Monterey Boats Cruiser 256, Cruiser 276, Cruiser 296 Owner's Manual

CRUISER BOATS

OVVNER'S MANUAL

Welcome Aboard

Monterey welcomes you to its growing family of new boat owners.

This manual will familiarize you with the operation, maintenance and safety information about your new boat. This manual is written to cover several models in our line, so your model may not contain some options or may operate or look a little different. It is supplemented with the owner’s manual that is provided by the engine manufacturers. We urge you to read these publications carefully and follow recommendations to help assure enjoyable and safe operation of your new boat.

Below is an area provided for you to record the model and serial number of your boat, engine and major accessories. If you need service, these numbers will be important to you while anywhere in the United States and Canada. Any Monterey Dealer will be happy to assist you.

Because subsequent owners require this important information as well, these publications should remain with your boat when it is sold.

Thank you for choosing a Monterey Boat, we assure you of our continuing interest in your boating pleasure and satisfaction.

DATE PURCHASED ____________________________________________

DEALER/PHONE NUMBER ______________________________________

BOAT MODEL_________________________________________________

HULL NUMBER _______________________________________________

TRAILER ID NUMBER __________________________________________

ENGINE #1 MAKE/MODEL ______________________________________

ENGINE #1 SERIAL NUMBER____________________________________

ENGINE #2 MAKE/MODEL ______________________________________

ENGINE #2 SERIAL NUMBER____________________________________

INTRODUCTION

FREEBOARD

BOW

DRAFT

STERN

WATERLINE

AFT

FORWARD

HELM

BEAM

TRANSOM

LENGTH OVERALL (LOA)

PORT SIDE

STARBOARD SIDE

RADAR ARCH

BOW

PULPIT

GUNWALE

Take a few minutes to read this manual completely before you use your boat for the first time, it should answer any remaining questions you may have. Contact your dealer or local boating administrator for further information.

Because of our policy of continuous product improvement, the illustrations used in this manual may not be the same as on your boat and are intended only as representative reference views. Keep this manual on board for future reference.

IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS

Safeguard information about your boat by recording the Hull Identification Number (HIN), and model and serial numbers of major components and accessories. Keep a detailed Data Sheet for emergency purposes in a safe place off the boat. In case of theft, damage, etc., report these numbers to local authorities, your insurance agent, and your dealer.

NOTE

By law, the HIN must be clearly visible and may not be removed, altered, or tampered with in any way. The HIN is attached to the transom on the upper starboard side, above the waterline.

