MasterCraft X14v 2014, 14v 2014, X25 2014, X30 2014, X35 2014 Owner's Manual
...
2014 Owner’s Manual
CONGRATULATIONS on your boating choice! MasterCraft
is the recognized world leader for inboard boats today and has been for
over forty-ve (45) years. The quality, innovation, selection and
value of MasterCraft boats are unmatched in the industry.
Please take a few minute to read this Owner’s Manual
completely, in addition to carefully reviewing any
additional information provided in the accompany-
ing packet. These publications will help to answer
most of the remaining questions you may have
regarding the new boat. If you have any
additional questions after reading
these publications, please feel
free to speak with your
dealer. MasterCraft
wants you to
feel
comfort able with
your boat
(and trailer,
where
applicable) from
the very beginning of your experience as
an owner of our products.
All information in this Owner’s Manual is based on the
latest product information available at the time of printing.
Because of our policy of continuous product improvement,
Welcome Aboard!
Page ii 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual
we reserve the right to make changes at any
time, without notice, in specications and
models, and also to discontinue models. We also reserve the right to change
specications, parts or accessories at any
time without incurring any obligation to
equip the same on models manufactured
before the date of the change. MasterCraft recommends checking www.mastercraft.com periodically, specifically
the Knowledge Center, for updates and
additional information.
Due to changes in specications, models, parts and/or accessories that may
occur after publication of this Owner’s
Manual, the Owner’s Manual may not
cover every circumstance that may arise
in owning and operating a boat. Also, the
illustrations used in this Owner’s Manual
are intended only as representative reference views and may not depict actual
model component parts. Information re-
garding certain on-board components
furnished by suppliers other than Mas-
terCraft, including the engine and power
train components, is provided separately
by the manufacturers of those com-
ponents. This information is available
through your dealer. A reasonable effort
has been made by MasterCraft and it suppliers to provide the applicable informa-
tion required to ensure a long-lasting and
enjoyable boating experience.
Gauges and Video Screens ........................................... 3-1
XSeries Video Screen Operation: 4.5” Screen .......... 3-8
XSeries Video Screen Operation: 7” Screen ........... 3-16
XStar Video Screen Operations .............................. 3-33
Boat Operations ........................................................... 4 - 1
Basic Electrical Components .................................... 4-2
Ignition ...................................................................... 4-8
Operational Control .................................................4-11
Additional Safety Support ....................................... 4-13
Below Deck ............................................................. 4-19
Visual Assistance..................................................... 4-27
Sport Enhancement ................................................. 4-31
Comfort and Convenience ...................................... 4-45
Preparation ................................................................... 5-1
Preparation ................................................................ 5-2
ILMOR MARINE Engines ....................................... 5-4
Safety Checks and Services ...................................... 5-6
New Boat Break-In ................................................... 5-8
2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page iii
Table of Contents
Safety Knowledge ......................................................... 1-1
Consistent Attention Required .................................. 1-7
Events Requiring Safety Knowledge ...................... 1-12
Equipment ............................................................... 1-15
Legal Requirements ................................................ 1-20
Other Important Information ................................... 1-24
Rules of the Open Water ......................................... 1-28
Guide to Individual Models......................................... 2-1
14v/X14v................................................................... 2-2
X2 .............................................................................. 2-4
X10 ............................................................................ 2-6
X25 ............................................................................ 2-8
X30 .......................................................................... 2-10
X35 .......................................................................... 2-12
X46 .......................................................................... 2-14
X55 .......................................................................... 2-16
XStar ....................................................................... 2-18
Starting and Basic Operations ................................. 5-10
Operational Hints .................................................... 5-13
Care and Maintenance................................................. 6-1
Lifting the Boat ......................................................... 6-2
Corrosion Prevention ................................................ 6-4
Cleaning the Boat ...................................................... 6-6
Maintenance Service ............................................... 6-14
Scheduled Maintenance .......................................... 6-16
Storage and Winterization ....................................... 6-27
Trailers .......................................................................... 7-1
Limited Warranty Statement ...................................... 8-1
Warranty Registration and Transfer .......................... 8-9
MasterCraft Limited Warranty Transfer Form .........8-11
Service Log ................................................................. 8-12
Index ............................................................................ 8-14
Page iv 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual
2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page v
2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual
Page vi 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual
SAFETY
Prior to operation, be certain that all passengers are aware of where the safety equipment is stowed, the location of emergency
equipment such as re extinguishers and
how this equipment is used. In case of potential emergencies, be sure that at least one
other person on-board understands how to
operate the boat.
Your safety, as well as the safety of others with and around you, is a direct result
of how you operate and maintain your boat.
You—and anyone who will be operating
this boat—should read and seek to fully
comprehend this Owner’s Manual, and any
additional information provided by component manufacturers and suppliers. Make
sure that you understand all of the controls
and operating instructions before attempting
to operate the boat. Improper operation is
extremely dangerous!
The basic safety rules are outlined in
this section of the Owner’s Manual. Ad-
ditional precautions throughout the Own-
er’s Manual are noted by the following
symbols:
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to
potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to
avoid possible injury or death.
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, may result
in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION used without the safety alert
symbol indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, may result
in property damage.
The precautions listed in this Owner’s
Manual and on the boat are not all-inclu-
sive. If a procedure, method, tool or part
is not specically recommended by MasterCraft, using it may place you and others
in an unsafe situation; in addition, you may
render your warranty void. Remember: Always use common sense when operating,
servicing or repairing the boat!
