind, far enough to avoid fuel that may spread over the surface of the water.

343 Owner’s Manual

2-7

Performance Yacht

Section 2

Grounding

In the event you run aground, assess the situation before proceeding. Immediately stop any water

from entering the boat. Inspect the propulsion unit(s), 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

KC-0083C

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.

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.

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 the victim with care. They could be injured. If necessary, resuscitate the victim. Immediately signal for help and keep the victim warm.

Operation Failure

If you experience a propulsion, 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.

2-8

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

Distress Signals

Federal law also requires boats 4.8 m (16 ft) 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 on board 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:

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 I

LIFE PRESERVERS

KC-0041C

Type II Buoyant Vest: Good for calm water near shore on most inland waters where quick rescue is likely.

• 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.

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 on board or being towed, and at least one Type IV throwable PFD in the boat.

TYPE II

BUOYANT VESTS

KC-0051C

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 III

FLOTATION AIDS

KC-0042C

343 Owner’s Manual

2-9

Performance Yacht

Section 2

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.

TYPE IV

THROWABLE DEVICES

KC-0071C

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.

PFDs are intended to help save lives. The operator should set an example by wearing one. Wear a PFD whenever boating. It is especially important that children and non-swimmers wear a PFD at all times.

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.”

• An urgent situation, the call sign is “Pan-Pan.”

• For navigational safety and weather warnings, the call sign is “Security.”

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.

TYPE V HYBRID PFD

MUST BE WORN

WHEN UNDERWAY

KC-0043C

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.

2-10

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS

USE DAY ONLY

ARMS SIGNALS (USE BRIGHT CLOTH)

USE DAY ONLY

ELECTRIC DISTRESS LIGHT

RED DISTRESS FLARE (HAND)

USE DAY AND NIGHT

USE DAY ONLY

SIGNAL (HAND)

RED METEOR FLARE USE DAY AND NIGHT

DYE MARKER

USE DAY ONLY

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.

A life raft can be stored in the aft storage area or in any other accommodating place on your boat.

USE NIGHT ONLY

COB_0031_A

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

2-11

Performance Yacht

Section 2

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 WARNING

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!

A DANGER

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE: Indicates a property damage message.

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.

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.

A WARNING

Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

2-12

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

Handholds

A WARNING

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 propulsion unit manual, and be sure that you understand all controls and operating instructions before attempting to operate the boat.

• 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.

Be sure that passengers, personal equipment and supplies are in their proper location before operating the boat. It 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.

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 a propulsion unit propeller or its cooling water. If a propulsion unit strikes an underwater object, check the propulsion unit and boat for damage. If a propulsion 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, but, periodically while you are boating. Refer to Radio Communications, 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.

343 Owner’s Manual

• 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.

2-13

Performance Yacht

Section 2

Learn the storm signals.

DAYTIME WARNING

DESCRIPTION

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

Gale Warning - Sustained

winds (2 or more hours),

of 34-47 knots.

Storm Warning - Sustained winds of 48 knots or grea

subsided.

ter.

NIGHTIME WARNING

Skill/Experience

A WARNING

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

A WARNING

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.

Hurricane Warning - Forecast

winds of 64 knots and above.

Displayed only in connection

with a hurricane.

COB_0032_A

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.

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

A WARNING

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.

2-14

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

Boating, alcohol and the use of other drugs just don’t 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. Don’t 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.

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 carbon monoxide (CO). CO is a 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, nausea, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color are symptoms. Avoid exposure to yourself and/or your passengers 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. They are installed for your safety.

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.

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

2-15

Performance Yacht

COB0033

Section 2

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.

Blockage of boat exhausts by obstruction. Operating with high bow angle.

Exhausts traveling along obstruction. Exhausts from other vessels in confined areas.

• Avoid idling or using the generator while at idle for extended periods.

• Regularly inspect the engine and generator exhaust system for proper operation.

For additional information, refer to the carbon monoxide detector operator’s manual supplied with your boat.

Operating at slow speed or while dead in the water. Operating with canvas tops and side

curtains in place without ventilation.

2-16

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

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

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; they are 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.

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.

Marine Sanitation

NOTICE: Direct disposal of sanitation waste into some waters could result in being fined. 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

343 Owner’s Manual

Noise limits are regulated in many areas. Be sure to follow regulations and be courteous.

2-17

Performance Yacht

Section 2

Wake/Wash

A WARNING

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.

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.

Water Sports Safety

Larger boats produce a larger wake which may be too big for skiers. Only boats equipped with a ski-tow eye 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.

BACK TO DOCK

WATER SPORT HAND SIGNALS

TURN LEFT

TURN RIGHT

CIRCLE

SKIER IN WATER

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:

• 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 sports 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.

CUT ENGINE

SPEED FASTER

SPEED SLOWER

SPEED OK

STOP

SKIERS O.K.

KC-0271C

2-18

A DANGER

Avoid injury or death. Do not practice unsafe water sports.

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

• 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 30 m (100 ft ) 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 of 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 feet (6.1 meters), or “teak surfing” or “dragging” behind a moving boat can be fatal. Dangerous activities which can result in a serious injury or death are not considered water sports. Cobalt Boats does not promote unsafe boating risks or jeopardizing any boaters safety. “Teak Surfing” or “Platform Dragging” may be illegal in your state, or the states you operate in.

A WARNING

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

2-19

Performance Yacht

Section 2

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 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. That is why it is important to the Coast Guard that in every circumstance it should be avoided.

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 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 whatever adjustment to course and speed necessary to keep out of the way of the privileged boat.

A WARNING

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.

2-20

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

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.

12 O'CLOCK

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL

DANGER ZONE

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

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.

PASSING PORT TO

PORT

HONK

MEETING HEAD TO

HONK

HEAD

HONK HONK

PASSING

STARBOARD TO

STARBOARD

COB_0034_A

4 O'CLOCK

COB_0005_A

343 Owner’s Manual

2-21

Performance Yacht

Section 2

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.

HONK

(LONG)

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL BEING

OVERTAKEN

HONK

(LONG)

The size, speed, and direction of the other vessels are determined at night from the 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.

Navigational Aids

Learn to recognize the different buoys and day markers; they are the signposts of the waterways. There are two primary marking systems in use in the U.S.; the Uniform State Waterway Marking System (USWMS) used on inland waters and maintained by each state, and the Federal Waterway Marking System (FWMS) used on coastal waters and rivers and maintained by the USCG. In addition, the FWMS has two modified systems; the Western River Buoyage, and the Intercoastal Waterway Buoyage. Be sure to check with local authorities on the buoyage system in use.

The only buoys you are permitted to moor to are mooring buoys. Mooring to a navigation buoy or other navigational aid or regulatory marker is illegal.

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

OVERTAKING

COB_0035_A

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.

MOORING

BUOY

MAY SHOW WHITE

REFLECTOR OR LIGHT

KC-0412C

The type of hazard/warning buoys and markers depends on the area of jurisdiction. Check with local boating authorities.

The USWMS Cardinal System is used when there is no well-defined channel or where an obstruction may be approached from more than one direction.

With the cardinal system:

• Pass north or east of BLACK-TOPPED WHITE buoy.

• Pass south or west of RED-TOPPED WHITE buoy.

2-22

• RED and WHITE VERTICALLY STRIPED buoy indicates boat should pass outside of the buoy (away from shore).

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

Uniform State Regulatory Markers

USWMS regulatory markers are white with international orange geometric shapes; you must obey regulatory markers.

UNIFORM STATE WATERWAY MARKING SYSTEM (USWMS)

CONTROLLED

AREA

DO NOT PASS

BETWEEN SHORE

AND BUOY

DANGER BOATS

KEEP OUT

SPECIAL

PURPOSE

NAVIGATE TO

STARBOARD

FACING UPSTREAM

INFORMATION

NAVIGATE TO

PORT FACING

UPSTREAM

NAVIGATE TO

SOUTH OR WEST

343 Owner’s Manual

NAVIGATE TO

NORTH OR EAST

MID-CHANNEL

COB_0036_A

2-23

Performance Yacht

FWMS

The FWMS Lateral System is for use on navigable waters except Western Rivers and Intercoastal Waterways.

The markings on these buoys 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 (port) side of the channel is marked with GREEN, odd numbered buoys.

The middle of the channel is marked with RED and WHITE vertically striped buoys; pass close to these buoys.

Section 2

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.

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.

Lights, bells and horns are used on buoys for night or poor visibility conditions. Buoys with unique light flashing characteristics are identified on nautical charts with the specific flashing pattern.

