Striper Seaswirl Series Owner's Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

A wide variety of components used on this vessel contain or emit
chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects and other reproductive harm.

EXAMPLES INCLUDE:

• Engine and generator exhaust

• Engine and generator fuel, and other liquids such as coolants
and oil, especially used motor oil

• Cooking fuels

• Cleaners, paints, and substances used for vessel repair

• Waste materials that result from wear of vessel components

• Lead from battery terminals and from other sources such as
ballast or fishing sinkers

TO AVOID HARM:

• Keep away from engine, generator, and cooking fuel exhaust

fumes

• Wash areas thoroughly with soap and water after handling the

substances above

GM2203301

GENERAL INFORMATION.....................................1.1

About This Manual .....................................................................................1.1

You and Your New Boat .............................................................................1.2

Certification.................................................................................................1.2

Warranty......................................................................................................1.3

Service.........................................................................................................1.4

Responsibilities...........................................................................................1.4

Additional Information...............................................................................1.5

Boating Laws and Regulations .................................................................1.6

Hazard Communication Labels .................................................................1.8

Pre-Delivery Inspection Form..................................................................1.12

Boat Data Sheet........................................................................................1.13

SAFETY ..............................................................2.1

Safe Boating Checklist...............................................................................2.1

Hazard Statements.....................................................................................2.2

Advisory Statements .................................................................................2.3

Safety Equipment ......................................................................................2.3

Additional Recommended Equipment.....................................................2.8

Carbon Monoxide and Boating ................................................................2.9

Emergency Stop Switch ..........................................................................2.13

Safe Boating Practices.............................................................................2.13

Water Sports.............................................................................................2.16

BASIC SEAMANSHIP...........................................3.1

Boating Regulations ..................................................................................3.1

Rules of Seamanship.................................................................................3.1

Navigational Aids.......................................................................................3.5

Recommended Reading............................................................................3.7

Contacts ......................................................................................................3.8

Owner’s Logs and Records .......................................................................3.9

Navigational Aids Chart.............................................................................3.9

TRAILERING........................................................4.1

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating .....................................................................4.1

Weight Distribution....................................................................................4.1

Hitch ............................................................................................................4.2

Safety Chains .............................................................................................4.2

Brakes .........................................................................................................4.3

Turning While Towing a Trailer ..................................................................4.3

Backing A Trailer.........................................................................................4.4

Launching Guidelines................................................................................4.4

Loading Your Boat On The Trailer ..............................................................4.5

i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ..........................................5.1

12-Volt DC Electrical System.....................................................................5.1

AC Electrical System..................................................................................5.4

AC/DC Converter (Battery Charger)..........................................................5.5

Wiring Color Code .....................................................................................5.6

Galvanic Corrosion ....................................................................................5.9

Ground Fault Interrupter Outlet................................................................5.9

Troubleshooting .......................................................................................5.10

WATER SYSTEMS ...............................................6.1

Fresh Water System...................................................................................6.1

Seacocks .....................................................................................................6.4

Marine Sanitation Device (MSD)..............................................................6.4

Troubleshooting .........................................................................................6.8

BOAT SYSTEMS & EQUIPMENT............................7.1

Engines........................................................................................................7.1

Fuel System.................................................................................................7.1

Propeller ......................................................................................................7.3

Steering System .........................................................................................7.5

Bilge Blower (Sterndrive Only) .................................................................7.6

Bilge Pump..................................................................................................7.6

Refrigerator .................................................................................................7.7

Stove............................................................................................................7.7

Troubleshooting..........................................................................................7.7

INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS ..........................8.1

Helm Instruments ......................................................................................8.1

Engine Throttle/Shift Control.....................................................................8.3

Trim Tabs .....................................................................................................8.5

GETTING UNDERWAY..........................................9.1

Skipper’s Checklist.....................................................................................9.1

Fueling ........................................................................................................9.2

Loading Passengers and Gear..................................................................9.4

Starting Procedures...................................................................................9.5

Maneuvering ..............................................................................................9.7

Acceleration................................................................................................9.8

Power Trim and Tilt Operation...................................................................9.9

Anchoring .................................................................................................9.12

Returning To Shore...................................................................................9.14

Navigation Lights.....................................................................................9.15

Hazardous Conditions .............................................................................9.16

Reacting To Emergencies .........................................................................9.18

ii

CARING FOR YOUR BOAT ..................................10.1

Fiberglass and Gelcoat ............................................................................10.1

Deck Hardware and Fittings ....................................................................10.3

Windshields and Ports.............................................................................10.3

Carpeting ..................................................................................................10.3

Upholstery ................................................................................................10.4

Spots and Stains ......................................................................................10.4

