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safety
BEFORE EACH OPERATION
These tasks are best accomplished before the boat is launched.
Follow all engine and drive train pre-operation maintenance and safety.
Checks as...
DURING OPERATION
These tasks are best accomplished during operation of the boat. Check gauges frequently for operating conditions.Pay attention that controls operate smoothly.Note ...
AFTER OPERATION
Check for fluid leaks.In boats equipped with a ballast system, drain water from the ballast system before placing the boat on the trailer. If the boat has ballast-pumping assistance to remov...
WSIA - WATERCRAFT SAFETY VIDEO...
Click on the link and watch this valuable video for tow boat and watercraft safety, produced by the WSIA. Safety and etiquette is outlined so that everyone will enjoy a fun and safe day on t...
SAFETY RESOURCES
Be certain that all operators of your boat are aware of the safety information within this Owner’s Manual and that they use it to conform to boat safety principles. Boating safety...
SAFETY AFLOAT
The cause of many boating accidents is often the operator’s failure to follow basic safety rules or written precautions. Many accidents can be avoided if an operator is completely ...
COMMON SENSE ADVICE
Avoid any activity that may result in damage to the boat, thereby voiding the warranty. Some things, such as avoiding stationary objects, are obvious. However, even less obvious acti...
HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS
There are a number of situations which can result in peril for boats and persons on board. Among these is boating too close to dam spillways, where turbulence and strong currents can...
CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)
When anchoring the boat, you MUST turn OFF the engine. In most models, exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide are emitted from the exhaust flap area of the transom immediately belo...
EMERGENCY TREATMENT FOR (CO) PO...
CO poisoning or toxicity is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. The following is a list of things that should be done if CO poisoning is suspected. Proceed w...
PROTECTION FROM CARBON MONOXIDE...
Following these simple steps to help keep CO from poisoning you, your passengers and others nearby:
- Know where and how CO may accumulate in and around your boat. This i...
WEIGHT LIMITS & DISTRIBUTION...
WARNING:All boats have weight limits. Failure to adhere to the posted limits can cause operation instability and/or the boat to sink. This may result in serious injury or death, as w...
LINE OF SIGHT
Care should also be taken to avoid interfering with the boat operator’s line of sight when the boat is underway. This applies particularly to individuals riding in the bow. It is p...
PERSONAL FLOATATION DEVICES (PF...
Federal law requires at least one wearable Type I, II, III or Type V Personal Flotation Device (“PFD”) for each person on-board or being towed on waterskis, wakeboards, surfboard...
IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE...
Fire on-board is among the most serious of matters that boaters can experience. Due to the close proximity of fuel tanks and a number of electrically operated items that can result i...
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
The engine compartment in every 2017 MasterCraft boat is equipped with an automatic fire suppression system. The system has a manual override mounted in the helm area (domestic boats...
FIRE SUPPRESSION & EXTINGUISHIN...
All MasterCraft boats are equipped with an automatic fire suppression system. The automatic system operates from sensors in the engine room and will automatically release a clean-age...
CAPSIZING
In addition to fire, a boater’s greatest concern may be with the possibility of capsizing or overturning the boat. A number of factors can occur that will result in a boat overturn...
IN-WATER ACTIVITIES SAFETY...
Individuals in the water are obligated to be as aware of the fundamental safety rules as operators. If you are new to water sports, you should seek certified training before starting...
STRIKING UNDERWATER OBJECTS...
Ascertain whether there is damage to the hull. If water can be stopped from entering the boat, cautiously return to dock. Have the boat checked out by your authorized MasterCraft Dea...
BOATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE...
Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be as deadly as driving a car while under the influence!
Did you know:A boat operator is likely to become impaired more quickly th...
STAYING AFLOAT
It is commonly believed that someone dressed in heavy clothing or waders will experience considerably more difficulty staying afloat if they fall overboard. This is not true. Air tra...
COLD WATER SURVIVAL
Sudden immersion in cold water can induce rapid, uncontrolled breathing, cardiac arrest and other physical body conditions, which can lead to drowning. Always wearing a PFD will help...
