Cobalt Digital Inc CS3 Owner's Manual

COBALT BOATS

Owner’s Manual

We Wish You Safe and Happy Boating!

Your Cobalt boat was built to meet or exceed all applicable boat building standards at the time of manufacture. Your Cobalt boat was inspected and certified prior to introduction, and periodic inspections of this model are conducted in-plant to ensure continued compliance. Cobalt is affiliated with the following organizations for your safety and pleasure.

The American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc. (ABYC) is an independent organization dedicated to developing and maintaining the highest level of marine equipment safety standards for U.S. boat manufacturers. Working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and other authorities, the ABYC reviews marine equipment and systems, including electrical systems, ventilation, steering, flotation, load capacity, fuel system and others that may have an impact on your safety.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is an independent organization involved in a wide range of activities aimed toward the promotion and improvement of all aspects of boating. Members include manufacturers of boats, engines and marine equipment of all types.

One division of the NMMA provides an inspection and certification program to members. Inspections are performed to the rigid and detailed standards of the USCG and ABYC. Certification requires compliance with all applicable standards and recommendations.

CS3 Owner’s Manal

GENERAL INFORMATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PUBLICATIONS....................................................................................... 1-10

NAUTICAL TERMS.................................................................................. 1-10

SYMBOLS................................................................................................ 1-13

SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................... 1-14

LAYOUT................................................................................................... 1-15

PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART ..................................................... 1-16

ALPHABETICAL INDEX .......................................................................... 1-17

ABLE OF

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

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

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

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

Extended Service Agreement............................................................... 1-5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONTENTS

CS3 Owner’s Manal

COBALT

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

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

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

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

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

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BOWRIDER

OPERATING INFORMATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CS3 Owner’s Manal

ABLE OF

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

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

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

Starting/Shifting/Steering/Stopping ...................................................... 3-7

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

Environmental Considerations ........................................................... 3-19

Entertainment System ........................................................................ 3-20

COBALT INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEM ............................................... 3-21

HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION ........................................................... 3-22

Remote Control(s) .............................................................................. 3-25

5" DIGITAL GAUGE ................................................................................. 3-26

Alarms ................................................................................................ 3-26

STANDARD AND OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT ........................................... 3-28

CAPTAIN’S CHAIR ADJUSTMENTS AND OPERATION........................ 3-31

EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM/BOARDING LADDER........................... 3-31

FLIP DOWN SWIM STEP - OPTIONAL................................................... 3-32

Boat in the Water................................................................................ 3-32

Boat on a Trailer................................................................................. 3-32

VOLVO PENTA OCEAN SERIES OUTDRIVE ........................................ 3-33

COCKPIT DINETTE TABLE - OPTIONAL ............................................... 3-33

BOW CUSHION INSERT - OPTIONAL ................................................... 3-33

AIR COMPRESSOR - OPTIONAL........................................................... 3-33

ANCHOR LIGHT ...................................................................................... 3-33

CRUISE CONTROL - OPTIONAL............................................................ 3-33

BATTERY SWITCH ................................................................................. 3-34

BATTERY CHARGER - OPTIONAL ........................................................ 3-34

AUTOMATIC CHARGING RELAY (ACR)................................................ 3-34

WATER SYSTEM .................................................................................... 3-34

BOW TONNEAU COVER - OPTIONAL................................................... 3-35

COCKPIT TONNEAU COVER - OPTIONAL ........................................... 3-35

BIMINI TOP - OPTIONAL ........................................................................ 3-36

ARCH W/BIMINI....................................................................................... 3-36

SKI TOW EYE/PYLON............................................................................. 3-36

TRANSOM TILT SWITCH - OPTIONAL .................................................. 3-37

TIE-DOWN LOCATIONS ......................................................................... 3-37

MOTOR BOX ASSEMBLY....................................................................... 3-38

TOOL KIT - OPTIONAL ........................................................................... 3-38

FLAGPOLE WITH FLAG - OPTIONAL .................................................... 3-38

ONTENTS

CS3 Owner’s Manal

SYSTEMS

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

FUEL ROUTING ........................................................................................ 4-2

FIRE SUPPRESSION EQUIPMENT.......................................................... 4-3

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COBALT

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ............................................................................. 4-3

BATTERY CONNECTIONS....................................................................... 4-3

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CARE

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

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

SEA GRASS FLOOR COVERING CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS ............. 5-2

General Maintenance Instructions ....................................................... 5-2

Maintenance Techniques ..................................................................... 5-2

Spot and Stain Removal ...................................................................... 5-4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deck and Hull Care .............................................................................. 5-6

Swim Platform Mat Care and Maintenance.......................................... 5-6

STAINLESS STEEL AND CHROME ......................................................... 5-7

Preventive Steps .................................................................................. 5-7

Cleaning Stainless Steel ...................................................................... 5-7

CORROSION PROTECTION .................................................................... 5-7

CorrosionX ........................................................................................... 5-7

Topside ................................................................................................ 5-7

Inside the Bulkhead.............................................................................. 5-8

Other Areas.......................................................................................... 5-8

Galvanic Corrosion............................................................................... 5-8

Salt Water ............................................................................................ 5-8

CANVAS .................................................................................................... 5-9

Cleaning Canvas .................................................................................. 5-9

Special Cleaning Problems .................................................................. 5-9

OTHER CANVAS COMPONENTS.......................................................... 5-10

Clear Vinyl “Isinglass” ........................................................................ 5-10

Zippers ............................................................................................... 5-10

Snap Fasteners.................................................................................. 5-10

WINDSHIELD........................................................................................... 5-10

BILGE....................................................................................................... 5-10

MARINE GROWTH.................................................................................. 5-10

STATIONARY ARCH WITH AWLGRIP TOPCOAT................................. 5-11

CS3

BOWRIDER

CS3 Owner’s Manal

ABLE OF

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

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

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

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

Fuel System ......................................................................................... 6-4

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

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

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

Storage Cradle ..................................................................................... 6-5

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

Reactivating the Boat After Storage ..................................................... 6-6

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

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................... 6-7

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

Electrical............................................................................................... 6-9

Plumbing .............................................................................................. 6-9

ONTENTS

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

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

CS3 Owner’s Manal

COBALT

NOTES

CS3

BOWRIDER

CS3 Owner’s Manal

CS3 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.

ENERAL

NFORMATION

ECTION

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

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

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

All the best in boating,

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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

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COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

CERTIFICATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY

Subject to the terms and conditions in this warranty, Cobalt Boats, LLC, a Delaware limited liability corporation doing business as Cobalt Boats (“Cobalt”), warrants to the original retail purchaser (and any subsequent owner) 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.

Three (3) Year Limited Transferable Warranty on Gelcoat Finish, Upholstery, Canvas, Components Not Separately Warranted by the Manufacturer and All Components Manufactured by Cobalt Other Than the Hull and Deck.

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 three (3) years from the date of delivery of such Cobalt boat to the original retail purchaser. Because local area operating conditions and customer care have an effect on gelcoat finishes, the gelcoat finish warranty does not include (1) damage or deterioration (i.e.: fading, oxidation, discoloration) due to in-water storage or improper care of the gelcoat surface; or (2) deterioration (i.e.: fading, oxidation, discoloration) to the gelcoat finish of any Cobalt boat with colored (non-white) gelcoat located below the static waterline.

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

Cobalt warrants that the gelcoat finish, upholstery, canvas, components not

Cobalt warrants that the hull and deck

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, deterioration (i.e.: fading, oxidation, corrosion) of surface finishes, vinyls, fabrics, aluminum and stainless 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; (9) damage (i.e.: scratches, fading, oxidation, discoloration) to the gelcoat finish; (10) deterioration (i.e.: fading, oxidation, discoloration) to the gelcoat finish of any Cobalt boat with colored (non-white) gelcoat located below the static waterline; (11) 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

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

ENERAL INFORMATION

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.

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.

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. The five (5) year extended Service Agreement is administered by a third party. For more information regarding this coverage and obtaining service, refer to the Extended Service Agreement booklet in your boat bag. All warranties, Cobalt and Extended Service are transferable and transfer fees are applicable.

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

COBALT’S ONLY

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

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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COBALT

WARNING

CS3

BOWRIDER

INTRODUCTION

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

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

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

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

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

ECTION

Avoid serious injury or death.

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

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

Intended Use

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

Craft Design Category

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

OCEAN – Category A

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

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

ENERAL 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 Service Agreement

With your Cobalt purchase, an Extended Limited Service Agreement is included. Your dealer submitted the necessary forms to implement this coverage. Please read the Extended Service Agreement supplied to you in your boat bag for specific coverages and exclusions.

It is important your Cobalt boat is serviced per the engine manufacturer’s recommended instructions. You must keep, in your possession, records of all service performed should the extended service coverages 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 Service Agreement, 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 refer to the Warranty Transfer Form on the last page of this manual. If the proper transfer procedures are not followed, future warranty may be denied.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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COBALT

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ECTION

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 40 years.

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

Construction Standards/Certifications

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

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.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

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

DANGER

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.

Ke ep Cab in a nd coc kpi t A rea s W ell Ve nti lat ed.

Av oid Bl ocka ge of Exh aus t O utl ets .

Se e O wne r’s Man ual fo r M ore De tai ls.

WARNING

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

WARNING

LE A K I N G F U E L I S A F I R E A N D EXPLOSION HAZARD. INSPECT SYSTEM REGULARY. EXAMINE FUEL SYSTEM FOR LEAKS OR CORROSION AT LEAST ANNUALLY.

NMMA 1990/NO.200

WARNING

Carbon monoxide will cause brain damage or death.

Ventilation is not provided.

DO NOT OCCUPY THIS AREA AT-ANY TIME

WARNING

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

DAMAGE OR DEATH.

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 ONLY.

WARNING

AVOID OBSTRUCTION OF NAVIGATION

LIGHTS AND POSSIBLE COLLISION. REMOVE CANVAS

BEFORE USING NAVIGATION OR ANCHOR LIGHTS.

Transom of Boat

Helm

Engine Compartment

Extended Swim Platform Extended Swim Platform

Hydraulic Swim Platform

Helm (U.S. Only)

Navigation LightAft Sun Pad

Unvented Storage Areas

Helm and Cabin

COB_0018_A

Transom of Boat

ENERAL 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.

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:

CAUTION

UNLOCK & REMOVE

KEY TO AVOID

BREAKING

Cabin Door

CS3 Owner’s Manual

COBALT BOATS “MEET U.S. EPA EVAP

STANDARDS USING CERTIFIED COMPONENTS”

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COBALT

CS3

WARNING

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

Eclipse Arch

SECURE DOOR WHEN CRUISING

ENGINES OR GENERATOR ARE RUNNING.

Engine Compartment, Generator

To minimize shock and fire hazards:

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

Above Hydraulic Swim Platform Switch

DO NOT ALTER SHORE POWER

BOWRIDER

WARNING

Keep hands and feet away from drive unit when tilting.

Transom of Boat

WARNING!

DO NOT SIT, STAND, OR PLACE

HEAVY OBJECTS ON DOOR.

KEEP CABIN DOOR CLOSED WHEN

CAUSTIC MATERIALS TO CLEAN.

WASH WITH MILD SOAP AND WATER.

DO NOT USE

Cabin Door

WARNING

CABLE CONNECTORS

ECTION

WARNING

AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

FROM FIRE, EXPLOSION OR

ELECTRICAL SHOCK.

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

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

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

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

Battery Charger

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

— 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

Helm

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

CAUTION

FOOT CAN SLIP THROUGH

RUNG CAUSING BODILY

INJURY, CLOSE CABIN DOOR

BEFORE USING FORE DECK

LADDER

Companionway Area

Engine Compartment

Shore Power Connection

Helm

(actual capacity varies by model)

1-8

Helm (California Only)

COB_0019_A

CS3 Owner’s Manual

ENERAL INFORMATION

Helm

(Boats 26' and over)

NOTE: ON OCCASION, YOU MAY HAVE TO CLEAR

THE PILE OF ROPE FROM UNDER THE HAWSE

PIPE TO MAKE ROOM FOR THE REMAINING RODE.

Near Windlass, Where Applicable

(All models except 302, 336 and A40)

Engine Compartment

COB_0435_A

CS3 Owner’s Manual

1-9

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

PUBLICATIONS

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

NAUTICAL TERMS

ABOARD

ABYC

AFLOAT

AFT

AGROUND

AMIDSHIP

ANCHOR

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

– On or in the boat.

– American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc.

– On the water.

– Toward the rear or stern of the boat.

– Touching bottom.

– Center or middle of the boat.

– (1) An iron casting shaped to grip the

CAPACITY PLATE

maximum weight capacity and engine horsepower rating information. It is located in full view of the helm.

CAPSIZE

CAST-OFF

preparation for departure.