Observing the safety recommendations found in this Owner’s Manual is
critical to keeping your boating experience as safe as possible during routine
operation. Your failure to do so may result in severe personal injury or death to
you and/or others. Use caution and common sense when operating your boat. Do
not ever take unnecessary chances!
Page 1-2 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual • Safety Knowledge
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
General Precautions
Be certain that all operators of your boat
are aware of the safety information within
this Owner’s Manual and that they use it to
conform to boat safety principles.
Boating safety starts with a thorough understanding of boat operations. In addition
to careful review of this Owner’s Manual,
you should also be aware that many sources of helpful information are available.
MasterCraft urges you to pursue additional
training prior to the independent operation
of your boat. However, training at any time
from recognized boating and/or safety or-
ganizations is benecial.
The following is a listing of a few agencies and organizations that offer safety
training and/or information:
American Red Cross, National HQ
8111 Gatehouse Road, 6th Floor
Falls Church VA 22042
(202) 737-8300
www.redcross.org
U.S.A. Water Ski Association
1251 Holy Cow Road
Polk City FL 33868
(863) 324-4341
www.usawaterski.org
Boat Owners Association
of the United States
880 South Pickett Street
Alexandria VA 22304
(703) 823-9550
www.boatus.com
National Safe Boating Council
2550 M Street NW, Suite 425
Washington DC 20037
(202) 296-4588
www.safeboatingcouncil.org
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
2100 Second Street SW
Washington DC 20593-001
(202) 267-1001
www.uscg.mil
http://www.uscgboating.org
Safety Aoat
The cause of many boating accidents is
often the operator’s failure to follow basic
safety rules or written precautions. Many
accidents can be avoided if the operator is
completely familiar with the boat, its operation and can recognize potentially hazardous situations before an accident occurs.
Failure to comply with safety-related information and instructions may result in serious injury or death to you and/or others.
Always use common sense when operating
the boat or participating in any activities
associated with the boat, including, but not
limited to, periods of time when the boat
engine is shut down and the boat is not in
operation.
• Improper operation of the boat is extremely dangerous! Operators must read
and understand all operating manuals
supplied with the boat, before operation.
• On-board equipment must always conform to the governing federal, state and
Safety Knowledge • 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 1-3
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
equipped with sliding or adjustable seat
backs, ensure that the backs are in the
locked position prior to operating the
boat.
• Prior to starting the engine, you must
open the engine box and check the en-
gine compartment and bilge for gasoline
and oil vapors. You must also operate
the blower for at least four (4) minutes.
Failure to do so may result in re and/or
an explosion.
Failure to comply with the requirement of
operating the blower for at least four (4)
local regulations.
• Always attach the engine emergency
safety shut-off lanyard to a part of your
clothing (such as a belt loop) when operating the boat.
Never override or modify the engine emergency safety shut-o switch in any way
.
• Never operate the boat, water ski, wakeboard or engage in other water activities
while under the inuence of alcohol or
drugs.
• All persons must be seated in a designated occupant seating area while the boat
is in motion. (A seating label is afxed in
each model.) Never stand or allow pas-
sengers to stand in the boat or sit on the
motor box or tower (where equipped),
gunwale, decks, or any location other
than occupant seating while underway.
You or others may be thrown within or
from the boat, which could result in serious injury or death. Never allow occupants to use sun pads or transom seating
while the engine is running. On models
minutes before starting the engine may result in serious injury or death to you and/
or others.
• Never remove or modify any components of the fuel system. Removal or
modication of any component of the
fuel system may cause a hazardous situation and will void the warranty. The
modern MasterCraft fuel delivery lines
are pressurized and attempting to loosen
or remove them may result in the uncontrolled release of fuel, which can be
environmentally hazardous, and may potentially cause injury.
• Never allow any type of spark or open
ame on board. It may result in re or
explosion.
Page 1-4 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual • Safety Knowledge
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
General Common Sense Advice
Avoid any activity that may result in
damage to the boat, thereby voiding the
warranty. Some things, such as avoiding
stationary objects, are obvious. However,
even less obvious activities can cause damage to a boat, no matter how well-built. For
example, while a beach or shoreline may
seem soft while walking on it, running a
boat up onto shore may result in signicant
scratches in the berglass nish. The causes
of many kinds of damage are usually quite
obvious to trained service personnel, and if
they determine that damage was caused by
misuse or activity such as “beaching,” such
results may void your warranty.
MasterCraft cannot anticipate every
type of activity or neglect that could result
in damage to the boat or that may cause
illness, injury or even death to boaters.
The operator, owner and/or all persons on
board are responsible for using common
sense and a careful thought process to ensure that every measure has been taken to
keep boating enjoyable for many years to
come. A MasterCraft boat can be the source
of countless hours of family fun, as well as
building friendships. But the boating experience remains safe only if YOU, and
everyone on board, use your head before,
during and after your boating activity.
As you anticipate many good times ahead
with the MasterCraft boat, be sure that, rst
and foremost, you are well-prepared to be
responsible.
Safety Knowledge • 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 1-5
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
Hazardous Operations
There are a number of situations which
can result in peril for boats and persons onboard. Among these is boating too close
to dam spillways, where turbulence and
strong currents can result in loss of control
of the vessel. These areas as well as other
hazardous areas are usually marked. Do
NOT ignore such markers.
Additionally, there may be potentially
hazardous situations that can adversely affect boating. These include weather conditions (addressed later in this chapter),
operating in shallow water where navigational parts of the boat may be damaged,
or boating in bodies of water that include
weeds and other growth that can foul the
boat operations. These ora can foul your
boat engine, restrict water intake to the engine (causing overheating), and restrict the
propellers to such an extent that it causes a
vibration that can damage the engine and
drive train.