BOATING TERMINOLOGY

Cruiser

KC-0033

i-1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

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

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

Boater Responsibilities .... 1-2

Required Safety

Equipment ........................ 1-3

Emergencies .................... 1-7

Hazardous Conditions ...... 1-8

Operation By Minors ....... 1-11

Passenger Safety ........... 1-11

Water Sports .................. 1-12

General Precautions ...... 1-13

Special Gas

Precautions .................... 1-14

2 BASIC RULES

OF THE ROAD ................ 2-1

Aids to Navigation ............ 2-1

Right-of-Way .................... 2-6

3 CONTROLS AND

INDICATORS ................... 3-1

Shift/Throttle Control ........ 3-1

Instruments ...................... 3-3

4 OPERATION .................... 4-1

Fueling ............................. 4-1

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

Shifting/Running ............... 4-4

Warning Alarm ................. 4-5

Steering Controls ............. 4-5

Stopping ........................... 4-5

Docking ............................ 4-6

Boat Trim .......................... 4-8

5 GETTING UNDERWAY ... 5-1

Safety Checklist ............... 5-1

Safety Equipment ............. 5-3

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

Page

6 RUNNING ........................ 6-1

Maneuvering Techniques . 6-1

Salt Water ........................ 6-3

Freezing Temperatures .... 6-4

Towing Procedure ............ 6-4

Anchoring ......................... 6-5

Performance Boating ....... 6-6

Propellers ......................... 6-7

7 CARE AND

MAINTENANCE .............. 7-1

Electrical .......................... 7-1

Fuel System ..................... 7-4

Steering System ............... 7-4

Corrosion Protection ........ 7-4

General Maintenance ....... 7-5

8 TROUBLESHOOTING .... 8-1

Trouble Check Chart ........ 8-1

9 STORAGE ....................... 9-1

10 TRAILERING ................. 10-1

Classifications ................ 10-2

Hitch ............................... 10-2

Safety Chains ................. 10-3

Trailering Checklist ......... 10-4

Backing Up Trailers ........ 10-5

Launching ...................... 10-6

Loading .......................... 10-7

Slinging/Lifting ................ 10-8

11 SHIP SYSTEMS ............. 11-1

Electrical Systems .......... 11-1

Water Systems ............... 11-9

Hot Water Heater ......... 11-12

Sanitizing The Fresh

Water System ............... 11-13

Sample Float Plan ........ 11-20

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BOATING SAFETY

The popularity of boating and other water sports has undergone an explosion of growth in the past few years. Because of this, safety is an important issue for everyone who shares in the use of our waterways.

This section covers general boating safety information. Throughout this manual specific precautions and symbols identify safety related information.

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

This symbol and signal word indicate a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, COULD result in death or serious injury.

This symbol and signal word indicate a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, MAY result in minor or moderate injury. This symbol MAY also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

This signal word indicates a situation which if not avoided, MAY result in product or property damage.

The precautions listed in this manual and on the boat are not all-inclusive. If a procedure, method, tool or part is not specifically recommended, you must satisfy yourself that it is safe for you and others, and that the boat will not be damaged or made unsafe as a result of your decision. REMEMBER – ALWAYS USE COMMON SENSE WHEN OPERATING!

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BOATING REGULATIONS

The U.S. Coast Guard is the authority of the waterways; they are 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.

There are many pamphlets, prepared by the Coast Guard, available to you. These pamphlets explain “Rules of the Road”, signal lights, buoys, safety, international and inland regulations and much more than is presented in this manual. For more information contact your local U.S. Coast Guard Unit or call the Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647.

BOATER RESPONSIBILITIES

Registration

The U.S. Coast Guard requires that all power boats operating on the navigable waters of the United States must be registered in the state of main use. Many states also require registration in that state whenever boating on waters within their state boundary. Registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed on the boat according to regulations, and the registration certificate must be carried on board when the boat is in use.

Contact your state boating authorities (and neighboring states) for registration information on boats and trailers. Your dealer may be able to supply you with the appropriate forms.

Education

This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of boat operation. We strongly recommend that all operators of this boat seek additional training on boat handling and safety. Many states require operators under the age of 18 to be licensed in small boat operation and offer courses for training and certification.

The following is a listing of some of the agencies and organizations that offer safety training or information; refer to your local telephone directory for their telephone numbers and addresses.

● American Red Cross ● U.S. Power Squadrons

● U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary ● State Boating Offices

Insurance

You must get insurance before operating your new boat. Loss by fire, theft or other causes, and liability protection against accidents is a must for responsible boaters. The boat owner is legally responsible for any damage or injury caused when he, or someone else operating the boat, is involved in an accident. Many states have laws detailing minimum insurance needs. Your insurance agent and your dealer can supply you with more information.

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BOATING SAFETY

REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Your boat has been equipped at the factory with most federally required safety equipment. As the boat owner, obtaining necessary U.S. Coast Guard

approved safety equipment is your responsibility.

MINIMUM REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT

EQUIPMENT

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES (PFDs)

FIRE EXTINGUISHER Must say Coast  Guard Approved.

VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS (Required on coastal waters only.)

BELL, WHISTLE

CLASS 1

(16 to less than 26 ft.) (4.9 to less than 7.9 m)

One approved Type I, II or III device aboard for each person on board or being towed on water skis, etc.; and, in addition, one throwable Type IV device.

At least one B-I type approved hand portable fire extinguisher (Not required on outboard motorboats less than 26 feet in length and not carrying passengers for hire if the construction of such motorboats will not permit entrapment of explosive or flammable gasses or vapors and if fuel tanks are not permanently installed.)