2-24

343 Owner’s Manual

Responsibilities and Safety

Federal Waterways Marking System (FWMS)

Lateral Aids Marking the Sides of Channels as seen When Entering From Seaward

Safe Water Aids Marking MId-Channels and Fairways (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Port Side Odd Numbers

Starboard Side Even Numbers

Lighted Buoy

Lighted

Can Buoy

Nun Buoy

Spherical Buoy

Daymark

Preferred Channel to Starboard

Preferred Channel Aids (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Preferred Channel to Port

Lighted Buoy

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.

Daymark

Can Buoy

Nun Buoy

Daymark

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.

COB_0037_A

343 Owner’s Manual

2-25

Performance Yacht

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.

RANGE LIGHTS

Section 2

REAR MARKER

FRONT MARKER

LEFT OF RANGE LINE RIGHT OF RANGE LINE

ON RANGE LINE

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.

COB_0038_A

2-26

KC-0443C

343 Owner’s Manual

Warning Markers

Responsibilities and Safety

DIVERS FLAG

USED BY

RECREATIONAL

DIVERS -

INDICATES

DIVER'S

POSITION

ALPHA FLAG

WORLDWIDE

VESSELS

ENGAGED

IN DIVING

OPERATIONS -

DOES NOT

INDICATE

DIVER'S

POSITION

DISTRESS FLAG

INDICATES

FELLOW

BOATER IS IN

NEED OF

ASSISTANCE

COB_0039_A

It is a good idea to ask local authorities if there are hazardous areas 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.

KC-0260C

Navigation markers serve as a means of identifying navigable routes, and indicate water hazards. Boaters should become familiar with navigation markers and stay within marked boundaries and clear of hazards.

KC-0250C

Watch for swimmers. Swimming areas may not be marked. Steer clear from the area and remain alert.

343 Owner’s Manual

2-27

NOTES

Performance Yacht

Section 2

2-28

343 Owner’s Manual

Section 3

Operating

Information

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.

The features described in this section are standard or optional, depending on your model. Refer to Standard Equipment and Optional Equipment, in this section, for a list of features for this model.

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.

FIRST TIME OPERATION

A WARNING

Avoid injury or death. Improper operation can be extremely hazardous. Read and understand this manual, the propulsion unit 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 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.

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

We cannot stress enough the importance of reading your propulsion unit operator’s manuals and following the manufacturer’s instructions for breaking in your engines.

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.

3-1

Performance Yacht

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.

Section 3

A DANGER

Avoid injury, fire or explosion. Fuels are extremely flammable and highly explosive under certain conditions.

• Stop engines, generators and any fuel operated machinery.

A DANGER

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. Operate the blowers for at least four minutes. 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 propulsion unit operator’s manual.

• Do not smoke or allow open flames or sparks within 15 m (50 ft) 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.

• Clean up any spilled fuel immediately and dispose of rags properly ashore.

• Know the dangers associated with fuels.

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.

2. Avoid fueling at night, except under well-lighted conditions.

3-2

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

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.

10. Add fuel in accordance with the propulsion unit 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 prevent damaging the chain. If it breaks, have it replaced.

After Fueling:

1. Tighten the fuel fill cap using the fuel cap key, unless your filler cap is the pop-up type. Wipe up any fuel spills.

2. Open all windows, hatches, doors and compartments.

3. Check all fuel lines, hoses and connections for leaks and deterioration.

4. Be sure to run the blower for at least four minutes before starting the engines. If you smell gasoline fumes, do not start the engines; continue to run the blower until fumes have dissipated.

KC-0991

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.

COB_0040_A

To close: Reinstall cap, press and turn clockwise. The fuel cap key is not necessary unless the cap is overtightened.

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 tanks.

• Verify the batteries are fully charged.

• Check weather conditions.

• Be sure the lights, horn, bilge pumps and other

electrical equipment are in proper operating condition.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-3

Performance Yacht

Section 3

• Be sure the fire extinguisher, signaling devices and other emergency gear are onboard and in proper operating condition.

On the Water

Start your engines 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.

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.

Shipshape

Keep the weight distributed evenly. Store all gear in secure areas. Safety equipment must be immediately accessible at all times.

A DANGER

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.

• 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 drive units as a boarding ramp; use the boarding ladder. To prevent injury, make sure the engines are 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.

3-4

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

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

Pre-Operation:

• Refer to Section 5, Before Every 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 levers are in the NEUTRAL position.

• Check that the steering system operates properly.

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 batteries are charged.

After Boating:

• To prevent marine growth from accumulating on the hydraulic cylinder shafts, make sure trim tabs are up and propulsion unit drives are in the full IN position.

• Remove the ignition keys.

• Stow and secure all equipment.

• Pump bilges dry with manual switch.

• Close all water inlet seacocks.

• If possible, inspect the hull and propellers 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 lockers, hatches and canvas as equipped.

A DANGER

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.

• Operate bilge blowers for at least four minutes before starting the engines or generator.

• Do not overload your boat.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-5

Performance Yacht

Section 3

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 emegency 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 – After 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:

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 after 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 after bow spring is fastened to a stern cleat and heads forward.

3 4

COB_0060_A

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 engines.

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 carbon monoxide (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, nausea, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color are symptoms. Avoid exposure to yourself and/or your passengers 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. They are installed for your safety.

3-6

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

Starting the Engines

A DANGER

Avoid death, injury, fire or explosion. Operate the blower for at least four minutes each time you start the engines.

In addition, the blower should be operated continuously when at idle and during slow speed operation.

Cobalt Check List

For maximum enjoyment and safety, check each of these items

BEFORE you start your engine:

• DRAIN PLUG (Securely in place?)

• 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?)

• ENGINE (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 RE-FUELING.

• TURN OFF ENGINE WHEN SWIMMERS ARE NEAR BOAT.

After launching and pre-start checks and procedures have been followed, the engines can be started. Please refer to the propulsion unit operator’s manual for additional starting procedure information.

Start the engines with the shift control levers in the NEUTRAL position. Your boat is equipped with a neutral safety switch which will not allow engines to be started unless the shift control levers are in the NEUTRAL position.

Make sure:

• Control levers are in the NEUTRAL position.

• Throttle levers are at the IDLE position.

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 propulsion unit 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 the engines 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. Repeat starting procedure for the second engine, if equipped. The second engine may be difficult to hear when it starts due to the noise of the first engine. Observe the tachometer of the second engine. When the engine rpm rises, release the ignition key immediately.

4. Make sure the water pressure gauges indicate water pressure immediately after starting the engine(s). If they do not, turn off the engines and contact your authorized Cobalt dealer.

5. Allow the engines to warm up. Check the water temperature gauges to be sure water temperature remains within the specified range.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-7

Performance Yacht

Section 3

If temperature gauge reads abnormally high, stop the engine immediately. Check the drive unit’s water inlets for blockage. If the inlets are open, have your authorized Cobalt dealer service the engine.

Shifting/Running

CAUTION

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.

Steering

A DANGER

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.

Pulling the levers toward you will unlock the steering wheel to achieve a comfortable position.

1 – Release Lever

COB_0061_A

A WARNING

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.

• Keep the steering system’s moving parts clean and lubricated.

• Regularly inspect the steering system for kinks, damage and corrosion.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a tilt steering wheel. Adjust the tilt position by grasping the levers on both sides of the wheel.

3-8

343 Owner’s Manual

Refer to Basic Maneuvering, in this section, for additional steering information.

Operating Information

RIGHT TURN Turn wheel to right—Stern will move to left.

LEFT TURN Turn wheel to left—Stern will move to right.

Stopping the Engines

A WARNING

Avoid creating a hazardous condition. Do not use the engine stop switch and lanyard for normal stopping of the engines. Using the stop switch will impair your ability to restart the engines quickly if a hazardous situation arises.

1. Slowly bring the throttle levers to the IDLE position.

2. Move the shift levers to NEUTRAL.

3. After operating at high speeds, allow a 2-3 minute engine cool-down period at low idle.

4. Turn the ignition keys to the OFF position.

BACKING TO LEFT Turn wheel to left—Stern will pull to left.

COB_0062_A

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.

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 engines are warmed-up before casting off.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-9

Performance Yacht

Section 3

• 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.

WIND or CURRENT

Returning

A WARNING

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.

WIND or CURRENT

Be sure to read Basic Maneuvering, in this section.

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.

3-10

COB_0063_A

• 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 to stop and maintain position.

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

• 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.

Approaching a Slip

Approaching a Mooring

COB_0065_A

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 engines, shift to the NEUTRAL position.

COB_0064_A

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 engines.

• 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 engines 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.

Trim

Boat trim while on plane is influenced by three factors:

1. Load distribution

343 Owner’s Manual

3-11

Performance Yacht

Section 3

2. Drive unit trim

3. Trim tab position, if equipped Determining best boat trim while underway takes

time. It is best to experiment with different drive and tab trim combinations while taking note of the condition.

Load Distribution

The performance of your Cobalt boat depends on load weight and distribution.

Distribute weight evenly, from bow to stern, and also from port to starboard.