Operator’s Responsibilities
• Ensure the boat is in top operating condition and there are no hazards that impede
your moving about the boat.
• Ensure the bilge is clean prior to starting.
• File a oat plan, as described below,
with a relative or friend.
• Have a complete knowledge of the operation and handling characteristics of
your boat.
• Ensure that the boat is not loaded above
the maximum capacity and that the load
is properly distributed. Reference the
seating chart label afxed in the boat for
proper distribution of persons aboard.
• Have familiarity with your starting location and your goal, and the waterways
between.
• Maintain a safe speed at all times to
avoid collisions.
• Keep an eye out for changing weather
conditions and respond accordingly.
• Know and practice the navigational
rules. Know and obey all federal and
state regulations and operate the boat
properly around all waterway markers.
• Maintain a clear, unobstructed view at all
times, especially forward. Scan the water
and avoid tunnel vision. Many boating
collisions are caused by inattention.
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S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
Consistent
Attention
Required
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
When anchoring the boat, you MUST
turn OFF the engine. In most models, exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide
are emitted from the exhaust ap area of
the transom immediately below the swim
platform. No one should ever be on the
swim platform or transom while the engine
is operating. This includes while using the
shower option in those models where the
engine must run in order to create hot water.
In those instances, showering must never be
done on the swim platform or transom be-
cause the carbon monoxide fumes are toxic.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless,
odorless and poisonous gas that accumulates rapidly and can cause serious injury
or death. Exposure to carbon monoxide
can be fatal in a matter of minutes. Exposure to even low concentrations of carbon
monoxide must not be ignored because the
eects of exposure to carbon monoxide
can build up and be just as lethal as high
concentrations. Carbon monoxide from ex-
haust pipes of inboard or outboard engines
may build up inside and outside the boat
in areas near exhaust vents, particularly
during slow-speed operations. STAY AWAY
from these exhaust vent areas, which are
located at the stern of the boat, and DO
NOT swim or engage in any watersports
or other activities in or near the stern area
of the boat, including, without limitation,
the swim platform and the rear sun deck,
when the engine is in operation. Under no
circumstances should the owner and/or
operator allow persons to hold onto the
swim platform while the engine is operating and the boat is in motion. These activities (sometimes known as “teak surfing” or
“platform dragging,” where the participant
holds onto the swim platform and is pulled
through the water, and/or “body surfs” immediately behind the boat) are extremely
dangerous, highly likely to result in death
or serious bodily injury, and are a misuse of
this product.
Carbon monoxide (CO) enters your
bloodstream through the lungs, blocking
the oxygen your body needs. Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or very quick
Safety Knowledge • 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 1-7
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
exposure to high concentrations can kill
you and all on board.
Early symptoms of CO poisoning include irritated eyes, headache, nausea,
weakness and dizziness. These can be
confused with seasickness or intoxication.
Altitude, certain health-related problems,
and age will increase the effects of CO.
Persons who smoke or are exposed to
high concentrations of cigarette smoke,
consume alcohol, or have lung disorders
or heart problems are particularly susceptible to an increase in the effects of CO.
However, anyone can be affected. Another
factor to consider is that physical exertion
accelerates the rate at which the blood absorbs CO.
Emergency Treatment for CO
Poisoning
CO poisoning or toxicity is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate
action. The following is a list of things that
should be done if CO poisoning is suspected. Proceed with caution. The victim may
be in an area of CO concentration, which
means you or others could then be in dan-
ger from exposure to CO:
• Evaluate the situation and ventilate the
area if possible.
• Evacuate the area and move the affected
person(s) to a fresh air environment.
• Observe the victim(s).
• Administer oxygen, if available.
• Contact medical help. If the victim is
not breathing, perform rescue breathing
or approved cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as appropriate until medical
help arrives. Prompt action can mean the
difference between life and death.
• Shut off potential sources of CO, if pos-
sible. Correct ventilation problems and/
or repair exhaust problems as appropriate. Investigate the source of CO and
take corrective action, such as evacuating and ventilating the area or shutting
off the source of the CO, while at the
same time evacuating and ventilating
the area.
Where CO May Accumulate
Carbon monoxide can accumulate anywhere in or around your boat. This includes, but is not limited to:
• inadequately ventilated canvas enclosures.
• exhaust gas trapped in enclosed places.
• blocked exhaust outlets.
• another vessel’s exhaust. CO from the
boat docked next to you can be just as
deadly as that emitted from your own
boat.
• back drafting from your own boat’s exhaust.
• at slow speeds, while idling or stopped.
Be aware that CO can remain in or
around your boat at dangerous levels
even if your engine or the other boat’s
engine is no longer running!
Page 1-8 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual • Safety Knowledge
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
How to Protect Yourself and Others
Following these simple steps to help
keep CO from poisoning you, your passengers and others nearby:
• Know where and how CO may accumulate in and around your boat. This
is particularly important when starting
or running engines in boathouses, or
near a sea wall. Boats that are moored
in close proximity are also potential
problems as the fumes from your boat
or another boat can affect air drafts on
all boats. Back drafting (sometimes
called the “station wagon effect” occurs
when the fumes curl up over the swim
platform and transom and into the boat,
especially when canvas or other cover-
ings can trap the fumes. Even in open
air, consider wind direction, the boat’s
speed and trim angles.
• Maintain fresh air circulation throughout the boat at all times. CO is in greater
concentration when the engine is cold so
ensure that the boat is situated to take
advantage of maximum dissipation of
fumes.
• If your boat is equipped with a generator, know where the exhaust outlet(s) is
located and keep everyone away from
the area.
