Malibu Boats Sunscape 25 (2002) Owner's Manual

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

1

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 West, Inc. 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, Flightcraft, and Computron ATD are registered trademarks of
Malibu Boats West, Inc.

Mercury, Mercury Marine, Merc, and Mercruiser are registered trademarks of Brunswick
Corporation.

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

© 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 Malibu Boats West, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Printed in the USA

i

ii

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CONTENTS

iii

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

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

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

CERTIFICATIONS & ST ANDARDS . . v

MODEL SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . vi

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

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

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

Regulations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Emergencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Hazardous Conditions . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Carbon Monoxide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Operation By Minors . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Passenger Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

Basic Rules Of The Road. . . . . . . . 1-7

FEATURES & CONTROLS . . . . . . 2-1

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

Optional Gauges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Switches & Indicators . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Throttle Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Steering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Power Trim. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Emergency Engine Stop Switch. . 2-11

Bow Tonneau Cover. . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Motorbox Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Driver’s Seat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Integral Self Draining

Ice Chest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Sundeck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

V-Drive Engine Access

Hatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Ski Pylon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Swim Platform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Navigational Lights . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Storage Areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Drain Plugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Speedometer Pickups. . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Tilt Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Exhaust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Optional Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . 2-19

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

Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22

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

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

Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Starting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Shifting/Running . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

High Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Towing A Skier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Towing Another Boat. . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Anchoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Propellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Corrosion Protection . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

CARE AND MAINTENANCE. . . . . 4-1

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

Exterior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Engine/Drive Train. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Fuel System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

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

Miscellaneous. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Warranty Information. . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Other Manufacturer Warranties . . 4-13

Owner Service Assistance . . . . . . 4-13

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16

iv

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TABLE OF F

Figure 1-1 Personal Flotation

Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Figure 1-2 Fire Extinguisher . . . . . . . . 1-3

Figure 1-3 Weather Hazards . . . . . . . . 1-5

Figure 1-4 Diver Down Flag . . . . . . . . 1-5

Figure 1-5 Carbon Monoxide

Hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Figure 1-6 Regulatory Markers. . . . . . 1-8

Figure 1-7 Buoy Shapes . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Figure 1-8 Spherical Marker . . . . . . . . 1-9

Figure 1-9 Day Markers . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Figure 1-10 Crossing Situation . . . . . 1-10

Figure 1-11 Overtaking

Another Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

Figure 2-1 General Layout

V-Drive Boats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Figure 2-2 General Layout

Direct Drive Boats . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Figure 2-3 Tachometer/Hourmeter . . . 2-2

Figure 2-4 Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Figure 2-5 Multi Gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Figure 2-6 Digital Clock -

Air/Sea Temp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Figure 2-7 Digital Sonar Depth Finder. . 2-5
Figure 2-8 Malibu Message Center. . . 2-5
Figure 2-9 Malibu Message

Center Schematics . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Figure 2-10 Circuit Breaker Panel. . . . 2-8

Figure 2-11 Accessory Switch Panel. . 2-9
Figure 2-12 V-Drive W arning Light. . 2-10

Figure 2-13 Throttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Figure 2-14 Stop Switch Lanyard . . . 2-11

Figure 2-15 Motorbox . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Figure 2-16 Sundeck . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Figure 2-17 Engine Access Hatch. . . 2-13
Figure 2-18 Pivoting-Head Ski Pylon . . 2-14

Figure 2-19 Swim Platform. . . . . . . . 2-14

Figure 2-20 Swim Step Pins . . . . . . . 2-14

IGURES

Figure 2-21 Bow Light . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Figure 2-22 Lockable Transom

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Figure 2-23 Transom Drain Plug. . . . 2-16

Figure 2-24 Bilge Drain Plug . . . . . . 2-16

Figure 2-25 Venturi Speedometer

Pickup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Figure 2-26 Tilt Steering. . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Figure 2-27 Heater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19

Figure 2-28 Bimini Top Screw . . . . . 2-19

Figure 2-29 Strap Eyelet . . . . . . . . . . 2-19

Figure 2-30 Stereo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19

Figure 2-31 Shower Head . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Figure 2-32 Shower Valve. . . . . . . . . 2-20

Figure 2-33 Pull-Up Cleat. . . . . . . . . 2-20

Figure 2-34 SaniPottie. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

Figure 2-35 Wedge Down . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Figure 2-36 Wedge Up . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Figure 2-37 Warning Labels . . . . . . . 2-21

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 Fueling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Figure 3-6 Throttle Positions. . . . . . . . 3-5

Figure 3-7 Turning With A Rudder. . . 3-6

Figure 3-8 Stern Push . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Figure 3-9 Docking With

Wind/Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Figure 3-10 Boat Trim. . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

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

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

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

Figure 4-1 Typical Transmission

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

Figure 4-2 Fuel Shutoff Valve. . . . . . . 4-5

Figure 4-3 Battery Level . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

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.

C

ERTIFICATIONS

& 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.