Must carry visual distress signals approved for both daytime and nighttime use. Note: All boats carrying six or more passengers for hire must meet these requirements also.

Every vessel less than 12 meters (39.4 ft.) in length must carry an efficient sound producing device.

CLASS 2

(26 to less than 40 ft.) (7.9 to less than 12.2 m)

At least two B-I type approved portable fire extinguishers; OR at least one B-II type approved portable fire extinguisher.

Every vessel 12 meters (39.4 ft.) but less than 20 meters (65.6 ft.) in length must carry a whistle and a bell. The whisle must be audible for 1/2 nautical mile.The mouth of the bell must be at least 200 mm (7.87 inches) in diameter.

CLASS 3

(40 to not more than 65 ft.) (12.2 to not more than 19.8 m)

At least three B-I type approved portable fire extinguishers; OR at least one B-I type plus one B-II type approved portable fire extinguisher.

KC-0081

Personal Flotation Devices

Federal law requires at least one Type I, II or III Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each person on board or being towed on water skis; and in addition, one throwable Type IV PFD.

Note

Requirements for coastal waters and inland waters differ; check with the local authorities for more information.

PFDs are intended to help you save your own life; you and your passengers should wear a PFD whenever boating. It is especially important that children, handicapped people and non-swimmers wear a PFD at all times. Make certain you know how to use PFDs. Try it on and make adjustments for a comfortable fit and show children how to properly put on a PFD. There are three types of acceptable PFDs to wear and one type used for throwing in emergency situations.

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Type I – good for offshore or rough water use. Will turn an unconscious person face up in water.

Type II – good for near-shore and most inland waters. Will turn most unconscious people face up in water.

Type III – good for calm, inland waters. Designed to enhance a variety of water sports. The Type III is not designed to turn an unconscious person face up in the water, though it has the same buoyancy as a Type II.

Type IV – designed to be thrown to person in the water. They are easy to hang on to in the water but do not protect as well as Types I, II or III. Cushions should

never be worn on a person’s back and must always be kept handy for emergency situations.

Note

Special PFDs are available for skiing and other water sports. These PFDs are constructed with materials suitable for high impact falls into the water.

Keep the following PFD points in mind:

TYPE I

LIFE PRESERVERS

KC-0041

TYPE II

BUOYANT VESTS

KC-0051

● Set an example and wear your PFD. Require your

passengers to wear them also.

● At the beginning of each season, check PFDs for

damage and test for proper flotation.

● Remove PFDs from packaging and stow in the boat

for quick access. Do not stow PFDs near grease or oil.

● Teach children how to float in the water with a PFD.

● Do not use a PFD as a boat fender.

Many states require minors to wear a PFD at all times. Consult the local boating authorities for more information.

TYPE III

FLOTATION AIDS

KC-0061

TYPE IV

THROWABLE DEVICES

KC-0071

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BOATING SAFETY

Fire Extinguishers

U.S. Coast Guard approved fire extinguishers are generally required on all Class I-III boats. Extinguishers should be mounted in readily accessible areas away from the engine compartment and alcohol stove (if equipped). All passengers should know the location and operating procedure of each fire extinguisher.

Any marine fire extinguisher must be classified to extinguish type B fires (gasoline, oil, or grease). The size and number of required fire extinguishers depend on the size of your boat. Check pressure gauge regularly for proper pressure; have extinguisher filled if necessary.

Visual Distress Signals

RED DISTRESS FLARE

(HAND) ORANGE FLAG

OVERCHARGED

RECHARGE

KC-0083

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USE DAY ONLY

ARMS SIGNALS (USE BRIGHT CLOTH)

USE DAY ONLY

ELECTRIC DISTRESS LIGHT

USE NIGHT ONLY

USE DAY AND NIGHT

USE DAY ONLY

ORANGE SMOKE SIGNAL (HAND)

RED METEOR FLARE USE DAY AND NIGHT

DYE MARKER

USE DAY ONLY

KC-0082

1-5

All boats operating on coastal waters (including the Great Lakes) are required

KC-0090

to carry Coast Guard approved visual distress signals for day and night use. Carry several types of signaling devices to handle a variety of conditions.