• Ensure that all appliances, air conditioning, heater, generator, or other on-board
function that emits fumes are routinely
and regularly provided with maintenance as described by those manufacturers. Failure to do so can result in the
accumulation of CO fumes.
• Never sit, teak surf, or hang on the back
deck or swim platform while the engine
is running. Teak surng is NEVER a
safe activity.
• Never move into areas under swim platforms where exhaust outlets are located
unless the area has been properly ventilated.
• Operation of boats at mile-high (5,250
ft.) or higher altitudes may affect CO
production. Check with an authorized
MasterCraft dealer before operating at
higher altitudes to determine whether
the engine may require additional tun-
ing to prevent excessive CO.
• Although CO can be present without
the smell of exhaust fumes, if you smell
exhaust fumes, CO is also present. Take
immediate action to dissipate these
fumes.
• Treat symptoms of seasickness as possible CO poisoning. Get the person(s)
into fresh air immediately. Seek medical
attention.
• Install and maintain CO alarms inside
your boat. Do not ignore any alarm.
Replace alarms as recommended by the
alarm manufacturer.
• Follow Coast Guard safety checklists.
• Get a Vessel Safety Check. They are
free! Your local U.S. Coast Guard Aux-
iliary can provide details or check www.
uscgaux.org online to locate assistance.
Safety Knowledge • 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 1-9
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
Weight Limits and Distribution
All boats have weight limits. Failure to adhere to the posted limits can cause operation instability and/or the boat to sink. This
may result in serious injury or death, as well
as significant damage to the boat, which
will not be covered by warranty.
Overloading a boat may cause it to become unstable and may potentially result
in the boat’s otation system becoming
overwhelmed. Too much weight can sink
any boat! Within this Manual and on a label
mounted in each boat is the Maximum Capacity for that specic model. Bear in mind
that maximum limits include additional
water ballast bags and water put in them,
gear brought onto the boat, additional op-
tions and all people. Maximum people is
limited to the number of designated occupant seating positions.
Equally critical is how weight is distributed throughout the boat. The weight must
be distributed evenly throughout the boat.
If too much weight is placed in one area
it can have serious impact on maintaining
control. Items and people can also shift positions during operation, potentially causing a dangerous situation.
Adding weight of any type to the boat
will affect the handling characteristics of
the boat underway. Caution should always
be exhibited when putting the boat into
motion or attempting to stop it, particularly when the added-weight characteristics
have changed.
Line of Sight
Care should also be taken to avoid interfering with the boat operator’s line of sight
when the boat is underway. This applies
particularly to individuals riding in the
bow. It is possible to quite unintentionally
obscure the driver’s view. Even momentary
interference can result in the driver’s inability to respond to a situation that requires
avoidance of another vessel or submerged
or partially-submerged objects. Everyone
on board should always pay attention to
other vessels, people and objects located in
close proximity to the boat, activities taking place in or near the water, and should
always be supportive of the boat operator.
The law requires the boat operator to
maintain clear visibility at all times and in
all directions when the boat is in motion.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
and Accessibility
Federal law also requires at least one
wearable Type I, II, III or Type V Personal
Flotation Device (“PFD”) for each person
on-board or being towed on water skis,
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S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
wakeboards or other recreational equip-
ment. A Type V PFD provides performance
of either a Type I, II or III PFD (as marked
on its label) and must be used according
to the label requirements. In addition, one
throwable Type IV PFD must also be on
board. As the owner, obtaining the appropriate PFDs is your responsibility, and so
is determining whether people on-board,
including those who are underage, are required to wear PFDs when underway. Your
MasterCraft dealer can, and will be happy
to, assist you with your purchase of appropriate PFDs.
People on-board who cannot swim or
who are not strong swimmers, as well as
children, should wear PFDs at all times.
Note: Requirements for coastal waters and
inland waters differ. Check with the local
boating authorities for more information.
• Wearable PFDs must be readily accessible in the boat.
• It should be possible to put on the PFDs
within a reasonable amount of time in
case of emergency.
• PFDs should never be stowed in plastic
bags, in locked or closed compartments
or have other gear stowed on top of
them.
• The U.S. Coast Guard, as well as MasterCraft, recommends the wearing of PFDs
at all times when the vessel is underway,
even though it is not a requirement. The
best PFD is the one that is worn–that is,
the one that can save your life.
• Inatable PFDs must have a full cylinder and all status indicators on the inator must be green, or the device is NOT
serviceable, and is NOT considered a us-
able PFD for anyone on-board the vessel.
• Coast Guard-approved inatable PFDs
are authorized for use on recreational
boats by persons at least 16 years of age.
• Some states require children to wear
PFDs at all times. Check with your state
boating safety ofcials for details. Be
certain to equip children with a PFD that
is appropriate for the size of the child.
The label will indicate the weight limits
for use.
Safety Knowledge • 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 1-11
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
Events
Requiring
Safety
Knowledge
In the Event of a Fire
Fire on-board is among the most serious
of matters that boaters can experience. Due
to the close proximity of fuel tanks and a
number of electrically operated items that
can result in a spark or arc, any and all res
on a boat should be a matter for immediate
action.
While your MasterCraft boat is equipped
with a re suppression system or re extinguishers, it is important to make a quick
and calculated decision regarding any res.
If the extinguishing/suppression materials
do not quickly extinguish the re, it may
become necessary to abandon ship. Make
sure everyone on board has a PFD and
swims as quickly and as far as possible, up
wind and upstream, from the boat. If gaso-
line is released, it will oat on top of the
water. It may spread out or move with the
body of water’s current.