CENTER LINE

runs fore and aft with the boat’s keel.

CHINE

intersects (meets) the bottom.

CLEAT

fastened.

CONSOLE

area of the boat.

CRANKING BATTERY

engine starting and electrical circuits.

CURRENT

direction.

– To turn over.

– To unfasten mooring lines in

– The point on a boat where the side

– A deck fitting with ears to which lines are

– Also called helm. The steering wheel

– Water moving in a horizontal

– A plate that provides

– A lengthwise imaginary line which

– The main battery used for

ASHORE

ASTERN

BAIL

boat with a pump, bucket, sponge, etc.

BEAM

BEARING

object from the boat.

BILGE

BOARDING

BOUNDARY WATERS

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

BOW

BULKHEAD

BUNKS

BURDENED BOAT

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

– On the shore.

– Toward the stern.

– To remove water from the bottom of the

– The widest point on the boat.

– Relative position or direction of an

– The lowest interior section of the boat hull.

– To enter the boat.

– A body of water between

– The front of the boat.

– Vertical partition (wall) in a boat.

– Carpeted trailer hull supports.

– Term for the boat that must

DECK

passengers walk.

DEEP CYCLE BATTERIES

batteries which can be repeatedly discharged and recharged without significant loss of power.

DOLLY WHEEL

front of the trailer used for positioning the coupler during trailer hookup.

DRAFT

line, measured vertically to the lowest part of the hull.

ELECTROLYSIS

the effects of galvanic corrosion.

EPIRB

Beacon.

FATHOM

equals 6 feet.

FENDERS

cushioning. Sometimes called bumpers.

– The open surface on the boat where the

– Special long-running

– A rolling jack assembly at the

– The depth of the boat below the water

– The break-up of metals due to

– Emergency Position Indicating Radio

– Unit of depth or measure; 1 fathom

– Objects placed alongside the boat for

1-10

CS3 Owner’s Manual

ENERAL INFORMATION

FORE

Opposite of aft.

FREEBOARD

gunwale.

FUEL SENDING UNIT

is mounted on the outside of a built-in fuel tank and controls the dashboard fuel gauge.

GIVE-WAY BOAT

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

side.

HEAD

HELM

HULL

HYPOTHERMIA

body loses heat faster than it can produce it.

IN-LINE FUSE

in the power wire of a direct current (DC) circuit usually near the battery.

KEEL

fore and aft along the boat’s bottom.

LIST

LOA

– Toward the front or bow of the boat.

– The distance from the water to the

– The electrical device that

– (1) Term for the boat that must

– The rail or upper edge of a boat’s

– A marine toilet.

– The steering wheel or command area.

– The body of the boat.

– A physical condition where the

– A type of protective fuse located

– The lowest portion of the boat; extends

– Leaning or tilt of a boat toward the side.

– Length overall.

NO-WAKE SPEED

travels to produce an imperceptible wake.

PFD

– Personal flotation device.

PITOT TUBE

TUBE.

PLANING HULL

reducing friction and increasing efficiency.

PORPOISE

bounces up and down caused by trimming the engine too far out.

PORT

bow. (2) A destination or harbor.

PRIVILEGED BOAT

the right-of-way.

RIGHT-OF-WAY

priority in meeting or crossing situations. The stand on or privileged boat.

RULES OF THE ROAD

preventing collisions on the water.

SPEEDOMETER PICKUP TUBE

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

maintain course and speed in meeting or crossing situations. The privileged boat.

– A condition in which the bow

– (1) The left side of a boat when facing the

– The speed at which a boat

– See SPEEDOMETER PICKUP

– A hull designed to lift, thereby

– Term used for the boat with

– Term for the boat that has

– Regulations for

– Also called

– Term for the boat that must

MAKING WAY

water.

MARINE CHART

depths, buoys, navigation aids, etc.

MOORING

that holds a boat in one location.

NAVIGATION AID

or sea such as buoys, towers or lights which are used to fix position to identify safe and unsafe waters.

NMMA

Association.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

– National Marine Manufacturers

– Making progress through the

– Seagoing maps showing

– An anchor, chain, or similar device

– Recognizable objects on land

STARBOARD

looking toward the bow.

STERN

STOW

SURGE BRAKES

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

TRANSDUCER

signals for the depth sounder.

TRANSOM

stern.

TRIM

boat when loaded.

1-11

– The back of the boat.

– To pack the cargo.

– Fore to aft and side to side balance of the

– The right side of the boat when

– A type of trailer braking system

– The unit that sends/receives

– The transverse beam across the

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

UNDERWAY

anchored.

USCG

VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNAL

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

WAKE

when moving through the water.

WATERWAY

WINDLASS

– United States Coast Guard.

– The waves that a boat leaves behind

– Boat in motion, i.e., not moored or

– A device used to

– A navigable body of water.

– An electric winch to raise the anchor.

1-12

CS3 Owner’s Manual

SYMBOLS

Light Filter Sling Point Compass Anchor

Lights

Blower Boat

Boat

Profile

Bow Trim

Do Not

Use Water

Draft Engine

Caution

Engine

Hour Meter

Engine

Key

Engine

Stop

Engine Fuel

Tank

Grease Height

Above Water

Holding

Tank

Horn

Ignition

Switch

Overall

Length

Lift

Point

Light Navigation

Lights

Oil Tank

Trim

Tabs

Water

Tank

Windshield

Wipers

Safety Alert

Symbol

COB_0030_A

ENERAL INFORMATION

STOP

CS3 Owner’s Manual

1-13

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

SPECIFICATIONS

Length Overall w/Swim Platform 23' 8" (7.21 m)

Beam 8' 6" (2.59 m) Interior Cockpit Width 92" (2.34 m)

Deadrise at Transom 20°

Capacity, Fuel 50 gal (189 L)

Bridge Clearance w/o Bimini 3' 11" (1.19 m)

Bridge Clearance w/Arch 6' 10" (2.08 m)

Draft, Drive Up 24" (0.61 m) Draft, Drive Down 37" (0.94 m)

Dry Weight 3700 lbs (1678 kg)

Boat Certified Capacity 12 persons Boat Certified Capacity w/Gear 1695 lbs (769 kg)

1-14

CS3 Owner’s Manual

LAYOUT

ENERAL INFORMATION

1. Navigation Light

2. Anchor Locker

3. Bow Storage

4. Bow Storage

5. Circuit Breaker Panel

6. Ignition Safety Switch

7. Cockpit Ice Chest

8. Bilge Pump Outlet

9. Fuel Inlet

10. Bilge Pump

11. Optional Transom Tilt Switch

12. Engine Vent

13. Ski Tow

14. Optional Stereo Remote

15. Optional Flagpole

16. Anchor Light

17. Cockpit Storage

18. Battery Switch/Storage

19. Fuel Tank Access

20. Ski Locker

21. Glove Box/12V Outlet

22. Optional XM Antenna

COB_0445_A

CS3 Owner’s Manual

1-15

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART

STD

MFGR ENGINE DRIVE PHP

MERC 4.3 L MPI ALPHA 220

MERC 4.3 L MPI BRAVO 3 220

MERC 4.5 L MPI ALPHA 250

MERC 4.5 L MPI BRAVO 3 250 2.20

MERC 5.0 L MPI ALPHA 260

MERC 5.0 L MPI BRAVO 3 260

MERC 350 MAG MPI BRAVO 3 300

MERC 377 MAG MPI BRAVO 3 320

MERC 6.2 L MPI BRAVO 3 300 2.20

MERC 6.2 L MPI BRAVO 3 350

VOLVO V6-225 SX 225

VOLVO V6-226 DP 225

VOLVO V6-240-G SX 240

VOLVO V6-240-G DP 240

VOLVO V6-280-G DP 280 2.32 FH5's 481405 3851495

VOLVO V8-300 FWD 300

VOLVO V8-300-G DP 300 2.32 FH5's 481405 3851495

VOLVO V8-300-G FWD 300 2.32 K4's 481582 22417007

VOLVO V8-320 DP 320

VOLVO V8-350-G DP 350 2.32 FH6's 481406 3885842

RATIO

OPT

RATIO

AL PROP AL PART#

AL MFG

PART#

SS PROP

22.5 pitch 4 Blade 481238 8M8022400

22.5 pitch 3 Blade 481239 8M8022410

24 pitch 4 Blade 481228 8M8022420

24 pitch 3 Blade 481229 8M8022430

PART#

SS MFG PART#

1-16

CS3 Owner’s Manual

ENERAL INFORMATION

ALPHABETICAL INDEX

5" Digital Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

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

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

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

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

Air Compressor - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

Alarm Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

Alphabetical Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

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

Anchor Light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

Anchoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

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

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

Arch w/Bimini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36

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

Automatic Charging Relay (ACR) . . . . . . . . . 3-34

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

Battery Charger - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34

Battery Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Battery Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34

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

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

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

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

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

Bilge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Bimini Top - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36

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

Boat in the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

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

Boat on a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

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

Bow Cushion Insert - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

Bow Tonneau Cover - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35

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

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

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

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

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

Canvas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

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

Captain’s Chair Adjustments and Operation . . 3-31

Carbon Monoxide Detectors, if equipped . . . . 3-7

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check Engine Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27

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

Cleaning Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

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

Cleaning Stainless Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Clear Vinyl “Isinglass”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

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

Cobalt Instrumentation System . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21

Cockpit Dinette Table - Optional . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

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

Cockpit Tonneau Cover - Optional . . . . . . . . . 3-35

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

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

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

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

Corrosion Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

CorrosionX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

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

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

Cruise Control - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33

Dark Stowage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

Deck and Hull Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

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

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

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

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

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

Drive Unit Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

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

Drugs/Alcohol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

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

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

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

Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

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

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

Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

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

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

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

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

Entertainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20

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

Environmental Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19

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

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

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

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

CS3 Owner’s Manual

1-17

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

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

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

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

Extended Service Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Extended Swim Platform/Boarding Ladder . . 3-31

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

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

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

Fire Suppression Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

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

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

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

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

Flagpole with Flag - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

Flip Down Swim Step - Optional . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

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

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

Focused Refracted Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

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

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

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

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

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

Fuel Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

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

Fuel System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

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

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

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

Galvanic Corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

General Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

General Maintenance Instructions . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

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

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

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

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

Guardian Active Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27

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

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

Helm and Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22

Helm Fault Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27

High Voltage Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

High-Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

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

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

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

Inside the Bulkhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Leather Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Load Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

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

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

Low Block Pressure Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

Low Drive Lube Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-27

Low Oil Pressure Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

Low Voltage Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

Lowering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

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

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

Maintenance Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Marine Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

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

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

Material Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

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

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

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

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

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

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

Motor Box Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

Nautical Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

Other Canvas Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Overheat Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

ENERAL INFORMATION

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

Owner Responsibility/Warranty Procedure . . . 1-5

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

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

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

Periodic Comprehensive Cleaning . . . . . . . . . 5-3

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

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

Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

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

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

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

Preventive Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

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

Propeller Application Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

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

Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

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

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

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

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

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

Reactivating the Boat After Storage . . . . . . . . 6-6

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

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

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

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

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

Remote Control(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salt Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19

Salt Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

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

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

Sea Grass Floor Covering Cleaning

Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

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

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

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

Ski Tow Eye/Pylon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36

Skill/Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Snap Fasteners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

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

Special Cleaning Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

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

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

Spot and Stain Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Stainless Steel and Chrome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Standard and Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . 3-28

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

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

Starting/Shifting/Steering/Stopping . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Stationary Arch with Awlgrip Topcoat. . . . . . . 5-11

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

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

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

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

Storage Cradle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

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

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

Swim Platform Mat Care and Maintenance . . . 5-6

Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

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

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

Tie-Down Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37

Tool Kit - Optional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-38

Topside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

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

Transom Tilt Switch - Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-37

Trim Tabs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

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

Volvo Penta Ocean Series Outdrive. . . . . . . . 3-33

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

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

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

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

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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COBALT

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

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

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

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

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

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

Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34

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

Weighing (May require two persons) . . . . . . . 3-18

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

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

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

Windshield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

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

Zippers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

ECTION

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

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.

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COBALT

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Required Safety Equipment

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

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

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

Navigation Lights

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

Horn or Whistle

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

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.

Lifesaving Devices

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

Visual Distress Signals

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

Recommended Safety Equipment

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

• Anchor and anchor line

• Compass

• First aid kit

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

• Flashlight and spare batteries

• Portable radio

• Cellular phone

• Sea anchor

• Binoculars

• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

• Boat hook

• Sun glasses and sun block lotion

2-2

CS3 Owner’s Manual

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

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, 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

CS3 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.

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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 110V AC or 220V AC appliances or components.

If your boat is equipped with an optional battery charger, it must only be plugged into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected AC outlet. When using an extension cord, connect the charger AC plug first before connecting the extension cord to the GFCI outlet.

Make the connection in an open area, free of any explosive fumes. The connections must be secure to avoid contact with any water.

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 waterline. 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 antifreeze 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.