INFLATABLE LIFE RAFTS
An inflatable life raft can provide a survival platform for an extended period of time. Be sure the life raft is large enough for everyone on board when the boat operates off-shore....
LAW ENFORCEMENT
A vessel underway, when hailed by a Coast Guard vessel, is required to heave to, or maneuver in such a manner that permits a boarding officer to come aboard.
Other federal, state and...
ACCIDENT REPORTING
Federal law requires the boat operator to file a boating accident report with the state reporting authority when, as a result of an occurrence that involves a boat or its equipment:...
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Federal law requires certain safety equipment to be on-board your boat at all times. Responsible boaters carry additional equipment in case of emergency. It is your responsibility to...
SOUND PRODUCING DEVICES...
The navigation rules require sound signals to be made under certain circumstances. Meeting, crossing and overtaking situations, which will be described in some detail shortly, are ex...
VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS...
All vessels used on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas and those waters connected directly to them up to a point where a body of water is greater than two miles w...
STEERING RULES
Any time two (2) vessels on the water meet one another, one vessel has the right-of-way. It is called the stand-on vessel. The vessel that does not have the right-of-way ...
SEVERE WEATHER
Never leave the dock without first checking the local weather forecast. Weather information is available from television, radio, local newspaper, online or from a weather channel on ...
HIGH SPEED OPERATION
MasterCraft boats are designed to accommodate professional drivers with advanced operating skills who can perform high-speed maneuvers and turns on-a-dime. DO NOT attempt to duplicat...
preparation
FLOAT PLAN
A “float plan” is a written record indicating the planned destination and approximate length of time for the outing. Sample forms are available at the Coast Guard’s website he...
ANCHORING
Anchoring is done for two principal reasons: first, to stop for fishing, swimming, lunch or an overnight stay, and secondly, to keep a boat from running aground in bad weather or as a result...
OPERATOR'S LICENSE
Some states are implementing operator’s license requirements. These requirements vary widely. Many states now have restrictions regarding age. If you are operating in a location wh...
BOAT REGISTRATION & NUMBERING...
All undocumented vessels equipped with propulsion machinery must be registered in the state of principal use. A certificate of number will be issued upon registering the vehicle. The...
RADIOS-TELEPHONES
Improper use of a radio-telephone is a criminal offense. The use of obscene, indecent or profane language during radio communications is punishable by a $10,000 fine, imprisonment fo...
USING CARE WHEN FUELING...
MasterCraft boats are equipped with a highly innovative fuel system. This system is designed to provide years of trouble-free service. The MasterCraft fuel delivery system is based o...
DOCKING & 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 ea...
OPERATIONAL HINTS
MasterCraft urges all who will be operating the boat to seek certified instruction from the local boating authorities.
Loading the Boat
Never overload the boat. The maximum weight ...
STARTING & BASIC OPERATIONS...
Before Starting:
Always familiarize yourself with the controls and indicators used in your boat. Perform all Safety Checks and Services and ensure that all Scheduled Maintenance Ch...
FUEL LEVELS
Starting the engine with fuel levels below the acceptable standard will likely cause damage to the fuel pump. MasterCraft, working in conjunction with the fuel pump’s manufacturer,...
HOW TO WAKEBOARD - THE ULTIMATE...
If you’re a fan of water sports, you’re probably no
stranger to the thrill of wakeboarding. Its popularity in recent years has
soared, and it is one of the f...
SELECTING THE RIGHT TOW VEHICLE...
When selecting a tow vehicle for your MasterCraft, it is important to determine the exact weight of your boat and trailer.These weights must be confirmed before you can choose a tow veh...
care
GALVANIC CORROSION
Galvanic corrosion (electrolysis) is the decomposition of metal due to the effects of electrolytic action. When two (2) dissimilar metals are immersed in a conductive fluid (e.g., sa...
SALTWATER CARE
MasterCraft boats have been designed for operation in fresh water unless equipped with the Salt Water Package. If operating a fresh-water model temporarily in salt, polluted or brack...
STAINLESS STEEL & CHROME | ANOD...
Stainless steel, chrome-plated and anodized aluminum parts are not totally resistant to corrosion. Occasional cleaning and polishing with a marine chrome-and-stainless polish will ma...