Fire Extinguishers
In all V-drives, the engine compartment
is equipped with an automatic re suppres-
sion system. It has a manual override that
uses a clean agent canister, which is housed
in the engine compartment and is integrat-
ed with the re suppression system.
You are also required by law to have
on board one (1) 2.5-pound, dry chemical
re extinguisher rated for Type A, B and
C res. The dry chemical
re extinguisher is stan-
dard equipment, which is
automatically included in
your boat from the factory.
Replacement units can be
ordered from MasterCraft.
If any of the re suppression system canisters
on board your boat are
discharged (whether a
canister in an automatic
system or a portable re
extinguisher), then they
must be replaced immedi-
ately. If the automatic re
suppression system has
been discharged, that information will be
indicated through the video display screen
at the helm. If the clean agent canister associated with the automatic re suppression system or the clean agent canister
used in connection with a re port has
been discharged, then you must contact
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S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
your authorized MasterCraft dealer to obtain a replacement for the clean agent type
of canister. If the dry chemical re extinguisher has been discharged, then you may
purchase a replacement 2.5-pound dry
chemical re extinguisher that is rated for
Type A, B and C res from an authorized
MasterCraft dealer or from another source.
Fire extinguishers require periodic maintenance. Monthly, each re extinguisher on
your boat should be examined to be sure
that the seals and tamper indicators are not
broken or missing. The pressure gauges
or indicators, if applicable, should read
in the operable range. There should be no
obvious physical damage, rust, corrosion,
leakage or clogged nozzles. Additionally,
if the extinguisher has not been used, it
should be weighed annually to assure that
the minimum weight as stated on the label
still exists. Any re extinguisher that has
been partially emptied must be replaced or
taken to a qualied re extinguisher servicing company for recharging as soon as possible.
In an automatic/manual system, ensure
the pin inserted to protect the system at the
helm during transit from the factory has
been pulled to activate the system. This
is part of dealer preparation, but it is the
responsibility of the boat owner to ensure
that the system is functional. (There is no
longer a pull pin at the bottle.)
Fire Suppression and Extinguishing
All MasterCraft V-drives are equipped
with an automatic re suppression system.
The automatic system operates from sensors in the engine room and will automatically release a clean-agent, gaseous chemical that does not leave residue behind. In
boats sold both domestically and interna-
tionally, this is the HFC-227 system.
It is also possible to activate the system
manually on the domestic boats only. Pull
the pin with
the red tag
(shown), and
then pull the
red re handle
to set the system in operation. (International boats
are automatic only.)
In case of an engine compartment re,
shut down the engine and blowers before
manual discharge, or immediately following the automatic discharge. Boats are
equipped with a discharge indication light
at the instrument panel or on the video display gauge at the helm.
After the suppression system has
been used, the re extinguisher canister
will be empty. The boat owner/operator
should have the canister replaced as soon
as possible.
MasterCraft boats have also been
specied to carry a hand-held 2.5 lb.
monoammonium phosphate expellant
(dry chemical) unit, which is rated Class
A (trash, wood and paper), Class B (UL
Approved) and Class C (energized electrical equipment). These units should be
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used in situations other than engine com-
partment res.
All V-drives are specied for one (1) dry
chemical, hand-held extinguisher. This is
in addition to the suppression system in the
engine compartment.
Hand-held units should be replaced or
recharged as soon as possible after use.
Chemical discharge should be cleaned
from all surfaces as soon as possible and
prior to running the boat again, unless operation is necessary to return to shore.
The boat should never be operated fol-
lowing a re until after a determination has
been made whether operation may result
in another re. If any danger of an additional re exists, the boat should be towed
to shore or dock rather than running the
engine(s).
Consumers who choose to purchase re
control equipment from resources other
than MasterCraft must follow the instructions and requirements as listed within the
engine compartment regarding suitability
for the compartment volume. These standards are established by the Coast Guard
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and
the American Boat and Yacht Council
(ABYC).
Following the activation of the automatic
fire suppression system or a hand-held
fire extinguisher, a careful determination
should be made as to whether the boat can
safely be operated. If there is any doubt or
concern whatsoever, the boat should be
towed to shore and/or dock for service by
an authorized MasterCraf dealer prior to
operating again. Failure to follow these instructions could result in death or serious
injury/illness.
Capsizing
In addition to re, a boater’s greatest
concern may be with the possibility of capsizing (or overturning) the boat. A number
of factors can occur that will result in a boat
overturning (high waves, excessive wakes,
bad weather, etc.) or sinking as a result of
damage such as striking an underwater object or another boat.
In the event of such an occurrence, try
to turn the engine OFF. Attempt to locate
any other people who were on-board and
determine whether they are injured. Unless
there is re or release of gasoline, in most
instances it is wise to remain with the boat.
Unless it has sustained sinkable damage, it
will oat. Climbing on the hull will make it
easier for rescuers to locate you and others.
Running Aground or
Striking Underwater Objects
Ascertain whether there is damage to the
hull. If water can be stopped from entering
the boat, cautiously return to dock. Have
the boat checked out by your authorized
MasterCraft dealer to be certain that the
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hull has not been weakened. Even if water
does not intrude initially, difculties may
occur later.
If water is entering the boat after running
aground or striking an underwater object,
call or signal for assistance. Abandon ship,
if necessary. Do not attempt to out-run a sig-
nicant leak to shore as it can be difcult
to estimate how long it will take for enough
water to intrude and sink the boat.
Skiing and Wakeboarding Safety
Skiers and wakeboarders are obligated
to be as aware of the fundamental safety
rules as operators. If you are new to water
sports, you should seek certied training
before starting. You may nd it especially
helpful to join a local water-sports club,
if available, and the U.S.W.S.A. (United
States Water Skiing Association).