2-4

• 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.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

DANGER

COB_0016_A

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

Operation Checklist

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

Checklist

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

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

Section 3, Before Starting

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.

California Air Resource Board (CARB) Label

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

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

Emission Control Warranty Information

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

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

Fuel/Spillage

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

• Overfilling the fuel tanks

• Pumping contaminated bilge water

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2-5

COBALT

WARNING

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

Proposition 65

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

EXAMPLES INCLUDE:

• 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.

Excessive Noise

Noise means engine noise, radio noise or even voices. Many bodies of water have adopted noise limits. Do not use thru-transom exhaust unless you are well offshore. 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.

• 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.

Cleaning Agents

Household cleaners should be used sparingly and not discharged into waterways. Do not mix cleaners and be sure to use plenty of ventilation in enclosed areas. DO NOT use products which contain phosphates, chlorine, solvents, nonbiodegradable or petroleum based products. Citrus-based cleaners are excellent for marine cleaning purposes and are safe for you and the environment. Do not use citrus-based cleaners on stainless steel.

Fishery Resources

There is a tremendous drain on our fishery resources. Over-fishing and pollution have strained the fish population. Do your part by keeping only what you will eat and practice catch-and-release.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

Foreign Species

If you trailer your Cobalt boat from lake to lake, you may unknowingly introduce a foreign aquatic species from one lake to the next. Thoroughly clean the boat below the waterline, remove all weeds and algae, and drain the bilge before launching the boat in a new body of water.

Components, Maintenance and Repairs

Only your authorized Cobalt dealer should make any alterations, modifications or repairs that could affect safety, design integrity or warranty coverage. Included with your owner’s packet 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 is time for servicing. A maintenance log is helpful when requesting warranty service using the extended warranty coverage. Be sure to collect receipts for work performed and make an entry in the Service Log in the back of this manual.

Emergency Considerations

Be prepared to deal with emergencies before they happen. Try to formulate a plan for each type in advance so that decisions can be made quickly and without hesitation. Precious moments lost can mean the difference between losing and saving a life.

Fire

You must be prepared and act quickly when dealing with a fire. It is not recommended to battle a fire for an extended period of time. Turn engines off and abandon the boat if the fire cannot be extinguished quickly. Swim at least 25 yards (23 meters) upwind from the boat and use the visual distress signals to get assistance. Onboard fires involving the fuel system usually result in either an explosion that completely destroys the boat, or the boat burning to the waterline and self-extinguishing. Deciding on abandoning the boat or staying to fight the fire is difficult and depends on many factors. Try to formulate a fire plan in advance to make that decision quickly and without hesitation.

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

Layout

where they might be needed. Inspect extinguishers on a regular basis.

. Remember, install extra extinguishers

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

Section 1

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2-7

COBALT

KC-0083C

CS3

BOWRIDER

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

ECTION

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 victims 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.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

TYPE II

BUOYANT VESTS

KC-0051C

KC-0042C

TYPE III

FLOTATION AIDS

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

Distress Signals

Federal law also requires boats 16 ft (4.8 m) and longer to carry day and night visual distress signals when operating on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas or those waters directly connected to them, up to a point where the body of water is less than two miles wide. Carry several types of signaling devices to handle a variety of conditions. Have enough signals onboard to last three days.

NOTICE: Some pyrotechnics are restricted from use on certain bodies of water, so check with local authorities.

Radio Communication

Radio communication is the most important avenue of receiving and sending information. Use a VHF/FM radio for short-range communication, and a single-sideband radio (SSB) for long-range. For all U.S. waters, the National Weather Service operates the NOAA Weather Radio (NWR). This service provides continuous weather information on the following VHF/FM frequencies:

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

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.

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COBALT

TYPE IV

THROWABLE DEVICES

KC-0071C

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

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 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 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.”

• For 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.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

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

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 DAY ONLY

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.

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COBALT

WARNING

DANGER

WARNING

CAUTION

CS3

BOWRIDER

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.

ECTION

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

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.

Avoid fire, explosion, injury or property damage from improperly handled pyrotechnic signaling devices. Follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Signal Words/Definitions

Throughout this manual specific precautions and symbols identify safety related information.

The Safety Alert Symbol means ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!

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

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.

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WARNING

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

Handholds

Avoid injury or death.

• Passengers should use handholds whenever the boat is underway.

• DO NOT allow passengers to sit on or in the stern sun lounges when the boat is underway.

• Read and understand this manual and the 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.

Loading

Be sure that passengers, personal equipment and supplies are in their proper location before operating the boat. This does not necessarily mean you can carry a passenger for every seat. Keep personal equipment and supplies to an “as needed” basis. Maintain a balanced load (front to back and side to side) at all times.

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 run aground on a sand bar. The water level around a dam spillway is a hazardous area. It is subject to rapid changes caused by currents and turbulence. Keep clear of the spillway areas below dams.

Weather/Seas

Getting caught in severe weather is hazardous. It is recommended to check the weather, sea and wind conditions not only before you boat, but also periodically while you are boating. Refer to

Communications

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.

Grounding

, in this section, for weather

, in this section, if you

Radio

CS3 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.

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COBALT

DAYTIME

WARNING

NIGHTTIME

WARNING

DESCRIPTION

COB_0032_A

Small Craft Advisory - Winds

greater than 18 knots,

sustained for two hours or more

or hazardous wave conditions.

Following a storm, hazardous

wave conditions can persist

long after the high winds have

subsided.

Gale Warning - Sustained

winds (2 or more hours),

of 34-47 knots.

Storm Warning - Sustained winds of 48 knots or greater.

Hurricane Warning - Forecast

winds of 64 knots and above. Displayed only in connection

with a hurricane.

WARNING

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

Learn the storm signals.

Skill/Experience

Avoid injury or death from drowning. Wear your Personal Flotation Device and remain seated when operating the boat.

Practice your boat operating skills often in calm water. Avoid windy conditions and rough water. Be sure to maintain good visibility at all times. Do not practice close to any obstructions such as piers, bridges, swim areas or moored boats.

Proceed slowly and give yourself plenty of time to react. Remember, your boat is not an automobile. It requires additional time to maneuver and stop.

Visibility

Avoid injury or death. Maintain clear visibility at all times. If necessary, arrange passengers and equipment. Designate a passenger to assist when visibility is limited due to operating conditions.

Visibility is not only sight, but also hearing. It is very important the operator maintains good visibility at all times. Arrange passengers and equipment to ensure you have unobstructed vision at all times. Check for other boats or any obstacles before turning the boat.

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.

Drugs/Alcohol

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.

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KC-0153C

DANGER

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

Boating, alcohol and the use of other drugs just do not mix. Mixing boating, alcohol and other drugs results in many marine accidents and deaths. These substances reduce your reaction time and affect your better judgment. Combined with the sun, wind, waves and noise of other watercraft, the effects of drugs are increased and will significantly reduce your reaction time. Do not operate your boat under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. As the owner/operator, you are responsible for the alcohol/drug use and onboard behavior of your passengers.

If the operator’s blood alcohol content is above the state’s legal limit, violators are subject to a civil or criminal penalty, imprisonment or both. Operating a boat under the influence can also result in a loss of automobile driving privileges.

Passengers

Whenever you are going for an outing, make sure that at least one passenger is familiar with the operation and safety aspects of the boat in case of emergency. Show all passengers the location of emergency equipment and explain how to use it. Do not allow passengers to drag their feet or hands in the water, or sit on the bow, deck, gunwale or transom platform while engines are running.

AFETY

Avoid the possibility of injury or death from exposure to carbon monoxide (CO). All gasoline and diesel engines and fuel burning appliances such as heaters, stoves and generators produce CO. CO is a colorless, odorless and dangerous gas. Direct and prolonged exposure to CO will cause brain damage or death. Signs of exposure to CO include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, ears ringing, headaches, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color. Avoid exposing your passengers or yourself to carbon monoxide. Test the carbon monoxide detector operation before each trip, at least once a week and after the boat has been in storage. DO NOT tamper with the operation of the carbon monoxide detector. It is installed for your safety.

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.

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2-15

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

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.

COB_0033_A

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ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

Qualified Boat Operators

This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of boat operation. We strongly recommend that all operators of this boat seek additional training on boat handling and safety. Have all operators become familiar with the handling characteristics, and proper steering and control system usage before attempting high-speed operation.

Some states require youths 16 years of age and younger to complete a boating safety course before operating any watercraft. Many others require operators under the age of 18 to be licensed in small boat operation.

Minors must be supervised by an adult whenever operating a boat. Many states have laws regarding the minimum age and licensing requirements of minors. Be sure to contact the state boating authorities for information.

Safety While Boating

Discharge of Oil

The discharge of fuel, oil and other chemicals into the water is prohibited. Be sure to clean up all fuel and oil spillage in the bilge using rags and sponges. Properly store and dispose of them when you get to shore. Do not allow any fuel or oil spills to be pumped out into the water. If fuel or oil leaks continue to be a problem, immediately have the problem repaired.

When refueling, do not “top-off” the fuel tanks. Allow for expansion which will reduce fuel spills from the fuel tank vents.

Solid Waste Disposal

NOTICE: It is illegal to dispose of any plastic trash into waters of the U.S.

The disposal of solid waste and plastics into the water is prohibited. Bag all refuse and properly dispose of it when you get ashore.

Your Cobalt boat is affixed with various safety labels at the time of manufacture. These labels appear at specific locations on the craft where safety is of particular concern. Refer to

Warning Labels

Safety labels must remain legible. If you suspect a label is missing or becomes damaged, contact your authorized Cobalt dealer for immediate replacement.

Federal, State and Local Regulations

The USCG is the authority of the waterways; it is there to help the boating public. State boating regulations are enforced by local authorities. You are subject to marine traffic laws and “Rules of the Road” for both federal and state waterways; you must stop if signaled to do so by enforcement officers, and permit to be boarded as asked.

Section 1

Marine Sanitation

NOTICE: Direct disposal of sanitation waste into some waters could result in fines. Be sure to check local regulations.

NOTICE: Avoid damage to the waste disposal system and the environment. Do not place facial tissues, paper towels or sanitary napkins in the head.

Have your authorized Cobalt dealer properly service the waste disposal system when needed.

Excessive Noise

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

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COBALT

WARNING

DANGER

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

Wake/Wash

Avoid injury, death or damage to property. Observe “No Wake” markers. Use caution when operating around smaller crafts, in channels and marinas, and in congested areas. You are responsible for injury and damage caused by your wake.

Reporting Accidents

The USCG requires the owner or operator of a boat involved in an accident to report the incident to the proper marine law enforcement agency for the state in which the accident occurred.

Immediate notification to the nearest state boating authority is required if a person dies or disappears as a result of a recreational boating accident. If a person dies or sustains injuries requiring more than first aid, a formal report must be filed within 48 hours of the accident. A formal report must be filed within 10 days for accidents exceeding $500 in property damage or complete loss of boat.

Water Sports Safety

Larger boats produce a larger wake which may be too big for skiers. Only boats equipped with a ski tow eye or ski tow pylon should be used to pull water skiers. If you use your Cobalt boat for water sports, you should be familiar with water sport safety and hand signals.

CIRCLE

TURN LEFT

TURN RIGHT

BACK TO DOCK

SKIER IN WATER

WATER SPORT HAND SIGNALS

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:

CUT ENGINE

SPEED FASTER

SPEED SLOWER

SPEED OK

STOP

SKIERS O.K.

KC-0271C

Rendering Assistance

If you see a distress signal or suspect a boat is in trouble, you must assume it is a real emergency and render assistance immediately. By law, the operator in charge of the craft is obligated to provide assistance to any individual in danger if such assistance can be provided safely. Failure to render assistance can result in a fine and/or imprisonment.

The 1971 Boating Safety Act grants protection to a “Good Samaritan” boater providing good faith assistance, and absolves a boater from any civil liability arising from such assistance.

• Be considerate to fishermen and others you share the water with.

• Do not perform water sports in congested areas.

• Stay away from navigation markers.

• Stay away from other boats and water sport participants.

• Return immediately to a fallen water sport participant and turn off engines.

• Regularly inspect water sport equipment to ensure it is safe.

• Do not use any fuel burning appliances with a transom exhaust port when swimming from the stern swim platform.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT practice unsafe water sports.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

• Water sport participants must wear a USCG approved flotation device. A Type III water ski vest is an approved and practical PFD.

• Keep at least 100 ft (30 m) away from all other objects.

• Have an experienced driver and aft-facing observer in the boat when water sporting.

• Do not water sport in shallow water or at night.

• Do not jump from a moving boat.

• Keep a downed water sporter in sight.

• Turn the engine(s) off before you get close to someone in the water.

• Do not use the boarding ladder with engine(s) running.

