MasterCraft 2009 MariStar X-Series owner manual Fuel Gauge, Heater Switch, Horn, Ignition Key Slot

Fuel Gauge

(All Models)

Fuel gauge readings are only ap- proximate. This gauge is activated with the ignition switch. The rocking motion of the boat during normal operation will cause the fuel gauge to fluctuate. For a more accurate read- ing, make sure that the boat is level and with little or no motion present.

MasterCraft recommends that operators do not run the boat below a quarter of a tank, except as necessary to return to shore, and not until the boat has been operated enough times to de- velop an understanding of how the fuel gauge readings relate to the visual inspection of fuel left in the tank. Extending fuel usage beyond the known capability of the boat may cause the boat to run out of fuel and may leave you stranded off-shore.

Although it may be possible to see fuel in the bottom of the fuel tank, you still may not be able to operate the boat. The fuel pick- up system was designed to avoid introducing the small amount of water and debris that unavoidably accumulate in the bottom of the tank. Rather than relying on visual inspection, you should pay attention to the fuel gauge.

Further, it is not recommended to allow the fuel to fall below one- quarter of a tank full at any time as it may result in damage to the fueling system. (See the Fueling section of this Owner’s Manual.)

Allowing the fuel level in the fuel tank to fall below one-quarter of a tank full may affect the reliability of the fuel pump or result in damage to the fuel pump, which is not covered under warranty.

Heater Switch

(Optional Installation for All Models)

Among the accessory options available for your boat is a heater function. The heater’s three-position switch is turned up for ON (LOW), or turned down for ON (HIGH). The center position is OFF. Warmed air

from an electrically powered heater box will be blown from vents within the boat deck.

Horn

(All Models)

The horn is sounded by way of a button on the instrument panel. Pressing the button emits a loud and recognizable noise.

Ignition Key Slot

(All Models)

MasterCraft boats come equipped with an ignition key, which must be inserted in the ignition key slot and used to activate the boat’s electrical system. This, in turn, will allow the boat to be started and operated.

The key will be in one of four (4) positions:

•Off

•Accessory (including running the stereo without the engine running)

•ON (engine is running)

•Start (turn the key to engage the engine

starter, then release to allow the key to automatically return to the ON position)

Never leave the ignition switch in the ON position without the engine running, as this will cause the battery to discharge.

Note: The MariStar 280STS is equipped with two (2) ignitions, one

(1)for each engine, allowing the engines to operate independently of each other. Be sure to turn both ignitions OFF when the engine is not in use.

Instrument Panel Gauge

Backlighting Switch

(All models equipped with the Video Display Gauge System)

A three-position switch allows the operator to change

the instrument panel backlighting for the gauges. Pressing the top of the switch will cause the lights to brighten, the center position is OFF, and pressing down will dim the lights.

Low Voltage Battery Alarm

(All Models)

In the event that the stereo has been functioning when the boat is not ON and running, the voltage drain on the battery (or bat- teries) may result in difficulties with re-starting the boat. It may also cause intermittent erroneous or fluctuating gauge readings. When the voltage level reaches 11.5 volts or below, the system will shut off the stereo and sound the alarm for a period of two

(2)minutes to give boaters sufficient time to adjust. Gener- ally, the appropriate action is to leave the stereo OFF, as well as disengaging any other peripheral electrical components, and keying ON the engine. Running the engine at a moderate rate for several minutes without the additional drain of stereo and unnecessary electrical equipment will allow the alternator to re- charge the battery or batteries, unless the battery(ies) have been used to the extent of their life span.

Carbon monoxide is emitted from the engine’s exhaust system. Never run the engine without proper ventilation. Do not run the engine in a confined space or where fumes may be trapped. Do not run the engine when the boat is stationary in calm wind conditions.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-6