Malibu Boats 23 vRide (2009), Wakesetter VLX (2009), Wakesetter VTX (2009), Wakesetter 23 LSV (2009), Wakesetter 23 XTi (2009) Owner's Manual

SERVICE/MAINTENANCE LOG

HOUR

DATE READING SERVICE/REPAIRS PERFORMED

RECORD IMPORTANT INFORMATION

In addition to this manual, your Malibu Owner’s Packet contains instructions, warranties
and other important information from component manufacturers. Read these materials
carefully since improper registration, operation and maintenance can void the warranty
and jeopardize the safety of you and others. Fill in the information below and keep a
copy of it in a safe place.

Hull

HIN ___________________________________________________________________

Ignition Key # ___________________________________________________________

Registration # ___________________________________________________________

Date Purchased __________________________________________________________

Dealer/Phone ____________________________________________________________

Fax/E-mail ______________________________________________________________

Engine

Model # _____________________________________________________________

Serial # ______________________________________________________________

Transmission

Model # _____________________________________________________________

Serial # ______________________________________________________________

Trailer

Model # _____________________________________________________________

Serial # ______________________________________________________________

Accessory

Model # _____________________________________________________________

Serial # ______________________________________________________________

All information and specifications included in this manual were in effect at the time of
approval for printing. Malibu Boats LLC reserves the right, however, to discontinue or
change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any
obligation.

Trademarks

Malibu, The Malibu Logo is a registered trademark of Malibu Boats LLC.

Indmar, Indmar is a registered trademark of Indmar Products Co., Inc.

All other product names are copyright and registered trademarks/trade names of their
respective owners.

© 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 Malibu Boats LLC.
All Rights reserved.
Printed in the USA

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ii

CONTENTS

iii

CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

TABLE OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv

INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v

CERTIFICATIONS & STANDARDS . . v

MODEL FEATURES &

SPECIFICATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

BOATING SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

General Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Safety Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Regulations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Hazardous Conditions . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Carbon Monoxide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Operation by Minors . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

Passenger Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

Basic Rules of the Road . . . . . . . . 1-10

GAUGES & CONTROLS. . . . . . . . . 2-1

Standard Gauges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Power Wedge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26

Switches & Indicators . . . . . . . . . 2-26

Throttle Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

Steering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

Emergency Engine Stop Switch. . 2-35

Motorbox Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

Driver’s Seat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

Integral Self Draining

Ice Chest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

Sundeck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

V-Drive Engine Access

Hatch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

Ski Pylon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

Swim Platform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38

Navigational Lights . . . . . . . . . . . 2-39

Storage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-39

Drain Plugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-40

Speedometer Pickup. . . . . . . . . . . 2-41

Tilt Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41

Exhaust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-42

Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43

Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44

Wedge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-53

OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Trailering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Shifting/Running . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

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

Towing a Skier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Towing Another Boat . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

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

Propellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

Malibu Exclusive Adjustable

Rudder System . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

Corrosion Protection . . . . . . . . . . 3-19

CARE AND MAINTENANCE. . . . . 4-1

Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Exterior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Engine/Drive Train. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Fuel System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Miscellaneous. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24

iv

TABLE OF FIGURES

Figure 1-1 Personal Flotation

Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Figure 1-2 Fire Extinguisher. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Figure 1-3 Weather Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Figure 1-4 Diver Down Flag. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Figure 1-5 Carbon Monoxide

Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Figure 1-6 Types of Buoys . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

Figure 1-7 Mooring Buoys . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

Figure 1-8 Regulatory Markers. . . . . . . . . 1-11

Figure 1-9 Crossing Situation . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

Figure 1-10 Overtaking

Another Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Figure 2-1 Graphical Display . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Figure 2-2 MaliView Dash . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Figure 2-3 Tachometer with Oil,

Volt Hourmeter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Figure 2-4 Speedometer with Depth, Air

and Lake Temperature Gauge. . . . . . . 2-3

Figure 2-5 Dash Gauges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Figure 2-6 In-Dash Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Figure 2-7 MaliView In-Dash Display . . . . . 2-5