• Always remember that the majority of
water-skiing and wakeboarding injuries
are the result of impacts with other objects, so always look where you are going and be aware of what is going on
around you.
PROPELLER(S) MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. Shut o the engine(s) when
near persons in the water, prior to using
sunpads, swim platform or boarding ladder.
• Never put your arm, head or any other
part of your body through the handle/
bridle of the ski or wakeboarding line,
nor wrap the line around any part of the
body at any time.
• Never ski or wakeboard at night.
• Never ski or wakeboard directly in front
of other boats.
• When adding accessories to the tower,
ensure that the total aggregate weight of
the accessories does not exceed 85 lbs.
(U.S.). Exceeding the limit may result
in structural failure of the tower. MasterCraft strongly encourages the use of
MasterCraft towers and accessories only
as they have been tested and determined
to meet product requirements, including
weight.
Towers should never have a total aggregate
weight of accessories exceeding 85 lbs.
(U.S.). Excessive weight can cause tower
failure and the collapse of a tower or the
disconnection of the tower from the deck,
which could result in serious bodily injury
or damage to the boat that is not covered
by warranty.
• Never attempt to fold a ZFT0 tower
without assistance. Folding a ZFT0
tower requires at least two (2) people.
(The ZFT4 and ZFT5P towers are not
included in this group.)
• Never jump from a boat that is moving
at any speed, nor enter or exit the water
when the engine is running (ON). (See
the Common Sense Approach section of
this Owner’s Manual for additional in-
formation regarding carbon monoxide
peril.)
• Never climb, sit or stand on a tower. The
tower is intended for towing only as noted.
• Make sure that everyone knows and uses
approved skiing/wakeboarding hand
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signals and adheres to common skiing,
wakeboarding and boating courtesy.
Inexperienced skiers might not know
that there are waterskiing hand signals,
similar to bicycle and motorcycle hand
signals, that can be used while skiing.
For example, giving a thumps up or
palm facing up signal while motioning
upwards means “speed up,” and the opposite, thumbs down or palms facing
down, means “slow down.” There are
also signals for speed—turn right, turn
left, stop—and signals for when you are
down in the water. Learning these help
the water skier communicate with the
boat over the loud roar of the engine.
The best way to utilize these signals is
by having a spotter. Many states require
at least two people be aboard the boat
while towing a skier—one driver and
one spotter. Having a spotter to watch
the water skier allows the driver of the
boat to concentrate on the water in front
of and around the boat. The spotter
watches the water skier and communicates hand signals to the driver and also
can alert the driver when the skier falls.
• Never ride on the ski platform or hold
on to the ski platform while in the wa-
ter during engine operation, including
at idle. Carbon monoxide fumes are
expelled from the lower transom areas
of your boat and can cause death or serious illness. See the Common Sense
Approach section following for more
details.
• Give immediate assistance to anyone
who falls because they are vulnerable
and may not be seen by other boaters.
Approach individuals in the water from
the leeward side (opposite the wind) and
turn OFF the engine prior to reaching
them. Propellers and engine exhaust are
only part of the potential problem for
someone in the water. Be aware that propellers may continue to turn for a period
of time after the engine is shut OFF, and
the edges are often sharp enough to easily cut skin or break bones.
• Ski and wakeboard only in acceptable
areas. Avoid restricted areas.
• The above mandates are not all-inclusive. It is the boater’s responsibility to
operate the boat in a safe fashion and become familiar with any and all rules and
regulations governing boat operation.
Do not tow more than two (2) persons at
one time on a tow tower. The tow tower
approved for use on your boat should be
used only for water skis, wakeboards or
recreational two-person towables, and not
for parasailing, kite flying or towing other
boats. Do not add any attachments that are
not approved for use on your MasterCraf
boat. Do not climb on, sit on, stand on, jump
o of or dive o of the tower. Never allow
passengers to sit behind the tow rope attachment point. Never allow loose tow rope
ends to dangle. Always be certain that all
bolts are in place and tight before and during use. When the tower is up, watch for low
obstacles such as tree limbs, bridges or
power lines.
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Equipment
Safety Equipment
Federal law requires certain safety
equipment to be on-board your boat at all
times. Responsible boaters carry additional
equipment in case of emergency. It is your
responsibility to check with the local boating authorities for any additional requirements and/or equipment over and above the
federal requirements.
Required Equipment
Your MasterCraft boat has been
equipped at the factory with most of the
federally required safety equipment for
inland waters (Class II, 26-foot-to-40-foot
watercraft). This equipment includes:
• ABYC-approved (American Boat &
Yacht Club) marine mufers with water
injection;
• USCG-approved (United States Coast
Guard) marine ame arrestor;
• USCG-approved engine box ventilation
with sparkless power blower;
• ABYC-approved electric horn sound-
warning device; and
• USCG-approved inland lighting.
Recommended Equipment
The responsible boat owner will avoid
potential problems on an outing by having
additional equipment on board. Normally,
the decision regarding the appropriate
equipment to take on individual outings is
dependent upon the body of water and the
length of the trip. We suggest the following equipment as a minimum (your MasterCraft dealer can also assist you with additional recommendations):
• An anchor with at least 75 feet of line (in
saltwater operation, particularly);
• A manual bailing device for removing
water;
• A combination oar/boat hook;
• A day-and-night visual distress signal;
• A rst aid kit and manual;
• An airway breathing tube;
• A waterproof ashlight;
• A non-electric horn or whistle;
• A set of local navigational charts;
• Mooring lines and fenders;
• Extra engine oil;
• A tool kit; and
• A portable, battery-operated AM/FM ra-
dio or weather radio/scanner.