CLEANING THE BOAT
Periodic cleaning is the best way to keep your boat looking like new. Regular washing and waxing keep dirt and build-up from deteriorating the finish. If you keep your boat in s...
CANVAS COVERS
The material used in constructing bimini tops and boat covers is made from 100 percent solution-dyed polyester fiber with a urethane coating to provide excellent water repellency and mildew ...
WOOD PLATFORM CARE
All Wood Platforms
To maintain its original appearance and finish, Garapa Gold wood platforms will need regular cleaning and oiling. Unprotected wood will turn gray and could split o...
AQUATRAC PLATFORMS
AquaTrac should be handled only with clean hands. Oil, grease or dirt may leave permanent imprints on the surface. Whenever possible, keep the platform covered when the boat is not i...
UPHOLSTERY | VINYL CARE...
While the vinyl is made to withstand the elements, it is important to care for vinyl by keeping it clean at all times. Many substances may stain the vinyl if left untreated...
MARINE GROWTH
If accelerated marine growth is a problem in the area in which the boat will generally be operated, an anti-fouling bottom paint may be necessary to slow growth while protecting the ...
WINDSHIELD CLEAN
In cleaning tempered glass windshields, the normal glass cleaners (from spray bottles or aerosol cans) work best. While the glass is very strong, it can be scratched if anything abra...
maintenance
PROPELLER MAINTENANCE
Propeller damage is caused by striking solid objects. If the propeller is not rotating at the time it strikes a solid object, the damage is usually confined to just one blade and may...
QUARTERLY - EVERY FIFTY [50] HO...
Check Safety Equipment And Change Oil
Throughout the 2017 Owner’s Manual, boat owners, operators and users have been reminded to pay particular attention to any and all safety re...
ANNUALLY - EVERY ONE HUNDRED [1...
MasterCraft recommends that your annual—or one hundred (100) hour—maintenance requirements be performed by an authorized MasterCraft Dealer. The staff there has the proper equipm...
CHECK THE ENGINE MOUNTS...
CAUTION: Some engine parts become very hot during operation. This inspection must be completed while the engine is cool to prevent burns to your skin. Perform this task before star...
CHECK THE PROPELLER SHAFT COUPL...
This function is critical to avoiding unnecessary wear and potential damage to the engine as well as the propeller and propeller shaft. Because it is a complex and exacting part of m...
INSPECT THE EXHAUST FLAPS FOR D...
Step 1
Ensure the engine is OFF and disconnect the engine safety starting switch. Be sure that the throttle/shift control lever is in neutral.
Step 2
Inspect the rubber exhaust...
LUBRICATE THE STEERING SYSTEM...
For cable systems only (both standard steering and DockStar Handling System); hydraulic steering maintenance must be completed by an authorized MasterCraft Dealer only. Because this ...
LUBRICATE THE THROTTLE SYSTEM...
Because this process should be completed while all movable components of the drive train are NOT in motion, MasterCraft recommends this be done while the boat is out of the water.
...
CHECK THE BALLAST PUMP IMPELLER...
This applies only to X Series + XStar boats equipped with some type of ballast system. The number of ballast pumps varies from system to system. Authorized MasterCraft Dealers can pr...
INSPECT THE COMPLETE FUEL SYSTE...
Although the boat engine is similar to an automobile engine, the engine compartment differs substantially. The underside of an automobile engine compartment is totally open to the at...
power
ENGINE FUEL LEVELS
Starting the engine with fuel levels below the acceptable standard will likely cause damage to the fuel pump. MasterCraft, working in conjunction with the fuel pump’s manufacturer,...
GENERAL POWER PACKAGE PREP...
Step 1
Lubricate the throttle and shift linkages and cables with multi-purpose grease.
Step 2 MasterCraft recommends that batteries be removed from the boat for winter storage. ...
ILMOR ENGINES
MasterCraft boats are equipped with ILMOR Marine Engines, the finest quality power plant in the industry. ILMOR supplies an Owner’s Manual with the purchase of your MasterCraft boa...