Figure 2-8 Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Figure 2-9 BMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Figure 2-10 Power Wedge . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Figure 2-11 Power Wedge . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22

Figure 2-12 Power Wedge . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23

Figure 2-13 Circuit Breaker Panels. . . . . . 2-26

Figure 2-14 Accessory Switch Panel . . . . 2-27

Figure 2-15 Keyless Ignition . . . . . . . . . . 2-28

Figure 2-16 MUX Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31

Figure 2-17 Throttles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-34

Figure 2-18 Emergency Engine Stop

Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

Figure 2-19 Motorbox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35

Figure 2-20 Bolster Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

Figure 2-21 Lumbar Adjuster . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

Figure 2-22 Seat Adjuster . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-36

Figure 2-23 Sundeck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-37

Figure 2-24 Engine Access Hatch. . . . . . . 2-37

Figure 2-25 Pivoting-Head Ski Pylon . . . . . . 2-38

Figure 2-26 Swim Platform . . . . . . . . . . . 2-38

Figure 2-27 Swim Platform Pins. . . . . . . . 2-38

Figure 2-28 Bow Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-39

Figure 2-29 Lockable Transom

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-39

Figure 2-30 Glove Box Storage . . . . . . . . 2-40

Figure 2-31 Transom Drain Plug . . . . . . . 2-40

Figure 2-32 Bilge Drain Plug . . . . . . . . . . 2-41

Figure 2-33 Thru-Hull Paddle

Wheel Pickup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41

Figure 2-34 Tilt Steering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-41

Figure 2-35 Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44

Figure 2-36 Boat Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44

Figure 2-37 Stereo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44

Figure 2-38 Stereo Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44

Figure 2-39 Stereo Functions . . . . . . . . . . 2-45

Figure 2-40 Stereo Functions . . . . . . . . . . 2-45

Figure 2-41 Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . 2-48

Figure 2-42 MaliView Media . . . . . . . . . . 2-49

Figure 2-43 Shower Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-49

Figure 2-44 Shower Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-49

Figure 2-45 Pull-Up Cleat. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-50

Figure 2-46 Illusion X. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-50

Figure 2-47 Illusion XS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-50

Figure 2-48 Wedge Down. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-53

Figure 2-49 Wedge Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-53

Figure 2-50 Scarpa Suppression

Plate (SSP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-54

Figure 3-1 Trailer Hitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Figure 3-2 Safety Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Figure 3-3 Bow Tie-Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Figure 3-4 Transom Tie-Down . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Figure 3-5 Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Figure 3-6 Fueling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Figure 3-7 Throttle Positions . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Figure 3-8 Turning with a Rudder . . . . . . 3-11

Figure 3-9 Stern Push . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Figure 3-10 Docking with

Wind/Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Figure 3-11 Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

Figure 3-12 Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16

Figure 3-13 Propeller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

Figure 3-14 Adjustable Rudder. . . . . . . . . 3-18

Figure 4-1 LS7 Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Figure 4-2 Monsoon 340 Engine . . . . . . . . 4-5

Figure 4-3 383 Hammerhead Engine . . . . . 4-5

Figure 4-4 8.1L Vortec MPFI Engine. . . . . 4-5

Figure 4-5 5.7L LCR Engine . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Figure 4-6 Typical Transmission

Dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Figure 4-7 Drip Less Shaft Packing . . . . . 4-11

Figure 4-8 Main Circuit Breaker. . . . . . . . 4-13

Figure 4-9 Battery Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Figure 4-10 Battery Switch. . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16

INTRODUCTION

Over the years, you have watched us grow into one of the most respected boat builders in
the world. And undoubtedly, somewhere, you have run into at least one Malibu owner
who proudly speaks of the “Malibu Difference.” That difference they so proudly speak
of could be the special way we have serviced them over the years. We call it “going the
distance.” Or maybe they are referring to the way their Malibu consistently outperforms
other ski boats that they have driven. We can’t deny that we are different. Our passion for
building the perfect ski boat is only surpassed by our commitment to total customer
satisfaction.