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Sound Producing Devices
The navigation rules
require sound signals to
be made under certain
circumstances. Meeting,
crossing and overtaking
situations, which will be
described in some detail
shortly, are examples of
when sound signals are required. Recreational vessels are also required to sound
signals during periods of reduced visibility.
Your MasterCraft boat is equipped with a
horn, but you may also purchase aftermarket devices in case of potential electrical
disconnect or failure.
Note: The requirement to carry a bell on
board no longer applies to vessels operating on International Waters.
The following are standard signals when
using a whistle:
One prolonged blast: warning.
One short blast: Pass on my port side.
Two short blasts: pass on my starboard
side.
Three short blasts: my engines are in reverse.
Five or more blasts: danger!
Visual Distress Signals
All vessels used on coastal waters, the
Great Lakes, territorial seas and those waters connected directly to them up to a
point where a body of water is greater than
two miles wide, must be equipped with
U.S.C.G.-approved visual distress signals.
Vessels owned in the United States but operating on the high seas must be equipped with
U.S.C.G.-approved visual distress signals.
Pyrotechnic visual distress signals must
be Coast Guard-approved, in serviceable
condition and readily accessible. This
means that:
• They are marked with an expiration
date. Expired signals may be carried as
extra equipment, but cannot be counted
toward meeting the visual distress signal
requirement, since they may be unreliable.
• If pyrotechnic devices are selected, a
minimum of three are required. That is,
three signals for day use and three signals for night. Some pyrotechnic signals
meet both day and night use requirements.
• Pyrotechnic devices should be stored in
a cool, dry location, if possible. A watertight container painted red or orange and
prominently marked “Distress Signals”
or “Flares” is recommended.
U.S.C.G.-approved pyrotechnic visual
distress signals and associated devices in-
clude pyrotechnic red ares, hand-held or
aerial; pyrotechnic orange smoke, hand-
held or oating, or launchers for aerial red
meteors or parachute ares.
Non-pyrotechnic devices may be al-
lowed. These include an orange distress
ag (day signal only) or an electric distress
light (which is acceptable for night use).
Use of these devices must still meet Coast
Guard requirements, information for which
is available online and from the Coast
Guard.
Under Inland Navigation Rules, a high
intensity white light ashing at regular
intervals from 50-70 times per minute is
considered a distress signal. Such devices
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S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
do NOT count toward meeting the visual
distress signal requirement, however. Regulations prohibit display of visual distress
signals on the water under any circum-
stances except when assistance is required
to prevent immediate or potential danger to
persons on board a vessel.
All distress signals have distinct ad-
vantages. No single device is ideal under
all conditions or suitable for all purposes.
Pyrotechnics are universally recognized as
excellent distress signals. However, there
is potential for injury and property damage if not properly handled. Particular care
should be used in stowage of pyrotechnics
if children will be on board. These devices
produce a very hot ame and the residue
can cause burns and ignite ammable ma-
terials.
Pistol launched and hand-held parachute
ares and meteors have many characteristics of a rearm and must be handled with
caution. In some states, they are considered
a rearm and prohibited from use.
Check with local authorities regarding
the best visual distress signal for use in the
area in which you will be boating.
Navigational Lights
Your MasterCraft boat is equipped with
navigational lights. See the Guide to In-
dividual Models section to determine the
location of the navigational lights on your
boat or verify with your dealer.
Anytime you are moving on the water
between sunset and sunrise, you are required
to have your navigational lights operating.
Warning Plates and Labels
Read and note ALL warning plates and
labels from bow to stern, including those
that are installed inside the engine compartment, lockers and under seating. YOU
MUST READ AND ADHERE TO ALL
CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS IN AND
ON YOUR BOAT!
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S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
Legal
Requirements
Law Enforcement
A vessel underway, when hailed by a
Coast Guard vessel, is required to heave to,
or maneuver in such a manner that permits
a boarding ofcer to come aboard.
Other federal, state and local law enforcement ofcials may board and examine a vessel. The Coast Guard may impose
a civil penalty up to $1,000 for failure to
comply with equipment requirements; report a boating accident; or comply with
other federal regulations. Failure to com-
ply with the Inland Navigation Rules Act
of 1980 can result in a civil penalty up to
$5,000. Details of the Act are available on-
line or through the U.S. Coast Guard and
the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Operator’s License
Some states are implementing operator’s
license requirements. These requirements
vary widely. Many states now have restrictions regarding age. If you are operating
in a location where minors are allowed to
operate the boat, careful supervision by an
adult should be the rule of thumb always.
Whether operating a boat locally or in a
remote location, operators should verify
with state and local authorities regarding
whether a license or training is required.
This should be checked at least annually.
Boating Under the Inuence
Boating under the inuence of alcohol
or drugs can be as deadly as driving a car
while under the inuence!
Did you know:
• a boat operator is likely to become im-
paired more quickly than a vehicle driver, drink for drink?
• the penalties for BUI can include large
nes, revocation of operator privileges
and serious jail time?
• the use of alcohol is involved in about
one-third of all recreational boating fatalities?
It is illegal to operate a boat while under
the inuence of alcohol or drugs in every
state. The Coast Guard also enforces a federal law that prohibits BUI.
Alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination. These impairments
increase the likelihood of accidents aoat
for both boat operators and passengers. U.S.
Coast Guard data shows that in boating deaths
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S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
involving alcohol use, over half the victims
capsized their boats and/or fell overboard.