Skiers and/or passengers are obligated to be aware of the same safety rules as operators. If you are new to water sports, seek certified training before starting. You will find it especially helpful to join a ski club, World Wakeboard Association and/or the U.S.A. Water Ski when it is possible. Always remember the majority of water sport injuries result from impact with other objects.

Always look where you are going and be aware of your surroundings.

Platform Dragging (“Teak Surfing”)

READ, KNOW and UNDERSTAND the information on warning labels and adhere to the boat operation practices described on them. The USCG issued a SAFETY ALERT on August 28, 2001, which covers some issues regarding improper use of the boarding ladder/swim platform. The SAFETY ALERT and portions of the information follow:

Tragic deaths occur from the negligence of unsafe boating and dangerous activities. Experts say, “many of these deaths may have been caused by an invisible hazard, carbon monoxide poisoning.” Taking the risk of swimming under a boarding platform when the engine is running, skiing within 20 ft (6.1 m), or “teak surfing” or “dragging” behind a moving boat, can be fatal. Dangerous activities which can result in serious injury or death are not considered water sports. Cobalt Boats does not promote unsafe boating risks or jeopardizing any boater’s safety. “Teak Surfing” or “Platform Dragging” may be illegal in your state, or the states you operate in.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT use the swim platform for any other purpose than boarding the boat or preparation of entering the water, and do not use the swim platform when engines are running.

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WARNING

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Safety Alert From August 28, 2001:

The United States Coast Guard advised boaters not to “Teak/Drag Surf.” Recent boating fatalities revealed carbon monoxide (CO) emitted from a vessel’s exhaust resulted in CO poisoning and death. Do not allow persons in the vicinity of the Swim Platform (in the water or in the boat) with the engine(s) or generator operating, while at rest or underway at slow speed. “Teak/Drag Surfing” places the individual in a position directly exposed to the CO in the engine’s exhaust. This can result in a loss of coherent responses and even death. In addition, “Teak/Drag Surfing” dangerously exposes the individual to a possible propeller injury. Since “Teak/Drag Surfing” is done without a life jacket (PFD), it significantly increases the probability of drowning. The Coast Guard stresses, “Teak/Drag Surfing” is a very dangerous activity and advises boaters not to participate in it.

The Coast Guard also stated that carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous gases. It strikes before you know you are exposed and it impairs in a way that can, and too often does, lead to death. This is why the Coast Guard feels it is critical that CO is avoided in every circumstance.

Navigation

Rules of the Road/Sound Signals

The General Prudential Rule regarding right-of-way is that if a collision appears unavoidable, neither boat has right-of-way. As prescribed in the “Rules of the Road,” both boats must act to avoid collision.

The information in this section outlines only the most basic of the nautical “Rules of the Road.” For more information, contact your local USCG Auxiliary.

Whistle/Horn Signals

Signaling other boats with a whistle or horn is similar to using turn signals on an automobile. It is not necessary to sound a signal every time a boat is nearby. In general, boat operators should signal their intention, as to avoid potentially confusing or hazardous situations.

It is customary for the privileged boat to signal first, and the burdened boat to return the same signal to acknowledge she understands and will comply. Use the danger signal (five or more short and rapid blasts) if intent is not clear.

Use the following signal blast early enough to be noticed and understood by other boaters:

• One long blast: Warning signal (coming out of slip or passing astern)

• One short blast: Pass on my port side

• Two short blasts: Pass on my starboard side

• Three short blasts: Engines in reverse

• Five or more short and rapid blasts: Danger signal!

Privileged Boats

Privileged boats have right-of-way and can hold course and speed. Sailboats and boats paddled or rowed have the right-of-way over motor boats. Sailboats under power are considered motorboats. Small pleasure craft must yield to large commercial boats in narrow channels.

Burdened Boats

The burdened boat is the boat that must make the necessary adjustment to course and speed to keep out of the way of the privileged boat.

Avoid injury, death or collisions. Like traffic laws for automobiles, the operator is legally required to follow the rules.

In general, boats with less maneuverability have right-of-way over more agile craft. You must stay clear of the vessel with right-of-way and pass to his stern.

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4 O'CLOCK

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

DANGER ZONE

12 O'CLOCK

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL

COB_0005_A

PASSING PORT TO

PORT

MEETING

HEAD TO

HEAD

PASSING

STARBOARD TO

STARBOARD

HONK HONK

COB_0034_A

HONK

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

Crossing Situation

In crossing situations, the boat to the right from the 12 o’clock to the 4 o’clock position has the right-of-way. It must hold course and speed. The burdened boat keeps clear and passes behind the privileged boat. Boats going up and down a river have the privilege over boats crossing the river.

Meeting Head-On

Neither boat has the right-of-way in this situation. Both boats should decrease speed, should turn to the right and pass port-to-port. However, if both boats are on the left side of the channel, each vessel should sound two short blasts and pass starboard-to-starboard.

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COBALT

COB_0035_A

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL BEING

OVERTAKEN

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

OVERTAKING

HONK

(LONG)

HONK

(LONG)

SPHERICAL SAFE

WATER MARKER

UNLIGHTED

BELL BUOY

LIGHTED BUOY

CAN BUOY

SPAR BUOY

NUN BUOY

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Overtaking

The boat that is overtaking one ahead of it is the burdened boat and must make any adjustments necessary to keep out of the way of the privileged boat. The privileged boat should hold its course and speed.

The size, speed and direction of the other vessels are determined at night from their running lights. A green light indicates the starboard side of the boat, and a red light indicates the port side. Generally, if you see a green light, you have the right-of-way; if you see a red light, give-way to that vessel.

Aids to Navigation

Learn to recognize the different buoys and day markers; they are the signposts of the waterways. The United States Aids to Navigation System (USATONS) is the primary marking system used on inland water, coastal waters and rivers. This system is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).

Types of Buoys

There are several types and shapes of buoys. Buoys may be unlighted, lighted, with sound or may have both an audible and a visual signal. Lights, bells and horns are used on buoys for night or poor visibility conditions. Different shapes of buoys are shown below.

Special Situations

Boats operating between sunset and sunrise (hours vary by state) must use navigational lights, nighttime operation, especially during bad weather or fog can be dangerous. All “Rules of the Road” apply at night; it is best to slow down and stay clear of all boats, regardless of who has right-of-way.

Protect your night vision by avoiding bright lights and have a passenger, if possible, help keep watch for other boats, water hazards and aids to navigation.

Buoys with unique light-flashing characteristics are identified on nautical charts with the specific flashing pattern.

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KC-1901

CONTROLLED

AREA

DANGER BOATS

KEEP OUT

INFORMATION

KC-1903

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

Mooring Buoys

The only buoys you are permitted to moor to are mooring buoys. Mooring buoys are white with a blue horizontal stripe. Mooring to a navigation buoy, regulatory markers or lateral markers is illegal.

Regulatory Markers

Regulatory markers indicate dangerous or restricted controlled areas. These markers are used to indicate speed zones, areas set aside for particular use, general information and directions.

AFETY

Regulatory markers are white with orange geometric shapes and also have orange bands near the top and at the water line of the buoy. You must obey regulatory markers (see below).

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COBALT

KC-1909

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

Port Side Odd Numbers

Starboard Side Even Numbers

Lighted Buoy

Nun Buoy

Daymark

Can Buoy

GREEN LIGHT ONLY

Flashing (2) Flashing Occulting

Quick Flashing Iso

RED LIGHT ONLY

Flashing (2) Flashing Occulting

Quick Flashing Iso

KC-1910

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

Lighted

Spherical Buoy

Daymark

WHITE LIGHT ONLY MORSE CODE

Mo (A)

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Lateral Markers

Lateral markers are oriented from the perspective of being entered from seaward (the boater is going toward the port). This means that red buoys are passed on the starboard (right) side of the vessel when proceeding from open water into port, and green buoys to the port (left) side.

The right side (starboard) of the channel is marked with RED, even-numbered buoys. The left side (port) of the channel is marked with GREEN, odd-numbered buoys.

Day markers are colored and numbered the same as buoys. RED, triangular day markers with even numbers mark the starboard side of the channel.

GREEN, square day markers with odd numbers mark the port side of the channel.

Fairways and mid-channels may be marked with safe water marks or buoys. These marks indicate safe water all around. Safe water marks are red and white striped and are round or have a red spherical topmark.

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Can Buoy

Preferred Channel Aids (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Preferred Channel to Starboard

Lighted Buoy

Preferred Channel to Port

Lighted Buoy

Nun Buoy

Daymark

KC-1911

GREEN LIGHT ONLY

RED LIGHT ONLY

Composite Group Flashing (2+1)

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

AFETY

Obstructions, channel junctions, etc. are marked with RED and GREEN horizontally striped buoys.

A RED band at the top means the preferred channel is to the left of the buoy; a GREEN top band means the preferred channel is to the right of the buoy.

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COBALT

KC-1912

FI (2) 5s

WHITE LIGHT ONLY

Isolated Danger (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Lighted Unlighted

BLACK-STRIPED

WHITE BUOY

KC-1902

Isolated Danger Markers

Isolated danger markers indicate an isolated danger which may be passed on all sides. These markers are colored black with one or more broad horizontal red bands and are equipped with a topmark of two black spheres, one above the other.

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On inland waters, a buoy with alternating vertical black and white stripes may be used to indicate that an obstruction or other danger exists between the buoy and the nearest shore. DO NOT pass between the buoy and the shore.

Light Structures

Maneuvering a boat at night can be dangerous and confusing. To aid boaters with navigation and warn of hazards, the USCG and the state and local authorities maintain a variety of light structures. Some light structures may be equipped with radio beacons, radar reflectors and/or signals.

Minor Lights

Minor lights are colored according to the buoyage marking system in use. They are similar to lighted buoys, except they are usually higher and on more stable platforms to increase visibility. Most minor lights are part of a series to mark a channel, river or harbor.

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COB_0038_A

FRONT MARKER

REAR MARKER

ON RANGE LINE

LEFT OF RANGE LINE RIGHT OF RANGE LINE

RANGE LIGHTS

ESPONSIBILITIES AND

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.

AFETY

Lighthouses

Lighthouses can be found at harbor entrances, prominent headlands, isolated danger areas and along the coast. These striped or patterned structures have unique flashing characteristics to help identify them.

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KC-0443C

COBALT

WORLDWIDE

VESSELS

ENGAGED

IN DIVING

OPERATIONS -

DOES NOT

INDICATE

DIVER'S

POSITION

INDICATES

FELLOW

BOATER IS IN

NEED OF

ASSISTANCE

COB_0039_A

DIVERS FLAG

ALPHA FLAG

DISTRESS FLAG

USED BY

RECREATIONAL

DIVERS -

INDICATES

DIVER'S

POSITION

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Warning Markers

It is a good idea to ask local authorities if there are hazardous areas in the waters in which you plan to boat, and how they are marked. Boaters must also recognize the flag designs which indicate that skin divers are present and keep well clear of the area.

ECTION

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

KC-0250C

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WARNING

PERATING

NFORMATION

ECTION

This section is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of boat operation.

We strongly recommend that all operators of this Cobalt boat seek additional training on boat handling and safety. Have all operators become familiar with the handling characteristics and proper steering and control system usage before attempting operation and especially high-speed operation.

The features described in this section are standard or optional, depending on your model. Refer to

Standard and Optional Equipment

section, for a list of features for this model.

, in this

PRECAUTIONS

Before You Start

Become familiar with the location and operation of all equipment. Have emergency plans in place. Be sure to perform a safety check before operating your boat.

Fire/Explosion

Most fires are the result of fuel and oil accumulating in the bilge from careless fueling practices. Use the fire extinguisher at the base of the flames using a sweeping motion. Prudent and accurate use of the available chemicals should contain all but the worst fires. Verify that the fire has been extinguished. If so, check damage and get assistance immediately. If not, get out and swim at least 25 yards (23 meters) upwind from the boat and use the visual distress signals to get assistance. Refer to

Section 2, Safety

, for additional information.

FIRST-TIME OPERATION

Avoid injury or death. Improper operation can be extremely hazardous. Read and understand this manual, the 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 the safety of other boaters are among your responsibilities as operator of this boat.

Your boat must be in compliance with USCG safety equipment regulations.

You should know how to react correctly to adverse weather conditions, have good navigation skills and follow the “rules of the road” as defined by the USCG and state, county and local regulations.

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

Before each outing you should check all safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, PFDs, flares, distress flags, flashlights and engine stop switch. They should be operable, in good condition, readily visible and easily accessed.

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FUEL

Fuel Requirements

Cobalt fuel systems are designed to meet all current ABYC and NMMA regulations using gasoline with up to 10% ethanol.

DO NOT use fuels containing methanol (methyl alcohol) or other fuels with more than 10% ethanol (ethyl alcohol) content such as E85, which contains 85% ethanol.