This manual has been assembled to help you operate your new Malibu with safety and
pleasure. Details of typical equipment as well as recommended safety and maintenance
procedures about your boat are supplied. Please read carefully and familiarize yourself
with the craft before using it.

We at Malibu Boats thank you for choosing us as your boat manufacturer and assure you
that your satisfaction and boating enjoyment will continue to be our #1 priority.

CERTIFICATIONS & STANDARDS

v

NMMA Certification

Your Malibu boat has been built to meet or exceed the standards set by the National
Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). NMMA verifies annually, or whenever a
new boat model is introduced, to determine that they meet not only Coast Guard
regulations, but also the more comprehensive standards set by the American Boat &
Yacht Council (ABYC).

Standards to Which This Boat was Built

Your Malibu boat was built with the utmost care throughout the complete manufacturing
process. The deck, hull, stringers and floor, as well as many accessory components, were
built using our hand-laid composite fiberglass scheduling techniques. All boats receive
complete quality control checks. Each boat is lake tested, and all information is kept on
file at our factory for future reference.

Exemption Notice

This boat complies with U.S. Coast Guard safety standards in effect on the date of
certification with the exception of certain fuel systems requirements associated with its
fuel injected engine as authorized by U.S. Coast Guard Grant of Exemption (CGB-06-

005). Maintenance of the fuel system in this boat should be performed only by Malibu
trianed certified technicians using identical fuel systems components.

vi

Hull Identification Number (HIN)

Your Hull Identification Number can be found on the starboard transom of your boat
below the rubber rub rail. Federal law prohibits the tampering or removing of the number
in any way. Use this number to register your boat with your local and state authorities.

US MB2GXXXXA001

Proposition 65

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

• Engine and generator exhaust

• Engine and generator fuel, and other liquids such as coolants and
oil, especially used motor oil

• Cooking fuels

• Cleaners, paints and substances used for vessel repair

• Waste materials that result from wear of vessel components

• Lead from battery terminals and from other sources such as ballast
or fishing sinkers

TO AVOID HARM:

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

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

Emission Control Warranty Information

The engine in your boat meets the strict requirements set forth by the California Air
Resources Board (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 the California Air Resources
Board (CARB). The label has 1, 2, 3 or 4 stars. The label MUST be affixed to the boat, if
the boat is operated in the state of California and/or bordering waters.

MODEL FEATURES &
S

PECIFICATIONS

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1-1

Chapter 1

BOATING SAFETY

1

At Malibu, safety is not an option!

General Precautions

Your Malibu boat has been constructed to meet all U.S. Coast Guard and National Marine
Manufacturers Association (NMMA) requirements. However, it is still your
responsibility as the boat owner to ensure the boat is always operated in a safe fashion.

U.S. Coast Guard regulations require certain safety equipment be present on your boat
during operation. Besides the U.S. Coast Guard regulations, other local and/or
international law enforcement agencies may have similar requirements. You should check
with your local marine enforcement agency regarding any such requirements before using
the waterways.

It is not intended for this manual to be a replacement for a course on boating safety. It is
highly recommended that if you are unfamiliar with the use and operation of a boat, you
seek advice and training from a qualified individual or organization. Check with your
local boating agency or Malibu dealer for more information about boating safety classes
in your area.

Safety Statements

Throughout this manual, specific precautions and symbols identify safety related
information. Follow these precautions as indicated.

The Safety Alert symbol means Attention! Become Alert! Your Safety Is
Involved!

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

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

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury or property damage. It
may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

Notice: Indicates installation, operation or maintenance information

which is important but not hazard related.

1-2

The precautions listed in this manual and on the boat are not all-inclusive. If a procedure
or method is not specifically recommended, you must satisfy yourself that it is safe for
you and your passengers, and that the boat will not be damaged or made unsafe as a result
of your decision. Remember — always use common sense when operating your boat!

In an emergency situation, you may have 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.