Alcohol is even more hazardous on the
water than on land. The marine environment of motion, vibration, engine noise,
sun, wind and spray accelerate a drinker’s
impairment. These stressors cause fatigue
that makes a boat operator’s coordination,
judgment and reaction time decline even
faster when using alcohol.
As a result of alcohol’s effects, a boat operator with a blood alcohol concentration of
approximately .10 percent is estimated to be
more than 10 times as likely to die in a boat-
ing accident than an operator with zero blood
alcohol concentration. Passengers are also at
greatly increased risk for injury or death, especially if they are also using alcohol.
The Coast Guard and every state have stringent penalties for violating BUI laws. Penalties
can include large nes, suspension or revocation of boat operator privileges, and jail time.
The Coast Guard and the states cooperate fully
in enforcement in order to remove impaired
boat operators from the waters.
In waters that are overseen solely by the
states, the states have the authority to enforce
their own BUI statutes. In state waters that are
also subject to U.S. jurisdiction, there is concur-
rent jurisdiction. That means if a boater is apprehended under Federal law in these waters, the
Coast Guard will (unless precluded by state law)
request that state law enforcement ofcers take
the intoxicated boater into custody. Depending
on the circumstances, the operator may be arrested. Penalties vary, but in many jurisdictions
operators found guilty of BUI can expect a civil
penalty of at least $1,000 or criminal penalty of
$5,000, one year of imprisonment or both. Civil
lawsuits in cases of property damage or injury/
death to others can result in signicantly more
serious penalties.
Intoxication from drugs, including legal prescription drugs, is an equally serious matter and
is dealt with as seriously as alcohol.
Registration, Numbering
and Documentation
Although it might not be immediately
obvious as to how this relates to boating
safety, in fact it can be critical in emergencies. All undocumented vessels equipped
with propulsion machinery must be registered in the state of principal use. A certicate of number will be issued upon registering the vehicle. These numbers must
be displayed on your vessel. The owner/
operator of the vessel must carry a valid
certicate of number whenever the vessel
is in use. When moving to a new state of
principal use, the certicate is valid for 60
days. Check with your state boating authority for registration requirements.
Numbers must be painted or permanently
attached to each side of the forward half of
the vessel. The validation stickers must be
afxed within six inches of the registration
number. With the exception of the vessel fee
decal, no other letters or numbers may be
displayed nearby. Lettering must be in plain,
vertical block characters of not less than
three (3) inches in height. Spaces or hyphens
between letter and number groupings must
be equal to the width of a letter other than
“i” or a number other than “1.”
The owner of a vessel must notify the
agency which issued the certicate of
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S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
number within fteen (15) days if the vessel is transferred, destroyed, abandoned,
lost, stolen or recovered, or if the certicate of number is lost, destroyed or the
owner’s address changed. If the certicate
of number becomes invalid for any reason, it must be surrendered in the manner
prescribed to the issuing authority within
15 days.
Accident Reporting
Federal law requires the boat operator to
le a boating accident report with the state
reporting authority when, as a result of an
occurrence that involves a boat or its equipment:
• a person dies;
• a person disappears from the vessel un-
der circumstances that indicate death or
injury;
• a person is injured and requires medical
treatment beyond rst aid;
• damage to vessels and other property
totals $2,000 or more (the amount may
be lower in some states and territories;
verify with local boating authorities); or
• the boat is destroyed.
If the boat operator is deceased or un-
able to make the report, the boat owner is
required to le the report.
Note that your responsibility does not
end with your own craft. You are required
by law to respond to any distress signal,
visual or auditory. Render immediate assis-
tance, EXCEPT in instances in which you
and your passengers will be endangered or
those situations that exceed your capabilities or the capabilities of your boat. Good
Samaritan protection is provided to boaters
who provide good faith assistance and protects them from civil liability for assistance
given.
Speeding and Noise
Some states and boating areas have imposed speed limits for operation of boats,
including but not limited to no-wake zones.
Noise regulations may also be imposed. It
is the responsibility of the boat operator to
be familiar with any and all laws and regulations and to obey them. The U.S. Coast
Guard is an excellent source for this information, including penalties for failure to
observe the requirements.
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Radios-Telephones
Improper use of a radio-telephone is a
criminal offense. The use of obscene, indecent or profane language during radio com-
munications is punishable by a $10,000
ne, imprisonment for two years or both.
Other penalties exist for misuse of a radio,
such as improper use of Channel 16 VHF-
FM. Channel 16 is a calling and distress
channel. It is not to be used for conversation or radio checks. Such communications should be conducted on an authorized
channel.
Refuse and Pollution
Note that there are stringent requirements regarding pollution, discharge of oil,
discharge of garbage and the operation and
discharge from sanitation devices. It is the
boat owner’s and operator’s responsibility
to determine what the laws and regulations
are and to ensure that those laws and regulations are respected and enforced.
Details are available through the Coast
Guard.
The above information details requirements within the United States territorial
waters. Boats operated under other autonomous governmental agencies throughout the world will have their own legal
requirements, including the international
MARPOL Treaty. Boat owners and operators are responsible for determining what
those requirements are and complying
with them, regardless of the owner/operator’s citizenship.
This Owner’s Manual has been devel-
oped to help ensure an enjoyable experience as you boat, wakeboard and ski with
a fabulous MasterCraft boat. As stated
earlier, this information is not all-inclusive. There are many factors to consider
and additional information that you need
to research before undertaking any boating activity.
In addition to reading this Owner’s
Manual and other related material, and
familiarizing yourself with the proper
operation of the MasterCraft boat, you
should also always use common sense
when boating.
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