Pyrotechnic signaling devices can cause injury and property damage if not handled properly. Follow manufacturer’s directions. Stow devices so they are inaccessible to children.

Recommended Equipment

As a precaution, a good boater will avoid potential problems on an outing by having additional equipment on board. Normally, this equipment is dependent on the body of water and the length of the trip; your dealer can assist you:

● First aid kit and manual

● Anchor with sufficient line

● Mooring lines and fenders

● Bailing device (bucket, hand pump, etc.)

● Combination oar/boat hook

● Day/night visual distress signal

● Lubricant

● Tool kit

● Spare propeller, nut and washer

● Spare fuses and bulbs

● Local charts and compass

● Waterproof flashlight

● Portable AM/FM radio with weather band

● Spare flashlight and radio batteries

● Sunglasses and sun block

● Tow line

● Parallel ruler and dividers

● Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

● Spare keys

● Binoculars

● Food and water provisions (extended cruise)

● Auxiliary starting battery

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BOATING SAFETY

EMERGENCIES

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

Reporting

The operator of the boat is responsible for filing a report with the appropriate authorities. In general, reports are necessary for accidents involving loss of life, injury, or damage over $200. Ask your insurance agent for detailed information.

Giving Assistance

If you see a distress signal, you must assume it is a real emergency and render assistance immediately. If you can assist a boat in distress, you should. An unwritten law of the sea is that one boater will aid another boater in distress. The 1971 Boating Safety Act grants protection to a “Good Samaritan” boater offering good faith assistance, and absolves a boater from any civil liability arising from assistance given.

Fires

Most fires occur just after refueling. They are caused by poor maintenance, smoking, or carelessness. Use the fire extinguisher at the base of the flames using a sweeping motion. Verify that the fire has been extinguished. If so, check damage and get assistance immediately. If not, get out and

swim at least 25 yards upwind from the boat and use the visual distress signals to get assistance.

Deciding on abandoning the boat or staying to fight the fire is difficult and depends on many factors. Try to

formulate a fire plan in advance to make that decision quickly and without hesitation.

KC-0164

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

Capsizing

A boat may capsize or swamp when least expected. Like fires, try to formulate a plan in advance on what to do if it should happen. Keep in mind the following guidelines:

● Try to turn the engine OFF to prevent

damage.

● If others were on board, try to locate them,

make sure they’re conscious and that they can swim.

● Stay with the boat, it will

float! Climb up on the hull and try to get assistance.

● Don’t try to swim to shore. It’s

KC-0170

usually further than it looks.

HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS

Every waterway poses hazards that you should avoid; shallow water, tree stumps, sand bars, etc. Ask local boaters for information and consult a marine chart when boating on unfamiliar waters. As the operator of the boat, you should try to avoid all hazards, known and unknown. The following information does not contain all possible water hazards.

Weather

Storms – Take common sense precautions if you are forced to operate your

boat in stormy conditions:

● Wear PFDs

● Stow gear below and lash equipment on deck.

● Reduce speed and head for place of refuge you can reach most easily.

● If you lose power, keep boat headed into the waves by rigging a sea

anchor off the bow.

Fog – It is best to avoid operating your boat in foggy weather. When fog sets in take bearings and log courses and speeds. You are required to emit a five second blast from your horn or whistle once every minute. Additionally, have passengers wear PFDs and observe for oncoming vessels.

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DAYTIME WARNING

NIGHTIME WARNING

DESCRIPTION

Actual Signal in red

KC-0371

Small Craft Advisory - Winds

greater than 18 knots,

sustained for two hours or more

or hazardous wave conditions.

Following a storm, hazardous

wave conditions can persist

long after the high winds have

subsided.

Gale Warning - Sustained

winds (2 or more hours), of 34-

47 knots.

Storm Warning - Sustained winds of 48 knots or greater.

Hurricane Warning - Forecast

winds of 64 knots and above.