Teak/Drag Surfing

READ, UNDERSTAND and be FAMILIAR with the information contained on any
warning labels or any label on equipment and adhere to the boat operation practices
described on them. The United States Coast Guard issued a SAFETY ALERT on August
28, 2001 that covers some of the issues of improper use of the boarding platform. The
SAFETY ALERT and portions of the accompanying information follow:

Every year 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 meters), “teak surfing” or
“dragging” behind a moving boat can be fatal.

Any dangerous activities which can result in a serious injury or death a water sport is not
considered as a watersport by Malibu or DOES NOT promote unsafe boating risks or
jeopardizing any boaters safety.

DO NOT use the boarding platform for any other purpose than boarding the boat or
preparation of entering the water, and DO NOT use the boarding platform when the
engine is running.

SAFETY ALERT From August 28, 2001:

The United States Coast Guard advised boaters not to “Teak/Drag Surf.” Recent boating
fatalities revealed that carbon monoxide (CO) emitted from a vessel’s exhaust resulted in
CO poisoning and the death of at least six teak surfers. “Teak/Drag Surfing” places the
individual in position directly exposed to the CO in the engine’s exhaust. This may result
in a loss of coherent responses and even death. In addition, “Teak/Drag Surfing”
dangerously exposes the individual to a possible propeller injury, and since it is done
without a life jacket (PFD), it significantly increases the probability of drowning.
Therefore, the Coast Guard stresses, “Teak/Drag Surfing” is a very dangerous activity
and advises boaters not to participate in it.

The Coast Guard pointed out that carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous gases. It
strikes before you know you are exposed and it impairs in a way that can and too often
does lead to death. That is why it is so important to the Coast Guard that in every
circumstance where it can be avoided, it is.

1-3

Regulations

The U.S. Coast Guard is the governing authority of the waterways and 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, if asked.

Responsibilities

Registration

Federal Law requires that all motorboats be registered and that all motorcraft not
documented by the U.S. Coast Guard display registration numbers. In nearly all states,
this means registration with the designated state agency. In a few jurisdictions, the Coast
Guard retains registration authority. Your Malibu dealer will either supply registration
forms or tell you where they may be obtained. The agency will supply you with a
certificate which must be carried with you when the boat is in operation.

Education

If you have never owned a boat before, you can get an excellent introduction to boat
handling from organizations such as the U.S. Coast Guard and American Red Cross.
Even if you are a veteran boater, these courses will help sharpen your boating skills as
well as bring you up to date on current rules and regulations. See your local boating
agency or Malibu dealer for information on classes in your area.

Insurance

The boat owner is legally responsible for damages or injuries he or she causes. Common
sense dictates that you carry adequate personal liability and property damage insurance
on your boat, just as you would on your automobile. You should also protect your
investment from physical damage or theft.

Restricted Areas

Before boating, check with Local, State and Federal authorities to identify restricted
areas. Because of the threat of terrorism, the U.S. Coast Guard has and will continue to
implement strict limits on watercraft near U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships and other
potential targets.

Our Environment

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. DO NOT put anything in the water you would not want to eat or drink!

Conserve 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 by practicing
catch-and-release.

1-4

Foreign Species

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

Fuel and Oil Spillage

The spilling of fuel or oil into our waterways contaminates the environment and is
dangerous to wildlife. Never discharge or dispose fuel or oil into the water; it is
prohibited and you could be fined. There are two common, accidental types of discharge:

• Overfilling the fuel tank.

• Pumping contaminated bilge water.

Fumes from rags can collect in bilge and be extremely
hazardous. Never store rags used to wipe up fuel or solvent
spills in the boat. Dispose of rags properly ashore.

Discharge and Disposal of Waste

Waste means all forms of garbage, plastics, recyclables, food, wood, detergents, sewerage
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.

Excessive Noise

Noise means engine noise, radio noise or even yelling. Many bodies of water have
adopted noise limits. Music and loud conversation can carry a considerable distance on
water, especially at night.

Wake and 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 dealer and engine manual
for information.

Paints

If your boat is kept in water where marine growth is a problem, the use of anti-fouling
paint may reduce the growth rate. Be aware of environmental regulations that may govern
your paint choice. Contact your local boating authorities for information.