Fuel that contains more than 10% ethanol voids all warranties and will increase the risk of damage to the engine, fuel system components and will also lead to the following:

• Corrosion of metal parts

• Deterioration of plastic, rubber parts or permeation of fuel through rubber fuel lines

• Leaking fuel resulting in explosion and/or fire

• Starting and operating difficulties

• Potential damage to your engine

NOTICE: Prevent unwarranted engine damage. Use the recommended fuel type and octane rating. Refer to your propulsion unit operator’s manual.

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

• Stop engines, generators and any fuel operated machinery.

• DO NOT smoke or allow open flames or sparks within 50 ft (15 m) of the fueling area.

• Avoid damaging fuel lines and connectors, and the contact of fuel on hot engine parts.

• DO NOT store fuel in any containers or compartments which are not designated for fuel storage.

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

Fueling

Take care not to spill gasoline. If gasoline is accidentally spilled, wipe up all traces of it with dry rags and immediately dispose of the rags properly ashore. Spilled fuel may yellow the gelcoat finish and damage gunwale trim.

Avoid injury, fire or explosion. Take all precautions every time you fuel your boat, regardless of the fuel type. Certain fuel is extremely flammable and highly explosive under certain conditions. Fumes from rags can collect in bilge and be extremely hazardous. 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.

• 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.

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PERATING INFORMATION

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. 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.

COB_0040_A

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

10. Add fuel in accordance with the 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 avoid 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.

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.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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 engine. If you smell gasoline fumes, do not start the engine; continue to run the blower until fumes have dissipated.

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COBALT

COB_0341_A

CS3

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EPA Fuel Tank

Your Cobalt boat may be equipped with a fuel system that has been designed and manufactured to meet the latest U.S. Coast Guard and EPA EVAP (evaporation) regulations. A decal located at the helm will indicate if your boat is equipped with this fuel system.

Some of the new features in the fuel system:

• There is no “spitback” at the deck plate when fueling. The filler nozzle automatically shuts off when the tank is full. Do not attempt to continue fueling after the nozzle automatically shuts off, indicating the tank is full.

• A carbon canister is present to capture hydrocarbon molecules before air is vented outside the fuel system.

When filling the tank for the first time:

• Fuel vapor will expand within the tank, causing back pressure that may close the inlet check valve and cause the filler nozzle to prematurely shut off. To eliminate this problem, slowly add only about 2 gal (7.5 L) of fuel and stop. Wait a few minutes to let the pressure within the system stabilize; then proceed filling the tank.

Troubleshooting

New tank is hard to fill / nozzle keeps shutting off:

This is called the “Green Tank Effect.” With a new tank that has never seen fuel before, you must let the internal tank volume become completely filled with the fuel vapor, very similar to what occurs in non-diurnal tanks currently. The difference is now you do not get the huge amount of spitback; instead the nozzle just shuts off. When filling a tank for the first time, the fuel vapor expands and builds back pressure, shutting the inlet check valve and causing the nozzle to shut off.

To eliminate this problem, add a few gallons to the tank very slowly and let sit for several minutes. Then proceed with normal filling.

Hot air comes out of vent and it drips liquid:

This is completely normal. When you fill a tank for the first time, the canister becomes saturated with hydrocarbons and generates heat as it performs its intended function. The water from the vent is just water vapor condensation as a result of the carbon canister operating correctly and stopping hydrocarbons (fuel vapor) from venting to the atmosphere. After the first two or three fills, the system will stabilize and these issues will go away.

Cannot “top off” / keep filling tank after it shuts off:

This is due to EPA regulations preventing overfilling the tank to prevent expansion from causing fuel to overflow through the vent.

DO NOT CONTINUE TO FILL THE TANK ONCE IT IS FULL AND THE NOZZLE SHUTS OFF.

• During the first few fills, the new carbon canister within the vent line may generate heat from being initially saturated with hydrocarbons and cause water droplets to emit from the outside air vent. This is normal. After the first two or three fills, this should not happen.

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DANGER

PERATING INFORMATION

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.

Loading

Do not overload your boat. The performance of your boat is dependent on load weight and distribution. Passengers should distribute themselves to maintain trim. Remember to distribute weight from right to left, and also from front to back.

• Avoid excess weight in the bow or stern.

• Securely stow all extra gear in stowage areas to prevent load shifting. Do not stow gear on top of safety equipment; safety equipment must be quickly accessible.

• In adverse weather, reduce the load in the boat. People/load capacity ratings are based upon normal boating conditions.

• Do not use the drive unit as a boarding ramp; use the boarding ladder. To prevent injury, make sure the engine is off when swimmers, divers and skiers are boarding.

Overloading of passengers, personal equipment and supplies could result in an accident, especially in rough waters. Maintain a balanced load at all times.

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

On the Water

Start your engine before casting off. Remember, the boat turns from the stern. Allow plenty of space between the boat and the dock before trying to move away.

Boarding

When boarding the boat, always step in. Do not jump. Avoid stepping on fiberglass or other potentially slippery surfaces. Board one person at a time.

Do not board the boat while carrying gear. Set the gear on the dock, board the boat and then pick up the gear.

Shipshape

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

Avoid injury or death. All passengers should be carefully seated while the boat is moving. DO NOT sit on the bow, bow pulpit, deck, gunwale or sundeck pads when the boat is moving.

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DANGER

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GETTING UNDERWAY

There are many things to consider when planning a safe and enjoyable boating trip.

You are responsible for the safety of all passengers, the boat and any damage the boat or its wake may cause. Keep passengers from blocking your view so that you do not run into other boats, swimmers, water skiers, personal water vehicles or aids to navigation.

Before Starting Checklist

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

Pre-Operation:

• Refer to

• Test operation of carbon monoxide detectors.

• Open all seacocks and check for leaks.

• Check seawater strainers for leaks and accumulation of debris.

• Open windows, doors and hatches.

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

• Check all hoses and connections for leaks and damage.

• Verify the shift lever is in the NEUTRAL position.

• Check that the steering system operates properly.

Section 5, Before Every Use. Launching Checklist

, in this section.

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 trim DOWN 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.

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 engines or generators.

• Do not overload your boat.

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PERATING INFORMATION

Handling Dock and Mooring Lines

Be sure to use enough fenders to protect your boat from damage. Only use good quality, double-braided nylon line. Protect your boat’s finish by using chafing protectors on the lines. Only use the cleats, bow eye and stern eyes to secure your boat. Do not use the handrails or windshield. The foredeck handrails should only be used for tying a “Jackline” in an emergency situation. If possible, tie up your boat with the bow toward the waves and leave a little slack in the lines to allow for some wave movement or tidal action.

1 – Stern Line 2 – Forward Quarter Spring 3 – 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 engine.

NOTICE: Continued operation after the warning alarm has sounded may cause severe engine damage.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors, if equipped

Avoid the possibility of injury or death from exposure to carbon monoxide (CO). All gasoline and diesel engines and fuel burning appliances such as heaters, stoves and generators produce CO. CO is colorless, odorless and dangerous. Direct and prolonged exposure to CO will cause brain damage or death. Signs of exposure to CO include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, ears ringing, headaches, unconsciousness and cherry red skin color. Avoid exposing your passengers and yourself to carbon monoxide. Test the CO detector operation before each trip, at least once a week and after the boat has been in storage. Do not tamper with the operation of the CO detector. The detectors are installed for your safety.

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Starting the Engine

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

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

Cobalt Checklist

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 REFUELING.

• TURN OFF ENGINE WHEN SWIMMERS ARE NEAR BOAT.

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

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

Make sure:

• Control lever is in the NEUTRAL position.

• Throttle lever is 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 an engine and the engine’s starter motor.

2. Operate the engine at approximately 1,000 RPM and check the oil pressure gauge. If oil pressure is not within specified range, stop the engine immediately. Have your authorized Cobalt dealer service the engine.

3. Make sure the water pressure gauge indicates water pressure immediately after starting the engine. If it does not, turn off the engine and contact your authorized Cobalt dealer.

4. Allow the engine to warm up. Check the water temperature gauge to be sure water temperature remains within the specified range.

If the 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.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

CAUTION

DANGER

WARNING

COB029

PERATING INFORMATION

Shifting/Running

Avoid injury, swamping the boat or taking water in over the transom. Go slowly when traversing in reverse.

Follow these guidelines when shifting your boat:

• Pause in the NEUTRAL position before shifting from FORWARD to REVERSE, or REVERSE to FORWARD.

• Avoid shifting into REVERSE while the boat is traveling forward at speed.

• Keep the control area clean and clear of obstructions.

Steering

1 – Release Lever

Avoid injury or death. The steering system is the most important system in the entire boat from a safety standpoint. The boat’s steering system is not self-centering. Propeller torque, trim setting, water condition and boat speed affect the steering. Constant attention to the steering system is required for safe operation. Have the system inspected and maintained on a quarterly basis by a qualified service technician.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a tilt steering wheel. Adjust the tilt position with the release lever.

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.

Refer to additional steering information.

Basic Maneuvering

, in this section, for

CS3 Owner’s Manual

3-9

COBALT

COB_0062_A

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

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

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

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

PERATING INFORMATION

Stopping the Engine

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

1. Slowly bring the throttle lever to the IDLE position, or the NEUTRAL position.

2. Move the shift lever to NEUTRAL.

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

4. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position.

NOTICE: If any problems are encountered during the outing, have your boat inspected by your authorized Cobalt dealer and request any necessary repairs before your next outing.

Returning

Avoid injury. DO NOT use your hands, arms or another part of your body to attempt to keep the boat from hitting the dock.

Approach a dock slowly and use caution. Plan your maneuvers ahead of time. Allow wind and current movement to help maneuver your boat.

Be sure to read section.

Basic Maneuvering

, in this

Leaving

Use caution when casting off. Wind, water conditions and other boat traffic will affect your boat’s movement. Move slowly and:

• Be sure the engine is warmed up before

casting off.

• Have enough space between the boat and the

dock to allow you to swing the boat’s bow away from the dock. The boat’s stern will move toward the dock as the bow moves away. Allow for enough room or the stern will hit the dock.

• Retrieve all mooring lines and fenders.

• Proceed slowly. Sound a long blast to alert

other boaters that you are departing.

When leaving a mooring, you should already have enough space around the boat to maneuver. Untie from the mooring and move back slowly until you can see it. Proceed slowly while giving the buoy wide clearance.

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COBALT

CS3

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ECTION

WIND or CURRENT

COB_0063_A

Docking

Follow these guidelines when docking:

• Come to a stop a short distance from the dock,

then proceed slowly.

• Have your fenders, mooring lines and the crew

ready.

• Observe how the wind and current are moving

your boat. Approach the dock with the boat pointed into the wind, if possible. If the wind or current is pushing you away from the dock, use a sharper angle of approach. If you must approach the dock downwind or down current, use a slow speed and shallow angle. Be ready to reverse in order to stop and maintain position.

• If there is no wind or current, approach the dock at a 10° to 20° angle.

• If possible, throw a line to a person on the dock and have that person secure a bow line. If no one is on the dock, maneuver as close as you can, then secure any line to a piling or dock cleat.

• With the bow secure, swing the stern in using engine thrust, or pull it in with a boat hook.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

COB_0064_A

COB_0065_A

PERATING INFORMATION

Approaching a Slip

This maneuver is similar to backing an automobile into a garage or parking space. When approaching a slip:

• Have fenders, mooring lines and the crew ready.

• Turn the boat’s stern toward the slip.

• Shift to REVERSE.

• Maneuver slowly into the slip then shift to FORWARD. Use your steering wheel and throttles to align the boat with the slip.

• Once aligned, shift to REVERSE and continue to back in slowly. Shift into FORWARD when completely in to stop the movement of the boat.

• Shift to the NEUTRAL position, secure the mooring lines and stop the engine.

Approaching a Mooring

1 – Mooring Buoy

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

Approach a mooring buoy by heading into the wind or current. Observe the direction of other boats that already lie at mooring buoys. Since they are heading into the wind or current, approach your buoy at the same heading.

• When you think you can move enough forward without using your engine, shift to the NEUTRAL position.

• Have a crew member positioned on the bow with a hook to retrieve the mooring line. At that point, the crew member should be guiding your maneuvers toward the buoy.

• Turn off the engine after the mooring line is attached to the boat.

Basic Maneuvering

Techniques

Wandering is a characteristic of all deep V-hulls at slow speed. There is no cure for wandering; however, a very basic operational technique can be applied which will minimize this characteristic.

If the steering wheel is moved back and forth to compensate for wandering, invariably, the situation will be magnified. If the steering wheel remains in a centered position, the boat will wander back and forth slightly; however, the overall course of the boat will be a straight one.

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COBALT

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ECTION

Trim

Boat trim while on plane is influenced by three factors:

1. Load distribution

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 increase.