Displayed only in connection

with a hurricane.

BOATING SAFETY

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Dam Spillways

KC-0250

The water around a dam spillway is a hazardous area. It is subject to rapid changes. Boaters must keep clear of the spillway areas below dams.

Shallow Water Operation

Operating in shallow water can present a number of hazards. If the engine strikes an underwater hazard, check for boat and engine damage. If the engine vibrates excessively after striking an underwater obstruction, it may indicate a damaged propeller.

In coastal areas, tides can affect water level as much as 30 feet. Check with local marinas or Coast Guard stations for tide tables and current charts.

Sand Bars

Sand bars in narrow inlets are constantly shifting, making it difficult to mark them with buoys. Sometimes sand bars are indicated by waves as they form into breakers when passing over sand bars. If you ground the boat on a sand bar, seek help from another boater or radio for help.

Warning Markers

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

DIVERS FLAG ALPHA FLAG

RED

BLUE

USED BY

RECREATIONAL

DIVERS -

INDICATES

DIVER'S

POSITION

1-10

WORLDWIDE

VESSELS

ENGAGED IN

DIVING

OPERATIONS -

DOES NOT

INDICATE

DIVER'S

POSITION



KC-0372

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BOATING SAFETY

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

KC-0260

Distress flags indicate a fellow boater is in need of assistance.

Navigation markers serve as a means of identifying navigable routes, and indicate water hazards. Boaters should

DISTRESS

become familiar with navigation markers and stay within marked boundaries and clear of hazards.

KC-0352

OPERATION BY MINORS

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

PASSENGER SAFETY

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

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WATER SPORTS

Larger boats produce a wake too big for skiers. Only boats that are equipped with a ski-tow eye should be used to pull water skiers.

When using your boat for water sports, be safe and courteous and follow these guidelines:

● Be considerate to others you share the water with.

● Stay clear of other boats, skiers, fishermen and navigation markers.

● Return immediately to a fallen skier.

● Never swim alone or at night.

● Turn off engine and anchor boat before swimming.

●●

Skiers must wear a USCG approved flotation device. A type III water ski vest is an approved and practical PFD.

●●

Keep at least 100’ away from all other objects.

●●

When skiing have an experienced driver and aft facing observer in the boat.

●●

Never ski in shallow water or at night.

●●

Always keep a downed skier in sight.

●●

Turn the engine OFF when approaching someone in the water.

CIRCLE

TURN LEFT

TURN RIGHT

SKIER IN WATER

BACK TO DOCK

CUT MOTOR

SKIER O.K.

1-12

SPEED FASTER

SPEED SLOWER

STOP

SPEED OK

KC-0270

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BOATING SAFETY

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS

Your safety, the safety of your passengers, and other boaters are among your responsibilities as operator of this boat. Your boat must be in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard safety equipment regulations. You should know how to react correctly to adverse weather conditions, have good navigation skills, and follow the “rules of the road” as defined by the Coast Guard and state/county/local regulations.

You must never operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug. You are also responsible for the alcohol/drug use and on-board behavior of your passengers. Drugs reduce your reaction time and affect your better judgement. When combined with the sun, wind, noise and activity of boating, drugs compound fatigue and can be very dangerous.

Never operate or allow another person to operate the boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 50% of all boating fatalities involve alcohol.

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

Complete a float plan and tell someone of your travel plans. Check local weather reports before casting off; do not leave the dock area when strong winds and electrical storms are in the area or predicted to be in the area.

Know the weight capacity of your boat. Do not overload your boat.

Read and understand this manual and all other manuals provided with your boat. Be sure that you understand all controls and operating instructions before attempting to operate the boat. Improper operation can be extremely dangerous.

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SPECIAL GAS PRECAUTIONS

Holding tank systems on boats produce odorless methane gas which is extremely lethal in enclosed spaces. Follow these precautions when working on your boat’s holding tank system to prevent injury:

● Before work, open all doors and hatches wide, and rig a good

fan to disperse gas.

● During work, have another person frequently check on you.