Cleaning Agents

Household cleaners should be used sparingly and not discharged into waterways. Never
mix cleaners and be sure to use plenty of ventilation in enclosed areas. DO NOT use
products which contain phosphates, chlorine, solvents, non-biodegradable or petroleum
based products. Citrus based cleaners are excellent for marine cleaning purposes and are
safe for you and the environment. Refer to CARE AND MAINTENANCE for more
information.

Safety Equipment

U.S. Coast Guard regulations require certain accessory equipment on each boat. For a
detailed description, obtain “Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats” published by
the Coast Guard.

1) Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): PFDs must be Coast Guard approved, in

good and serviceable condition and the appropriate size for the user. It is
recommended that you wear PFDs while your boat is underway.

1-5

TYPE I

LIFE PRESERVERS

KC-0041C_a

TYPE II

BUOYANT VESTS

KC-0051C_a

Figure 1-1. Personal Flotation Devices

Boats more than 16 feet in length must be equipped with one type I, II, III or V
and one type IV. PFDs are intended to save lives; you and your passengers
should wear them while in the boat. Learn how to use them and adjust as
necessary to make comfortable to wear. The type II PFD is recommended for
near shore or inland water use. Some PFDs are specially made for use while
waterskiing and can handle impacts if a skier has fallen.

TYPE III

FLOTATION AIDS

KC-0042C_a

TYPE IV

THROWABLE DEVICES

KC-0071C_a

TYPE V HYBRID PFD

MUST BE WORN

WHEN UNDERWAY

KC-0043C_a

1-6

Notice: If a type V PFD is to be counted toward the minimum carriage

requirements, it must be worn.

2) Fire Extinguishers: A fire extinguisher is required

if your boat has an inboard engine, or when fuel is
stored in closed stowage compartments.

Approved fire extinguishers are classified by a
letter symbol, either B-I or B-II with the B
designating that the material will extinguish
flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, etc. B-I
extinguishers are required for boats less than 26
feet in length. Check periodically to ensure that
the extinguisher is in working condition and fully
charged.

Figure 1-2. Fire Extinguisher

3) Navigation Lights: Recreational boats are required to display navigational lights

between sunset and sunrise and other periods of reduced visibility (fog, rain,
haze, etc.). Your navigation lights are provided to keep other boats informed of
your presence and course. It is up to you to make sure they are operational and
turned on when required.

Emergencies

Giving Assistance

Many of the distress calls are not true emergencies. In most cases, the boat is disabled for
one reason or another, but there is no immediate danger of death or serious injury.
However, emergencies can occur and you should know how to cope with them. If you
observe a boat in distress, assume it is a true emergency. Proceed to the scene and render
assistance. Federal law requires boat operators to offer assistance and aid to others. The
law’s “Good Samaritan” clause absolves you from any civil liability in the event that your
assistance causes injury or property damage.

There is a way to handle nearly every emergency if you do not panic. Learn your boating
lessons and safety procedures well, and you will have the confidence and ability to
handle an emergency should one arise.

Fires

Many boat fires involve flammable liquids such as gas or oil. Many inboard fires start in
the bilge area which at times can be filled with gas vapors. Since gas vapors cannot be
seen, boat fires tend to travel very fast. If you encounter a fire on board, turn off the
engine immediately. If you have a fire extinguisher on board and access to the fire, it may
be controllable. Direct the contents of the extinguisher at the base of the flames. Throw
burning materials overboard if possible. Put on PFDs, if not already on, signal for help
and prepare to abandon the boat if necessary.

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Reporting

Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident report with their state
boating law enforcement agency when their boat is involved in certain boating accidents.
A boating accident must be reported if there is a loss or probable loss of life, personal
injury requiring medical attention, damage exceeding $500, or there is a complete loss of
the boat. If any of these conditions arise, seek further assistance from local law
enforcement personnel.

Hazardous Conditions

Every waterway poses hazards that should be avoided. The following information
outlines some of the hazards which may be encountered.