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

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MODEL SPECIFICATIONS

Sportster Response Sunsetter/ Sunsetter/ Sunscape/ Sunscape/ Sunsetter/ Sunscape

Series Series Wakesetter Wakesetter Wakesetter Wakesetter 23 Wakesetter 25

Length 20' 20' 21' 21'8" 21' 22'6" 22'6" 25'
Beam 86" 90" 93" 93" 93" 96" 96" 102"
Draft 14" 16" 18" 18" 18" 24" 24" 26"
Weight 2100 lbs. 2450 lbs 2800 lbs 2900 lbs. 2900 lbs 3400 lbs. 3300 lbs. 4500 lbs.
Fuel Cap. 38 Gal. 35 Gal. 38 Gal. 35 Gal. 35 Gal. 55 Gal. 43 Gal. 80 Gal.
Seating Cap. 6/8 6/8 10 10 11 12 12 14
Std. Engine 310 310 310 Vortec 310 Vortec 325 Monsoon 325 Monsoon 325 Monsoon 8.1 Liter

Std. Gelcoat 3 4 3 4 4 / 3 4 / 3 4 / 3 3
Std. Prop 3 Blade 3 Blade 3 Blade 3 Blade 4 Blade Brass 4 Blade Brass 4 Blade Brass 4 Blade Brass

Vortec Vortec 425 HP

Stainless Stainless Stainless Stainless

LXi 21LSV LSV XTi

Chapter 1

Caution

Warning

1-1

BOATING S

AFETY

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 (N.M.M.A.) 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!

Notice:

Indicates the presence of a hazard which WILL
SEVERE injury, death or substantial property damage.

Indicates the presence of a hazard which CAN
injury, death or substantial property damage.

Indicates the presence of a hazard which WILL or CAN cause
MINOR or MODERATE personal injury or property damage.

Indicates installation, operation or maintenance information
which is important but not hazard related.

cause

cause SEVERE

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!

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.

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.

1-3

TYPE I

LIFE PRESERVERS

KC-0041M

TYPE II

BUOYANT VESTS

KC-0051M

TYPE III

FLOTATION AIDS

KC-0042M

TYPE IV

THROWABLE DEVICES

KC-0071M

TYPE V HYBRID PFD

MUST BE WORN

WHEN UNDERWAY

KC-0043M

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.

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

requirements, it must be worn.

2) Emergency Stop Switch: Factory installed lanyard emergency stop switch. It is

highly recommended that you use this switch since it can prevent your boat from
becoming a runaway. (See page 2-13 for specific use.)

3) 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 insure that
the extinguisher is in working condition and fully
charged.

Figure 1-2. Fire Extinguisher

OVERCHARGED

RECHARGE

KC-0083M

1-4

¤

4) 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 don’t 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 onboard, turn off the
engine immediately. If you have a fire extinguisher onboard 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.

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.

1-5

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, and can clog speedometer pickup
tubes, affecting correct speedometer readings.

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.

OK

!

KC-0210M

Know the minimal depth your boat can safely travel.

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.

Figure 1-4. Diver Down Flag

KC-0250M

1-6

¤

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:

 Blockage of boat exhausts by

obstruction.

 Operating with high bow angle.

 Exhausts traveling along obstruction.

 Operating at slow speed or while dead

in the water.

ENSURE ADEQUATE VENTILATION FOR CORRECT AIR MOVEMENT THROUGH BOAT!

Figure 1-5. Carbon Monoxide Hazards

 Exhausts from other vessels in confined

areas.

 Operating with canvas tops and side

curtains in place without ventilation.

KC-0461M

1-7

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
waterway. There are 2 primary marking systems in use in the U.S.: the Uniform State
Waterway Marking System (USWMS) used on inland waters and maintained by each
state, and the Federal Waterway Marking System (FWMS) used on coastal waters and
rivers and maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). In addition, the FWMS has two
modified systems; Western River Buoyage, and Intracoastal Waterway Buoyage. Be sure
to check with local authorities on the buoyage system in use.

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

KC-0300

OPTIONAL
WORDING

DANGER – KEEP CLEAR

ROCK

1-8

¤

USWMS System

In the USWMS Lateral System, well defined channels are marked with red and black
buoys. Lateral means the sides of the channel are marked and the boat should pass
between them.

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

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

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

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

Uniform State Regulatory Markers

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

5

MPH

OPTIONAL
WORDING

BOATS STAY OUT!

Figure 1-6. Regulatory Markers

KC-0320

OBEY – CONTROLLED AREA!

BOATER’S INFORMATION

KC-0310

KC-0330

1-9

LIGHTED BUOY

CAN BUOY

SPAR BUOY

NUN BUOY

KC-0420

FWMS System

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

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

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

Figure 1-7. Buoy Shapes

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

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.

STARBOARD

DAY

MARKER

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

Lights, bells and horns are used on buoys for night or poor
visibility conditions.

PORT

DAY

MARKER

KC-0440

Figure 1-9. Day Markers

SPHERICAL SAFE

WATER MARKER

KC-0430

Figure 1-8. Spherical Marker

1-10

KC-0471

BURDENED

VESSEL

DANGER ZONE

PRIVILEGED

VESSEL

12 O'CLOCK

4 O'CLOCK

¤

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 whatever 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-of­way. 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.

Figure 1-10. 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.

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.

1-11

PRIVILEGED

VESSEL BEING

OVERTAKEN

Figure 1-11. Overtaking Another Craft

BURDENED

VESSEL

OVERTAKING

KC-0601

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,
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.

1-12

¤

Chapter 2

2-1

FEATURES & C

ONTROLS

No other ski boat manufacturer incorporates in their
product as many innovative and technically advanced
features as Malibu.

12 Volt
Adapter

Gunwale
Step Pads

Optional
Speakers

Interior Lights

Optional
Speakers

Table

Emergency
Engine Shutoff

Gunwale Step Pads

Bilge Drain

12 Volt Adapter/Circuit Breaker

Battery
(Under Deck)

Transom Grab/
Tow Handle

Engine
Ventilation

Engine Cover/

Fuel Vent

Locking Ski
Storage

Stern Light

Battery
(Under Cover)

Sundeck

Ski Pylon

Table Storage

Fuel Fill

Fuel
Shutoff
Valve

Figure 2-1. General Layout V-Drive Boats

Stern Light

Transom Grab/
Tow Handle

Fuel Shutoff
Valve

2

Engine Compartment
Air Intake

Interior
Lights

Bow Light

MAL109-1

Engine Compartment
Air Intake

Interior Lights

Engine
Cover

Interior Lights

Gunwale Step Pads
Optional
Speakers

Engine
Ventilation

Sundeck

Locking
Ski Locker

Fuel Fill

Fuel Vent

Figure 2-2. General Layout Direct Drive Boats

Ski Pylon

Optional
Speakers

Bilge Drain

12 Volt Adapter/Circuit Breaker

Emergency
Engine Shutoff

Bow Light

MAL109-2

2-2

Standard Gauges

The following standard gauges are included on all
models except where noted. It is important for the safe
and proper operation of your boat to fully understand
these gauges.

Tachometer

Located top right of the dash panel the tachometer
registers the operating speed of your engine in
revolutions per minute (RPM). This gauge is used to
provide you with information needed to ensure the
operation of the engine is kept within engine
manufacturer’s proper range of operation. Be sure to
consult your engine manual for the correct range of
operation for your particular model.

Figure 2-3. Tachometer/Hourmeter

Caution

Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the red
area. Your engine or other parts could be damaged. Damage
caused to your engine or boat due to operation of the engine
in the red area may not be covered by your engine warranty.

Engine Hourmeter

Located on the bottom center of the tachometer gauge is the engine hourmeter. This meter
will help identify how much your boat is being used and at what time the engine will
require servicing. The hourmeter will run whenever the ignition is on.

The engine hour gauge acts as an odometer for the engine. Engine hours should always be
noted so maintenance and lubricant changes may be performed at proper intervals. Please
refer to your engine manual to determine maintenance schedules.

Speedometer

This gauge registers the speed of the boat in miles per
hour (MPH). To adjust the speedometer gauges, locate
the speedometer adjustment switch located on the
center bottom panel of the of the dash. The
speedometer adjustment is the left-hand button. The
right-hand button is the speedometer pick-up selection
and will regulate which speedometer is being used
should one of your speedometer pickup tubes become
clogged with debris.

Figure 2-4. Speedometer

®

2-3

Speedometer Calibration

The factory calibrates your speedometers before you receive your boat. However, from
time to time you will need to recalibrate. To quickly recalibrate to AWSA official
tournament rules, you will need an accurately measured ski course of 850 feet and a
certified stopwatch accurate to a thousandth of a second. This will allow you to calibrate
according to AWSA official tournament rules.

1. Approach the course at a speed of 36 MPH. Hold the speed steady and have observer
check the course with the stopwatch as you pass through the beginning of the course.

2. The course time should be between 15.88 and 16.28 seconds. No adjustments are
necessary if within this tolerance.

3. If the course time is not within this tolerance, adjust the rocker switches up or down
until you are calibrated.

Multi Gauge

This single gauge combines the functions of four individual gauges for quick monitoring
at-a-glance.

●

Temperature Gauge

The Temperature Gauge indicates the
temperature of the water/coolant inside the
engine. The proper operating range for your
engine is between 140-160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Engines equipped with the optional Monsoon
engine have a control in the engine control
module that will cause the engine to run at
reduced speeds if the module senses that the
engine is running to hot. If you notice that your
speed has reduced during normal operation
without reducing the throttle, monitor your
temperature gauge. If your gauges indicate
excessive temperatures during operation, slow

Figure 2-5. Multi Gauge

down immediately and turn off engine.
Continuing to operate the boat while the temperature is above normal operating
parameters may cause serious damage to your engine.

●

Voltmeter Gauge

The voltmeter indicates whether the battery is charging or discharging. The needle
should be in the normal range (approximately 14 volts) while the engine is running.
Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system.

●

Fuel Gauge

The fuel gauge indicates the quantity of fuel remaining in the tank when the ignition
is in the “ON” position. Although your fuel tank will still have some fuel remaining
even though the gauge reads empty, it is recommended that the tank be filled when
the gauge indicates 1/4 full.