Drive Unit Trim

Trim angle is the angular relationship between the drive unit and the transom of the boat. Boat trim while underway greatly affects the performance and efficiency of your boat. For best results, the boat should be on plane and trimmed to reduce the amount of the boat’s hull in the water (known as

wetted surface). With less boat in the water, both speed and fuel economy increases.

Continuous trim adjustment is required when operating your boat to maintain maximum performance and efficiency.

If the drive units are trimmed in too far (closer to the boat bottom), speed drops, fuel economy decreases and the boat may not handle correctly. However, it does provide better acceleration from a standstill; and because it forces the bow down, visibility is improved. If the drive units are trimmed out too far (away from the boat bottom), steering torque may increase, the boat may be difficult to get on plane, and may bounce.

To use power trim effectively, start with the drive units trimmed in. As the boat planes, increase the angle out. Experience is the best teacher for understanding proper drive trim.

TAB S

UNITS

1234 5678

OUT

CORRECT

UNITS

1234 5678

OUT

IN TOO FAR

UNITS

1234 5678

OUT

OUT TOO FAR

COB_0066_A

3-12

343 Owner’s Manual

Trim Tabs

The trim tabs, if equipped, are a separate system in themselves and are not to be used in lieu of the drive unit power trim system. Water is deflected and redirected as the trim tabs are raised and lowered. This change in the water flow creates upward pressure under the tabs, and raises the stern. When the stern raises, the bow is lowered. Likewise, lowering the port tab will cause the port stern to raise, making the starboard bow lower.

Using trim tabs in conjunction with the drive trim will compensate for uneven weight distribution, listing, water conditions and other factors that cause inefficient operation. Remember that trim tabs are trimming the hull while power trim is trimming the drive unit.

Some systems may include indicators to show position of the tabs and drive units.

Operating Information

STERN

RISES

WATER IS REDIRECTED

CREATING UPWARD

FORCE AT STERN

PORT TAB LOWERED

PORT STERN RISES STARBOARD BOW LOWERS

STARBOARD TAB LOWERED

STARBOARD STERN RISES PORT BOW LOWERS

COB_0067_A

BOW

LOWERS

HULL

COB_0068_

343 Owner’s Manual

3-13

Performance Yacht

Section 3

To adjust boat trim while underway:

1. Before accelerating, make sure both trim tabs are fully raised.

2. Adjust the trim tabs to achieve a planning attitude.

3. Use the drive trim to position the propeller path parallel to the water flow.

UNTRIMMED

PLANING

ATTITUDE

PROP PARALLEL TO WATER FLOW

COB_0069_A

4. Readjust the trim tabs to fine tune attitude. Operate only one tab at a time and in small increments. As the tab takes effect, you will notice it causes the boat to veer off course slightly. Correct for this as it happens.

5. To prevent the boat from listing, do not move one tab significantly further down than the other tab.

Twin Engine Operation

If your Cobalt boat is equipped with twin engines, it will have counter-rotating propellers. One prop will turn clockwise and the other prop will turn counterclockwise when operating. This concept balances the propeller torque which helps maintain an even keel.

KC-2340

Reverse thrust of the engines is used to slow and stop the boat. The boat’s momentum will vary according to load, speed and water condition. Slow the engine speed to an idle, shift to the NEUTRAL position and pause, before shifting to reverse. Refer to your propulsion unit operator’s manual for additional information concerning shifting.

A DANGER

Avoid injury or death. Use the trim tabs slowly to adjust trim. Adjustments are not immediate. Improper use of the trim tabs at high speeds can cause an accident.

3-14

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

When operating your Cobalt boat at low speeds, use propeller thrust to maneuver the boat, do not just turn the drive units. This enables you to maneuver in a smaller area and have more control of the boat. This technique is a combination of propeller direction, engine thrust and steering wheel maneuvers.

• Use a quick “burst” of your throttles to control the boat. Keep in mind that once the boat starts to move, momentum will carry through.

STARBOARD TURN

SLOWER PROP

PORT TURN

COB_0071_A

It is best to learn maneuvering skills in open water away from traffic. Adequate practice is the only way to develop your boating skills.

To make sharp and close quarter turns:

• Slow engine speed to an idle, shift to the NEUTRAL position and pause, then shift to the REVERSE position. This practice will help prevent damage to your drive units.

• Reverse the direction of the propeller on the side you want to turn. For example, if you want to turn starboard, shift the starboard engine into the REVERSE position. The forward speed of the port engine, along with the reverse rotation of the starboard propeller, will pivot your boat into a starboard turn.

• Practice using the throttle levers to control the boat. Try maneuvers in open water before attempting them near docks or other boats.

COB_0070_A

High Speed Operation

A DANGER

Avoid injury, death or property damage. Maneuverability above 50 MPH is limited. 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.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-15

Performance Yacht

Section 3

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.

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.

• 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 engines within the full throttle operating range. Refer to the propulsion unit operator’s manual for full throttle operating range.

High-speed operation on smooth water is very stable, but 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 throttles; 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

A WARNING

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.

Be sure the anchor is adequate for your boat. Use caution when anchoring. Look for signs of underwater pipes or cables. With the engines 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.

A DANGER

Avoid injury, death or loss of control. Keep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the throttle controls at all times. If the boat begins to operate in an unsafe way, pull back on the throttles. Trim the drive units in at the same time and maintain control.

3-16

DANFORTH

ANCHOR

KC-1571

343 Owner’s Manual

The windlass, if equipped, gets its power from the 12 VDC system. The windlass can be operated at the driver’s helm (indicator light must be illuminated) or from the foredeck. There are foot operated switches located under the anchor locker door.

The windlass system can also be operated manually. On the anchor locker lid on the foredeck, you will find a crank. A longer windlass crank is located in the fender storage area or on the engine compartment bulkhead.

Please consult the operator’s manual supplied with the windlass system for proper operation of the system in the electric and manual modes.

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.

Operating Information

A WARNING

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 when operating it.

• Run the boat’s engines 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.

• 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 engines 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.

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.

343 Owner’s Manual

Press and hold the toggle switch down to pay out sufficient rope/chain to set the anchor.

3-17

Performance Yacht

Section 3

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

To weigh (retrieve) the anchor, start the engines 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. Use snubber to secure the anchor at all times in case of windlass clutch failure.

Refer to the windlass operator’s instructions for additional operating information.

Towing

If seas are rough, it may not be easy to extend the tow line from one boat to another. In these cases, 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.

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 to the bow eye on the disabled boat. Attach the opposite end of the bridle only to the stern cleats of the tow boat. Wrap the bridle with chafing gear where it rubs against the boat.

Leave at least two boat lengths between the boats for adequate movement.

A DANGER

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.

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.

COB_0003_A

Environmental Considerations

Using your boat in different environments requires special operating considerations.

Salt Water

During long periods of mooring, if possible, tilt the propulsion unit drives out of the water – except in freezing temperatures. Refer to the drive system owner’s manual for more information on salt water operation and protection.

Fresh water flushing of the engines is recommended after operating in salt, polluted or brackish water. Refer to your engine operator’s manual for additional information.

3-18

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

Freezing Temperatures

When boating in temperatures below freezing, keep the propulsion unit drives tilted down (submerged) at all times. This will help prevent damage from freezing.

Upon removing your Cobalt boat from the water, leave the drive units in the vertical position until cooling system has drained.

Refer to your propulsion unit operator’s manual for additional information regarding winterization.

Entertainment System

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with an AM-FM CD player, iPod™/MP3 Port and may have been accessorized to enhance its fidelity. To operate your entertainment system, you must first supply power to the unit(s). Make sure the battery switch is on and the ignition switch is set on “ACC.” If your boat is equipped with a Power Distribution Panel, the switches for the entertainment system components are on. For additional operating information, refer to the operator’s manual for your stereo and accessories supplied to you in your owner’s packet. For a list of what is standard, or is available for your entertainment system, refer to Standard Equipment or Optional Equipment in this section.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-19

Performance Yacht

HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION

Section 3

CAPT

CALL

ACC

COCKPIT

NAV

ANC

BLOWER

DEPTH

FINDER

TER

Your Cobalt boat helm will monitor and provide operation of the boat’s functions. The gauges are illuminated for night operation. When the switches are activated, the LEDs will illuminate if the switch is ON.

1112

COB_0041_A

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.

3-20

343 Owner’s Manual

A WARNING

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.

1. Switch Panel and Functions - The switches are

described starting from left to right and clockwise.

ACC (Accessory) - This switch is available to operate a switched accessory item.

CAPT CALL (496 hp only) - This switch determines the routing of the engine exhaust. In the ON position, engine exhaust is routed through the thru-hull pipes. This position produces the most engine power, but is not acceptable near shore or on inland lakes and rivers.

In the OFF position, engine exhaust is routed through the hub of the propeller. This position releases the exhaust underwater providing a quieter engine sound.

NOTICE: For 500 hp and up engine options, the CAPT CALL switch works as follows:

• ON - Exhaust routed through propeller hub

• OFF - Exhaust routed through thru-hull pipes

Be sure to check local regulations regarding noise restrictions before operating this system.

CAUTION

Avoid damage to the exhaust system. Do not switch the exhaust above 3,000 rpm.

ENGINE COMP “Light” - This switch provides

illumination within the engine compartment.

COCKPIT “Light” - This switch provides illumination within the cockpit.

Operating Information

DOCK “Light” (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.

NAV/ANC “Lights” (Navigational Lights) - This three position switch activates the navigational (running) lights and the anchor light. After installing the light, press the switch toward the "NAV." Press the switch toward the "ANC" and the anchoring/mooring light (360° white) will illuminate.

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.

Navigational Lights - You must use your navigational lights (running lights) when operating your 343 boat between sunset and sunrise, and when day time visibility is limited. Also, check with the local authorities before operating your boat, for other requirements concerning the use of navigational lights.

The navigational lights are identified by a red light on the port side of the vessel, and a green light on the starboard side.

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 located aft of the cockpit. The anchor light must be visible from 360° and will remain on when operating the navigational lights.

DEPTH SOUNDER - To see your options - shallow, deep, keel depth and units - toggle the top switch to down position. To set each option to desired reading toggle switch to up position. For detailed instructions, refer to the information included in your owner's packet or consult your Cobalt dealer.

DEPTH FINDER INDICATOR - Displays the depth finder information.

AIR/WATER TEMPERATURE INDICATOR Displays the air/water temperature information.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-21

Performance Yacht

Section 3

AIR/TEMP/WATER - Toggle the lower switch below to go between air and water temperature readings. The gauge will display AIR and WATER to indicate which temperature source is in use.

BLOWER - This switch activates the engine compartment ventilation blower to remove explosive fumes from the area. The blower must be operated for a minimum of four minutes each time before starting the engines or generator. In addition, the blower should be operated continuously when at idle or running at slow speeds.

HORN - This switch activates the horn. Press the switch to activate.

BILGE FWD (Fore Bilge Pump) - This switch manually controls the fore bilge pump.

BILGE MID (Mid-ship Bilge Pump) - This switch manually controls the mid-ship bilge pump.

BILGE AFT (Aft Bilge Pump) - This switch manually controls the aft bilge pump.

3. TRIM TAB/DRIVE UNIT TRIM INDICATOR - The indicators display the relative position of the drive units and trim tabs. The left indicator set displays the UP and DOWN position of the trim tabs. The right indicator set displays the IN and OUT position (trim angle) of the drive units.

4. TRIM TAB SWITCHES - These switches control the trim angle of the trim tabs. These used in conjunction with the drive unit trim will maximize the performance and ride of the boat.

TRIM PORT - This switch activates the port trim tab. The trim tab controls the starboard bow movement of the boat in relation to the horizon.

TRIM BOTH - This switch activates both trim tabs to control movement of the bow in relation to the horizon.

TRIM STBD - This switch activates the starboard trim tab. The trim tab controls the port bow movement of the boat in relation to the horizon.

5. SHIFT/THROTTLE CONTROL PANEL -

ACC (Accessory) - This switch is available to

operate a switched accessory item.

2. GAUGE CLUSTER AND FUNCTIONS - The gauges are described starting from left to right and clockwise.

Water Pressure - Port Water Pressure - Starboard Oil Pressure - Port Tachometer - Port Speedometer Tachometer - Starboard Oil Pressure - Starboard Oil Temperature - Starboard Water Temperature - Starboard Voltmeter - Starboard Voltmeter - Port Water Temperature - Port Oil Temperature - Port Fuel Level

a. Throttle Levers b. Drive Unit Trim Switch c. Shift Levers

6. DRIVE UNIT TRIM SWITCHES - These switches control the trim angle of the drive units. These used in conjunction with the trim tabs will maximize the performance and ride of the boat.

DRIVE PORT - This switch controls the trim angle of the port drive unit.

DRIVE BOTH - This switch controls the trim angle of both drive units.

DRIVE STBD - This switch controls the trim angle of the starboard drive unit.

7. STEREO REMOTE CONTROL (standard on dash, transom mount, optional) - This panel

provides remote control of the stereo system from the helm.

3-22

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

8. WINDLASS CONTROL PANEL (Optional) -

a. Windlass Up/Down Operation

The windlass system can be electronically operated from the helm. For operation of the windlass system, refer to Anchoring, in this section.

9. IGNITION SAFETY SWITCH

CAUTION

Avoid injury, death or damage to equipment. Do not allow your Cobalt 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.

CAUTION

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.

1 – Ignition Safety Switch 2– Lanyard 3 – Hook

343 Owner’s Manual

COB_0042_A

• 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.

10. GPS TATTLE TALE SPEEDOMETER (Optional)

11. 12 VOLT ACCESSORY RECEPTACLE - Yo ur

Cobalt boat is equipped with a 12 volt accessory power receptacle. The receptacle provides electricity to operate 12 VDC accessory items. Limit the accessory to 10 Amps.

3-23

Performance Yacht

Section 3

12. CIRCUIT BREAKER PANEL - Most electrical standard equipment devices are controlled with circuit breakers located below the helm. The breakers are labeled to identify the device protected. These breakers will activate if overloaded and cut power to the switch. To restore power, turn off the device and push the breaker button in and release. If the button continues to pop out when the device is used, see your Cobalt dealer.

13. TILT STEERING RELEASE LEVER

14. IGNITION SWITCH PANEL - Each engine has

its separate ignition switch. The left switch is for the port engine, and the right switch is for the starboard engine.

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.

15. REMOTE GENERATOR START / STOP SWITCH (Optional)

Remote Controls

A DANGER

Avoid injury or death. Make sure all shift/throttle hardware and cables are regularly inspected and maintained.

Improper maintained controls are hazardous and may cause sudden loss of control.

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 engines and transmission can result. When shifting from forward to reverse, pause in neutral until the engines are at idle speed and the boat has slowed. When shifting from neutral to forward or reverse, shift briskly and decisively.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a safety switch for "start-in neutral-only" operation. The shift levers must be in the NEUTRAL position before attempting to start the engines.

16. GPS UNIT - The global positioning satellite (GPS) system performs many functions. The system can precisely indicate your location, form a trip record or a speed log. In addition, individual mapping chips can be purchased through your Cobalt dealer for most lakes, rivers and coastal areas of the U.S. and Canada. See your Cobalt dealer for further information referencing these chips.

The following information relates to the general description about your controls. Refer to the engine operator's manual or the control operator's manual for specific use.

Your controls have individual levers for each drive unit's shift and engine's throttle. The left levers are for the port engine and the right levers are for the starboard engine. The controls are arranged with the shift levers (all one size) grouped together and throttle levers (all one size, and larger than the shift levers) grouped together.

3-24

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

Gauges and Functions

Engine Water Pressure

Registers the engine's cooling water circulation, in pounds per square inch (PSI). Refer to the engine operator's manual for correct specifications. Use this gauge to determine if the

COB_0044_A

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

COB_0045_A

pressure is lower than the manufacturer's specification, immediately shut off the engine. Have your Cobalt dealer correct the problem before operating the engine.

Tachometer

COB_0046_A

Speedometer

COB_0047_A

engine cooling water is properly operating.

Measures the pressure of the engine's lubricating oil, in pounds per square inch (PSI). Refer to the engine operator's manual for correct specifications. Many serious engine problems are reflected on oil pressure gauge readings. If the

Registers engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). Use this gauge to keep the engine within the proper operating range.

Refer to the engine operator's manual for correct specifications.

Registers forward speed in miles per hour. Since the speedometer input is received from water pressure, accuracy is only approximate.

Engine Oil Temperature

Indicates the oil temperature inside the engine. Refer to the engine operator's manual for normal operating temperature. After starting the engine, check your

COB_0140_A

temperature gauge for

abnormally high readings. If the reading is outside the manufacturer's operating range, immediately turn off the engine. An abnormally high temperature is the result of low oil level, aged oil or the incorrect viscosity. See your Cobalt dealer when experiencing a high oil temperature reading. The oil temperature gauge is not a substitute for checking oil levels.

Engine Water Temperature

Indicates the water/coolant temperature inside the engine. Refer to the engine operator's manual for normal operating temperature. After starting the engine, check your temperature gauge for

COB_0048_A

abnormally high readings. If

the reading is outside the manufacturer's operating range, immediately turn off the engine. An abnormally high temperature is the result of cooling water system blockage. See your Cobalt dealer when experiencing a high engine temperature reading.

