Section 3 • Using Your Boat

1.Pre-Launch, Launch and Post- Launch Checklist

Listed below are the critical items you must check and do each time you use your boat. It does not list all of the necessary maintenance and service items required to keep your boat running properly. These other items are found in Section 8.

Before Launch

Drain plug installed

Enough fuel for trip

Float plan given to friend or relative

Navigation charts for trip

Weather forecast - safe

In the Water, Before Boarding Passengers or Starting Engine

Stern drive down

Equipment stored and balanced

No gas smell in engine compartment

Engine oil and steering fluid levels - OK

Battery switch on

No fluid in bilge

Bilge pump working

Bilge blower on

Radio and navigation equipment functioning

Passengers

Wearing PFDs

Seated properly

Given safety instructions

Starting Engine

Make sure you have read and understand the dangers of Carbon Monoxide (CO) information in this manual.

Bilge blower on for at least four (4) minutes. Feel to confirm airflow at hull vent on hull side. Inspect bilge area for visual and odor confirmation that there are no fuel leaks.

Throttle-only position, handle pumped before starting, if necessary.

Oil pressure, engine temperature, voltage - OK after starting and warm up.

Underway

Gradual acceleration and deceleration and turning.

Aware of surroundings at all times.

Operate so as to prevent buildup of Carbon Monoxide (CO) (See section 1.3)

Monitor weather

Use navigational aids in water and on shore

Keep passengers safe

Do not operate impaired

Check fuel consumption regularly

Check all gauges frequently

End of Trip

Equipment dry and stored.

Electronic equipment and switches off.

Battery switch off.

Stern drive in trailering position.

Notify person who had float plan.

Boat covered properly for trailering, docking or mooring.

Drain plug removed (if boat is not kept in water).

Hull and propeller inspected for damage.

245 Performance®

3.1

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Baja Marine 245 manual Using Your Boat, Pre-Launch, Launch and Post- Launch Checklist