Canvas.......................................................................................................10.9

Sunbrella .................................................................................................10.11

WINTER LAYUP AND STORAGE..........................11.1

Lifting the Boat..........................................................................................11.1

Preparation for Storage............................................................................11.1

Engine and Sterndrive .............................................................................11.2

Batteries.....................................................................................................11.3

Fresh Water System..................................................................................11.3

Marine Sanitation Device.........................................................................11.4

Interior Cleaning .......................................................................................11.4

Storage on Trailer......................................................................................11.4

Recommissioning the Boat After Storage..............................................11.5

BOATING TERMS ..............................................12.1

iii

1.1

GENERAL INFORMATION

1

ABOUT THIS MANUAL

More and more people are joining the ranks of boat owners who find
enjoyment in the leisure activity of cruising. For this reason, this manu­al is written for the first-time boat owner or operator. Even if you are
an experienced boater, you will still find much valuable information
regarding the safe operation and maintenance of your Seaswirl boat.

For your own safety and the safety of others, take the time to read this
entire manual before you take the boat out for the first time. Use it as a

guide to familiarize yourself with its systems and components. The infor­mation in this manual will help you with its operation and maintenance.
The suppliers of more complex components, such as engines, pumps,
and electronics, supply their own manuals. They are included in your
Owner’s Packet. The suppliers of these products maintain their own
manufacturers’ warranties and service facilities. One of the first orders of
business should be to fill out each warranty card and mail it back to the
manufacturer to register your ownership.

Make sure you read and understand the safety, emergency, and operat­ing procedures in this manual and pass this information along to your
family and passengers. Pay close attention to safety warnings.
Remember that along with the freedom and fun of cruising comes the
responsibility for the safety of your passengers, other boaters, and the
environment which we all share.

This manual is part of your boat’s equipment. Always keep it on board.
If you transfer ownership of the boat to someone else, give this manual
to the new owner. In some cases, this manual provides general infor­mation; more specific information is available in the original equipment
manufacturer (OEM) manuals. This owner’s manual does not supersede
or change any of the original manufacturers’ specifications, operation
or maintenance instructions. If the information in this manual conflicts
with that in the OEM manuals, the OEM manuals take precedence.

Note: This manual may include information about systems and equip­ment not provided on your boat. Check with your dealer if you have
any questions.

YOU AND YOUR NEW BOAT

If you are new to boating, you may not be familiar with some common
boating terms. Figure 1-1 lists some of these terms and identifies their
meaning in relation to a typical boat.

CERTIFICATION

All Seaswirl boats have National Marine Manufacturers Association
(NMMA) certification. This certification covers the following boat com­ponents:

Engines Fuel Systems
Electrical Systems Mechanical Systems
Navigation Lights Hatches
Portlights

Construction of the hull begins with multiple layers of hand-laid fiber­glass, bonded with polyester resin, providing a tough seaworthy hull.
The interior of your Seaswirl may also include high pressure laminates
and upholstery. Reasonable care and maintenance will keep the boat
looking like new as the years go by.

1.2

STERN

FREEBOARD

DRAFT

BOW

WATERLINE

HELM

STARBOARD

SIDE

PORT

SIDE

BEAM

LENGTH OVERALL (LOA)

TRANSOM

AFT FORWARD

COCKPIT

STERNDRIVE

KEEL

PROPELLER

BRIDGE

CLEARANCE

GUNWALE

FIGURE 1-1 TERMINOLOGY

Some Seaswirl models have also been certified to carry the CE mark.
The CE mark certifies that the boat meets relevant parts of the
European Directive for Recreational Craft 94/25/E of the European
Parliament, including the International Organization for Standards
(ISO) and Recreational Marine Agreement Group (RMAG) guidelines in
effect at the time of manufacture.

WARRANTY

The Limited Warranty for your Seaswirl boat can be found in the vinyl
owner’s packet. Please read it carefully. The warranty becomes effec­tive upon the date of purchase, but the warranty registration card
must be completed, signed and returned to Seaswirl Boats within 30
days of sale in order to obtain any warranty coverage. The registra­tion card is inside the back cover of this manual. When you sign the
warranty registration card, you are telling us that you understand
the warranty’s terms and conditions. Seaswirl Boats provides no
other warranty for your boat. If you have any questions, please dis­cuss them with your dealer or get in touch with our Customer
Service Department. Failure to follow warranty instructions will void
your warranty.

You need to properly fill out the warranty registration card and sign.
Make sure you mail the card to us to validate the warranty. A hull iden­tification number is located on the starboard side of the boat’s tran­som. Use this number for registration and to identify your boat for
warranty service.

The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 requires that all boat manufactur­ers notify first time owners if any defect “which creates a substantial
risk of personal injury to the public” is discovered. In order for us to
comply with the law, if it becomes necessary, it is essential that your
completed warranty registration card with your name, address and the
boat serial number be completed and mailed to our Customer Service
Department.

If the warranty registration card is not returned, Seaswirl Boats will not
be able to notify you as the Federal Boat Safety Act requires. Failure to
return the card means that you waive any right to notification and/or
repair at Seaswirl’s expense of any unsafe condition for which notifica­tion and/or repair would be required by Federal Boating Laws.

1.3

SERVICE

If you have a problem with your new boat as a result of workmanship or
materials, we want to correct it and get it back in service as quickly as
possible. Contact the Seaswirl dealer from whom you purchased the
boat. An authorized dealer must process all warranty repairs. If the deal­er fails to remedy the cause of the problem, contact us within 30 days. It

is your responsibility to deliver the boat to the dealer for repair.

Information about service, replacement parts, or additional equipment
is available from your dealer or Seaswirl Boats. You can get in touch
with us directly at:

Seaswirl Boats, Inc.
700 Paul Larson Memorial Dr.

Phone: [phone]
Fax: - -

RESPONSIBILITIES

Boat Owner

Seaswirl Boats recommends that you set up an appointment with your
dealer to discuss all warranties. You should inspect the boat at the time
of delivery to verify that all systems and components are operating
safely and acceptably. We recommend that you refer to the engine
warranty certificate for initial inspection and service requirements. Be
sure to review the pre-delivery checklist for the boat and engine with
your dealer when you take delivery.

You need to record all important information about your boat and its
major components on the Boat Data Sheet. (You will find the Boat Data
Sheet at the end of this chapter.) After all the data has been entered,
make a photocopy and store at home or another safe place.

You are responsible for following proper procedures during the break­in period. Check with your dealer if you have any questions. You
should also schedule the 20-hour checkup with your dealer. At the 20­hour checkup, your dealer should perform an engine alignment check
according to recommended procedures as stated by the engine manu­facturer in the engine owner’s manual. Failure to do so could result in
drive train damage, which is not covered under the warranty.

The operator is also responsible for complying with the following pro­cedures and operational requirements:

• Registering the boat with the appropriate jurisdiction.

1.4

Little Falls, MN 56345

320 616 4699

• Safety training of passengers and crew.

• Ensuring the boat’s continued safe operation through proper main­tenance and repair.

• Obtaining adequate insurance coverage.

• Following safe operating practices at all times.

• Learning the Rules of the Road.

• Developing an understanding of boat systems.

• Operating and maintaining all equipment in compliance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.

• Avoiding the use of drugs and alcohol.

• Complying with environmental regulations.

Along with boating comes the responsibility of complying with envi­ronmental regulations. Please think about the future of our waterways,
oceans, and marine life while you’re out enjoying them – and take all
necessary measures to help protect our natural habitats. Keeping our
waterways and marine habitats free from debris, and showing consid­eration for the creatures who thrive in these environments are some
ways you can help assure the pleasure of boating for years to come.

Dealer

Your dealer will inspect your boat when you take delivery to make sure it
is in flawless condition and that all components are working properly. A
copy of the checklist is at the end of this section. Your dealer will discuss
the terms of all warranties and emphasize the importance of registering
each warranty with the manufacturer. He will also explain the proper
procedures for obtaining warranty service. If requested, he will instruct
you in the operation of the boat and its systems and components.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Maintenance and Repair

Proper maintenance and repair are critical to your continued enjoy­ment of and the safe use of your boat. Your Seaswirl dealer is always
ready to help you. There are areas that you, the owner, cannot service
because of today’s complex technology. Your dealer has access to fac­tory trained specialists, when they are needed, for such equipment as
engines and stern drives. You can handle basic servicing such as
checking and changing engine oil and inspecting the condition of

1.5

hoses, sea cocks, bilge pumps, and electrical connections, but all other
maintenance and repair should be performed by properly trained and
qualified technicians.

We suggest you develop a routine maintenance plan for the engine(s)
to assure that they remain in first-rate condition and continue to oper­ate properly. Follow the maintenance and service schedule recom­mended by your engine manufacturer. Cleaning and waxing the hull
regularly will keep your boat looking like new.

Boating Education

Seaswirl Boats recommends that the boat operator and a standby
operator enroll in a boating safety course. Such organizations as the
U.S. Power Squadron, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the
American Red Cross sponsor educational programs. Chapter 3 has
general information about such courses. See your Seaswirl dealer
about special courses available in your area.

There are many good boating publications that have helpful informa­tion. Pamphlets prepared by the Coast Guard explain “Rules of the
Road,” signal lights, buoys, safety, international and inland regulations,
and other information beyond the scope of this manual. Check Chapter
3 for a partial listing. You can contact the local U.S. Coast Guard Unit
or call the Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647. Your
dealer will also have information about your area and what other
boaters are doing, such as club memberships and other activities.

BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

The U.S. Coast Guard is the authority of the waterways; it is there to
help the boating public. State boating regulations are enforced by local
authorities. You are subject to marine traffic laws and “Rules of the
Road” for both federal and state waterways. You must stop if signaled to
do so by enforcement officers, and permit them to board if asked.

Some states and localities have specific local trailer specifications and
local legal limits on speed and noise. It is your responsibility to be
aware of these laws and to ensure that your boat and trailer comply.
Check with your dealer and consult with the local Marine Patrol or local
Coast Guard office about any local requirements.

Registration

Federal and state laws require that every boat equipped with propul­sion machinery of any type be registered in the state in which it is prin­cipally used. In a few jurisdictions, the Coast Guard retains registration

1.6

authority. 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. Some states
require additional registration when an out of state boat is used within
their boundaries. Your dealer will either supply registration forms or
tell you where they may be obtained.

Insurance

In most states, the boat owner is legally responsible for damages or
injuries he or she causes, even if someone else is operating the boat at
the time of the accident. Common sense dictates that you carry ade­quate personal liability and property damage insurance, just as you
would on an automobile. You should also protect your investment by
insuring the boat against physical damage or theft.

Accident Reporting

After an accident, the operator of the boat is responsible for filing a
report with the appropriate authorities. Reports are generally necessary
for accidents involving loss of life, injury, or damage over $500. Ask
your insurance agent for more information. If you are involved in an
accident, check with your local authorities for reporting requirements.

If you see a distress signal, you must assume it is a real emergency
and render assistance immediately. The person in charge of a boat is
obligated by law to provide assistance to any individual in danger at
sea. However, you should not put your crew or passengers in a dan­gerous situation which exceeds your capabilities or those of your boat.
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.

Discharge of Oil

The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil
or oily waste into or upon the navigable waters of the United States or
the waters of the contiguous zone if such discharge causes a film or
sheen upon, or a discoloration of, the surface of the water or causes
sludge or an emulsion beneath the surface of the water. Violators are
subject to a maximum penalty of $25,000.

Disposal of Plastics & Other Garbage

Plastic refuse dumped in the water can kill fish and marine wildlife and
can foul boat propellers and cooling water intakes. Other forms of water­borne garbage can litter our beaches and make people sick. U.S. Coast

1.7

Guard regulations prohibit the dumping of plastic refuse or other garbage
mixed with plastic into the water anywhere, and restrict the dumping of
other forms of garbage within specified distances from shore.

MARPOL Treaty

Boats 26 feet or longer must display a sign stating the disposal regula­tions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. The U.S. Coast Guard
has issued these regulations to implement Annex V of the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, common­ly known as Annex V of the MARPOL (Marine Pollution) Treaty 73/78.
They apply to all U.S. boats wherever they operate (except waters
under the exclusive jurisdiction of a State) and foreign boats operating
in U.S. waters out to and including the Exclusive Economic Zone (200
miles). It is important to know these regulations and follow them.

The regulations require U.S. recreational boaters to affix one or more
USCG Trash Dumping Restrictions placards to any boat 26 or more feet
long. The placard warns against the discharge of plastic and other
forms of garbage within the navigable waters of the United States and
specifies discharge restrictions beyond the territorial sea. (The territori­al sea generally ends three nautical miles from the seashore.) In addi­tion, the placard must contain the warning that a person who violates
these requirements is liable to civil ($25,000) and criminal (imprison­ment) penalties. The placard also must note that state and local regula­tions may further restrict the disposal of garbage.

Operators shall acquire and install one or more placards in a promi­nent location and in sufficient numbers so crew and passengers can
read them. These locations might include embarkation points, food
service areas, galleys, garbage handling spaces, and common deck
spaces frequented by crew and passengers. We recommend that these
placards be installed on all boats regardless of length. The placards
may be purchased from local marinas, boat dealerships, and marine
equipment suppliers. A special placard is available for boats operating
on the Great Lakes.

IMPORTANT: It is illegal to discharge waste from a marine sanitary
device (toilet) into the water in most areas. It is your responsibility to
be aware of and adhere to all local laws concerning waste discharge.
Consult with the Coast Guard, local marina, or your dealer for addition­al information.

HAZARD COMMUNICATION LABELS

Some or all of the hazard communication labels shown can be found in
various locations on your boat. (Labels are not necessarily to size or
scale.) The appropriate labels are determined by the standard and

1.8

optional equipment actually installed upon delivery. Check with your
dealer to find out what labels your boat should have. If any label is
missing, ask your dealer for a replacement.

1.9

1.10

056-0867

Exhaust fumes from engines
contain carbon monoxide. Boats
with canvas deployed are more
likely to collect exhaust fumes.
Avoid brain damage or death
from carbon monoxide. Keep
cockpit and cabin areas well
ventilated. Signs of exposure
include nausea, dizziness, and
drowsiness. See boat owner’s
manual for more details. If using
a catalytic heater, provide
ventilation. Do not use catalytic
heater while sleeping.

WARNING

Installed on Boats’ Canvas

1.11

GASOLINE VAPORS CAN EXPLODE

RESULTING IN INJURY OR DEATH.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

-CHECK ENGINE COMPARTMENT BILGE
FOR GASOLINE OR VAPORS, AND

-OPERATE BLOWER FOR FOUR MINUTES,
AND

-VERIFY BLOWER OPERATION.

RUN BLOWER WHEN VESSEL IS

OPERATING BELOW CRUISING SPEED.

WARNING

1.12

1.13

BOAT DATA SHEET

Seaswirl Model Name ______________________ Hull ID Number______________

Name of Boat ________________ State _______ Length ______ Beam ________

Hull Color(s)__________________ Weight ______

Draft (Drive Down)_____ (Drive Up)_____ Freeboard (Forward)_____ (Aft) ______

Engine(s)

Make ____________________________ Model Name ______________________

H.P.______________________________ Model No. ________________________

Port Serial No. _____________________ Starboard Serial No. ________________

Fuel Tank Capacity___________________ Fuel Filter No. _____________________

Water Tank Capacity _________________

Radio

Make ____________________________ Type_____________________________

Model No. ________________________ Serial No. ________________________

Battery Make_______________________ Type_____________________________

Propeller(s) Manufacturer ____________________ Diameter/Pitch _______/_____

No. of Blades______ Style _______ Material ________Mfg. Part No. __________

Key Numbers Cabin__________________ Glove Box ________________________

Ignition Switch(s)____________________ ________________________________

Other Equipment

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

Selling Dealer Servicing Dealer

Name__________________________ Name____________________________

Address ________________________ Address __________________________

Phone No. ______________________ Phone No. ________________________

Salesman_______________________ Service Manager___________________

SAFE BOATING CHECKLIST

Boating safety and the safety of your passengers is YOUR responsibility.

■■ Observe the instructions on all safety labels. They are there to

assure that you have a safe and enjoyable cruise.

■■ Never operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alco-

hol. It is a Federal offense. Allow only qualified drivers to operate
your boat.

■■ At least one passenger aboard besides the operator should be able to

operate the boat in case the operator is unexpectedly unable to do so.

■■ Don’t overload the boat. Heavy seas reduce capacity. A weight

capacity plate is not an excuse for failure to use common sense or
rational judgment.

■■ Always use the lanyard stop switch when operating the boat and

ensure that all passengers are familiar with its use.

■■ Regularly inspect the boat, the hull, engine, safety equipment and

all other boating gear and keep them in safe operating condition.

■■ Be sure you have the minimum required safety equipment and

any additional gear needed for your cruise.

■■ Check that all lifesaving equipment, including fire extinguisher, is

in safe operating condition and in easily accessible locations.
Show all passengers where this equipment is, and make sure they
know how to use it.

■■ Be very careful while fueling. Know the capacity of the fuel tank.

Avoid fueling at night except under well-lit conditions. Gas spills
are unnoticeable in the dark. Extinguish all open flames when
fueling.

■■ Each time you fill up, be sure the engine compartment is free of

gasoline vapors, and inspect fuel lines for leaks and hose deterio­ration.

■■ Keep enough fuel on board for the planned cruise. Allow for

changes due to adverse weather or other delays. Use 1/3 of the
fuel to reach your destination, use 1/3 to return, and keep 1/3 in
reserve.

■■ Keep an eye on the weather. Check local weather broadcasts

before departure. Be alert to changing conditions. The skipper
should personally take the helm during storms.

■■ Always keep accurate up-to-date charts of the boating area on

board. Before getting underway, check water conditions in the
planned cruising area.

■■ Before departure, file a Float Plan with a responsible person

ashore.

■■ Always operate your boat with consideration, courtesy, and com-

mon sense.

2.1

SAFETY

2

2.2

YOU are responsible for your own safety, as well as the safety of your
passengers and your fellow boaters. You should fully understand and
become familiar with the operating procedures and safety precautions
in this manual and the other information in the Owner’s Packet before
you launch the boat. Before leaving on a cruise, whether for an hour or
several days, go through the Safety Checklist on page 2-1. Always oper­ate your boat with consideration, courtesy, and common sense.

HAZARD STATEMENTS

As you read your Owner’s Manual, please note the hazard warnings
which alert you to safety precautions related to unsafe conditions or
operating procedures. We have included these warnings because we
are concerned about your safety and the safety of your passengers.

The safety alert symbol is recognized around the world. In
this manual, it means read this information carefully! Be sure
you understand the consequences of a hazard and how to
avoid them. Failure to follow the recommendations in a haz-

ard communication statement may result in property dam­age, personal injury, or death.

People often refer to a hazard statement as a warning in a general
sense. This manual uses three kinds of “warnings” depending on the
likely effect of a hazard (minor injury, severe injury, death).

!

The safety symbol and this signal word indicate a potentially haz­ardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or mod­erate personal injury or property damage. It may also be used to
alert against unsafe practices.

The safety symbol and this signal word indicate a potentially haz­ardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in severe injury,
death or substantial property damage.

The safety symbol and this signal word indicate an imminently haz­ardous situation, which, if not avoided, WILL result in severe per­sonal injury or death.

The warnings in this manual do not and cannot address every conceiv­able situation. Always use common sense! 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 your boat will not be dam­aged or made unsafe as a result of your decision.

ADVISORY STATEMENTS

Advisory statements alert you to conditions that affect equipment oper­ation, maintenance, and servicing practices.

An IMPORTANT statement indicates a procedure intended to prevent
damage to equipment or associated components.

A Note statement is a general advisory statement relating to equip­ment operation and maintenance procedures.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

As the owner of the boat, you are responsible for assuring that all
required safety equipment is aboard. You should also consider supply­ing additional equipment as needed for your safety and that of your
passengers. Check state and local regulations and call the U.S. Coast
Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647 for information about
required safety equipment.

Required Safety Equipment

Most of the safety equipment required by federal regulations is provid­ed as standard equipment. Personal flotation devices must be fit to the
person wearing it. If local regulations require additional equipment, it
must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Minimum require­ments include the following:

• Personal Flotation Devices • Fire Extinguisher

• Visual Distress Signal • Navigation Lights

• Bell or Whistle

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Federal regulations require that you have at least one Coast Guard
approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person in a recre­ational boat. You may not use your boat unless all PFDs are in service­able condition, readily accessible, legibly marked with the Coast Guard
approval number, and of an appropriate size (within the weight range
and chest size marked on the PFD) for each person on board.

A PFD provides buoyancy to help keep your head above the water and

2.3

to help you remain in a satisfactory position while in the water. Body
weight and age should be considered when selecting a PFD. The buoy­ancy provided by the PFD should support your weight in water. The size
of the PFD should be appropriate for the wearer. Body weight or chest
size are common methods used to size PFDs. It is your responsibility to
ensure that you have the proper number and types of PFDs on board
and that your passengers know where they are and how to use them.

PFD TYPES

Five types of PFDs have been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.

PFD Type I, Wearable (Figure 2-1)
has the greatest required buoyan­cy. Its design allows for turning
most unconscious persons in the
water from face down position to a
vertical or slightly backward, face­up position. It can greatly increase
the chances of survival. Type I is
most effective for all waters, espe­cially offshore when rescue may be
delayed. It is also the most effec­tive in rough waters.

PFD Type II, Wearable (Figure 2-2)
turns its wearer in the same way as
Type I, but not as effectively. The
Type II does not turn as many per­sons under the same conditions as
a Type I. You may prefer to use this
PFD where there is a probability of
quick rescue such as in areas
where other people are commonly
involved in water activities.

PFD Type III, Wearable (Figure 2-3)
allows wearers to place them­selves in a vertical or slightly back­ward position. It does not turn the
wearer. It maintains the wearer in a
vertical or slightly backward posi­tion and has no tendency to turn
the wearer face down. It has the
same buoyancy as a Type II PFD
and may be appropriate in areas
where other people are commonly
involved in water activities.

2.4

FIGURE 2-1 TYPE I,WEARABLE

FIGURE 2-2 TYPE II,WEARABLE

FIGURE 2-3 TYPE III,WEARABLE

PFD Type IV, Throwable (Figure 2-4)
is required in addition to the PFDs
previously discussed. The most
common Type IV PFD is a buoyant
cushion or ring buoy. It is designed
to be thrown to a person in the
water, grasped and held by the user
until he or she is rescued. A Type IV
PFD should always be in serviceable
condition and immediately available
for use. Grasping this PFD may be
difficult if the rescue is delayed or if
the user is overcome by hypother­mia (loss of body heat).

PFD Type V, Wearable (Figure 2-5)
must be worn. When inflated, it
provides buoyancy equivalent to
Type I, II or III PFDs. When it is
deflated, however, it may not sup­port some people.

PFD POINTERS

The purpose of a PFD is to help save your life. If you want it to support you
when you are in the water, it needs to fit, float, and be in good condition.

• Try the PFD on and adjust it until it fits comfortably in and out of
the water. Mark your PFD if you are the only wearer.

• To make sure the PFD works, wear it in the water. This will show
you how it works and give you confidence when you use it.

• Teach children how to put a PFD on and allow them to try it in the
water. That way, they know what the PFD is for and how it works.
They will feel more comfortable with it if they suddenly find them­selves in the water.

• If the PFD is wet, allow it to dry thoroughly before storing it. Do not
dry it in front of a radiator or heater. Store it in a well-ventilated area.

• Keep PFDs away from sharp objects which can tear the fabric or
puncture the flotation pads.

• For their own safety and the safety of others, all non-swimmers,
poor swimmers, and small children should wear PFDs at all times,
whether the boat is stationary or moving.

2.5

FIGURE 2-4 TYPE IV, THROWABLE

FIGURE 2-5 TYPE V, WEARABLE

• Check the PFD frequently to make sure that it is not torn, that flota­tion pads have no leaks, and that all seams and joints are securely
sewn.

• If a PFD contains kapok, the kapok fibers may become waterlogged
and lose their buoyancy after the vinyl inserts are punctured. If the
kapok becomes hard or if it is soaked with water, replace it. It may
not work when you need it.

Fire Extinguishers

As the owner of the boat, you are responsible for supplying a fire
extinguisher approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Hand-held portable fire extinguishers should be mounted in readily
accessible locations away from the engine compartment. All persons
aboard should know the location and proper operation of the fire extin­guisher(s).

Note: Using a portable fire extinguisher with an access port in the
engine compartment is preferred to opening the engine compartment
to fight a fire. However, using a portable extinguisher in this way pro­vides less protection against fire than a fixed fire suppression system.

A Comment from Seaswirl: Don’t test fire extinguishers by squirting
small amounts of the extinguishing compound. The extinguisher might
not work when you really need it!

All Class 1 powerboats (16 to less than 26 feet) are required to carry one
(1) B-I type hand portable fire extinguisher unless the boat is equipped
with a fixed fire extinguishing system in the engine compartment.

All Class 2 (26 to less than 40 feet) powerboats are required to carry
two (2) approved B-I extinguishers or one (1) approved B-II type hand
portable fire extinguisher unless equipped with a fixed fire extinguish­ing system in the engine compartment. When equipped with a fixed
fire extinguishing system, only one (1) B-I type hand portable fire extin­guisher is required.

2.6

Fire! In case of fire, do not open engine compartment. Shut down
engine(s), generator(s), and blower(s). Discharge entire contents of
fixed fire suppression system. If using portable CO2 fire extinguish­er, continuously discharge entire contents through access port.

All Class 3 (40 to 65 feet) powerboats are required to carry three (3)
approved B-I extinguishers or one (1) approved B-II and one (1) B-1
type hand portable fire extinguisher unless equipped with an approved
fixed fire extinguishing system in the engine compartment. Boats so
equipped are required to have only two (2) B-I type hand portable fire
extinguishers or one (1) B-II extinguisher.

Visual Distress Signal Devices

Visual distress signal devices approved by the U.S. Coast Guard are
required on all recreational boats operating on coastal waters and on
boats owned in the United States when they are operating on the high
seas. Coastal waters include territorial seas and those waters directly
connected to the Great Lakes and the territorial seas up to a point
where the waters are less than two miles (3.2 km) wide. Visual distress
signal equipment may be of the pyrotechnic or non-pyrotechnic type.
Regulations prohibit display of visual distress signals on the water
under any circumstances except when assistance is required to prevent
immediate or potential danger to persons on board a vessel.

The equipment must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, be in ser­viceable condition, and be stowed in a readily accessible location.
Equipment having a date for serviceable life must be within the speci­fied usage date shown. Careful selection and proper stowage of visual

distress equipment is very important if young children are aboard.

Note: No single signaling device is appropriate for all purposes.
Consider keeping various types of equipment on board.

Sound Signalling Devices

Seaswirl Sportboats less than 26 feet (7.9 m) in length are required to
carry a hand, mouth, or power operated horn or whistle. It must pro­duce a blast of two-second duration and audible at a distance of at
least one-half (1/2) mile. Boats longer than 26 ft (7.9 m) are required to
carry a hand, mouth, or power operated horn or whistle. It must pro­duce a blast of two-second duration and audible at a distance of at
least one (1) mile.

2.7

Day Use Only

Three orange smoke
signals (one hand
held and two floating)
or one orange flag
with black square and
disk

Night Use Only

One S-O-S electric dis­tress light

Day and Night Use

Three flares of the
hand held, meteor or
parachute type

Following are standard whistle signals:

• One Prolonged Blast Warning signal

• 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 Blasts Danger signal

Navigation Lights

Navigation lights are intended to keep other vessels informed of your
presence and course. If you are out on the water between sunset and
sunrise, you are required to display appropriate navigation lights.

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

Seaswirl recommends that you acquire additional equipment for safe,
enjoyable cruising. This list, which is not all-inclusive, includes items
you should consider acquiring.

BASIC GEAR

Flashlight Spare batteries Tow line
Oar or paddle Mooring lines Compass
Dock fenders Distress signals First aid kit
Boat hook VHF radio EPIRB
Suntan lotion Extra warm clothing Charts
Second anchor and line Dewatering device (pump or bailer)
Emergency supply of drinking water and food

TOOLS

Spark plug wrench Hammer Screwdrivers
Jackknife Pliers Electrician’s tape
Adjustable wrench Lubricating oil Prop wrench
Duct tape

SPARE PARTS

Extra bulbs Spare propeller Extra fuses
Extra drain plug Spark plugs Spare wire
Extra prop nut/washer

GEAR AND EQUIPMENT FOR EXTENDED CRUISES

Foul weather gear Parallel rulers Dividers
LORAN or global positioning system navigation equipment

2.8

CARBON MONOXIDE AND BOATING

Burning a material containing carbon produces carbon monoxide (CO),
an odorless and colorless gas. Because CO weighs the same as air, it
can spread throughout an enclosed space unnoticed because you can­not see it or smell it. Any device used to burn carbon based materials
on a boat or those around you can be a source of CO. Common
sources of carbon monoxide include internal combustion engines and
open flame devices such as cooking ranges and charcoal grills.

Carbon monoxide reacts with the blood to reduce the ability of the
blood to carry oxygen. The reduced oxygen supply to body tissues
results in death of the tissue. Prolonged exposure can cause brain
damage or death. In high concentrations, CO can be fatal within min­utes. The effects of CO in lower concentrations are cumulative and can
be just as lethal over long periods of time.

Symptoms of CO poisoning include: itchy and watering eyes, flushed
appearance, throbbing temples, inability to think coherently, ringing in
the ears, tightness across the chest, headaches, drowsiness, nausea,
dizziness, fatigue, vomiting, collapse, and convulsions. If any of these
symptoms are evident, begin treatment immediately. Prompt action
can make the difference between life and death.

• Evacuate the area and move the victim to fresh air.

• Administer oxygen if available and get medical help.

• Open all windows and hatches to ventilate the area.

• Investigate the source of CO and take immediate corrective action.
Be especially aware of sources adjacent to the boat.

Carbon Monoxide Accumulation

Following are examples of possible situations where carbon monoxide
may accumulate within your boat while docked, anchored, or under­way. Become familiar with these examples and their precautions to
prevent DANGEROUS accidents.

2.9

Carbon Monoxide! Carbon monoxide can be harmful or fatal if
inhaled. Keep exhaust outlets clear of blockage. Provide adequate
ventilation. Open hatches, doors, windows, and vents to ensure ade­quate ventilation. Close engine compartment doors and hatches when
engine or generator is running. Avoid operating the boat for extended
periods of time at idle speed, and be sensitive to weather conditions
that may prevent CO from dissipating into the air. Do not stand or
swim near engine or swim platform when the engine is idling.

While underway, CO concentrations can increase by backdrafting or
“the station wagon effect.” Backdrafting is caused by factors such as
relative wind direction, speed, or the bow being too high. To prevent
this, open hatches and operate blowers whenever possible to provide
positive airflow through the hull.

2.10

Exhaust Fumes! Generator or hull exhaust from other vessels
while either docked or anchored can emit poisonous carbon monox­ide gas and cause excessive accumulation within cabin and cockpit
areas. See Figure 2-6. Be alert for generator exhaust from other ves­sels alongside.

FIGURE 2-6 VESSEL ALONGSIDE

Backdrafting! Under certain conditions, moving air currents can
direct poisonous carbon monoxide fumes into boat (Figure 2-7).
These fumes can accumulate to dangerous levels without proper air­flow. Provide adequate ventilation, redistribute the load or bring
boat out of high bow angle.

FIGURE 2-7 WHILE UNDERWAY (BACKDRAFTING)