Weather

Learn and understand weather patterns
and signs of change. Bad weather can
cause an uncomfortable and unsafe
situation. If a storm approaches, seek a
safe harbor.

Figure 1-3. Weather Hazards

Dam Spillways

The area around dam spillways is very hazardous and conditions can change rapidly. Stay
clear of the spillways and areas below dams.

Weeds

Weeds can generally be a threat to a boat’s engine and other components on the boat. If
weeds wrap around the propeller, they can create vibration in the engine. They also
restrict water intake, causing the engine to overheat.

Shallow Water Operation

Shallow water brings on obvious hazards such as sand bars, stumps, rocks, etc. Know the
area you will be operating the boat in. Hitting objects at high speeds can cause severe
damage to people and the boat. If you know you will be navigating the boat in shallow
water, post a lookout and proceed slowly.

Know the minimal depth your boat can safely travel.

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Damage to underwater gear caused by shallow water
maneuvering is not covered by your warranty.

Warning Markers

Learn to recognize the different buoys and day
markers; they are used as the signposts of the
waterways identifying navigable routes and water
hazards. It is a good idea to ask local authorities about
hazard areas and if they are marked. Stay within
boundaries and clear of hazards.

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Figure 1-4. Diver Down Flag

Figure 1-8. Regulatory Markers

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Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas produced by all engines and fuel
burning appliances. Even with the best boat design and construction, plus the utmost care
in inspection, operation and maintenance, hazardous levels of CO may still be present in
accommodation spaces under certain conditions. To reduce CO accumulation, always
ventilate the boat interior and avoid boating situations which cause increased exposure.

EXTREME HAZARD – Carbon monoxide gas (CO) is colorless,
odorless and extremely dangerous. All engines and fuel
burning appliances produce CO as exhaust. Direct and
prolonged exposure to CO will cause BRAIN DAMAGE or
DEATH. Signs of exposure to CO include nausea, dizziness
and drowsiness. Sources of CO include:

Figure 1-5. Carbon Monoxide Hazards

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Operation by Minors

If your boat will be operated by a minor, remember to have an adult present at all times.
Many states have laws regarding minimum age and licensing requirements for minors.
Contact state and local authorities for special requirements that may apply in your area.

Passenger Safety

Any time you take your boat out, make sure that there is at least one other passenger
aboard who is familiar with the operation of your boat. Passengers should be well aware
of emergency equipment and shown how to use it. Passengers should also keep hands and
feet in the boat and be safely seated while the boat is in motion.

Your boat should never be operated while you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Reaction times can be reduced and judgment affected creating situations that can be very
dangerous.

Federal and state laws prohibit operating a boat under the
influence of alcohol and other drugs. These regulations are
actively enforced. Impaired operation may result in severe
personal injury or death.

Basic Rules of the Road

The nautical rules of the road must be followed to prevent
collisions between vessels. Like traffic laws for automobiles,
the operator is legally required to follow the rules.

The following information outlines only the most basic of the nautical rules of the road.
For more information, contact your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

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).

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SPHERICAL SAFE

WATER MARKER

UNLIGHTED

BELL BUOY

LIGHTED BUOY

CAN BUOY

SPAR BUOY

NUN BUOY

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Types of Bouys

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.

Figure 1-6. Types of Buoys

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

Mooring Bouys

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.

Figure 1-7. Mooring
Buoys

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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.

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.

Figure 1-8. Regulatory Markers

CONTROLLED

AREA

DANGER BOATS

KEEP OUT

INFORMATION

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Right-of-Way

Notice: 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.

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 what ever adjustments
to course and speed necessary to
keep out of the way of the
privileged boat.

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
passes behind the privileged
boat. Boats going up and down a
river have the privilege over boats
crossing the river.

Figure 1-9. Crossing Situation

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 a channel, each vessel should sound two short horn blasts and pass starboard to
starboard.

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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.

Figure 1-10. Overtaking Another Craft

The General Prudential Rule

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.

Night Running

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 Road apply at night, but it is best to slow down and stay clear of all boats,
regard less 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.

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Notes