MasterCraft 2009 MariStar X-Series owner manual Unusual Operating Conditions, Docking and Tie-Up

Engines should always be operated within engine manufacturer guidelines. Failure to do so may cause significant damage to the engine and drive train and is not covered under warranty!

Elevation and weather also have a very noticeable effect on the wide-open-throt- tle power of an engine. Since oxygen gets thinner as elevation increases, the engine begins to starve for air. Humidity, baro- metric pressure and temperature have a noticeable effect on the density of air since heat and humidity thin the air.

This phenomenon can become particu-

larly apparent when an engine is propped for use on a cool, dry day in spring and then is operated on a hot, humid day in sum- mer, and does not have the same performance. Although some performance can be regained by dropping to a lower-pitch pro- peller, the basic condition still exists. The propeller is too large in diameter for the reduced power output. An experienced marine dealer can determine how much diameter to remove from a lower-pitch propeller for specific high-elevation locations.

MasterCraft’s engine manufacturers suggest that consumers con- sult with the dealer from whom the boat was purchased regard- ing the best propeller for the application in which the boat will primarily be run. However, be aware that changing the propeller may void the warranty. Again, working with an authorized Mas- terCraft dealer is your best bet to ensure excellent performance.

Unusual Operating Conditions

If the body of water is unknown, talk to local boaters about the type of obstacles that may be encountered beneath the water’s surface. Rocks, tree stumps and sandbars are all dangerous and damaging. Be especially wary of rivers and man-made lakes. Rapidly changing conditions can cause daily changes in under- water hazards.

Stay well clear of floating debris. What looks to be a small branch in the water may well turn out to be an entire tree.

When traveling through weedy areas, keep an eye on the engine temperature gauge. Weeds caught up and blocking the water flow through the raw water intake or transmission cooler will cause trouble. Also, after leaving the weedy area, shift to neutral for a few seconds and then to reverse for a few seconds to un- wind any weeds that may have wrapped around the propeller.

Docking and Tie-Up

Approach the dock slowly, with the starboard side of the boat if possible. The natural tendency to torque steer with the rotation of the propeller at slow speeds makes docking easier on that side. Also, use wind and current to your advantage when docking.

Before tying up the boat, be sure to use enough dock bumpers to protect the boat from damage. If possible, tie-up with the bow toward the waves. Use good quality double-braided nylon line. Tie-up only to the lifting or tie-down eyes. Never use the handrails or ski pylon.

If the boat is to be moored for a long period of time, use chafing protectors to protect the gel coat finish. Leave a little slack in the lines, allowing for some wave movement or tidal action where applicable.

If the boat is to be kept in or near water for the season, consider the purchase of a boat lift and bottom paint for the hull. These lifts prevent the build-up of marine growth on the hull as well as protecting the boat from damage typical of on-water storage, such as blistering. Make sure the boat lift supports the hull cor- rectly. See the next section, Lifting the Boat.

NOTE: On boats that are equipped with the engine syn- chronizing switch (models with two engines), this switch should be disengaged during docking or when loading and unloading the boat from a trailer. These maneuvers require a sensitive touch and control that may not be realized when the switch is engaged.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 10-3