● Before and during work, DON’T SMOKE.

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CAUTION

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 safe operating 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 Waterways 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 only buoys you are permitted to moor to are mooring buoys. Mooring to a navigation buoy or other navigational aid or regulatory marker is illegal.

MOORING

BUOY

WHITE WITH BLUE BAND



MAY SHOW WHITE

REFLECTOR OR LIGHT

KC-0412

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The type of hazard/warning buoys and markers depend on the area of jurisdiction. Check with boating authorities for information on local marking systems.

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.

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 when proceeding from open water into port, and black buoys to 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.

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.

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BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD

UNIFORM STATE WATERWAY MARKING SYSTEM (USWMS)

CONTROLLED

AREA

DO NOT PASS

BETWEEN SHORE

AND BUOY

DANGER BOATS

SPECIAL

PURPOSE

KEEP OUT

NAVIGATE TO

STARBOARD

FACING UPSTREAM

INFORMATION

NAVIGATE TO PORT FACING

UPSTREAM

NAVIGATE TO

SOUTH OR WEST

NAVIGATE TO

NORTH OR EAST

MID-CHANNEL

KC-0411

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.

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Lights, bells and horns are used on buoys for night or poor visibility conditions. Buoys with unique light flashing characteristics are identified on nautical charts with the specific flashing pattern.

Federal Waterways Marking System (FWMS)

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

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

Preferred Channel Aids (No Numbers–May be Lettered)

Port Side Odd Numbers (Green)

Starboard Side Even Numbers (Red)

(Red)

Preferred Channel to Starboard (Green and Red)

Preferred Channel to Port (Green and Red)

Lighted Buoy (Green Light)

Lighted Buoy

(Red Light)

Lighted (White Light)

Lighted Buoy (Green Light)

Lighted Buoy

(Red Light)

Can Buoy

Nun Buoy

Spherical Buoy

Can Buoy

Nun Buoy

Daymark

KC-0441

Light Structures

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

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

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BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD

Range Lights – are usually visible in one direction and help a boat operator navigate in a generally safe direction. Steering a course to keep range lights arranged in a line (one on top of the other) will help guide a boat through a channel.

RANGE LIGHTS

REAR

FRONT MARKER

MARKER

LEFT OF RANGE LINE RIGHT OF RANGE LINE

ON RANGE LINE

KC-0442

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

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KC-0443

2-5

RIGHT-OF-WAY

CAUTION

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

Whistle Signals

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

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

Use the following whistle blasts early enough to be noticed and understood by other boaters:

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

● One short blast: Pass on my port side

● Two short blasts: Pass on my starboard side

● Three short blasts: Engines in reverse

● Five or more short and rapid

blasts: Danger Signal!

Privileged Boats

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

Burdened Boats

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

12 O'CLOCK

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL

DANGER ZONE

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

4 O'CLOCK

KC-0477

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BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD

Crossing Situation

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

Meeting Head-On

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

Cruiser

PASSING PORT TO

PORT

HONK

MEETING HEAD TO

HEAD

HONK

HONK HONK

PASSING

STARBOARD TO

STARBOARD

KC-0475

2-7

Overtaking

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

The General Prudential Rule

The general prudential rule regarding right-of-way is that if a collision appears unavoidable, neither boat has right-ofway. 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.

HONK

(LONG)

STAND-ON

(PRIVILEGED)

VESSEL BEING

OVERTAKEN

HONK

(LONG)

GIVE-WAY

(BURDENED)

VESSEL

OVERTAKING

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.

The size, speed, and direction of other

KC-0476

vessels are determined at night from the running lights. A green light indicates the starboard side of the boat, and a red light indicates the port side. Generally, if you see a green light, you have the right-of-way; if you see a red light, giveway to vessel.

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CAUTION

CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

Knowing the controls and indicators on your boat is essential for safe and proper operation. The controls and indicators shown in this section may be optional or slightly different than those on your boat.

SHIFT/THROTTLE CONTROL

The shift/throttle control differs from model to model and may depend on the engines used. The following control is typical of the operation of most remote controls. Be sure to consult the engine and remote control manual for operational differences.

Do not shift too quickly from forward to reverse. Stay in neutral, or idle position until the boat has lost most of its headway before completing the shift to reverse or engine damage may occur.

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3-1

Single Engine Control – Single lever controls operate as both a gear shifter

and a throttle for a single engine. The lever is detented in the neutral position for starting. Shifting is accomplished by moving the lever into the first 15° of travel; push the lever for forward, and pull the lever back for reverse. By advancing the lever beyond 15°, you move from the shifting range to the throttle range. Never attempt to shift without the engine running.

STARBOARD

CONTROL

LEVER

Twin-Engine Control – Twin-engine controls allow for independent lever control of both the

PORT

CONTROL

LEVER

shift and throttle operation of each engine. The basic operation is the same as the single-engine control.

Increasing throttle control (forward) increases boat speed. The shift control allows selection of forward or reverse propeller directions.

Some boats may have individual controls for the shift and throttle of each engine. If your boat is equipped with dual-lever controls, you must make sure that the throttle lever is in the idle position before attempting to make a shift.

TYPICAL DUAL-LEVER CONTROL

KC-0651

SHIFT LEVER IN

FORWARD POSITION

SHIFT LEVER IN

NEUTRAL POSITION

THROTTLE LEVER IN

FULL THROTTLE POSITION

SHIFT LEVER IN

REVERSE POSITION

THROTTLE LEVER IN

IDLE POSITION

Note

Refer to the engine and remote control operator’s manuals for more detailed information concerning operation of your unit in conjunction with the engine.

KC-0653

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CONTROLS AND INDICATORS

RPM

x 100

KC-0700

MPH

KPH

KC-0710

FUEL

INSTRUMENTS

All instruments are illuminated for night operation. Their type, number, and location vary; some may not appear on your model. If your boat is equipped with twin-engines, there may be two sets of some of the instruments described in this section; one set for each engine. typically, instruments for the port side engine will be found on the port side of the helm control panel; likewise for the starboard engine instruments.

If an instrument reading is outside of normal or recommended ranges, investigate cause immediately or see your dealer. Consult the engine operator’s manual for the normal recommended ranges.

Tachometer

Registers engine speed in revolutions per minute. Use this gauge to keep the engine within the proper operating range. Consult the engine manual for the proper RPM operating range for your engine.

KC-0700

Speedometer

Registers forward boat speed relative to the water in miles per hour. Use this gauge to monitor fuel consumption and propeller performance. Since most marine speedometers are operated by water pressure, accuracy is only approximate.

Fuel Gauge

This gauge registers approximate fuel level in the gas tanks. Since the accuracy of your gauge varies with the attitude of your boat (trim and list), and the fuel pick-up tube cannot withdraw all of the fuel in the tank, it is wise to observe the One Third Rule. Use one third of your gas to go out, one third to come back, and one third as a reserve.

Cruiser

KC-0710

KC-0720

3-3

TRIM

KC-0740

KC-0750

1610

VOLTS

AMP

KC-0760

Water Pressure Gauge

WATER

PRESS

KC-0730

ENGINE

SYNC

PORT

STBD

Registers the water circulated by the water pump in pounds per square inch (PSI). Use this gauge to observe that the engine cooling system is operating properly. Consult the engine manual for the normal operating PSI range.

Engine Trim Gauge

Shows the position of the outdrive unit and indicates the relative position of the bow, from a horizontal plane. Use this gauge to monitor boat trim.

Engine Sync Gauge

Indicates synchronization of engine speeds. Adjust throttles so that needle is centered. Excessive noise and vibration can occur if engines are not properly synchronized to each other.

Voltmeter

Indicates the condition of the main or cranking battery in volts DC. Normal operating range is 12+ volts.

Ammeter

Measures the charging current in the electrical system. Consult the engine manual for the normal operating range.

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+ 96 hidden pages

Monterey Boats Cruiser 256, Cruiser 276, Cruiser 296 Owner's Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual