scheduled maintenance
Before Each Use
Review the Safety Checks and Services section of this Owner’s Manual. There are important functions that must be followed before, during and after every outing, without fail! The Safety Checks and Services notes that all drain plugs must be reinstalled prior to operating the boat!
Check Raw Water Intake Strainer (where equipped)
Because a clogged raw water intake strainer puts undue strain on the engine(s), the intake should be checked prior to starting the boat. Boats with closed cooling systems are not equipped with this.
Step 1: The raw water intake strainer serves to reduce or prevent the intake of debris into the engine’s cooling system. Therefore, it is critical that it be checked prior to start- ing the engine. If operating in brackish or dirty water with considerable flora or algae, it is advisable to shut off the engine during an extended outing to be sure that the strainer is not clogged. If there is debris, even if it
is biodegradable, it should be manually removed from the strainer. If there has been evidence of material in the strainer routinely at the body of water on which the boat is operated, it is recommended that the strainer be cleaned again at the conclusion of each outing as it may be easier to remove material when it is still wet.
Inspect the Battery Connections and Hold-Downs
Because poor connections or
Step 1: Ensure the engine is OFF and the engine safety starting switch disconnected. Be certain that the throttle/shift control lever is in neutral. Locate the battery. Batteries are placed in a variety of locations, depending on the model. Check under the observer seat or behind the rear seat.
Step 2: Check that the battery post connections are clean and tight. If not:
•Loosen and remove the negative terminal connection first. Be careful not to touch the positive terminal with the wrench.
•Loosen and remove the positive terminal connection.
•Remove the battery
•Clean corrosion from the battery posts with a battery termi- nal cleaner.
•Clean the battery with a
Battery electrolyte fluid is dangerous. It contains sulfuric acid, which is poisonous, corrosive and caustic. If electrolyte fluid is spilled or placed on any part of the human body, immediately flush the area with large amounts of clean water and immediately seek medical attention.
•Use a battery terminal cleaning brush to remove corrosion from the inside of the battery terminals. Clean the terminals with a
•Check the battery box that normally holds the battery in place to determine whether there is evidence of battery fluid inside it. Battery fluids are corrosive and can cause perma- nent damage to the battery box. If fluid is evident, wash out
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page