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

If the drive unit is 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 unit is trimmed out too far (away from the boat bottom), steering torque may increase, the boat may be difficult to get on plane and it may bounce.

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

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

PORT TAB LOWERED

PORT STERN RISES STARBOARD BOW LOWERS

STARBOARD TAB LOWERED

STARBOARD STERN RISES PORT BOW LOWERS

COB_0067_A

STERN

RISES

WATER IS REDIRECTED

CREATING UPWARD

FORCE AT STERN

COB_0068_A

BOW

LOWERS

HULL

PERATING INFORMATION

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 unit.

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COBALT

DANGER

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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 planing 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.

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.

High-Speed Operation

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.

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.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

DANGER

WARNING

DANFORTH

ANCHOR

KC-1571

PERATING INFORMATION

• The propellers should be of the proper pitch to turn the recommended RPM rating for the engine with an average boat load. Refer to your propulsion unit operator’s manual for additional information.

• Watch the tachometer. Keep the engine within the full throttle operating range. Refer to the propulsion unit operator’s manual for full throttle operating range.

Avoid injury, death or loss of control. Do not make aggressive turns at high speed. Keep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the throttle control at all times. If the boat begins to operate in an unsafe way, pull back on the throttle. Trim the drive unit in at the same time and maintain control.

High-speed operation requires quick reactions and adjustments are needed to maintain control. Know your limits and stay within them. Keep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the throttle; constant adjustments are necessary for rapidly changing conditions. Small inputs of throttle, steering and trim movement are exaggerated at high speeds. Keep watch well ahead so that you have enough time to react.

Anchoring

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.

The windlass, if equipped, gets its power from the 12V DC system. The windlass can be operated at the driver’s helm or from the foredeck on some models and only from a switch located in the anchor locker area on others.

On some models, 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 one of the cockpit storage areas or in 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.

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 engine off, you have no control of the boat. Water and wind conditions will affect an anchored boat. Be sure the anchor will hold before leaving the boat.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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.

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COBALT

WARNING

DANGER

Avoid injury and/or property damage.

• Keep hands, feet, loose clothing and hair well clear of the winch and rope/chain during operation.

• Keep clear view of the winch, rope, chain and anchor when operating the winch. This may require a second person when operating.

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Setting

When the anchor hits bottom, slowly back up the boat, keeping tension on the line. The anchor line should be five to seven times the depth of the water.

Weighing (May require two persons)

To weigh (retrieve) the anchor, start the engine and slowly move forward. Press the toggle switch up while taking in anchor line as you go. Carefully retrieve the last meter (36 inches) of rope/chain, then seat the anchor in the bow fitting.

• Run the boat’s engine while raising or lowering the anchor. Not only is this a safety precaution, it also prevents draining of the batteries.

• DO NOT use the winch as a bollard. When anchored, secure the anchor line directly to a bollard or deck cleat.

• Secure the anchor with a rope or fastener pin when operating the boat at high speed, in heavy weather or while transporting.

• Turn the WINDLASS switch off when the winch is not in use and before leaving the boat.

• Keep the rope in good condition and free from twists, knots, heavy abrasions and salt buildup. In the event of the rope slipping or jamming, reverse the direction of the winch and check the rope for damage.

• Ensure the size and type of chain used with this switch is compatible with the rope/chain.

Use caution when anchoring. Look for signs of underwater pipes or cables. With the engine off, you have no control of the boat. Water and wind conditions will affect an anchored boat. Be sure the anchor will hold.

The anchor must be secured with anchor snubber (clip, shackle, etc. with short piece of line) when it is stored to prevent accidental deployment. When anchor is deployed and in use, the rode (rope or chain) must be secured to a cleat or secure holding point. Do not use windlass to hold vessel.

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

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 (2) to the bow eye (3) on the disabled boat. Attach the opposite end of the bridle only to the stern cleats (1) of the tow boat. Wrap the bridle with chafing gear where it rubs against the boat.

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

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.

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

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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.

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COB_0003_A

PERATING INFORMATION

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.

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 saltwater operation and protection.

Freshwater flushing of the engine is recommended after operating in salt, polluted or brackish water. Refer to your engine operator’s manual for additional 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 unit in the vertical position until cooling system has drained.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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

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COBALT

Entertainment System

To operate your entertainment system, you must first supply power to the unit(s). Make sure the battery switch is on. If your boat is equipped with a Power Distribution Panel, the switches for the entertainment system components must be turned to ON before operation. 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 and Optional Equipment

The audio speakers in your Cobalt are designed to deliver maximum fidelity in a marine environment. The speakers can be damaged if struck by a sharp object or if the moving elements are restricted from movement. Do not store or place any sharp objects near the speakers, or restrict the element movement.

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PERATING INFORMATION

COBALT INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEM

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with instruments manufactured by Medallion Instrument Systems. Each instrument has been manufactured in an ISO 9001-2000 registered facility, built to stringent standards and has passed a comprehensive quality control procedure prior to shipment. Each instrument is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. While most of the instruments have the look and easy readability of analog gauges, the instruments are digitally controlled, providing reliable and trouble-free performance for years. Digitally controlled instrumentation simplifies engine diagnosis, provides more accurate information and data can be generated directly from the engine.

The Cobalt Instrument System:

system consists of a single Data Interface Gauge (DIG) and several auxiliary gauges. The Data Interface Gauge collects information from the CAN bus and analog inputs and drives the auxiliary gauges via a low-speed data bus. The auxiliary gauges receive power from the Data Interface Gauge. The backlight of all the gauges is powered on a connector terminal, not associated with any data bus.

In twin-engine applications, data for both engines is on the CAN (P) bus attached to the Starboard Master DIG to enable this system. The Master (Starboard) and the Port DIGs are unique, distinct gauges and are defined by the software programmed into each gauge. It is not unusual for tachometers and other system gauges to have slightly different readings between engines as long as the readings are within the engines’ specified operating range.

System Startup:

position, all the gauges will perform a pointer reset (go to zero, or minimum reading). With the speedometer as the Data Interface Gauge, it will perform an LCD all-segments-on test. Once the initializations are complete, the gauges will be able to receive and display data.

With the ignition key in the “ON”

Each gauge

System Shutdown:

“OFF” position, all gauge pointers will return to “zero” or minimum value. The Data Interface Gauge will turn its LCD window off and shut off power to the auxiliary gauges.

Tachometers:

of 2% of full scale (120 RPM on a 6000 RPM tach). In a twin-engine application, this could be a 240 RPM difference between each tach reading when the engines are in sync. The tachometers will read zero when the key is turned on, without the engine running. The tach may display a reading when the key is turned off.

Trim Gauges:

most accurate and useful in the engine down or “trim” range. The gauge may not read full “up” in some cases. This is not unusual, nor does it indicate a problem with either the trim sender or the gauge.

Fuel Gauges:

sloshing in the tank. This does not necessarily indicate a problem with the gauge or sender.

Instrument Fogging:

designed to be “fog resistant.” There are small vents in their cases to allow trapped moisture to escape. Occasionally moist air may be drawn into the vents when the air inside the gauge cools down, after the instrument is turned off. The morning sun can draw this moisture up against the lens, causing fogging. Turning on the instrument with the instrument light “ON” will speed up moisture removal. Your Cobalt instruments are built to withstand the harsh marine environment, and fogging will not harm them.

Radio Transmissions:

operation) may be noticed on tachometers or synchronizers during radio transmissions. This will not damage the instrument or affect its accuracy.

With the ignition key in the

Most tachometers have a tolerance

Trim gauges are calibrated to be the

Fuel gauges may “bounce” from fuel

The instruments are

Some interference (erratic

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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COBALT

WARNING

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HELM AND INSTRUMENTATION

ECTION

COB_0446_A

Your Cobalt boat helm will monitor and provide operation of the boat’s functions. The gauges are illuminated for night operation.

On occasion, a small fluctuation in a gauge reading is not unusual. If an instrument reading is outside the normal or recommended ranges, determine the cause or see your authorized Cobalt dealer.

Refer to the engine operator’s manual for normal recommended ranges.

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.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

PERATING INFORMATION

1. FUEL (Fuel Level Gauge) -

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 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.

2. SPEEDOMETER -

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

The following information may also be displayed in the LCD window of the Speedometer gauge if the required sensors, senders or transducers are present in the system:

• Water Depth

• Outdrive Trim Position

• Oil Pressure

• Engine Coolant Temperature

• Actual Engine Run Time in Hours

• Engine RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)

• Temperature of Sea Water

• Air Temperature

• Battery Voltage

• Fuel Tank Level

Registers forward speed in

Measures the

4. TRIM (Trim Gauge) -

angle position of the engines’ outdrive relative to the position of the bow, up or down when boat is on plane. Use this gauge in combination with the trim switches located in the throttle control.

5. ACCESSORY PANEL WITH STORAGE

NAV. LIGHTS -

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.

Navigational Lights - You must use your navigational lights (running lights) when operating your Cobalt 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.

NAV/ANC “Lights” - This three-

NOTICE: Operate the boat between sunset and sunrise using your navigational lights.

Navigational lights are legally required to indicate direction and right-of-way at night.

This gauge indicates the

• Fuel Burn Rate

• Engine faults are displayed if present

The ignition key switch must be in the “ON” or “accessory” position in order to display LCD window data. Push the button located on the underside of the dash below the speedometer to scroll through the information modes of the LCD display window on the speedometer dial face.

3. TACHOMETER -

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.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

Registers engine speed in

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.

BILGE BLOWER -

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 engine or generator. In addition, the blower should be operated continuously when at idle or running at slow speeds.

BILGE PUMP -

bilge pump.

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This switch activates the engine

This switch manually controls the

COBALT

WARNING

COB_0042_A

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INTERIOR LIGHTS -

illumination within the cockpit.

DOCKING LIGHTS (Optional) -

operates the docking lights.

Docking lights are to be used for docking only. It is illegal to use your docking lights while cruising.

PLATFORM LIGHTS -

platform lights.

ACCESSORY -

operate switched accessory items.

6. SHIFT/THROTTLE LEVER -

have a single lever for a single-engine application and dual levers for twin-engine applications.

In some applications, multiple levers can be used 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.

This switch provides

This switch

This switch operates the

These switches are available to

Your control will

7. IGNITION SAFETY SWITCH

Avoid injury, death or damage to equipment. DO NOT allow your boat to be operated without the proper use of the ignition safety switch and lanyard.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with an ignition safety switch located on the lower lip of the helm. The ignition safety switch and lanyard will stop the engine in case of an emergency. Attach the lanyard to the boat operator whenever the engine is running, but be aware there will be a loss of boat control if the switch is activated. If the operator is thrown from the seat or moves too far from the helm, the lanyard will become disconnected from the ignition safety switch, shutting off the engine.

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1 – Ignition Safety Switch 2 – Lanyard 3 – Hook

CS3 Owner’s Manual

DANGER

PERATING INFORMATION

Avoid injury or death. Attach the ignition safety switch lanyard to the operator before starting the engine. This will prevent the boat from becoming a runaway if the operator is accidentally thrown away from the helm. The ignition safety switch can only be effective when it is in good working condition. Observe the following:

• DO NOT remove or modify the ignition safety switch and/or lanyard.

• The lanyard must be free from obstructions that could interfere with its operation.

• DO NOT operate the boat if the ignition safety switch does not function properly.

• 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.

Remote Control(s)

Avoid injury or death. Make sure all shift/throttle hardware and cables are regularly inspected and maintained. Improperly maintained controls are hazardous and may cause sudden loss of control.

NOTICE: Do not use the shift levers when the engine is not running. Do not shift too quickly from FORWARD to REVERSE. Damage to the engine and transmission can result. When shifting from FORWARD to REVERSE, pause in the NEUTRAL position until the engine is at idle speed and the boat has slowed. When shifting from NEUTRAL to FORWARD or REVERSE, shift briskly and decisively.

Your Cobalt boat is equipped with a safety switch for “start-in-neutral-only” operation. The shift lever(s) must be in the NEUTRAL position before attempting to start the engine.

• 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.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

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.

8. DRIVE UNIT TRIM SWITCH -

Switch controls the trim angle of the drive unit. This switch will maximize the performance and ride of the boat. If combined with the optional trim tabs, more enhancement to performance and ride can be achieved.

9. SHIFT DETENT BUTTON -

NEUTRAL into FORWARD or REVERSE.

10. GAUGE MODE SWITCH -

LCD screen on speedometer.

3-25

Drive Unit Trim

Press to shift from

Allows toggling of

COBALT

WARNING

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

11. UNDERWATER LIGHTING SWITCH (Optional) - Your boat may be equipped with

underwater lighting and the operating switch may be located here. If not located under the dash, you will find the switch in the transom area.

12. TILT STEERING RELEASE LEVER - Adjusts the steering wheel angle to a comfortable operating position when the boat is not moving.

