Starcraft Bay series Owner's Manual
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Dear Valued Customer,
Welcome to the family!
Thank you for choosing a Smoker Craft Incorporated boat! We know
you’ve taken considerable time and effort in choosing your purchase and
we are pleased to have been selected as your boat company! You have
made an excellent choice.
Our brands are backed by over 100 years of dedication to quality and service. Smoker Craft Inc. is a family owned company, and our family values
can be seen in our people, our products, and how we value our customers. We care about your boating experience so we design and build our
boats to be a part of your family for years to come. During those years,
we want you to enjoy your new boat without struggling to find the information you need. Therefore, we have assembled this manual to help you
with questions you may have concerning the use and care of your new
boat. Your dealer may also have other information and care products that
you will find beneficial as well.
Please take time to review the enclosed material. You’ll find helpful tips
ranging from important safety information concerning the use of your new
boat, to general maintenance and cleaning care. In particular, you will
want to review all warning labels and safety recommendations as well as
the information supplied by the various component and accessory manufacturers. We encourage you to also review and study additional safety
publications such as those from NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers
Association), and other boater’s safety courses.
For additional information about your boat or any of the Smoker Craft Inc.
family of products, visit www.thebestboatbrands.com.
Thanks again for selecting us as your boat company!
From our family to yours,
Andy Wolf
Smokercraft Inc.
Customer Service Manager
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Subject
Page #
INTRODUCTION ················································································· 5
Getting Started························································································ 5
Dealer Delivery Responsibilities ·································································· 6
Owner Responsibilities ············································································· 6
Owner’s Packet ······················································································ 7
Warranty & Customer Service ···································································· 7
State Registration ···················································································· 7
Insurance ······························································································ 7
Disposal of Plastics & Other Garbage ···························································· 7
Marine Sanitary Device ············································································· 7
SAFETY ······························································································ 8
Basic Safe Boating ·················································································· 8
Safety Gear & Equipment ·········································································· 9
Safe Boating Practices ·············································································· 9
Danger—Be Aware ·················································································· 10
Playing It Safe - Swimming & Skiing Safety ··················································· 11
DANGERS, WARNINGS, AND CAUTIONS················································· 12
Aluminum Boats ····················································································· 12
Pontoon Boats ························································································ 13
Fiberglass Boats ······················································································ 14
CARING FOR YOUR Starcraft Marine/SmokerCr aft Boa t ····························· 15
Engine ································································································· 15
Aluminum Surfaces ················································································· 15
Electrical System Care ·············································································· 16
Electrical Wiring Charts············································································· 17
Trolling Motor Plug Chart ········································································ 18
Floor Coverings ······················································································ 19
Livewell System Care ··············································································· 19
Furniture ······························································································ 19
Canvas ································································································· 20
Hull and Graphic Care ·············································································· 21
Storage ································································································ 21
UNDERWAY WITH YOUR Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Boat ····················· 22
Trailering ···························································································· 22
Laws···································································································· 22
Transporting ·························································································· 22
Capacity Information ················································································ 22
Tongue Weight ······················································································· 22
Hitch ··································································································· 22
Chains ································································································· 22
Backing a Trailer ···················································································· 22
Launching ····························································································· 23
Boating QUICK LIST ·············································································· 23
Reloading Your Boat················································································· 23
Also Keep In Mind ················································································· 24
Fueling Your Boat···················································································· 24
Filling the Primary Tank ············································································ 24
Loading Passengers & Gear ········································································ 24
Boarding Your Boat ··············································································· 24
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TABLE OF CONTENTS—cont.
Subject
Boat Weight Distribution ··········································································· 24
Storage Areas ························································································ 25
Starting the Engine ·················································································· 25
Steering Your Boat··················································································· 25
Boat Speed ···························································································· 25
General Navigation Rules··········································································· 25
Docking ······························································································· 26
Trimming ····························································································· 26
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Boat INSTRUMENTATION····························· 27
Dash/Instrument Panel ·············································································· 27
Depth Gauge·························································································· 27
Hour Meter ··························································································· 28
Fuel Gauge ··························································································· 28
Oil Pressure Gauge ·················································································· 28
Speedometer Gauge·················································································· 28
Three-in-One Gauge················································································· 29
Tachometer Gauge··················································································· 29
Trim Gauge ··························································································· 29
Voltmeter Gauge ····················································································· 29
Water Temperature Gauge ········································································· 30
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Boat COMPONENTS & SYSTEMS···················· 31
Controls ······························································································· 31
Steering Systems ····················································································· 31
Shift & Throttle Control Systems ································································· 31
Batteries ······························································································· 32
Digital Depth/Fish Finder Graph ·································································· 32
Electrical Switches ·················································································· 32
Electrical Wiring System············································································ 32
Fuel System ·························································································· 33
Lights ································································································· 33
Anchor Light·························································································· 33
Courtesy Light························································································ 33
Docking Lights ······················································································· 33
Navigation Lights ···················································································· 33
Livewell System ····················································································· 33
12 Volt Power Point ················································································· 34
Stereo ································································································· 34
Tables ································································································· 34
Cupholders ··························································································· 34
Water System ························································································ 35
Trolling Motor ······················································································· 35
Boarding Ladder ····················································································· 35
Bimini Top Canvas ·················································································· 35
Privacy Enclosure ··················································································· 35
Fishing Seats ························································································· 35
RESOURCES ······················································································· 36
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. Family of Products. Whether you own a Starcraft,
SmokerCraft, Sylvan, Sunchaser, or American Angler boat you can rest assure that your boat was
designed, crafted, and tested to guarantee endless hours of enjoyment on the water and is backed by
over 100 years of dedication to quality and service.
Mission Statement
Provide the best value on the water—from our family to yours.
Getting Started.
Your Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. owner’s manual is a great place to start before taking your
boat out on the water. You will find taking the time to read through the manual to familiarize yourself with the special design features, handling tips, and maintenance information will help insure a
smooth launch. In particular, you will want to review all the warning labels and safety recommendations as well as the information supplied by the various component and accessory manufacturers.
Before taking your boat out for the first time conduct a complete walk around of the boat noting the
length and height as well as all the components, gauges, and other equipment. If you have any questions on operation, please refer to the appropriate owner’s manual section or contact your dealer.
It is the responsibility of the boat operator for the safety of the passengers as well as others on the
water. Passengers should know that polite, responsible attitudes insures a great day of boating. Remember—Children must be under adult supervision at all times.
This manual is an important component of your boat and should be stored in a safe, dry place on the
boat for ease of reference. This manual does not supersede or change any of the original manufacturing specifications, operation, or maintenance instructions. Should you transfer ownership of your
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. boat, please include this manual with the transfer to the new
owner. If you move or change mailing address, please contact Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc.
Customer Service at warranty.claims@SmokerCraftinc.com.
For additional information about your boat or any of the Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. family of
products, visit www.thebestboatbrands.com.
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DEALER DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITIES
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. in the manufacturing of your boat has performed a series of quality and performance inspections. Your dealer in preparation of your boat delivery has also completed
an extensive inspection list.
Your dealer’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
A complete walk through of your boat including general operation instructions.
A review of safety issues regarding your boat.
A complete owner’s packet. The packet should include an owner’s manual as well as information
on components and accessories.
An explanation of all warranties, warranty cards, time limits, coverage, and instructions on ob-
taining warranty service.
OWNER RESPONSIBILITES
The boat owner’s responsibilities include, but not limited to, the following:
Complete a thorough walk through of your boat with your dealer.
Examine the boat at delivery and confirm that all systems/components are functioning as outlined
in the owner’s manual.
Become familiar with all operating instructions, warranties, and literature.
Read all manuals and instructions included in the owner’s packet.
Use all equipment according to instructions as explained in manuals.
Maintain proper boat care and periodic servicing of the boat, motor and components in line with
manufacturer information and instructions.
Read and obey all warning labels on your boat.
Comply with all federal, state, and local laws.
Obtain appropriate insurance through a dependable company.
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. keeps documented records of information regarding your
boat. The boat’s Hull Identification Number (HIN) is the number that all information is referenced. When talking with your dealer about your boat, please have the HIN, model, and color
available. Having this information will help your dealer respond to any questions, inquiries, or
warranty issues.
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OWNER’S PACKET
Your Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. dealer will supply you with your Owners Packet.
Included in your packet:
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. Owner’s Manual
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. boat warranty
Component information relating to such items as engine, electronics, trailers, and any other item
not manufactured by Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc.
Accessory warranty information and component parts not manufactured by Starcraft Marine/
SmokerCraft Inc
Should you not receive any of these items, please contact your dealer.
WARRANTY & CUSTOMER SERVICE
Your Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. warranty statement will be given to you by your dealer. At
the time of delivery, your dealer will complete the registration paperwork. Please familiarize yourself
with the limited warranty and its coverage. Should you have questions regarding your warranty and
warranty coverage, contact your local Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. dealer. After your boat has
been registered with Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc., you may be selected to receive a Customer
Service Survey to complete and return.
STATE REGISTRATION
In most states, boats equipped with an engine of any type must be registered in the state of main usage. In some areas, the Coast Guard retains registration authority. Your Starcraft Marine/
SmokerCraft Inc. dealer will either have the necessary forms or will be able to instruct you on the
procedure for registering your craft. All registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed according to the issuing agency. The agency will also issue a certificate that must be aboard
your Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. boat at all times.
INSURANCE
As a boat owner, you are legally responsible for damages or injuries caused by the boat. In most
states, you are also responsible for any accident to property or person even if your boat is operated by
some one else. You should carry adequate personal liability and property damage insurance on your
Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. boat similar to your automobile coverage. You may also want to
insure your craft against physical damage or theft.
DISPOSAL OF PLASTICS & OTHER GARBAGE
Plastic rubbish discarded in water is dangerous to fish and other marine wildlife. In addition, it can
cause damage to propellers and water intakes. Other forms of garbage can liter beaches and can be a
source for infections and disease. U.S. Coast Guard regulations completely prohibit the dumping of
plastic and other trash mixed with plastic anywhere and restricts the dumping of other forms of trash
within specified distances from shore. Please—Do Not Litter!
MARINE SANITARY DEVICE
It is your responsibility to know and obey all local laws concerning waste discharge. Contact the
Coast Guard, local marina, or your dealer for information concerning these laws.
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SAFETY
At Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc., your boat was designed and crafted with safety first to insure
that you have good days on the water. It is important that you take the time to familiarize yourself
with all operating systems on your boat as well as all safety components that are built in the craft.
Your manual and other product information in your owner’s packet are a valuable tool and reference
guide. As the owner, it is your responsibility for the safety of the boat and passengers—that includes
knowing all safety guidelines, recommended usage of the craft and its components, as well as local
laws.
Reviewing all warning labels and safety recommendations is a great place to start. All Starcraft Marine/SmokerCraft Inc. boats are NMMA certified and surpass all requirements. For more information
go to www. NMMA.org.
Before each day on the water, take the time to verify that all required safety equipment is on board
the craft. Inform all passengers of the location of all equipment and demonstrate how to use it. Periodically inspect all equipment for proper operating condition and replace any that is not working or
shows wear. It is your responsibility to be aware of any safety equipment changes based on local/
state laws.
You should know and understand (but not limited to) the following safe boating recommendations:
BASIC SAFE BOATING:
NEVER operate a boat while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Using either or both is
a federal offense.
Always use common courtesy. Obey Rules of the Road as outlined in U.S. Coast Guard publica-
tions.
Keep your boat and safety gear in good working condition. Inspect the boat, engine, trailer, and
all other gear and equipment regularly. This includes safety equipment.
Read. Understand. Locate. Follow all warning labels.
Check to make sure that lifesaving equipment and fire-extinguishers are on board. It is necessary
that the equipment meets all regulations. All equipment is to be easily seen, accessible, and in
good working condition. Your passengers should be instructed on the location of all equipment
and how to use it. Children are to be supervised at all times.
Never allow anyone under the age of 16 to operate the boat at any time.
When possible, obtain current charts of the area you are boating. Always maintain accurate, up-
dated charts.
Before departing, leave travel plans with a responsible person on shore indicating where you are
going and when you expect to return.
Instruct at least one person on the boat about basic safe boating operations to be used in case of
an emergency.
Do not overload or improperly load your boat. Use the information on your capacity plate as a
guide for load limits. Be sure to check water and weather conditions as this will determine the
capacity of your boat.
Passengers are required to ride in designated seating areas only when the boat is in motion. Pas-
sengers should remain seated once the craft is under way. Do not allow passengers to ride on
bow, transom, rail, sun deck, backrest, or swivel fishing seat.
The engine must be shut off and the propeller stopped moving before allowing swimmers or
skiers to enter or exit the boat.
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SAFETY GEAR AND EQUIPMENT
As the owner, you are responsible for equipping your boat with all the required safety gear. Check both
local and state regulations and call the U.S. Coast Guard Safety Hotline at 800-369-5647 for additional
information and on required safety equipment. Minimum requirements include:
Personal Flotation Devices (PFD). Check local and state regulations for restrictions.
Fire Extinguisher
Visual Distress Signal
Navigation Lights
Horn
Throwable Life Buoy
It is advisable for children and non-swimmers to wear PFDs at all times.
The following additional gear will add an extra measure of safety and comfort:
Anchor and Anchor Line Dock Fenders First Aid Kit Tow Line
Charts of Boating Area Sunscreen Lotion Boat Hook Signal Flares
Foul Weather Gear VHF Radio Life Ring Compass
Extra Warm Clothing Flashlight Oar/Paddle
SAFE BOATING PRACTICES
You are responsible for the safety of your passengers, your boat, and others on the water. Please keep
the following safe boating practices in mind as you get under way:
Alcohol, drugs, and boating do not mix. EVER! Not only does it hamper reaction times and coor-
dination, it also effects judgment and vision. Federal laws also prohibit the operation of a boat while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Safe operation demands that you and your passengers use your boat as intended. Safe operation also
means that good judgment is used at all times and includes, but not limited to, the following:
Load your boat using the capacity plate for weight limits. Remember to distribute the weight
bow to stern and starboard to port.
Never exceed the stated maximum power rating as shown on the capacity plate.
Provide Personal Flotation Device for each passenger.
Boat speed should be at or below the local legal limit. Excessive speeds and speeds not appro-
priate for weather conditions do not promote safe boating.
Never use your boat in weather or water conditions that require skills beyond your experience
level. This also applies to the capabilities of the boat and the passengers.
Never leave the shore without one person in the boat who is familiar with the operation and
safety requirements of the boat.
Always keep gates closed while the boat is in motion to prevent accidental falls overboard. Such
falls can result in injury or even death from the propeller.
Never allow passengers to ride on the foredeck or sundeck while the boat is in motion. Doing
so will prevent falls overboard and possible injury or death from the propeller.
Passengers and gear must never obscure the view or hinder the movement of the driver.
Make sure that the engine is off and that the propeller has completely stopped before allowing
passengers to enter or exit the boat using boarding ladders.
DO NOT SMOKE WHILE FUELING YOUR BOAT.
Fire Extinguisher is a must. The U.S. Coast Guard requires that a marine-type fire extinguisher be
on board all crafts with an engine and fuel system. A hand-portable type B-1 or B-11 extinguisher
must be mounted in an easily accessible location within the boat. Be sure that the label on the extinguisher states “Marine Type USCG”.
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DANGER - BE AWARE
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide can accumulate in closed areas and under canvas. It is a poisonous gas. Over a
period of time it can reach levels that can be hazardous to the health or fatal. Seek urgent care if any
of the following symptoms occur and persist:
Dizziness Nausea Headache Sleepiness Vomiting
Throbbing in Temples Muscular Twitching Inability to Think Clearly
Proper ventilation or increasing speed can help. Make sure that all vents are clear of obstructions.
Gasoline
Gasoline is a very flammable substance. It can cause serious personal injury or death.
- Always shut off engine before fueling.
- NEVER smoke while fueling the boat.
- Check for gas fumes or accumulation of fuel before starting your boat. Every time!
Alcohol/Drugs
NEVER use alcohol, drugs or both while operating the boat. Doing so can result in injury or
death.
- Using alcohol, drugs or both impairs judgment, coordination, reaction time, and vision.
- Passengers should NEVER use alcohol, drugs or both while on the boat.
Lanyard Stop Switch
This safety device (located near the dash/throttle area) automatically stops the engine should the
driver fall or move away from the helm.
- The lanyard must be attached to the driver at all times when the engine is running.
- The lanyard stop switch should never be removed, altered, or modified.
- The lanyard must be kept clear of any obstructions that would keep it from doing its job.
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PLAYING IT SAFE
Safety is always the most important factor when on the water. As the driver of the boat, it is your responsibility to keep your passengers safe. Taking a few moments to communicate rules and guidelines before starting out will be well worth the time.
SWIMMING SAFETY
As tempting as it may be to jump off your boat into the water, remembering a few safety guidelines
will keep you and your passengers safe.
- Anchor your boat and shut off the engine.
- Stop propeller completely before anyone exits the boat.
- Always use boarding ladders to exit and enter the boat.
- Never jump or dive from the boat.
- Never re-enter the boat when the engine is running
- Always swim on the shore side of the boat.
- Always have some one in the boat to watch for boat traffic.
- Never swim alone.
SKIING SAFETY
Following a few basic safety rules will make the day on the water a great time.
- Skier MUST wear an approved PDF at ALL TIMES.
- Review hand signals with spotter and skier.
- Always be aware of shallow water and obstructions.
- Never ski after dark.
- Refer to local and state regulations concerning skiing requirements.
- ALWAYS have a spotter in the boat.
- NEVER ski near swimmers, fishermen, or in boat traffic.
Additional Skiing TIPS:
- Engine is to be turned off and the propeller stopped before the skier enters the water from the boat.
- Once the skier is a safe distance from the boat, start the engine.
- Move slowly forward to take the slack out of the rope.
- Making sure the way is clear in front of you, apply enough throttle to get the skier up.
- Spotter should be watching skier for signals. Skier should signal speed rate changes.
- Spotter should watch for the OK signal when skier goes down.
- Approach downed skier on the starboard side.
- Shut engine off when close to skier.
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