Voltmeter

Indicates the condition of the engine's cranking battery in volts DC. With the ignition switch on and the engine not running, a reading between

11.5 and 12.5 volts indicates a fully charged battery. With

COB_0049_A

the engine running at idle,

the gauge should read between 10 and 12 volts. With the engine running at cruising speeds and above, it should show 12 to 14 volts. See your Cobalt dealer and have the charging system checked if the voltmeter reads below these normal ranges.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-25

Performance Yacht

Fuel Level Gauge

Measures the approximate level of fuel in a fuel tank. The ignition switch must be in the RUN position to activate the gauge. Since the accuracy of your gauge varies with the attitude of

COB_0050_A

your Cobalt boat, and the

fuel pick-up tube cannot withdraw all fuel out of the tank, please observe the One Third Rule. Use one third of your fuel to go out, one third to come back and one third as a reserve.

Hour Meter

An hour meter for each engine is located in the

ENGINE

HOURS

engine compartment. The hour meter accumulates the operating hours of the engine.

Section 3

KC-0782

3-26

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

FEATURE PAGE Dash and Instrumentation

Accessory Power Plug - 12 Volt 3-23 Depth and Water/Air Gauge Package 3-24 GPS Unit (Color)-In Dash 3-24 Hour Meter 3-26 Livorsi Engine Controls (twin engines) Tilt Steering Wheel 3-8

Stereo

AM-FM CD 3-19 CD Changer (10 Disc) 3-19 iPod™/MP3 Port 3-19 Premium Speaker Package w/Amp 3-19 Stereo Remote, Dash-Digital 3-22 Subwoofer w/Amp -

Exterior

Anchor Locker Bow Scuff Plate, Stainless Steel Midship Cleats Stainless Steel Windshield Swim Platform, Extended w/Ladder 3-30

Interior

Aft Walk-Thru Carpet Aft Walk-Thru Filler Cushion(s) Air Compressor w/Holder 3-32 Double Wide Helm Seat Electric Porcelain Head -

Structure / Safety / Performance

Battery Switch - Dual 3-35 Composite Transom Fiberglass Cockpit Liner Deck 1-6 Fiberglass Stringer System Fire Extinguisher, Automatic System 2-7, 4-6 Hydraulic External Steering Ignition Safety Switch 2-23 Kevlar Reinforced Hull 1-6 Through Prop Exhaust 2-4 Trim Tabs-Twin Engines -

343 Owner’s Manual

3-27

Performance Yacht

Section 3

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

FEATURE PAGE Canvas

Bimini Top 3-42 Cockpit Tonneau Cover 3-42 Mooring Cover Speed Top w/Sunshade -

Dash and Instrumentation

GPS Speedometer 3-24

Stereo

Stereo Remote, Transom Stereo Remote, Transom-Digital TV Antenna (Arch or Speed Top Mounted) Cabin Entertainment Package (TV/DVD) XM Satellite System -

Exterior

Docking Lights-Stainless Steel 3-21 Flagpole Foredeck Sunpad 3-31 Spotlight w/Helm Remote 3-32 Stainless Steel Bow Rails (10") Three Color Custom Graphics Transom Shower (10 gal water) 3-39 Portal Lights (2) Teak Accent Package -

Interior

Air Conditioning/Heating 3-41 Dinette Table 3-31 Electric Porcelain Head w/Macerator Grey Water System Shore Power Kit - 110 Volt Shore Power Kit - 220 Volt (International) V-Berth Filler Cushion Cabin Pillows Rivulet Carpet Upgrade Stainless Steel Foot Tread -

Structure / Safety / Performance

Captain's Call Exhaust-Twin Engines Generator-3kw 3-38 CE Fire Extinguisher, Automatic System 2-7, 4-6 Tool Kit 3-43 Through Hull Exhaust-Twin Engines -

3-28

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

FEATURE PAGE

Windlass w/Line, Chain and Anchor Captain's Call Plus (w/Mufflers) -Twin Engines Through Hull Exhaust w/Mufflers -Twin Engines Captain's Call Exhaust-HP, Twin Engines -

343 Owner’s Manual

3-29

Performance Yacht

Section 3

CAPTAIN’S SEAT/BOLSTER

The Captains seat/bolster has an electric "flip-up" bolster position for greater visibility and maneuverability while docking. You can sit on the raised cushion or stand in front of the cushion.

To raise the bolster: press the top of the helm seat switch and the bolster will raise.

To Lower: press the bottom of the helm seat switch and the bolster will lower.

Do not operate the seat when it is occupied.

The seat is protected by a breaker. If the seat does not operate, press the breaker located under the port side of the seat to reset.

A DANGER

Avoid potential injury or ejection of occupants. Do not stand while driving above engine idle speeds and make sure all passengers are seated and seats are in a locked/secured position when the boat is underway.

A WARNING

Avoid the possibility of injury or death. The boarding ladder is attached to the boarding platform. Do not occupy the platform or use the ladder when the engine is running or engaged. Propeller contact or exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) can cause severe injury or death. All gasoline engines produce carbon monoxide (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.

EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM / BOARDING LADDER

The swim platform was designed for use by people – not for the storage of personal equipment. Maximum platform weight capacity is 800 pounds.

Use the release lever to release the ladder and telescope to full length. Lift ladder to retract and stow. Place release lever in the LOCK position. Use caution when stowing the ladder to prevent pinching fingers.

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.

RELEASE

COB_0052_A

A WARNING

Avoid the possibility of injury or death. The boarding ladder is attached to the boarding platform.

Do not occupy the platform or use the ladder when the engines are running or engaged. Propeller contact or exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) can cause severe injury or death. All gasoline engines produce CO. CO is a 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.

3-30

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

COCKPIT/CABIN DINETTE TABLE - OPTIONAL

COB_0054_A

The table and table support arm are stored in the generator area beneath the cockpit floor.

To install:

FENDER LOCKERS

1. Open the cover on receiver located below the starboard aft cockpit seat cushion or below the port side seat cushions, in the cabin.

2. Open the cover on receiver.

3. Insert the table support into the receiver. Tighten the thumbscrews. Install table and tighten.

To remove the table:

1. Remove the table top, unscrew thumb screws.

2. Pull the table from the receiver and close the cover.

Keep the table and support arm stowed when not in use.

COB_0053_A

Use the fender lockers to stow fenders when they are not in use. The fender lockers are fitted with drains to avoid accumulation of water. Keep the drains free from debris; keep the lockers clean.

FOREDECK SUN PAD

Slide the sun pad into the forward holder and secure with the straps to the two hand rails to hold the pad in position.

A WARNING

Avoid death or injury. Do not allow passengers to sit on the foredeck sun pad when the boat is underway.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-31

Performance Yacht

Section 3

AIR COMPRESSOR

COB_0101_A

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.

SPOTLIGHT

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 carbon monoxide (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, nausea, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color are symptoms. Avoid exposure to yourself and/or your passengers 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. They are installed for your safety.

All functions of the spotlight can be electrically operated by remote control from the helm using the remote control panel. For additional information, refer to the spotlight operating instructions in your owner’s packet.

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR

The carbon monoxide detector is in the cabin. The detector receives its power from the 12 V DC system through the battery switches. The detector will be operational any time the battery switches are on. If occupying the boat, turn the battery switches on. The green light on the detector may flash for 15 minutes while it warms up; however, it is fully functional. If the unit alarm sounds, evacuate all persons from the cabin area to fresh air immediately and investigate the cause. Do not return to the cabin area until the cause of the CO has been identified and corrected.

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.

For additional information, refer to the carbon monoxide detector operating instructions in your owner’s packet.

3-32

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

CUDDY CABIN ACCESS DOOR

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 carbon monoxide (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, nausea, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color are symptoms. Avoid exposure to yourself and/or your passengers to carbon monoxide. Check the CO detectors before every outing and keep the cabin door closed when running the engine(s) or a generator. Keep the cabin and cockpit areas well ventilated and do not block exhaust outlets.

The sliding cabin access door should not be open when the boat is underway, since an open cabin door can create a vacuum. Make sure the door is secured when it is opened or closed, and do not allow it to slide free.

NOTICE:

CABIN DISTRIBUTION PANELS

A DANGER

Avoid fire, explosions, electrocution, injury or death.

• Use the electrical system properly.

• Do not work on an energized system.

• Avoid swimming near the boat when it is connected to shore power.

• Use caution when connecting or disconnecting to shore power.

• Do not reset a circuit breaker which has been automatically tripped without first detecting and correcting the cause of the problem.

• Turn the boat’s shore connection switch to the OFF position before connecting or disconnecting shore cable.

• Connect shore power cable at the boat first.

• Disconnect shore power cable at shore outlet first.

• If reverse polarity light is activated, immediately disconnect shore power cable.

• Do not alter shore power cable connections.

Secure the door when underway. Do not sit, stand or place heavy objects on the door. Unlock and remove the key to avoid breaking, unless leaving the boat. Do not use caustic materials or a dry rag to clean the door. Use only a mild soap and water.

343 Owner’s Manual

• Close shore power inlet cover tightly.

Some boats are equipped with two electrical systems; a battery powered direct current (DC) system, and an optional generator or optional shore powered alternating current (AC) system. These systems have a load center panel which serves as the main distribution panel. The DC system supplies electricity to all of the boat's electrical circuits (lights, pumps, blowers, ignition, etc.).

The AC system supplies power to the electrical outlets and to AC powered systems when the boat is moored to dock or slip.

3-33

Performance Yacht

Section 3

Some options may be equipped with multiple batteries. There is a cranking battery for each engine or can be two batteries in parallel for 12 volt house power and a battery for the optional generator.

There is a battery charger for the house and cranking batteries. The battery chargers are powered by either the dockside or generator 120 V AC power. The generator battery is charged by the generator.

All batteries are isolated from each other by a battery switch. When the engines and ignition switches are OFF the isolator prevents house battery loads from discharging the cranking batteries. When the batteries are being charged by the alternators, the isolator automatically isolates the batteries and will distribute the charge among the batteries according to individual need.

100

125

150

OFF

MAIN

REVERSE POLARITY

OUTLET

AC AMPERESAC VOLTS

OFF

BATTERY CHARGER

AIR

CONDITIONER

ACCESSORY

There are also six indicator lights, one for each breaker.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

If your Cobalt is equipped with an optional 110-volt or 220-volt alternating current (VAC) shore power system, or the optional generator, this will supply the electricity for the 110 VAC system. (Shore power only supplies electricity for the 220 VAC system.) These systems have a distribution panel located within the master cabin. Batteries power the 12 VDC system.

The AC circuits are controlled by a switch-type circuit breaker. When the indicator light next to the switch is illuminated, the circuit is activated. The circuit breaker functions in two ways. It allows you to manually enable or interrupt a circuit by moving the switch ON or OFF. They protect the system by automatically opening the circuit if a short or overloaded condition occurs.

Check the circuit breaker if a particular piece of equipment or the boat lights stop working. A tripped circuit breaker indicates the circuit is overloaded. You should determine and correct the cause of a problem before resetting a circuit breaker. See your Cobalt dealer if a circuit breaker keeps tripping.

Shore Power Inlet Breaker Switch

COBALT

120 VAC SERVICE

COB_0056_A

The cabin distribution panel is labeled as follows:

AC Voltmeter

Ammeter

AC Main Breaker - Shore

Reversed Polarity

Outlet

Battery Charger

Air Conditioner

Accessory

3-34

SHORE 1

ON ON

COB_0057_A

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

BATTERY SWITCH PANEL AND FUNCTIONS

PORT (BATTERY 2)STBD (BATTERY 1)

AMPLIFIER

OFF

ALL

DIST. PANEL

OFF

ALL

TRIM TAB

HELM

AMPLIFIER

40 40

BILGE PUMP

MAXWELL

CIRCUIT BREAKER/ISOLATOR

POWER ON

PUSH ON PULL OFF

135

COB_0058_A

DC Electrical

Your Cobalt has a 12 volt negative ground DC system. The positive wire is hot, and feeds current from the batteries to all 12 volt equipment; the negative wire is the ground.

Circuit breakers under the helm are for items as labeled. Refer to Section 4, Circuit Breakers. The bilge pumps are wired directly to the battery through BILGE PUMP breaker and will remain energized even if battery switches are turned off. All other items, including the CO monitors, will be disabled. DO NOT OCCUPY BOAT IF CO MONITORS ARE DISABLED.

To operate the 12 VDC system:

Turn the battery switches on.

The indicator light next to the switch will illuminate.

COB_0051_A

1 – Starboard Engine Battery Switch (Battery 1) 2 – Port Engine Battery Switch (Battery 2) 3 – Jump Start Studs 4 – Breaker - Helm 5 – Breaker - Trim Tabs 6 – Breaker - Amplifier 7 – Breaker - Distribution Panel 8 – Breaker - Bilge Pump 9 – Windlass Breaker/Switch - optional

343 Owner’s Manual

JUMP START STUDS

The jump start studs allow for "jump starting" an engine. The receptacles have protective covers and must stay in place when receptacles are not being used. The covers identify the + positive (red) and the - negative (black). The studs can be used to raise the engine compartment when the batteries are low or removed.

3-35

Performance Yacht

Section 3

The jump start studs are located near or on the battery switch panel.

NOTICE:

Do not start an engine from the jump start studs without the batteries connected to the boat's charging system.

Damage to engine and charging system will result.

BATTERY SWITCHES

Your Cobalt is equipped with two battery switches located under the port aft cockpit seat cushion.

The battery switch connects one or two batteries to the electrical circuit of an engine or generator.

The switch provides isolation and positive disconnect of the battery to protect against tampering, electrical fire hazards and battery rundown. Rotate the switch to the OFF position when the boat is not in use.

Both battery switches are connected to the engines' charging system, the generator's charging system and cabin 12 VDC components. Refer to the battery switch user's manual for additional information.

SHORE POWER CONNECTION

A DANGER

Avoid fire, explosions, electrocution, injury or death. Plugs and receptacles for different systems are designed in non-interchangeable configurations. A plug from one system cannot fit another system. Do not modify a shore power cable. Use only commercially available adapters for system modification. Ventilate the boat interior by opening the deck hatches, windows and cabin door to provide adequate ventilation.

The shore power system requires a special, marine grade three-conductor cable to make a proper connection to the shore. Dockside connections and the boat side connections are plug-in. Boat side connections are also locked in position with a threaded locking collar to prevent accidental disconnection and enhance water resistance. The shore power connection is located at the port aft of your boat. Make sure the shore power connection cover is in place when the shore power connection is not in use.

NOTICE:

The automatic bilge pump circuit will remain energized even when the battery switches are in the OFF position.

1– Shore Power Cord 2 – Threaded Locking Collar 3 – Boat Receptacle

To connect:

1. Turn off the boat’s MAIN AC circuit breaker on the Cabin Distribution Panel.

2. If the outlet on the pier has a disconnect switch, turn the switch off.

3-36

COB_0059_A

343 Owner’s Manual

3. Connect the shore power cable at the boat first.

4. Make sure the cable has more slack than the mooring lines.

5. Remove the cap from the outlet on the pier. Connect the cable to the outlet.

6. If your boat is equipped with an optional generator, turn the Shore/Generator switch to the SHORE position.

7. Turn inlet breaker on. It is located under port aft cockpit seat.

8. Set the shore disconnect switch in the ON position.

Operating Information

A DANGER

Avoid fire, explosions, electrocution, injury or death. Some marinas have been known to “break” shore power ground circuits to prevent electrolysis. Opening the ground circuit creates a potentially dangerous onboard shock hazard. Use caution when using a “break” shore power ground circuit. If reverse polarity light is activated, immediately disconnect shore power cable.

9. If the reverse polarity warning light on the Cabin Distribution Panel is activated, immediately disconnect the cable from the shore outlet and see your authorized Cobalt dealer.

To Disconnect:

NOTICE:

If your boat is equipped with an optional generator and you wish to keep the AC appliances operating while underway, start the generator and turn the selector switch to GENERATOR and skip Step 1. Do not use the generator above speeds over 40 mph (64 km).

1. Turn off the boat’s main circuit breakers.

2. If the shore outlet has a disconnect switch, turn it to the OFF position.

3. Disconnect the shore power cord at the shore outlet.

NOTICE:

Avoid damage to the electrical system and components, do not use AC powered equipment if voltage is less than 105 volts.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with an isolation transformer which isolates shore power from the boat’s AC electrical system, reducing galvanic corrosion and the risk of electrical shock. For more information refer to the component manual supplied to you in your owner’s packet or see your authorized Cobalt dealer regarding your shore power system.

The AC portion of the distribution panel receives AC power from the shore power cable, or optional generator. The panel distributes AC power through main circuit breaker(s) which in turn supplies the circuit breakers.

AC electricity operates the equipment displayed on the AC cabin distribution panel.

4. Disconnect the cable from the boat and close the cap.

343 Owner’s Manual

The 110 V AC system consists of inlet breaker(s), a shore/generator selector switch located at the distribution panel in the cabin which contains a voltmeter, ammeter, main circuit breaker and a series of switch-type circuit breakers.

The voltmeter monitors the AC voltage. Damage can occur to your equipment if the voltage is less than 105 volts. Do not use AC powered equipment if voltage is less than 105 volts.

3-37

Performance Yacht

Section 3

The ammeter displays total amperage. The main circuit breaker switch controls the individual component circuit breakers below it. This allows you to check for proper voltage and polarity immediately after making the shore power cable connection without damaging any equipment.

The reversed polarity light indicates if the polarity of the shore power has been reversed.

GENERATOR – OPTIONAL

A DANGER

Avoid the possibility of injury or death from exposure to carbon monoxide (CO), fire or explosion, electrocution.

• 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.

• Regularly inspect the engine and generator exhaust system for proper operation.

• Operate the blower for at least four minutes each time you start the engines or generator.

• Use the electrical system properly.

• If reverse polarity light is activated, immediately disconnect shore power cable.

The optional generator is located in the engine compartment. The generator is used to provide AC power when shore power is not available. The generator uses fuel from the engines fuel tank and also produces carbon monoxide gas (CO).

A controller mounted on the generator contains a Start/Stop switch, hour meter and a main output AC Circuit Breaker.

1. Make sure the generator seacock (located forward of the engines) is open.

2. Make sure the AC Circuit Breaker, located on the Controller, is on.

3. Turn off the selector switch located in the cabin.

4. Operate the blower for at least four minutes.

Start the generator following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow generator to operate for at least one minute to stabilize voltage.

5. Turn the selector switch to generator.

6. Switch the main AC circuit breaker on and then the respective branch breakers below it as needed.

7. Do not operate the generator during boat speeds above 40 mph.

FRESH WATER

The fresh water system provides potable (drinkable) water to the sink and transom shower. Refer to Section 1, Specifications for the capacity of the water system.

The system is operated by a 12 V DC water pump located in the engine compartment. It is necessary for the 12 V 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 fresh water tank is empty. Monitor the level of water in the tank. If the water pump is allowed to run continuously, it may overheat.

To clean the water tank, refer to Section 6, Water Systems.

Consult your authorized Cobalt dealer for winterization requirements.

Water Level Indicator

If your Cobalt is equipped with the level indicator display panel, it will show the level of the water and/or waste in the tanks as follows:

Some Cobalt models may have a remote start and stop switch for the generator located under the dash panel, below the ignition keys.

3-38

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

Fresh Water

Red light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Empty

Amber light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mid

Green light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Full

Waste Tank

Red light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Full

Amber light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mid

Green light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Empty

No indication is given if the tank is 1/8 to 1/2 (mid) full.

MARINE TOILET (HEAD) AND MACERATOR - OPTIONAL

Instructions

Before operating the head for the first time, refer to the marine toilet owner’s manual in your owner’s packet.

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.

The handle of the seacock (in the closed position) may have to be removed, or disabling the system by other means may be required to avoid a fine.

Manually Operated Head

1. Open the inlet water seacock.

2. Pump the floor pedal 2-4 times to fill the bowl with water.

3. To flush, depress the foot pedal and operate flush handle next to head at the same time. Operate handle until all waste is removed.

To empty the bowl of excess water, operate flush button until water level decreases to desired level.

The marine toilet (head) allows you to hold the waste in a holding tank. The waste can then be pumped out through a deck plate fitting marked “WASTE.”

Electrically Operated Head

CAUTION

Avoid damage to the waste system. Do not flush into a full holding tank.

1. Open the inlet water seacock below the cabin floor.

2. If overboard discharge is to be used, make sure the “Y” valve is in the overboard position, and the macerator seacock is open.

3. To charge the head, depress the foot pedal on the lower left side of the bowl, and push the flush button. Release the flush button after the bowl is moistened, and then pump the floor pedal 2-4 times to fill the bowl with water.

4. To flush, depress the foot pedal and push the flush button at the same time - hold until all waste is removed.

NOTICE:

To empty the bowl of excess water, operate flush button until water level decreases to desired level.

The marine toilet (head) allows you to hold the waste in a holding tank. The waste can then be pumped out through a deck plate fitting marked “WASTE.”

The optional macerator system allows the discharging of waste water directly overboard through a seacock. The seacock’s valve must be opened to allow activation of the macerator pump switch. For additional operating information, refer to the macerator operator’s manual.

If your Cobalt boat is equipped with an electronically operated head (marine toilet) and waste containment system, the head draws seawater in through the hull to flush waste water from the marine toilet.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-39

Performance Yacht

The toilet pumps the waste water into a holding tank.

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 pumpout plate. An overboard vent keeps the tank at atmospheric pressure regardless of waste levels.

Section 3

All the 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.

Waste Disposal

COB_0055_A

Dockside Pumpout - This system directs all waste to the holding tank. To clear the tank, you will need to use the dockside pumpout services provided at marinas or other facilities. To empty the tank, a suction hose is connected to the “WASTE” pumpout plate and to the dockside pump. The WASTE pumpout plate is always located at a “high point” on the boat. For the WASTE pumpout connection, refer to Section 4, Water/Plumbing.

Macerator Pump

CAUTION

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.

3-40

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

If your boat is equipped with a tank level monitor, the tank level monitor will illuminate the indicator lights to monitor the tank level.

BATTERY CHARGER

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a multi-bank charger located on the bulkhead forward of the port engine. Anytime your boat is connected to shore power or the optional generator is running and the MAIN and BATTERY CHARGER switch at the cabin distribution panel is on, the battery charger will operate to keep the batteries fully charged.

Refer to the battery charger operator’s manual for additional information.

The optional macerator system allows the discharging of waste water directly overboard through a seacock. The seacock’s valve must be opened to allow activation of the macerator pump switch located in the head area. Refer to Section 4, Water/Plumbing for component location. For additional operating information, refer to the macerator operator’s manual supplied with your Cobalt boat.

A “Y” valve is installed between the pumpout plate and the macerator discharge seacock. The macerator pump is located between the “Y” valve and the macerator discharge seacock. In this configuration all waste is flushed from the head to the holding tank. The “Y” valve permits you to use the dockside pumpout 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. Open the discharge seacock.

2. Move the “Y” valve lever to the down or overboard position.

3. Activate the macerator pump by turning its switch on.

4. Close the macerator discharge seacock and turn macerator pump off after the pumpout is complete.

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

- OPTIONAL

The Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system supplies both heating and cooling to the cabin using a heat pump system, and operates on 110 V AC supplied by shore power or the generator. The system controller is located in the cabin.

NOTICE:

The boat must be in the water before operating the air conditioning/heating system.

The system must be properly winterized for storage to prevent damage. For additional information, refer to the air conditioning operating instructions in your owner’s packet.

To operate the HVAC system:

1. Open the seacock in the engine compartment.

2. Turn on the “MAIN” and “AIR CONDITIONER” circuit breakers located on the cabin distribution panel.

3. Turn HVAC system on by pressing appropriate buttons on the controller and adjust settings as needed.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-41

Performance Yacht

Section 3

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.

BIMINI TOP - OPTIONAL

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.

Do not trailer with the bimini top up. Store and trailer the bimini top in the stowed position, in its canvas boot.

NOTICE: Always double check snaps are secure.

BOW TONNEAU (BOW RIDERS ONLY)

COCKPIT TONNEAU

COBALT

COB_0138_A

3-42

343 Owner’s Manual

Operating Information

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

COB_0001_A

A WARNING

Avoid injury, death or property damage. Never anchor a boat from the stern, and keep the boat headed into the waves.

343 Owner’s Manual

3-43

NOTES

Performance Yacht

Section 3

3-44

343 Owner’s Manual

Systems

INTRODUCTION

This section discusses the mechanical, electronic, and manual operating systems of your Cobalt boat. It describes basic operating characteristics and provides information for efficient use of the equipment, and for prevention of casualties. Be sure to read and understand all information provided before operating its systems.

Section 4

A WARNING

Avoid injury, death or damage to equipment. Regularly inspect and maintain all systems to prevent unexpected hazards associated with worn or faulty components. Be sure to replace system components and hardware with marine grade parts, not automotive components.

343 Owner’s Manual

4-1

Performance Yacht

ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESS

HEAD

OUTLET

HEAD

COLOR

RED/BLUE (R/BL)

YELLOW (Y)

RED (R)

RED/WHITE (R/W)

RED/ORANGE (R/O)

RED/YELLOW (R/Y)

YELLOW/RED (Y/R)

YELLOW/BROWN (Y/BR)

GREEN (GR)

LIGHT GREEN (LT GR)

GRAY (GY)

GRAY/WHITE (GY/W)

BLACK/WHITE (B/W)

BROWN (BR)

RED/BROWN (R/BR)

BROWN/WHITE (BR/W)

ORANGE (O)

ORANGE/WHITE (O/W)

PURPLE (PU)

PURPLE/WHITE (PU/W)

BLUE (BL)

LIGHT BLUE (LT BL)

BLUE/RED (BL/R)

PINK (PK)

GRAY/BLACK (GY/B)

LIGHT BLUE/BLACK (L BL/B)

GR/B (GR/B)

PINK/B (PK/B)

ORANGE/RED (O/R)

RED/YELLOW (R/Y)

OUTLET

SWITCHSWITCH

REMOTEREMOTE

TO DASHTO DASH

GENERATORGENERATOR

SHORE POWER

BREAKER

SHORE POWER

TO SHORE POWER

INLET

BREAKER

TRANSFORMERTRANSFORMER

A/C POWERA/C POWER

WIRING COLOR CODE

ITEM/USE

WATER PUMP CIRCUIT.