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

14. IGNITION - Each engine has its separate ignition switch. In dual-engine applications, the left switch is for the port engine, and the right switch is for the starboard engine.

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. STEREO REMOTE CONTROL (standard on

dash, transom mount, optional) - This panel provides remote control of the stereo system from the helm.

16. 12-VOLT ACCESSORY POWER RECEPTACLE - Your Cobalt boat is equipped with

a 12-volt accessory power receptacle. The receptacle provides electricity to operate 12V DC accessory items. Limit the accessory to 10 Amps.

5" DIGITAL GAUGE

Alarms

Alarm Overview

Alarm information will be displayed as described below. This system does not allow for acknowledgement and de-emphasis of the alarms in the various display modes.

High Voltage Alarm

Appearance - Voltage is displayed on the

Speedometer LCD. High voltage will cause the voltage text and digits to flash on and off in 0.5 ±0.25 second intervals as long as the high voltage message is received.

Low Voltage Alarm

Appearance - Voltage is displayed on the

Speedometer LCD. Low voltage will cause the voltage text and digits to flash on and off in 0.5 ±0.25 second intervals as long as the low voltage message is received.

Low Oil Pressure Alarm

Appearance - Oil Pressure is displayed in the Trim

Gauge, on an LCD, in the form of a bar-type histogram. When the low oil pressure message is received, the LCD display will flash on and off in 0.5 ±0.25 second intervals.

Low Block Pressure Alarm

Appearance - When the low block pressure

message is received, the Tachometer LCD display, in the segmented digits, shows “W P”, alternating with the magnetic heading and any other alarm message, in 1.0 ±0.3 second intervals.

Overheat Alarm

Appearance - Coolant temperature is displayed in

the Fuel Gauge, on an LCD, in the form of a bar-type histogram.

When the Overheat message is received, the LCD will flash on and off in 0.5 ±0.25 second intervals.

3-26

CS3 Owner’s Manual

Low Drive Lube Alarm

PERATING INFORMATION

Appearance -

received, the Tachometer LCD display, in the segmented digits, shows magnetic heading and any other alarm message, in

1.0 ±0.3 second intervals.

Check Engine Alarm

Appearance -

received, the Tachometer LCD display, in the segmented digits, shows magnetic heading and any other alarm message, in

1.0 ±0.3 second intervals.

Guardian Active Alarm Appearance -

received, the Tachometer LCD display, in the segmented digits, shows magnetic heading and any other alarm message, in

1.0 ±0.3 second intervals.

Helm Fault Alarm

Appearance -

received, the Tachometer LCD display, in the segmented digits, shows magnetic heading and any other alarm message, in

1.0 ±0.3 second intervals.

When the Low Drive Lube Alarm is

“L L”

, alternating with the

When the Check Engine Alarm is

“C E”

, alternating with the

When the Guardian Active Alarm is

“C E”

, alternating with the

When the Helm Fault Alarm is

“H F”

, alternating with the

CS3 Owner’s Manual

3-27

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

STANDARD AND OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

ECTION

Feature

Standard Optional

Canvas

Bimini X

Bow Tonneau Cover X

Cockpit Tonneau Cover X

Mooring Cover X

Cockpit Configuration

Seating, “S” Sport X

Dash

Accessory Power Plug - 12 Volt X

Compass X

Composite Helm Eyebrow, Custom Stitching X

Depth & Water/Air Temp Gauge Pkg. X

Etched Stainless Steel Instrument Panel X

GPS, Garmin 741 Touch-Screen w/Maps X

GPS, Garmin 741 Touch-Screen w/Maps Weather X

Hour Meter X

Leather Steering Wheel w/Auto Leveling Hub X

Stainless Steel Switches X

Exterior

Anchor Locker X

Arch-Black, Aluminum, Fwd. Folding w/Bimini X

Arch-White, Aluminum, Fwd. Folding w/Bimini X

Bow Scuff Plate, Stainless Steel X

COBALT Oval Logo, Recessed X

Docking Lights-Stainless Steel X

Extended Running Surface X

Fender Clips w/Line (4) X

Flagpole w/Flag X

Flip-Down Swim Step w/o Ladder X

Graphics, Molded-In Gelcoat X

Midship Cleats X

Swim Platform Mat (w/Flip-down Swim Step) X

Ski Tow Eye, Stainless Steel X

SS Tubular Platform Perimeter Rail X

Stainless Top Trim Windshield X

Swim Platform, Transom Lighting X

CS3

3-28

CS3 Owner’s Manual

PERATING INFORMATION

Feature

Standard Optional

Swim Platform, Extended w/Ladder X

Transhield Shipping Cover X

Transom Tilt Switch X

Underwater Lighting X

Wakeboard Racks (req. Arch) X

Interior

Aft Sunpad w/Walk-Thru Transom X

Aft Walk-Thru Filler Cushions X

Aft Walk-Thru Gate X

Air Compressor w/Holder X

Bow Center Cushion Insert X

Bow Walk-Thru Door X

Carpet, 40 oz., Snap-In w/Neoprene Back X

Dinette Table w/Cockpit Receptacle X

Floor Covering, Sea Grass X

LED Interior Accent Lighting (Blue) X

Remote Courtesy Lights w/Key Fob X

Removable Bow & Cockpit Carpet X

Removable Ice Chest X

Seating Varadense Comfort X

Seating, Helm Flip-Up X

Stainless Steel Foot Tread (helm only) X

Throw Pillows, Weighted (10) X

Throw Pillows, Weighted (4) X

Stereo

iPod/USB/MP3 Port X

Premium Sound System w/Transom Remote X

Satellite Radio System X

Sound System, Bluetooth, w/6 Speakers X

Speakers, Arch-1 Pair X

Stereo Remote, Dash X

Stereo Remote, Transom X

Structure

10/5/3 Year Warranty Protection X

Battery Maintainer/Charger, 110V X

Battery Maintainer/Charger, 220V X

Battery Switch, Dual w/ACR X

Battery Switch, Single X

CS3

CS3 Owner’s Manual

3-29

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

Feature

Standard Optional

CE Requirements w/Automatic Fire Extinguisher X

Circuit Breaker Protected Elec System X

Composite Floor X

Composite Seat Bases X

Composite Transom X

Cruise Control-Smart Tow (Merc DTS) X

Cruise Control-Zero Off (Vol) X

Driver’s Rearview Mirror (W/S Mount) X

Fiberglass Cockpit Liner X

Fiberglass Stringer System X

Fire Extinguisher, Automatic System X

Fire Extinguisher, Manual X

Ignition Safety Switch X

Kevlar Reinforced Hull X

Stainless Steel Windshield Braces X

Through Prop Exhaust X

Tool Kit X

Throw Pillows

Cocoa X

Crimson Red X

Granite X

Midnight Blue X

Walnut X

CS3

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

DANGER

COB_0093_A

COB_0294_B

PERATING INFORMATION

CAPTAIN’S CHAIR ADJUSTMENTS AND OPERATION

Your captain’s chairs have the flip-up position for greater visibility and maneuverability while docking. You can sit on the raised cushion or stand in front of the cushion.

Standing while driving your boat should only be done while maneuvering at an idle by an experienced driver.

The chairs are adjustable fore and aft and also rotate. Some fore and aft adjustment may be necessary when swiveling your seat(s) to avoid damage to the chair or side panel. Some seating configurations do not allow all seats to rotate completely.

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 600 lbs (272 kg). If the swim platform is removed, the boat will not pass Coast Guard inspection, and the boat cannot be boarded until a boarding ladder is installed. The swim platform may be removed for off-season storage only.

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.

Use caution when stowing the ladder to prevent pinching fingers.

1. Lift lever to adjust fore and aft.

2. Turn rotation friction handle clockwise to increase friction and counterclockwise to decrease friction. The chair should always be operated with slight friction.

3. Rotation lever for chair - move chair slightly forward, then lift lever to rotate. The lever will rest in its detent when the seat is in its forward direction.

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.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

3-31

COBALT

WARNING

COB_0312_A

Avoid the possibility of injury or death. DO NOT occupy the platform or use the ladder when the engine is running or engaged. Propeller contact or exposure to CO can cause severe injury or death. All gasoline engines produce CO. CO is colorless, odorless and dangerous. Direct and prolonged exposure to CO will cause brain damage or death. The stern drive unit and the propeller have many sharp edges.

The extended swim platform must be attached to the boat when it is in use. The boarding ladder is attached to the boarding platform. The removable feature is for boat storage only.

CS3

FLIP DOWN SWIM STEP -

BOWRIDER

To deploy the step:

1. Stand behind the platform; pull the plunger out and pull up on the step at the same time.

2. Pull the step towards you; do not let go.

3. Gently let the step down; it will lock into place automatically. Do not let the stainless tube hit or rest on the drive or props at any time.

To raise the step:

Pull the plunger and raise the step at the same time. Be careful when folding the step over onto the platform. Do not allow the step to slam down.

Always make sure the area in the platform is clear before closing the step.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT overload the flip down swim step. The swim step maximum load is 400 lbs (181 kg).

ECTION

OPTIONAL

Boat in the Water

First, lower the drive all the way.

To deploy the step:

1. Kneel down to reach the plunger; pull the plunger out and pull up on the step at the same time.

2. Push the step over into the water. The step will be buoyant.

3. Sit on the platform and push the step down with your feet; it will automatically lock into place.

To raise the step:

1. Push down slightly on the step with your feet while sitting on the platform.

2. Pull the plunger and allow the step to float up.

3. Move to the side and pull the step onto the platform. It will automatically lock into place.

Boat on a Trailer

1 – Swim Step 2 – Plunger

Lower the drive as low as possible without hitting the ground or trailer.

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

PERATING INFORMATION

VOLVO PENTA OCEAN SERIES OUTDRIVE

Your boat may be equipped with an Ocean Series Outdrive from Volvo Penta. In addition to a composite outdrive, there is a Neutra-Salt switch located in the helm area of your Cobalt boat. Please refer to the Neutra-Salt Operator’s Manual located in your boat bag for operating information.

COCKPIT DINETTE TABLE OPTIONAL

Remove the j-shaped table leg from the storage bag stored in the port bow storage. Slide the leg into its mounting support. Slide the table top onto the leg. If your table top has a lever, tighten the lever.

Your optional dinette table may be made of teak. To keep teak in top condition, clean it occasionally with a teak cleaner and re-oil it at least once a season.

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.

Avoid direct exposure to water and keep stowed when not in use.

ANCHOR LIGHT

To install anchor light insert pole into socket and turn clockwise until it locks into place.

BOW CUSHION INSERT OPTIONAL

The bow area can be converted into a sun deck by placing the bow cushion insert. Position inserts to create the sun deck.

AIR COMPRESSOR OPTIONAL

Switch

Air Flow

COB_0097_A

Cap the anchor light socket when the anchor light is removed.

CRUISE CONTROL OPTIONAL

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT use the cruise control feature as a means for navigation or for “no hands” operation.

To operate the Cruise Control speed control system, set desired speed. Once your boat reaches the set speed, the Cruise Control will hold the speed constant. For additional operating information, refer to Cruise Control operator’s manual in your owner’s packet.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

COB_0101_A

3-33

COBALT

WARNING

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

BATTERY SWITCH

The dual battery switch provides isolation and positive disconnect from the batteries to protect against tampering, electrical fire hazards and battery rundown. The switch should be in the ON position rather than the COMBINE BATTERIES position. This will keep one battery in reserve should the other fail. You can operate the boat with the switch in the COMBINE BATTERIES position, but this is not recommended for extended periods. In the OFF position, the boat will be isolated from the batteries except for the automatic bilge pump.

NOTICE: The purpose of dual batteries is to keep one as a spare. In the COMBINE BATTERIES position, one larger battery is essentially formed. If a failure should occur with the electrical systems or either battery, both batteries will end up discharged.

AUTOMATIC CHARGING RELAY (ACR)

The automatic charging relay (ACR) automatically combines the batteries when the engine is running. It also isolates the batteries when discharging to prevent the starting battery from discharging while using the house battery when the engine is off. The ACR has the following features:

• 120 amp continuous rating

• 12/24V DC auto ranging voltage input

• Senses charging on two battery banks

• Side and bottom knockouts for cable connections

• Clip-on cover insulates terminal connections

• Integrated LED indicates ACR status

• Waterproof – rated IP67 for temporary immersion

WATER SYSTEM

NOTICE: On dual battery installations, there is an ACR installed that will allow the engine to charge the second battery.

BATTERY CHARGER OPTIONAL

See specific operating instructions located in your boat bag or consult your Cobalt dealer for further information.

The vessel does not have ground fault or galvanic corrosion protection. To prevent possible shock, drowning or galvanic corrosion, do not use the battery charger when the vessel is in the water.

If your Cobalt boat is equipped with a transom shower, galley sink, icemaker, etc. (optional), the system allows for potable (drinkable) water to be stored onboard. Refer to

Specifications

system.

