Manitou Aurora Angler, Aurora LE, SES Standard, SES Platinum, X-Plode Owner's Manual

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Dear Manitou Owner,

You have likely spent a great deal of time researching your many choices in the boating market, and so we are especially honored by your selection. Because our boats are unequaled in both quality and style, you, like many other boaters, have chosen Manitou, and we would like to thank you for that choice.

In order to lengthen the life of your boat, proper use and care are required. Please take the time to review the information provided in this manual and in the accompanying National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Pontoon/Deck Style Boats Owner’s Manual. You will find operating, cleaning, and maintenance tips, as well as guidance on boating safety and water rules. This information is vital to your own safety and that of your passengers. Please read it carefully.

At Manitou we take pride in building the safest pontoon boats in the industry. Please take the time to notice your boat’s extra safety features. You will agree that your family’s carefree boating experience is our top priority. You bought a pontoon boat for family fun, and Manitou’s quality will give you the peace of mind to relax and enjoy your time spent boating for years to come.

Shortly after your warranty registration is received by the factory, you will receive a Manitou customer satisfaction survey. We want to hear from you! If you do not receive this survey, please contact Manitou at 800-999-9788 or by email at manitou@manitouboats.com.

Thanks again for choosing Manitou.

Sincerely,

S. Scott VanWagenen

President Manitou Pontoon Boats

Contents

Important Safety Information ................................................................. 1

Introduction ........................................................................................... 2

About This Manual ............................................................................ 2

Before Your First Outing .................................................................... 2

Working Together .............................................................................. 3

Ownership ............................................................................................ 5

Intended Use ..................................................................................... 5

Owner’s Packet ................................................................................. 5

Warranty Procedures ........................................................................ 6

Boat Identification .............................................................................. 6

State or Provincial Registration .......................................................... 7

Insurance .......................................................................................... 7

Trash Disposal .................................................................................. 7

Sanitary Waste Disposal ................................................................... 8

Safety ................................................................................................... 9

Safe Boating Practices ...................................................................... 9

Safe Operation .................................................................................10

Swimming Safety .............................................................................11

Water Skiing Safety ..........................................................................12

Safety Labels ...................................................................................13

Required Safety Equipment ..............................................................17

Other Safety Considerations .............................................................18

Operating Your Manitou .......................................................................21

Fuel..................................................................................................21

Fueling .............................................................................................21

Launching Your Boat ........................................................................22

Boat Capacity Information ................................................................23

Boarding ..........................................................................................24

Stowing Onboard Gear .....................................................................24

Weight Distribution ...........................................................................25

Steering ...........................................................................................25

Navigation and Right-of-Way Rules ..................................................26

Owner’s Manual

Contents

Boat Speed ......................................................................................26

Trimming ..........................................................................................27

Docking ............................................................................................27

Loading and Trailering Your Boat .....................................................27

Storing Your Boat .............................................................................31

Blocking ...........................................................................................32

Electrical Equipment ............................................................................34

Electrical Wiring System ...................................................................34

Batteries ...........................................................................................34

Lights ...............................................................................................35

Switches ..........................................................................................36

Instrument Panel ..............................................................................37

Controls ...............................................................................................53

Steering System ...............................................................................53

Optional Joy Stick Steering ...............................................................54

Optional Dual Engine Controls ..........................................................54

Shift and Throttle Control System .....................................................55

Other Components ...............................................................................57

Livewell ............................................................................................57

Sport Arch ........................................................................................57

Ladders ............................................................................................58

Cleaning Your Manitou .........................................................................61

Flooring ............................................................................................61

Fabric Tops and Covers ...................................................................63

Snaps and Zippers ...........................................................................64

Vinyl-Coated Fabrics ........................................................................65

Exterior Surface and Graphics Care .................................................66

Maintaining Your Manitou .....................................................................68

Corrosion .........................................................................................68

Aluminum Surfaces ..........................................................................69

Battery and Electrical Care ...............................................................69

Warranty ..............................................................................................70

Index....................................................................................................74

Important Safety Information

You must understand all of the safety statements shown on your boat and in this manual. Important safety-related information is highlighted in this manual using the designations shown below. You should understand all such designations prior to operating your Manitou.

DANGER

The DANGER designation indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. The use of this signal word is limited to the most extreme situations.