NEGATIVE

POSITIVE/PROTECTED UNSWITCHED

POWER

SWITCHED POWER

ACCESSORY

HEAD BLOWER & LIGHT

STARTING CIRCUIT SAFETY NEUTRAL

BILGE BLOWER

BONDING SYSTEM, FUEL FILL GROUND, GAS TANK

FWD PORT SPEAKER

DOCKING LIGHTS/FWD STBD

SPEAKER/TACHOMETER

RUNNING LIGHTS

ANCHOR LIGHT

ENG WATER TEMP/ ACTUATOR (UP)

BILGE PUMP FLOAT SWITCH

BILGE PUMP SWITCH/MOTOR BOX

ACTUATOR(DN)

WIPER, HORN

WIPER SWITCH/HORN/HOUR METER

IGNITION/INSTRUMENT FEED/PRESS

BUZZER, KILL SWITCH

CAPTAIN'S CALL/TRIM GAUGE

INTERIOR LIGHTS

AFT STBD SPEAKER/OIL PRESSURE

INSTRUMENT LIGHTS/ ENG ROOM LT

FUEL GUAGE/AFT PORT SPEAKER

SPEAKER GROUND

HEATER

SPOT LIGHT

GENERATORGENERATOR

GROUNDGROUND

GENERATORGENERATOR

BAT. POWERBAT. POWER

DCDC

GND AFT BAR GND AFT BAR

TO PORT ENG.TO PORT ENG.

AC CABLEAC CABLE

DIST. PANELDIST. PANEL

D/C POWER D/C POWER

HEAD LIGHT 12HEAD LIGHT 12

HEAD LIGHT 24

INT. LIGHT (BL) 18INT. LIGHT (BL) 18

(O) (O/W)( LT,BL) (O) (O/W)( LT,BL)

SPEAKER (PK) 18SPEAKER (PK) 18

INT. LIGHT (BL) 18INT. LIGHT (BL) 18

WASTE MONITOR 30WASTE MONITOR 30

HOUR METER (O/W) 16HOUR METER (O/W) 16

VALANCE

LIGHT (BL) 8

READING LIGHT 22"

OVERHEAD LIGHT (BL) 8OVERHEAD LIGHT (BL) 8

CO MONITOR (R) 12CO MONITOR (R) 12

SPOT LT 8

SPEAKER (GR) 18SPEAKER (GR) 18

DASH CONN. DASH CONN.

TRIM TABS TRIM TABS

FWD GROUND BARFWD GROUND BAR

SPEAKER (PK) 18 SPEAKER (PK) 18

TRIM TAB 80TRIM TAB 80

MER.CATH 80MER.CATH 80

BILGE POWER (R)80 BILGE POWER (R)80

WINDLASS POWER (R)80 WINDLASS POWER (R)80

INT. LIGHT STEP (BL) 18INT. LIGHT STEP (BL) 18

MACERATOR 48 MACERATOR 48

STEREO REMOTE (OR) 20STEREO REMOTE (OR) 20

TRIM TAB SWITCH 6TRIM TAB SWITCH 6

TRIM TAB POWER (Y) 40TRIM TAB POWER (Y) 40

TRIM TAB GND (Y) 40TRIM TAB GND (Y) 40

DOCK LTS. (GY) 6DOCK LTS. (GY) 6

NAV. LT. (GY/W) 9NAV. LT. (GY/W) 9

DOCK LTS. (GY) 6DOCK LTS. (GY) 6

WINDLASS GROUND (63) WINDLASS GROUND (63)

TO AMPS 96"

WINDLASS FOOT (O/W)(O) 36 WINDLASS FOOT (O/W)(O) 36

HEAD LIGHT/ BLOWER

SWITCH 72 (BL) (BL/R)

HEAD LIGHT/ BLOWER

SWITCH 72 (BL) (BL/R)

TANK MONITOR 48TANK MONITOR 48

BLOWER 48BLOWER 48

ELECTRIC HEAD 48ELECTRIC HEAD 48

MACERATOR SWITCH 48 (R/B)MACERATOR SWITCH 48 (R/B)

FWD. BILGE PUMP (BR/W) (R/BR) 104 FWD. BILGE PUMP (BR/W) (R/BR) 104

HELM SEAT 104HELM SEAT 104

WINDLASS GROUND

WINDLASS RELAY (O/W)(O)(R)60

CABIN BREAKER PANEL 120CABIN BREAKER PANEL 120

STEREO AMP POWER (R)120STEREO AMP POWER (R)120

FUEL TANK GND (GR) 80FUEL TANK GND (GR) 80

FUEL SENDER (PK) 80FUEL SENDER (PK) 80

FIRE EXT. (O/R) 24FIRE EXT. (O/R) 24

LOCATED ON CENTER OF HULLLOCATED ON CENTER OF HULL

MER. CATH. 40MER. CATH. 40

CAPT CALL 40CAPT CALL 40

GND AFT BAR 78GND AFT BAR 78

MID. BILGE PUMP (BR/W) (R/BR) 112MID. BILGE PUMP (BR/W) (R/BR) 112

AFT BILGE PUMP (BR/W) (R/BR) 112 AFT BILGE PUMP (BR/W) (R/BR) 112

HORN (O) 6HORN (O) 6

13'=3 RCA CABLES RUNS BEHIND13'=3 RCA CABLES RUNS BEHIND

CABIN PANEL 24

CABIN SPEAKER (GY)24CABIN SPEAKER (GY)24

SUB/W 36SUB/W 36

GENERATORGENERATOR

FIRE EXT. (O/R) 90FIRE EXT. (O/R) 90

TRIM TAB POWER (Y) 40TRIM TAB POWER (Y) 40

TRIM TAB GND (Y) 40TRIM TAB GND (Y) 40

TRIM TAB SWITCH 6TRIM TAB SWITCH 6

CAPT CALL 40CAPT CALL 40

OVERHEAD LIGHT (BL) 8OVERHEAD LIGHT (BL) 8

STEREO STEREO

DVD PLAYER 48DVD PLAYER 48

CABIN PANEL POWER 24

(PK)(GY)(GR) (PK)(GY)(GR)

WATER MONITOR 30WATER MONITOR 30

INT. LIGHT (BL) 18INT. LIGHT (BL) 18

FUEL FILL GROUND(GR) 12FUEL FILL GROUND(GR) 12

MER. CATH. 40MER. CATH. 40

WATER PUMP (BL/R) 48WATER PUMP (BL/R) 48

OVERHEAD LIGHT (BL) 8OVE RHEAD LIGHT (BL) 8

INT. LIGHT (BL) 18INT. LIGHT (BL) 18

SPEAKER (BL) 18SPEAKER (BL) 18

HOUR METER (O/W) 16HOUR METER (O/W) 16

COB_0073_A

Section 4

4-2

343 Owner’s Manual

FUEL ROUTING

A WARNING

Avoid fire or explosion. Check the fuel system before each operation and at least once a year, have it checked by a certified Cobalt service technician.

Systems

PICK UP

GENERATOR FUEL

PICK-UP

PORT FUEL

FUEL TANK

FUEL TANK VENTS

FUEL FILL

PICK-UP

STBD FUEL

COB_0074_A

343 Owner’s Manual

4-3

Performance Yacht

WATER / PLUMBING

Fresh Water, Grey Water and Raw Water

FRESH WATER

FRONT BILGE PUMP

SUMP PUMP

Section 4

SINK DRAIN

HEADHEAD

DRAIN

HEAD FLOOR

DRAIN

CABIN ENTRY

COLLECTOR

PUMP-OUT

SMALL BILGE

PUMP-OUT

SMALL BILGE

BOX DRAIN

BILGE PUMP-OUT

SUMP PUMP-OUT

FRESH WATER TANKFRESH WATER TANK

PUMP

WATER

COLLECTOR

BOX DRAIN

COLLECTOR

BOX DRAIN

STORAGE DRAIN

COCKPIT & STBD FENDER

STORAGE DRAIN

COCKPIT & STBD FENDER

WATER TANK

FILL

WATER TANK

FILL

PUMP-OUT

REAR BILGE

COLLECTOR

BOX DRAINS

PORT FENDER

STORAGE AND

4-4

VENT

WATER

TANK

VENT

WATER

TANK

COB_0075_A

343 Owner’s Manual

Cobalt Digital Inc 343 PERFORMANCE Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual