WARRIOR BOATS Boats, Side Console, Dual Console, Backtroller User Manual

Thank you for choosing

WARRIOR BOATS

For your boating and fishing enjoyment

Please read the Owner’s Manual completely

before operating your new Warrior Boat.

It will aid you in understanding the operation

and maintenance of the many unique features

of your boat. If you need further assistance

with any special applications or problems,

please contact your Warrior Dealer or Warrior

Boats. We wish you many happy hours of boating

and fishing fun in your new Warrior Boat.

2012

Certifications and Specifications

Boat Model:_________________________

Side Console Dual Console Backtroller

Serial #:_____________________________
Color:_______________________________

Outboard Engine:

Brand:_____________Horsepower:___________

Outboard 2 Stroke 4 Stroke

Serial #:_________________________________
Engine #:________________________________
Drive #:_________Transom Plate #:___________

Gasoline Kicker Engine:

Brand:______________Horsepower:__________
2 Stroke 4 Stroke Serial #:____________

Trolling Motors – Electric

Bow Brand:_______________________________
Model:_________________Serial #:____________
Transom Brand:____________________________
Model :________________Serial #_____________
Trailer Model:_____________________________

Single Axle Tandem Axle

Serial #:__________________________________

1 Introduction/Warranty
2 Safety
3 Navigation
4 Livewell's
5 Wiring
6 Steering
7 Maintenance
8 Trailers

Table of Contents

Introduction

This manual has been compiled to help you operate your craft
with safety and pleasure. It contains details of the craft; typical
equipment supplied or fitted in its systems and information on its
operation and maintenance. Please read it carefully, and
familiarize yourself with the craft before using it.

If this is your first craft, or you are changing to a type of craft
you are not familiar with, for your own comfort and safety,
please ensure that you obtain handling and operating experience
before “assuming command” of the craft.

Please keep this manual in a secure place, and hand it over to
the new owner when you sell the craft.

Warranty & Construction Standards

Your boat manufacturer may provide a Warranty Statement
describing terms and conditions under which defects in your boat
will be repaired. Familiarize yourself with the warranty and
follow instructions regarding proper operation and maintenance.
Lack of attention to instructions can void the warranty.

Specific Data

You need to know specific data about your boat’s capabilities

and requirements. This type of information is available from the
manufacturer and/or dealer.

Before operating equipment associated with your boat,
particularly the engine, read the owner’s manual accompanying
the equipment.

Registration

Register your boat in the area where it is used most frequently.
Many areas require additional registration when an out-of-area
boat is used within their boundaries. Contact boating authorities
or your marine dealer for registration requirements and forms.

1-1

Education

Learn how to operate your boat safely. This book is not intended
to teach everything you need to know. We strongly urge you to
get training in proper boat handling and navigation before taking
command.

Some agencies which offer boating courses are:

 U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
 United States Power Squadrons
 Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons
 Red Cross
 State Boating Offices
 Yacht Clubs

Ask your marine dealer or check your local telephone directory
for agencies near you. Information is also available from the
Boat U.S. Foundation by calling
1-800-336-BOAT.

International: Consult your dealer.

1-2

Owner/Operator Responsibilities

The law requires the owner/operator to assist any person or boat
in distress as long as he does not endanger his boat. The
owner/operator is also responsible for understanding and
complying with the following procedures and operational
requirements:

 State registration
 Insurance
 Warranty registration
 Warranty terms and conditions
 Rules of the road
 Break-in procedure
 Proper maintenance of boat and its systems
 Safety equipment
 Safety training of passengers and crew
 Knowledge of boat systems
 Seaworthiness/operational inspection
 Safe operating practices
 Avoiding use of drugs/alcohol
 Environmental regulations

 Accident reports

Nautical Terms

1-3

Aft

Toward the rear or stern of the boat.

Beam

The width of a boat.

Bow

The fore part of a boat.

Bulkhead

Vertical partition in a boat.

Chine

Meeting juncture of side and bottom of boat

Cleat

Deck fitting with arms or horns on which lines may
be made fast.

Cockpit

An open space from which a boat is operated.

Deck

Upper structure which covers the hull between
gunwales.

Draft

Depth of water required to float boat and its
propulsion system.

Fenders

Rope or plastic pieces hung over the side to
protect the hull from chafing.

Freeboard

Height of exposed hull from water line to
deck.

Ground Tackle

General term referring to anchor, anchor
lines, etc.

Gunwale

(Pronounced gun’l) Meeting juncture of hull

and deck

Hatch

An opening in deck to provide access below.

Helm

Steering console.

Hull

The basic part of a boat that provides
buoyancy to float the weight of the vessel and
its load.

Keel

The major longitudinal member of a hull; the
lowest external portion of a boat.

Knot

Unit of speed in nautical miles per hour.

Lee

The side that is sheltered from the wind.

PFD

Personal flotation device; live preserver.

Port

Term designating the left side of the boat.

Sheer

Curve of sweep of the deck as viewed from
the side.

Stern

The aft end of a boat.

Transom

Transverse part of the stern.

Wake

Disturbed water that a boat leaves behind as
a result of forward motion.

Windward

Toward the direction from which the wind is
blowing.

1-4

Safety

The freedom of boating is a magnificent feeling. However, fun
can be overtaken by disaster if you ignore safety precautions.
This book presents basic guidelines, but it cannot describe every
possible risk you may encounter. You are strongly urged to:

 Take a boating safety course and get hands-on training

from your boat dealer.

 Regularly review safety requirements.
 Maintain your boat and its systems.
 Have your boat inspected at least annually by a qualified

mechanic or dealer.

Fire

Fire is always serious, but it usually can be brought under control
if you are prepared and act quickly. Extinguishers required by
the Coast Guard or other boating law enforcement agencies are
only the minimum needed. Install fire extinguishers where they
might be needed, and test equipment and emergency plans
regularly.

Prevention is the safest method of fighting fire. Remember:

 Use extreme caution and refrain from smoking while

fueling.

 Run exhaust blowers at least 4 minutes before starting

engines.

 Use “sniff test” to check for fumes in bilge and engine

compartment.

 Store flammable material in safety-approved containers.
 Ensure ventilation systems are unobstructed.
 Remove canvas before starting engine.
 Extinguish smoking material carefully.
 Disconnect electrical system from its power source

before performing maintenance.

 Observe the boat carefully while the electrical system is

energized.

 Only a qualified marine electrical technician may service

the boat’s electrical system.

2-1

Fire Suppression Equipment

General

 Fire suppression equipment can be either fixed or

portable. Fixed systems are located in the machinery
compartments, and should be supplemented by portable
extinguishers mounted at key sites, for example, near the
engine compartment, galley and helm.

 Coast Guard or other boating law enforcement agency

regulations govern the number and type of devices on
board.

Portable Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are classified according to fire type:

 “A” – Combustible solids (wood, plastic)
 “B” – Flammable liquids (oil, gasoline)
 “C” – Electrical fires

Sizes are identified by Roman numerals – from I (smallest) to V
(largest). Small size provides only a few seconds of fire-fighting
capability.

Flooding, Swamping

Flooding or swamping can be caused by many factors. Operator
disregard for hazardous weather and water conditions is one of
the most common causes, along with improper loading, handling
and anchoring. Be aware of the possible consequences of your
actions. Have everyone wear a personal flotation device when
boating. STAY WITH THE BOAT!

2-2

Remember:

 Certification plate states maximum weight/number of

persons the boat will handle safely under normal
conditions. Give yourself an extra margin in rough
water.

 Install drain plugs before launching.
 Ensure proper bilge pump operation.
 Anchor from bow if using only one anchor.
 Match speed to sea conditions.
 Adjust trim and close openings in rough weather.
 Reverse engine only when headway slows to prevent

following sea from swamping boat.

 Operate boat within maneuvering speed limitations.

Lifesaving Equipment

Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when boating. Boat
operators are required to carry one wearable personal flotation
device (Type I, II, III or V) for every person on board. Boats
must also have at least one throwable device (Type IV).
Classifications of PFD’s are:

 Off-Shore Life Jacket (Type I) – most buoyant, it is

designed to turn an unconscious person face up; used in
all types of waters where rescue may be slow.

 Near-Shore Life Vest (Type II) – “keyhole” vest with

flotation-filled head and neck support is also designed to
turn a person face up, but the turning action is not as
pronounced; used in calm, inland waters or where quick
rescue is likely.

 Flotation Aid (Type III) – vest is designed so conscious

wearers can turn face up; often designed for comfort
while engaged in sports such as skiing.

 Throw Devices (Type IV) – horseshoe buoys, ring

buoys, and buoyant cushions are designed to be grasped,
not worn.

 Special-Use Devices (Type V) – sailboat harnesses,

white-water vests, float coats, and hybrid vests.

2-3

When purchasing PFDs, look for a tag saying they are approved
by the national boating law enforcement agency. Children and
non-swimmers must wear PFDs at all times when aboard. All
passengers and crew should wear them, since an unworn PFD is
often useless in an emergency. The law requires that PFDs if not
worn, must be readily accessible, that is, removed from storage
bags and unbuckled. Throwable devices must be readily
available, that is, right at hand. The operator is responsible for
instructing everyone on their location and use.

Size PFDs for the wearer. Children require special attention. Test
PFD buoyancy at least once a year. Dry before storage.

2-4

Impaired Operation

Give special attention to the effects of alcohol and drugs while
boating. No other single factor causes so many marine accidents
and deaths. Wind, waves and sun heighten the effects of alcohol
and drugs, so your reactions may be quickly impaired.

Load Capacity

 The U.S. Coast Guard requires boats less than 6.4 meters

(20 feet) to have a certification plate stating the
maximum number of persons and the maximum weight
the boat will handle safely under normal conditions.

 ISO international directives require a certification plate

on boats up to 24 meters (78.7 feet).

 Certification plate is attached to the hull near the helm or

transom.

 Overloading violates regulations. Do not carry more

weight or passengers than indicated on the certification
plate.

 The number of seats is not necessarily an indication of

the number of persons a boat can carry safely.

 When boating on plane (above idle speed), carry no

more passengers than there are real seats, and insist that
passengers sit down in those seats.

The presence of the certification plate does not relieve the
owner/operator from responsibility for using common sense and
sound judgment.
Overloading, improper loading and distribution of weight are
significant causes of accidents. Give yourself an extra margin of
safety in rough water.

2-5

WARNING

CONTROL HAZARD – Federal laws prohibit operating a

boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These laws

are vigorously enforced.

Propulsion

Propulsion system consists of an engine turning a shaft, which
transfers power to a propeller. Mounting may be outboard, stern
drive (inboard engine/outboard propeller), or inboard.

``

Stability

Loose fluids or weight within the hull substantially reduces
stability. Keep bilge area as dry as possible and close openings in
rough weather.

2-6

CAUTION

 Boat power capacity has been rated for maximum

performance and safety. Do not exceed the engine
rating posted by the manufacturer. Exceeding
power capacity is illegal in many areas.

 Never use a propeller which allows the engine to

exceed recommended RPM under normal wide­open throttle operation.

WARNING

PERSONAL INJURY HAZARD – Failure to securely install
and maintain outboard motor may cause engine to eject
during operation, causing death, serious injury or property
damage.

Weather

Learn to understand weather patterns and signs of change. Bad
weather and sea conditions can cause an uncomfortable and
unsafe situation. Here are a few basic weather-related rules:

 Check the forecast and sea conditions before leaving and

while underway.

 A sudden change in wind direction or speed or an

increase in wave height indicates deteriorating weather.

 Wear a personal flotation device.
 If a storm approaches, immediately seek a safe harbor.
 If a storm hits, head the bow of your boat into the wind.
 If you encounter fog, determine your position, set a safe

course, slow down and alert other boats of your presence
with a sound signal.

Accident Report

The U.S. Coast Guard and state agencies require a report to be
filed by the operator of a boat involved in an accident involving
loss of life, disappearance, injury requiring treatment beyond
first aid, loss of boat or property damage exceeding $500.
Contact the state boating agency where the accident occurs for a

copy of the state’s accident report form. In the absence of a state

enforcement agency, contact the Coast Guard office nearest the
accident site. Other countries have other reporting requirements.
Consult your nation’s boating law enforcement agency.

2-7

Recommended Equipment

 A wise boater will include many of the following items:
 Visual distress signals for day and night use (required in

some areas; consult local regulations)

 Marine radio
 Compass
 Depth sounder
 Charts
 Spare keys
 Portable radio with weather band
 Waterproof flashlight
 Batteries
 Mooring lines
 Fenders
 Extra propeller
 Ground tackle (at least 2 anchors, rope, shackles)
 Paddles or oars
 Boat hook
 Safety approved gas can, properly stowed
 Bailer
 Spare parts kit (spark plugs, fuses, etc.)
 Tool kit
 First aid kit

Wake/Wash

The time to think about emergencies is before they happen. Plan
ahead. Know what to do before you encounter any of these
situations. Wear a PFD when boating.

2-8

CAUTION

Reduce speed in congested waterways.

`

Explosion

 If explosion is imminent, put on PFDs, grab distress

signals and survival gear, and immediately abandon
ship.

Fire

 Turn off engines, generators, stoves and blowers.

Extinguish smoking materials.

 Have portable fire extinguishers ready. Do not breathe

fumes or vapors caused by fire or extinguisher.

 If fire is in engine compartment, discharge portable fire

extinguishers through engine compartment access plate,
if equipped. Do not open engine hatch as this feeds
oxygen to the fire.

 If you have access to fire, direct contents of

extinguishers at base of flames, not at the top.

 Throw burning materials overboard if possible.
 Move anyone not needed for firefighting operations

away from the flames.

 Signal for help.
 Put on PFDs, grab distress signals and survival gear, and

prepare to abandon ship.

Abandoning Ship

 When clear of danger, account for all who were on

board, and help those in need.

 Use distress signal.
 Keep everyone together to make rescue easier.

2-9

WARNING

BURN HAZARD – Swim against the current or wind if you
abandon ship. Leaking fuel will float with the current and may
ignite.

Flooding, Swamping or Capsizing

 STAY WITH THE BOAT! A boat will usually float

even if there is major hull damage. Rescuers can spot a
boat much easier than a head bobbing in the water.

 Signal for help.

Collision

 Account for everyone on board.
 Check for injuries.
 Inspect structural damage.
 Reduce flooding.
 Signal for help.
 STAY WITH THE BOAT!

Person Overboard

 Immediately sound an alarm and keep pointing to the

person overboard.

 Throw a life preserver even if the person is wearing a

PFD. It will serve as a marker.

 If equipped with a GPS with “man overboard” features

immediately depress “man overboard” button to mark

location.

 Immediately stop or slow boat, then circle toward

victim.

 Keep person overboard on helm side so operator has the

person constantly in sight.

 Approach from downwind and move alongside into the

wind for pickup.

 When almost alongside, stop the engine in gear to

prevent dangerous propeller “wind milling”.

 As part of your emergency plan, consider what to do if

you were alone and fell overboard (e.g., wear PFD, keep
signal device in PFD, attach emergency stop switch
lanyard to yourself).

2-10

Drowning

 Swim to rescue a drowning victim only as a last resort.
 Immediate resuscitation is critical! At least two people

on board should be certified in CPR.

 Keep the victim warm.
 Use care in handling. Spinal injury may exist if the

victim fell overboard.

 Signal for help.

Medical Emergency

In an emergency, you may be far from professional medical
assistance. Be prepared. Take a first aid course, and carry a first
aid kit. Be aware of special conditions that may affect anyone on
board.

Radio Communication

Radio is the boat operator’s main method of receiving safety

information and summoning aid. VHF-FM radio is the primary
means of short-range communication.

VHF-FM Channel 16 is designated for emergency use.
Such situations can be categorized as:

 Emergency –

“MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY” – Used when a

life or vessel is in imminent danger.

 Urgency –

“PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN” (Pronounced

PAHN-PAHN) – Used when a person or vessel is in
some jeopardy, less than indicated by a Mayday call.

 Safety –

“SECURITY, SECURITY, SECURITY” (Pronounced

SAY-CURE-IT-TAY” – Used for navigational safety or
weather warning.

An emergency situation will be hectic and there will not be time
to learn proper radio procedure. LEARN WHAT TO DO

BEFORE YOU NEED TO DO IT.

2-11

If you hear a distress call, stop all radio transmissions. If you can
directly assist, respond on the emergency frequency. If you
cannot assist, do not transmit on that frequency. However,
continue to monitor until it is obvious that help is being
provided.

Seaworthiness / Operational Inspection

Update checklists when equipment is added or modified.

Before Departure:

 Weather – forecast safe
 Required documents – on board
 Navigation charts and equipment – on board
 Safety equipment – on board
 Safety training – passengers and crew instructed

on safety procedures and location and use of
safety equipment

 Drain plugs – installed
 Bilge pumps – working and clean
 Blower – working
 Navigation lights – working
 Horn – working
 Fuel tank(s) – filled; less than rated capacity

(allow for expansion)

 Fuel system – no leaks
 Fuel filter – tight and clean
 Power steering fluid – filled
 Steering system – working smoothly and

properly

 Crankcase oil – level within range
 Battery – electrolyte level within range
 Float plan – filed with friend or relative

2-12

Trailering (if applicable):

 Boat position – secure on trailer
 Tiedowns – tight
 Winch – locked
 Trailer hitch – connected
 Engine clearance – in trailering position
 Safety chains – attached
 Electrical – lights, brake lights, turn signals working
 Mirrors – adjusted for trailering

After Return

PFDs and other safety gear – dry, stored for next use
Fuel tanks – filled (allow for expansion) to prevent
condensation

2-13

EXPLOSION/FIRE HAZARD

 Store flammable materials in safety-approved

containers. Keep containers in a locker designed by
the boat manufacturer for that purpose. Never store
flammable material in a non-vented space.

 Observe “No Smoking” while fueling.
 Run exhaust blower at least 4 minutes before

starting engine. Check bilge and engine
compartment for fumes.

 Keep ventilation system free of obstructions. Never

modify the vent system.

 Fill less than rated capacity of tank. Allow for fuel

expansion.

 If fuel enters bilge, do not start engine. Determine

cause and severity. Contact a knowledgeable marine
service to remove fuel. Do not pump bilge
overboard.

 Inspect fuel system regularly for leaks.

Operation Fueling:

Fuel system – no leaks
Bilge pump – operating properly
Bilge – clean, no leaks
Float plan – notify person with whom you filed plan

General

 Fuel during daylight.
 Check fill plate label to ensure fuel is placed only in fuel

tank.

 Avoid spills.
 Know your fuel capacity and consumption. Record the

amount of fuel used since your last fill-up, and compute

the engine’s hourly fuel usage. As a backup check to

your fuel gauge, deduct the average hourly fuel usage
from fuel tank capacity.

 Observe the “rule of thirds”: one-third fuel for trip out,

one-third for return, one-third for reserve.

 Allow an additional 15 percent fuel reserve when

operating in rough seas.

2-14

Follow engine manufacturer’s recommendations for types

of fuel and oil. Use of improper products can damage the
engine and void the warranty.

NOTICE

Use fresh fuel. Fuel that has been in a tank too long can
form gum and varnish, which may affect performance.

Starting Engine – General Checklist:

 Fuel – supply adequate, including reserve
 Oil – level adequate
 Battery (s) – power adequate
 Drain Plugs – installed
 Gear – neutral
 Bilge Blower – run at least 4 minutes before starting
 “Sniff Test” – no leaks or fumes
 Emergency Stop Switch – attached to operator and stop

switch

 Gauges (after ignition and warm-up) – readings normal

(see engine operator’s manual)

2-15

Navigation
Rules of the Road

Navigational rules are commonly called Rules of the Road.
There are two types: Inland Rules apply to vessels on Unites
States inland waters; International Rules apply to vessels on the
high seas. Basic principles agree, but some differences exist.
Learn and follow the rules that apply to your area.

It is impossible to establish rules for every situation. Therefore, it
is important to act prudently.

This book is not intended to teach all the rules of navigation. We
present a general overview, and strongly urge you to get training
before taking command of your boat. Understand important
terminology distinctions:

 Power-Driven Vessel – A boat propelled by an engine

(including a sailboat propelled by engine and sail).

 Sailing Vessel – A boat propelled by sail only, with no

engine in operation.

 Underway – A boat not anchored, not made fast to

shore and not aground.

 Vessel engaged in fishing – A commercial fishing boat

with gear that restricts maneuverability (does not include
trolling lines or other gear that does not restrict
maneuverability)

3-1

CAUTION

 Follow navigation rules to avoid collisions.
 Less maneuverable boats generally have the right

of way. Steer clear of the stand-on (right-of-way)
boat and pass to its stern.

 If a collision appears unavoidable, both vessels

must act. Prudence takes precedence over right­of-way rules if a crash is imminent.

3-2

WARNING

STABILITY HAZARD

 Load boat properly. The manufacturer’s load

rating is the maximum under normal conditions.
Adjust downward if weather, water or other
conditions are adverse.

 Allow passengers to ride only in areas that do not

pose a hazard to themselves or the boat. Do NOT
allow passengers to ride on the bow of a closed bow
boat.

 Observe manufacturer’s recommended on-plane

seating locations.

 Passengers should remain seated while boat is

moving.

Personal Injury Hazard – Stay alert. Use of drugs, alcohol
or other substances, which impair judgment, poses a
serious threat to yourself and others. The boat operator is
responsible for the behavior of passengers.

Drowning Hazard – Boats must carry one wearable
personal flotation device (PFD) for every person on board.
Boats must also have at least one throwable life preserver.

Slipping Hazard – Wet decks are slippery. Wear proper
footwear and use extreme caution on wet surfaces.