ILMOR ENGINE GASOLINE
Additional, critical information regarding the proper use of gasoline in relation to the ILMOR Marine Engine is contained in the engine owner’s manual, including but not limited to...
TROUBLESHOOTING THE ENGINE FUEL...
Fuel Pump Does Not Run When The Engine Start-Stop Button Is Pressed
Cause 1
Pump may not be receiving sufficient voltage to the pump, or there may be corrosion interfering with the...
ILMOR ENGINE FLUSH
Available as an option on all boats. There are two different types of flushes and the installed option will depend on the boat model.
Purpose
Boats that will be ope...
systems
LOW VOLTAGE BATTERY ALARM...
In the event that the stereo has been functioning when the boat is not ON and running, the voltage drain on the battery (or batteries) may result in difficulties with restarting the ...
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
All major 2017MY boat circuits are protected from shorting and overload by resettable circuit breakers. When an electrical fault is detected, mechanical switch circuit breakers will ...
DUAL BATTERIES
Purpose:
Because of the demanding drain on the electrical system by modern MasterCraft boats, it has become necessary to implement a dual battery system. When properly operated, the ...
BATTERY CHARGER
As a convenience, a battery charger is offered as an option. The charger is designed to recharge the batteries and also to extend battery life in applications where the boat is store...
IGNITION & START-STOP
The key is for safety and security. The key should be inserted prior to starting an outing, and removed at the conclusion. This is intended to prevent theft or una...
SHIFT-THROTTLE CONTROL...
A one-hand, single-lever control operates as both gear shifter and throttle. The lever automatically locks in the neutral position (straight up and down) for safety.
Location
The...
BILGE SYSTEM & DRAINS
Water inevitably intrudes into any boat. MasterCraft boats are de- signed to expel the water via the bilge system. When on the water, bilge pumps will expel water. Bilge pump sensors...
BLOWER SYSTEM
The blower system is one of the most critical systems on the boat. A natural by-product of operating the engine is the creation of unseen fumes. Carbon monoxide is discussed in the S...
STEERING SYSTEM
The steering system controls the direction in which the boat moves.
Location
Except for the steering wheel and shift/throttle control at the helm, the steering system is not visi...
WATER JET BOW THRUSTER...
A bow thruster allows for greater maneuverability, especially in tight quarters such as while docking the boat. 2017 Boat Models: Installed on X46 and X26, as an optio...
GEN2 SURF SYSTEM
Models
All XSeries and XStar, as an option.
Purpose
The GEN2 Wake Shaping Devices (WSDs) can be used in sync with presets or manually adjusted to help build and shape a surf w...
BALLAST SYSTEMS
Models
A triple hard tank ballast system is standard on all X-series and NXT series boats. These ballast tanks cannot be removed after the boat has been built due to tight toleranc...
features
12 VOLT RECEPTACLES...
12-volt receptacles allow external electronic devices to charge from the boat’s electrical system. Location MasterCraft boats have one (1) or more 12-volt receptacles. Exami...
ZINC ANODE
2017 Models: All except ProStar, as part of the Salt Water Package option.
If the boat is operated in salt, polluted or brackish waters, even temporarily, the boat should be equipp...
TRANSOM PROTECTION FILM...
Purpose
To provide a clear barrier between the transom of the boat and the numerous outside elements, such as water sports gear (wake surfing boards, wakeboards, etc.) that ar...
TOWER LIGHTS
Models
Models equipped with optional tower lights.
Purpose
Tower lights may be white or blue LED lights. These lights add visual appeal as well as providing additional light to...
UNDERWATER LIGHTS
Models
All models, as an option.
Purpose
Underwater lights provide a significant improvement in visual illumination of the water beneath swim platforms and in the area surround...
PYLONS
Purpose
When properly utilized, ski pylons allow skiers the opportunity to be towed behind the boat with a sensible and unobstructed view by individuals in observer seats.
Locati...
storage
BALLAST SYSTEM WINTERIZATION...
Ballast tanks, pumps, hoses and fittings must be properly winterized to prevent freezing damage during winter storage. Because of the complexity of preparing a ballast system for win...
REACTIVATING THE BOAT AFTER STO...