WARNING

The WARNING designation indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION

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

You are likely to encounter a variety of situations beyond those listed in this manual that require safe practices. Be ready, and make safety a first priority at all times!

Owner’s Manual

Introduction

Congratulations! As the owner of a Manitou pontoon boat, you can look forward to enjoying the water with family and friends for years to come. Not only have you purchased the highest quality pontoon boat on the market, but you have also bought the peace of mind that comes from knowing that Manitou stands behind each and every boat it sells. Should you encounter a problem, Manitou will work with your dealer to fix it quickly, so that you can get back to boating.

About This Manual

This manual is part of your boat’s equipment, and provides information for basic boating excursions. Make sure to have it on board at all times.

Remember that all boaters are responsible for their own safety and the safety of the people around them. Even though you may be an experienced boater, you can still learn from this manual. Note, however, that this manual does not change or alter any of the manufacturer’s specifications, operations, or maintenance manuals. It is a reference guide to help you make the most of your boating experience.

Before Your First Outing

Before you take your Manitou out on the water for its maiden voyage, please take the time to get to know your new boat. Start with the following steps:

< Take a look through your owner’s packet and become familiar with

the information found there.

< Read this manual, taking special note of safety warnings and other

critical information.

< Familiarize yourself with the safety labels throughout your boat.

Understand their meaning, and be ready to point them out to passengers.

< Review the NMMA Pontoon/Deck Style Boats Owner’s Manual,

included in your owner’s packet.

< Require any other individual who may be operating your boat to read

and review this manual and all materials in your owner’s packet.

Next, before you take your Manitou out for the first time, become familiar with the boat itself. The following steps are very important:

< Sit in the captain’s chair and make sure you know what buttons and

switches control various features.

< Familiarize yourself with how to read each gauge on your boat’s

control panel.

< Take note of your boat’s width and length. < Ensure that any other individual who may be operating your boat has

also completed these steps.

Finally, remember that you are responsible at all times for ensuring the safety of your boat’s passengers and that of other waterway users. Practice courteous and responsible boating each time you enjoy your Manitou!

Working Together

Successful boat ownership is built on teamwork. The manufacturer, dealer, and boat owner each have a role to play in the goal of ensuring the best possible on-the-water experience for years to come. Each role carries its own responsibilities, which can be described as follows.

Manufacturer’s Role

We hold ourselves to rigorous manufacturing standards throughout the process of building of each Manitou. To ensure the highest quality, we perform rigorous inspections and testing.

Dealer’s Role

Your dealer has a responsibility to inspect and approve your Manitou before delivery. Upon completion of the sale of a Manitou boat to you, your dealer should also complete the following steps:

< Register your boat with Manitou as a sold unit. < Ensure your understanding of important precautions required for the

safe use of your Manitou.

< Provide you with an orientation to the general operation of your

Manitou.

< Furnish you with a complete owner’s packet that includes all of the

manuals and information regarding your new Manitou and any other components related to your purchase.

Owner’s Manual

Owner’s Role

Owner responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

< Examine the boat and confirm that all systems are working properly

before you accept delivery.

< Review in detail all manuals, literature, and instructions enclosed in

the owner’s packet, and use all equipment in accordance with those instructions.

< Read and understand the Manitou limited product warranty provided

in this manual.

< Operate all equipment in accordance with the manufacturers’

instructions.

< Render proper maintenance and periodic servicing to the boat, motor,

and components in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements and recommendations.

< Clean and maintain your boat on a regular schedule. < Learn and obey all local, state, provincial, and federal laws

pertaining to the use and transport of your boat.

< Insure your boat. < Complete and pass a boating safety course. < Read and obey all safety labels on your boat. < Make safety your first priority at all times.

Ownership

Intended Use

Pontoon boats are designed for boating on inland waterways, rivers, lakes, and bays only. It is important to understand that dangerous situations that can arise from the misuse of your Manitou.

Dangerous situations include those in which swells and high waves may damage your pontoon, cause an operator to lose control of the boat, and put passengers in harm’s way. As such, all Great Lakes and ocean use should be strictly avoided.

WARNING

High waves coming over the bow of your Manitou are dangerous and may damage or dent wall skins.

Owner’s Packet

Your owner’s packet provides a variety of useful information sources. It includes the following:

< This owner’s manual, including warranty information < Pontoon/Deck Style Boats Owner’s Manual, a publication of the

National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA)

< Critical safety information from the United States Coast Guard

(USCG) and NMMA

< Care and cleaning information for your boat’s surfaces and materials < Manuals and information about the operation of your Manitou

WARNING

Do not use your Manitou to pull a parasail, kite, glider, or any other device that may become airborne.

Owner’s Manual

Your boat dealer may also include information about other components in the owner’s packet.

In sum, the materials in your owner’s packet provide operation, service, specifications, maintenance, warranty, and other helpful information. It is important to read and understand all of the material contained in your owner’s packet prior to operating your boat.

Warranty Procedures

Please read the Manitou warranty coverage so that you know what is covered under its terms. The full document is located in the last section of this manual.

You are required to obtain warranty work through an authorized Manitou dealer, preferably the dealer from which you purchased your Manitou. The dealer is your first contact for warranty issues, and will be best suited to respond to any issues that may arise with your pontoon boat.

Boat Identification

A permanent record of your boat is maintained by Manitou Pontoon Boats. Tracked using your boat’s Hull Identification Number (HIN), this record includes information on your boat’s equipment and accessories, the name of the dealership from which you purchased it, and the date it was shipped.

The HIN tag is attached to the riser on the starboard side of the boat near the stern. The HIN should also be listed on your registration.

To ensure a quick response when you contact your dealer regarding warranty or other work for your Manitou, please provide the HIN, the model length, and the color of your boat. Not providing this information may unnecessarily delay the claims process. For your future convenience, we suggest that you note this information in the table below.

HIN tag location

HIN

Model

Length

Color

State or Provincial Registration

All watercraft must display registration numbers on the starboard and port sides of the vessel. Your boat must be registered in its main state or province of usage. Registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed according to your state or provincial laws and regulations.

Insurance

As a boat owner, you are legally responsible for any damages or injuries caused by your boat. In the majority of states and provinces, this holds true even if a person other than the owner is operating the boat when an accident occurs. Just as you do for your home and automobile, you should carry adequate personal liability and property damage insurance on your boat. Protect your investment by also insuring your boat, motor, and trailer against physical damage or theft. Contact your insurance agent for coverage information.

Trash Disposal

It is important to act responsibly to keep our lakes and waterways clean. Plastic refuse dumped in the water is known to kill fish and other marine wildlife, and may also cause damage to boat propellers and water intakes. Some forms of waterborne garbage litter beaches and cause infection and illness. USCG regulations prohibit the dumping of plastic refuse or other garbage mixed with plastics anywhere in the water. Dumping of other forms of trash in the water within specified distances from shore is also prohibited.

Owner’s Manual

Sanitary Waste Disposal

You are responsible for obeying all local laws concerning sanitary waste disposal. If your boat has a marine toilet or other sanitary device, contact the USCG, local marina, or your dealer for information regarding proper disposal of sanitary waste. Under no circumstances should such waste be dumped into the water.

Safety

As the owner of the boat, it is your responsibility to be a safe boater, to follow and enforce safety rules, to know and adhere to the rules of the water, and to use common sense at all times. It is important that anyone to whom you entrust your boat also understands these responsibilities.

Make sure you understand each of the safety warnings found on your boat and commit to following the safe boating recommendations found in this section.

Then, before you embark on any outing, check that all safety equipment is on board and in working condition. This includes one wearable personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board, and all other USCG-required safety equipment. Confirm that each passenger aboard the boat is aware of the location of these items. Learn more about these requirements by reading the USCG publication titled A Boater’s Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats and Safety Tips, available at www.uscgboating.org.

Safe Boating Practices

Boating safety is a serious issue. You are responsible for your own safety, the safety of your passengers, and the safety of fellow waterway users. The following are some basic safe boating recommendations that must be observed:

< Never operate the boat, or allow others to operate the boat, while

under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This is a federal offense and can carry a significant penalty.

< Keep your boat and its equipment in a safe and usable condition.

Regularly inspect the boat, engine, and safety equipment for any signs of damage or disrepair.

< Ensure that a throwable flotation device and a fire extinguisher are

on your boat at all times. This equipment must meet regulation standards, be easily accessed, and be maintained in working condition.

< Check weather and water conditions before shoving off. Be prepared

for sudden changes in the boating environment, and for cooler or warmer conditions than originally anticipated.

Owner’s Manual

< In case of an emergency involving the primary operator, confirm that

at least one other person on board the boat knows the basic and safe operations of the boat.

< Never allow an inexperienced person to operate your boat. < Become familiar with local, state, and provincial boating laws and

regulations. Observe them at all times.

< It is strongly recommended that you complete and pass a boating

safety class.

WARNING

Intoxication and boating do NOT mix! Never operate your boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

CAUTION

Read, follow, and understand all safety labels on your boat.

Safe Operation

“Safe operation” means that neither you nor your passengers misuse the boat, but instead make a practice of applying good judgment at all times. In addition to any applicable safety laws, recommendations, or procedures, establish the habit of following general safe-operation guidelines:

< Load your boat according to the limits set on the capacity tag. Do not

overload your boat. Evenly distribute the load from bow to stern, and ensure that the weight on your boat is evenly distributed at all times. Reduce the load if weather conditions include high winds, rough seas, fog, storm warnings, or small craft advisories.

< Direct all passengers to remain seated while the boat is under power.

While the boat is moving, boat passengers should remain clear of any areas that are not designated for seating, including the bow, transom, railings, sundeck pad, and furniture backrests. If a swivel fishing seat is present on your boat, it should not be used for seating if the boat is traveling faster than five miles per hour.

< Keep all boat gates closed while the boat is under power in order to

prevent falls overboard and injuries.

< Maintain your speed at or below the posted speed limit. Avoid

excessive speeds, especially close to shore.

< Learn and follow the rules of navigation. Ensure that all boat drivers

are familiar with these rules.

< Know the maximum horsepower capacity rating on the certification

plate of your motor and do not exceed it. Exceeding the horsepower capacity of your boat and motor can lead to serious conditions that may result in accidents or injuries.

< Become familiar with the length of time it takes to stop your boat

from various speed levels. Remember that, unlike a car, a boat does not have brakes.

< Confirm that the engine is off and the propeller is completely

stopped before allowing anyone to enter the water.

< Use a boat hook or other suitable device to protect your boat while

docking. Never use your hands or feet to control your boat’s movement toward the dock. Your boat’s weight and forward momentum could cause serious injury to a limb that becomes caught between the boat and a dock.

WARNING

Never exceed the maximum horsepower or weight capacity of your boat.

Swimming Safety

When swimming from your boat, the following basic safe swimming recommendations must be observed:

< Anchor the boat and shut off the motor before anyone enters the

water.

< Swim in the presence of others. Never swim alone. < Swim on the shore side of the boat, away from other boat traffic. < Designate a person on the boat to observe swimmers at all times. < Use the ladder to enter the water for your safety. Unknown water

depths and other variables make ladder entry the safest method.

< Use a ladder or other safe means of reboarding.

Owner’s Manual

< Swimmers must not use the pontoon tubes to enter or leave the

water.

DANGER

Never allow swimmers or water skiers to enter or exit the boat with the engine running or the propeller moving. Never back up your boat to reach a person in the water.

DANGER

Never dive from any part of the boat. Water depths can be unpredictable, and serious injuries or death can occur from diving into shallow water.

WARNING

Children must be under adult supervision at all times, both in the water and on the boat.

WARNING Swimming can be hazardous. Follow all safety

rules.

Water Skiing Safety

Water skiing poses several hazards in addition to those discussed under the “Swimming Safety” section. The following basic safe water skiing rules must be observed.

< The ski tow bar is rated for a maximum of 300 pounds. Do not pull

multiple towables; pull only one towable at a time.

< Start the engine only when the skier is a safe distance from the boat. < Accelerate the boat slowly forward until the rope is taut. < Before applying the throttle, check for traffic ahead. < Follow the skier’s signals to set the optimum speed for the skier.

< Designate a passenger, other than the boat’s driver, to act as spotter.

The spotter should watch the skier and inform the driver when the skier is down.

< When the skier goes down, look for his or her “OK” signal. < Approach the downed skier on the starboard side only. Stop the

motor once you are close.

< Always be aware of shallow water and obstructions. < Do not ski after dark. < Do not ski near swimmers or in crowded boat traffic. Keep away

from fishermen.

WARNING Keep a downed skier in sight at all times.

CAUTION Designate a passenger to act as a spotter. The

driver must not also act as a spotter.

WARNING All water skiers are required to wear a USCG-

approved PFD at all times.

For more information on water skiing safety, visit www.boatus.org.

Safety Labels

The safety labels present on your Manitou serve as reminders of important safety considerations. Following are the labels commonly found on Manitou boats. Note their locations on your own boat, read them carefully, and follow their directives. Ask passengers to do the same.

Owner’s Manual

Required Safety Equipment

As a boat owner, you are responsible for supplying all legally required safety equipment. Contact USCG for details pertaining to required safety equipment, and consult local, state, and provincial authorities for any additional applicable laws and regulations. For your convenience, the following lists provide the minimum requirements for onboard safety equipment.

Required Onboard Safety Equipment

< Fire extinguisher

< Horn

< Visual distress signal

< Throwable flotation device

< Navigation lights

< One PFD per person on board

Recommended Onboard Safety Equipment

< Anchor and anchor line

< Flashlight

< Tow line

< First aid kit

< Dock fenders

< Sunscreen lotion

< Boat hook

< Warm clothing

< Oar or paddle

< Rain gear

< Compass

< Extra food

< VHF radio

< Extra water

CAUTION

When on, in, or near water, ensure that children wear PFDs at all times.

Owner’s Manual

Other Safety Considerations

Carbon Monoxide

Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is an odorless and colorless gas. Carbon monoxide is toxic and can be fatal if breathed over an extended period of time. Symptoms of CO inhalation include, but are not limited to, dizziness, nausea, headache, sleepiness, vomiting, throbbing in the temples, muscular twitching, and an inability to think clearly. If these systems are present and persist in you or another individual, seek urgent medical attention.

On your boat, carbon monoxide in engine exhaust can accumulate within enclosed areas during operation at slow speeds or when stopped in the water. Using the rear enclosure while the boat is underway increases the risk of CO accumulation in your boat, and the presence of a tail wind can increase accumulation. Provide adequate ventilation at all times, and increase speed as needed.

DANGER

Carbon monoxide can be harmful or fatal if inhaled. Keep exhaust outlets clear of blockage, away from open windows. Provide adequate ventilation at all times.

Fuel System Safety

When fueling your Manitou, it is important to be aware that gasoline can pose a health and safety hazard. Gasoline is highly flammable, and mishandling it can result in injury or death. Always observe all posted safety warnings while fueling your boat, including no smoking requirements.

DANGER Always turn off the engine while fueling your boat.

DANGER Never smoke while fueling your boat.

DANGER

Gasoline vapors are highly explosive. To prevent a possible explosion and fire, check for fumes or an accumulation of fuel before starting the engine.

Stop Switch Lanyard

The stop switch lanyard is a safety device designed to automatically stop the engine when the lanyard is detached from the binnacle control. When your boat is under power, the lanyard clip should be attached to the driver’s clothing, leg, or arm. If the driver moves away from the binnacle control, the power will be cut, preventing your boat from running without a driver present at the controls.

Note: The stop switch lanyard on your boat

may differ from the switch shown here.

WARNING

The stop switch lanyard must not be removed or modified. It must always be kept clear of any obstruction that could interfere with its operation.

Owner’s Manual

WARNING

The driver should always attach the stop switch lanyard clip to his or her clothing, leg, or arm when the engine is running.

Hazardous Conditions

Changing conditions on any body of water can present a unique danger to you and your boat. Hazards such as underwater stumps, unexpected sandbars, or shallow water should be avoided. If you are unfamiliar with the waters, discuss potential hazards with other boaters who are familiar with the area. Then proceed with caution.

Always check the weather before boating, and postpone your trip if hazardous weather conditions are predicted. While on your boat, continue to check the weather periodically.

Manitou is not responsible for any damage or personal injury that may occur while using your boat in hazardous boating conditions, including, but not limited to, damage caused by stumps, sandbars, shallow waters, wave swells, and similar conditions.

WARNING

If you should damage your boat because of any hazardous condition, take your boat to a qualified Manitou dealer and have it inspected. Do not continue to use your boat until it has been inspected.

+ 55 hidden pages

Manitou Aurora Angler, Aurora LE, SES Standard, SES Platinum, X-Plode Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual