Daily Checks
Morning
Each morning before starting the engine, check the following;
Bilge Pump
The bilge pump is electric. It is operated by a switch on the control panel at the back of the boat and its location in the engine room is indicated on your show round. On setting off each morning pump the bilge by pressing the button until the water flow ceases. A small quantity of water may remain after the pump ceases to operate, this is normal and requires no action by you. The bilge pump will also operate automatically.
Evening
Each evening after stopping check the following;
Stern Gland Greaser
It is essential to turn the handle of the greaser clockwise until resistance is felt. No more than half a turn in the evening as well as the morning is usually required. This will stop water flowing past the seal where the shaft enters the boat.
Weed Hatch
Ensure that the engine is not running. Undo the fastening holding down the weed hatch lid and remove. Reach into the water and feel the propellor and shaft are clear. If weed or debris is present it usually gathers around the shaft forward of the propellor. Remove any rubbish and deposit safely where it will do no further damage. Rope, if not removed by unwinding will have to be cut off. Replace the weed hatch lid and ensure that it is in the same position as when you removed it. Tighten the fastening and check that water is not entering the boat through the weed hatch.
ALWAYS ENSURE THAT THE WEED HATCH IS CORRECTLY POSITIONED AND TOTALLY SECURE. FAILURE TO DO THIS COULD RESULT IN THE BOAT SINKING.
Starting Off
To Start The Engine
Press in the square portion in the centre of the lever (neutral) and move lever 10 degrees forward. Turn the ignition key on (this positioned on the control panel) and move to the heat position. Hold there for 20 seconds and then turn the key further clockwise to start the engine. When the engine starts the warning buzzer will cease. Notice that both battery state indicators will show an increase in voltage before setting off. When ready to set off, return the lever to upright position, this drops the revs and automatically selects gear control mode. Moving the lever forward gives you forward gear and speed increase – moving the lever backwards will give you astern and speed increase.
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO CAST OFF THE MOORING LINES AND GET THEM AND THE SPIKES ON BOARD. CARE MUST BE TAKEN TO ENSURE THAT NO ROPES FALL INTO THE WATER BEHIND THE BOAT – THIS COULD WRAP ITSELF AROUND THE PROPELLOR AND CAUSE DAMAGE.
Engine Handling
The boat is fitted with a single lever control. The gears are operated by the same lever as the throttle. Push the lever forward and the first two inches of movement will engage the forward gear. Pull the lever back and the first two inches will engage the reverse gear. In both cases, further movement of the lever operates the throttle.
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