As standard procedure, the water system is winterized from the factory and water is non-potable. DO NOT DRINK. The system must be cleaned and disinfected before the first use.

The system is operated by a 12V DC water pump located in the engine compartment. It is necessary for the 12V DC system to be energized and the WATER PRESSURE switch to be turned on to operate the water system. The water pump works on demand. It will not automatically shut off when the freshwater tank is empty.

, for the capacity of the water

Section 1

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CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

COB_0138_A

COBALT

BOW TONNEAU (BOW RIDERS ONLY)

COCKPIT

TONNEAU

PERATING INFORMATION

COCKPIT TONNEAU COVER OPTIONAL

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING OR

ROTATING PARTS HAZARD

Poisonous CO gases are present at the rear of the craft when the engine is running. Exposure to CO gases can cause death or serious injury. A rotating propeller can cut or entangle causing death or serious injury. DO NOT use the swim/boarding platform when the engine is running.

To clean and disinfect the water tank, refer to

Section 6, Water Systems

Consult your authorized Cobalt dealer for winterization requirements.

BOW TONNEAU COVER OPTIONAL

Follow these procedures to attach the bow tonneau cover:

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.

1. Open walk-thru doors.

2. Starting at bow, slip bow opening over bow, work aft, and snap the cover to the boat.

3. Close windshield center door and snap the canvas to the underside of the windshield.

4. Install the adjustable tonneau cover support pole. Make sure the pole is perpendicular to the floor and adjust to “tent” the cover.

5. Walk-thru doors may be closed if desired.

Do not use bow tonneau cover for extended storage. It is not designed for storage, but can be used for overnight storage or trailering.

NOTICE: Always double-check snaps are secure.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

3-35

COBALT

WARNING

CS3

BOWRIDER

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.

ARCH W/BIMINI

1. Fold aft bimini bow toward the back of the boat.

2. Remove canvas boot.

3. Unfold canvas and deploy over the top of the arch, and put the hole in the canvas over the anchor light on top.

4. Move forward bimini bow to top quick release position, and attach the short bimini poles to the forward bow and quick release.

5. Unzip forward bow support pocket on the canvas and put over forward bimini bow and rezip canvas.

6. Pull the aft end of bimini down tight using adjustment straps to hold tight.

ECTION

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

SKI TOW EYE/PYLON

The stainless steel ski tow and stainless steel ski tow pylon are designed for a single skier only. The ski tow pylon may be located at the stern of the boat or on the ski tower.

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT overload the ski tow, ski tow eye or the ski tow pylon, or use them for anything other than water sports. The ski tow eye and the ski tow pylon maximum load is 1,000 lbs (454 kg).

3-36

COB_0245_A

CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

Keep hands

and feet

away from

drive unit

when tilting

COB_0151

WARNING

PERATING INFORMATION

TRANSOM TILT SWITCH OPTIONAL

The remote transom tilt switch allows you to raise or lower the drive unit from the stern. The remote tilt switch is connected directly to the battery switch and does not require the ignition key to be on. If your boat has twin engines, each drive unit will have a switch.

TIE-DOWN LOCATIONS

1 – Bow Eye 2 – Cleats 3 – Stern Eyes

Avoid injury, death or property damage. Never anchor a boat from the stern, and keep the boat headed into the waves.

COB_0001_A

CS3 Owner’s Manual

3-37

COBALT

DANGER

CAUTION

(30˚)

COB_0244_A

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

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

Anchoring

Section 3

MOTOR BOX ASSEMBLY

Avoid injury or death. DO NOT occupy or operate an engine when the motor box is open. The motor box assembly is a machinery guard.

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.

FLAGPOLE WITH FLAG OPTIONAL

The flagpole with flag can be easily installed by positioning the pole into the receptacle at approximately 30°, pushing it in and twisting it clockwise to secure. Make sure the pole is secured before getting underway. Do not use the flagpole for any purpose other than displaying the flag.

Avoid injury or damage to your boat. The motor cover is heavy and may require more than one person to lift it manually. If lifting the box manually, position one person at each grab handle and lift straight up. Place support into position.

Before opening the motor box, make sure no items are on top of the motor box and any cushions, inserts or stored equipment are secure or removed. Make sure all obstructions are cleared before closing the box. Wind and conditions may allow the motor box to open beyond its limits; use caution during these conditions.

3-38

CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

YSTEMS

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.

ECTION

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.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

4-1

COBALT

FUEL ROUTING

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

FUEL VENT

HOSE

FUEL TANK

4-2

FUEL FILL HOSE

FUEL LINE TO ENGINE

COB_0447_A

CS3 Owner’s Manual

WARNING

COB_0090_A

YSTEMS

FIRE SUPPRESSION EQUIPMENT

If your Cobalt boat is equipped with a fixed automatic fire extinguisher that uses FE-241 (or optional FM-200, for European requirements) as an extinguishing agent, it is mounted on the engine compartment and generator compartment (if equipped). These extinguishers are activated when the heat-sensitive head reaches a predetermined temperature. The extinguisher discharges and saturates the engine and/or generator compartment, smothering the fire.

Inspect fire extinguishers for proper charge before operating the boat.

Avoid injury, death or explosion. DO NOT open the engine compartment hatch immediately. This will allow oxygen to the fire, and flashback can occur. When the fire extinguisher discharge occurs, turn off all engines, bilge blowers and electrical system components.

BATTERY CONNECTIONS

Avoid the potential of explosion from shorting or arcing. Keep the battery connections tight and clean, the terminal covers in place and the battery(ies) secure in the restraint system.

Loose battery connections can cause errant signals to the boat’s electrical system.

Read and understand the safety information on or supplied with your battery(ies). Maintain the battery(ies) following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Your Cobalt boat 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.

The DC components are controlled from the helm switches after the battery switch. If your Cobalt boat has a cabin, it may have an electrical system panel that supplies 12 volts to these types of accessories:

• Cabin lights

• Cockpit lights

• Head

• Freshwater pressure pump

• Air compressor

• Entertainment system

CS3 Owner’s Manual

4-3

COBALT

NOTES

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

4-4

CS3 Owner’s Manual

DANGER

NTERIOR

The best way to take care of your Cobalt boat is with prevention and proper care. All of the care methods within this section may not apply to your boat.

VINYL INTERIOR AND

XTERIOR

ARE

Avoid fire or explosion. Avoid open flame or spark. Flammable liquids are extremely dangerous and must be used in well-ventilated areas.

ECTION

UPHOLSTERY

The vinyl and interior fabric in your Cobalt boat has been specially selected to take the tough punishment of the elements and hard usage of an active boater. Avoid sharp objects that may cut or tear your vinyl.

Care and Cleaning of Vinyl

Most common everyday light soiling can be easily removed by using a solution of 10% liquid household dish soap and 90% warm water, applied with a clean dampened cloth. Rinse with a clean cloth dampened with water and allow to dry. Moderate scrubbing with a soft-bristle brush will help loosen dirt and grime embedded in the grain of the vinyl.

See specific cleaning instructions located in your boat bag.

NOTICE: It is extremely important to clean the stained area as quickly as possible, making sure the recommended cleaning steps are followed in order.

Dark Stowage Areas

Often, when a boat is stored completely covered or in a dark building, the vinyl will darken or become “dingy” looking. If this happens, simply place the boat in direct sunlight for a few hours and the vinyl will brighten up.

Leather Care

For spots and spills, wipe up excess liquid immediately with a clean absorbent cloth or sponge. If necessary, use clean lukewarm water only and let air dry naturally. If water is used, clean the entire area where the spot occurred. For example, clean the entire seat cushion or entire arm. Do not dry wet areas with hair dryers.

For stubborn spots and stains, use a mild non-detergent cleaner such as a bar of Ivory Soap™ or Amway™ L.O.C. Apply the soap to a clean, wet sponge, wash, then rinse well. Let air dry naturally.

For butter, oil or grease, wipe any excess off the leather with a clean dry cloth, then leave it alone; the spot should dissipate into the leather in a short period of time. Do not apply water or try to wash a butter, oil or grease spot.

CS3 Owner’s Manual

5-1

COBALT

CS3

BOWRIDER

ECTION

NOTICE: DO NOT use saddle soap, cleaning solvents, furniture polish, oils, varnish, abrasive cleaners, soaps or ammonia water.

SEA GRASS FLOOR COVERING CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

General Maintenance Instructions

Plynyl® is made with a woven vinyl fabric bonded to commercial-grade backings. Vinyl is a very tough, durable material and few household or common office chemicals affect it. Routine maintenance along with periodic cleanings and diligent attention to stain-causing spills will provide a long useful life.

The frequency of routine maintenance depends on the application. The frequency has to be determined by the user or through consultation with the manufacturer. The methods for routine maintenance as well as cleaning methods also depend on the application. Frequency depends on the amount of soil and dirt Plynyl is exposed to. Dirt and soil will degrade any flooring, so proper maintenance will increase its natural life cycle.

Plynyl is unique among soft floor coverings because water can be used effectively in daily maintenance. Detergents and shampoos with a pH up to 11 can be used repeatedly and safely. However, it is recommended to use the lowest pH detergent that provides a satisfactory result. When using water with any of the maintenance techniques listed, be sure not to leave any standing water and keep foot traffic off the floor until it is completely dry. Also, do not over-wet areas to be cleaned.

It is recommended that a walk-off mat be provided in every installation to reduce the tracking of soil and other foot-borne contaminants onto the Plynyl floor. If a walk-off mat is not provided, it will result in premature wear of the Plynyl installation.

Sealers, waxes, stain repellents and other topical applications are not required for Plynyl. Using a powder cleaner such as HOST is not required; it does not result in more effective cleaning.

Direct contact between natural rubber and Plynyl will cause discoloration in Plynyl. Avoid the use of rubber castors, furniture pads, or other rubber pad or cushion products.

It is necessary to use chair pads under rolling chairs to protect Plynyl fabric and seams.

Maintenance Techniques

The most common and easily accessible maintenance options are the vacuum cleaner and mop. Either is effective in picking up and removing dirt. If a vacuum cleaner is used, the beater brushes should be lowered so it brushes the surface of the Plynyl to release dirt and brush out scuffs.

In the absence of additional cleaning methods noted in Periodic Comprehensive Cleaning, mopping is slightly more effective than a vacuum cleaner because you can use a detergent with a mop. If a detergent is used in mopping, spread it out on the area to be mopped, allow it to stand 30 seconds to 1 minute and then mop the area. Rinse the mop with clean water and apply detergent again if necessary. Rinse and mop with at least one additional clean water rinse after applying detergent, as detergent residue will attract soil if not properly rinsed.

Do not use acetone, Pine-Sol cleaners, as they can damage Plynyl. Solvents containing xylene or toluene may be used in a limited fashion as a spotting agent. See Spot and Stain Removal.

Plynyl w2w and tile are not absorbent and therefore are not recommended to be used in street-level entrances as walk-off mats.

or citrus-based

5-2

CS3 Owner’s Manual

Cobalt Digital Inc CS3 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

WELCOME

CERTIFICATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY

INTRODUCTION

Intended Use

Craft Design Category

OCEAN – Category A

OFFSHORE – Category B

INSHORE – Category C

SHELTERED WATERS – Category D

OWNER RESPONSIBILITY/ WARRANTY PROCEDURE

Before Operating

Warranty Service Requirements

Extended Service Agreement

If You Sell Your Cobalt Boat

CERTIFICATIONS

NMMA

MerCruiser

Volvo Penta

FEATURES/CONSTRUCTION

Amenities

Construction Standards/Certifications

Serial Number Locations

WARNING LABELS

PUBLICATIONS

NAUTICAL TERMS

SYMBOLS

SPECIFICATIONS

LAYOUT

PROPELLER APPLICATION CHART

ALPHABETICAL INDEX

OWNER/OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Registration/Documentation

Required Safety Equipment

Navigation Lights

Horn or Whistle

Fire Extinguisher

Lifesaving Devices

Visual Distress Signals

Recommended Safety Equipment

Recommended Spare Parts

Education Opportunities

Insurance

BOAT THEORY

Remote Control System

Steering System

Fuel System

Ventilation System

Electrical Systems

Cooling System

Exhaust System

Lubrication System

Seaworthiness Inspection

Operation Checklist

Environmental Considerations

MARPOL Treaty

California Air Resource Board (CARB) Label

Emission Control Warranty Information

Fuel/Spillage

Proposition 65

Excessive Noise

Wake/Wash

Exhaust Emissions

Paints

Discharge/Disposal of Waste

Cleaning Agents

Fishery Resources

Foreign Species

Components, Maintenance and Repairs

Emergency Considerations

Fire

Grounding

Storms

Flooding/Swamping

Collisions/Leaks

Water Rescue (Man Overboard)

Medical Emergency