Step 1
Remove duct tape from exhaust flaps.
Step 2
Fully charge the battery(ies) and install them in the boat, following all safety precautions associated with changing batteri...
GENERAL POWER PACKAGE WINTERIZA...
Step 1 Lubricate the throttle and shift linkages and cables with multi-purpose grease.
Step 2
MasterCraft recommends that batteries be removed from the boat for winter storage. ...
GENERAL STORAGE INFO
Storage or winter lay-up requires special preparation to prevent damage to the boat. Since winter storage is an annual event, it presents an excellent opportunity to perform annual m...
FUEL SYSTEM WINTERIZATION...
This preparation needs to be done prior to removing water from the engine, if that will be part of the process.
Boats that are going to be stored for extended periods (more tha...
STORAGE CRADLE
If a storage cradle is used, the hull must be properly supported to prevent load damage. This can occur with as little as fifteen (15) pounds per square inch of pressure. DO NOT supp...
trailers
SELECTING THE RIGHT TOW V...
When selecting a tow vehicle for your MasterCraft, it is important to determine the exact weight of your boat and trailer.These weights must be confirmed before you can choose a tow veh...
TRAILER MAINTENANCE & QUICK TIP...
Chips In The Paint
Especially on the axles and frame of the trailer, paint chipping generally results when these surfaces are subjected to repeated or significant impacts by variou...
WALK-AROUND TRAILER INSPECTION...
The majority of potential roadside issues can be eliminated by a walk-around visual inspection of the trailer. This should be done after hitching the trailer to the tow vehicle, and ...
BACKING UP A BOAT TRAILER...
When backing up, place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel. To turn left, move your hand left (rotate the wheel clockwise). To turn right, move your hand right (rotate the ...
TRAILER PARKING & UNCOUPLING ...
Parking
When parking, try to avoid parking on steep grades. If possible, have someone outside to guide you as you park. Once stopped, but before shifting into park, have someone pl...
UNBALANCED LOAD - DIFFICU...
Unbalanced Load
An unbalanced load may cause the tongue to suddenly rotate up-ward; therefore, before uncoupling, place jack stands under the rear of the trailer.
Difficulty Towi...
TRAILER LOAD-CARRYING CAPACITY...
WARNING: The total weight of the boat, engine, fuel, water and gear must not exceed the trailer’s maximum load-carrying capacity. Overloading can cause instability and loss of cont...
TRAILER WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION...
WARNING: Improper weight distribution within the boat can cause instability and loss of control while towing, which may result in death, serious injury or property damage.
Improper...
THE TRAILER HITCH
There are two basic types of trailer hitches: a weight-carrying hitch and a weight-distribution hitch. A weight-carrying hitch is recommended for use with a MasterCraft boat and trai...
TRAILER SAFETY CABLES
The safety cables on a MasterCraft trailer provide added security so that the trailer will not become detached from the tow vehicle when underway. These cables conform to the Society...
BREAKAWAY TRAILER CABLES...
Secure the breakaway cable to the bumper or frame of the tow vehicle as close to the center as possible, but do not attach it to the safety chains. The cable MUST hang clear of the t...
TRAILER WINCH
WARNING: Maintain a firm grip on the winch handle at all times. Never release the handle when the ratchet lever is in the unlocked position with a load on the winch because the handl...
SWING TONGUE
Ensure the swing tongue is folded fully forward, the pivot pin is installed, and the keeper pin is installed in the bottom of the pivot pin before towing. When folding the swing tong...
HOW TO ATTACH THE TRAILER...
To connect the trailer to the tow vehicle, open the coupler mechanism (instructions below). When necessary, raise the trailer jack. Slowly back up the tow vehicle until the hitch bal...
HUBS-WHEEL BEARINGS-AXLES...
Trailers equipped with Tie Down Engineering actuators are also equipped with Vortex hubs and spindles. The hubs are pre-greased and assembled at the factory. As a result, they should...
BOAT TRAILER SPECIFICATIONS...
When selecting a tow vehicle for your MasterCraft, it is important to determine the exact weight of your boat and trailer.These weights must be confirmed before you can choose...