OWNER’S MANUAL PREMIER MARINE INC. w w w.pontoons.
OWNERSHIP LOG Date Owner
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Premier pontoon. We have taken great care and pride in the design and construction of your new boat so that you may enjoy it for many years to come. Please read thoroughly all materials enclosed within your Owner’s Packet. We hope you will find the guidelines and suggestions useful. Please take the time to verify your warranty registration on your new boat by visiting www.pontoons.com/warranty.
This manual has been compiled to help you operate your pontoon with safety and pleasure. It contains details of the craft, the equipment supplied or fitted, its systems, and information on its operation and maintenance. Please read it carefully and familiarize yourself with the pontoon before use.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1 5 UNDERWAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1 Design Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hazard Communication Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . Owner Advisory Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Protecting the Environment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Boat Delivery Responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . .
1 INTRODUCTION You have made an excellent choice by selecting a Premier Pontoon to enhance your leisure time. Premier is in the business of creating a dream for you, whether you’re out for a day of waterskiing, just taking a relaxing cruise, or heading out early in the morning for a day of fishing. Your dream includes something more than just a fine boat. That’s why we’ve tucked into our pontoons seasons of serenity, seasons of togetherness, and seasons of fun.
Crossmembers are bolted to specially designed “M” brackets welded directly to the upper portion of the tube. “M” brackets provide greater stability and added strength for the crossmembers. Attached to the crossmembers is a specially developed marine grade plywood or composite deck that guards against rot, decay, insect infestation and delamination. Immediate hazards that WILL result in severe personal injury or death. Our rails are anodized or powder coated for protection from the elements.
boat’s maximum horsepower capacity. This applies to pontoon boats of all lengths. BOAT DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITIES The number of persons listed on the capacity label is calculated solely by a formula based on the displacement of the tubes and not by safe boating practices. Boating conditions may require fewer occupants on board than indicated on the capacity label. Persons capacity is based on an average weight of 141 lbs. each and, ultimately, the number of occupant positions on the boat.
WARRANTY OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES Your new Premier boat is backed by a limited express warranty. The complete warranty will be provided to in writing at time of delivery. If you didn’t receive a copy you may request one, by emailing a request with your hull ID number clearly listed, to warranty@pontoon.com. It is important to understand all the terms of the warranty. If you have a problem with your boat, contact your dealer immediately to determine warranty coverage.
property damage insurance on your boat as you do on your automobile. You should also protect your investment by insuring your boat against physical damage or theft.
1.
1.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE LOG Date Hour Meter Reading Service/Repairs Performed 1.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE LOG Date Hour Meter Reading Service/Repairs Performed 1.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE LOG Date Hour Meter Reading Service/Repairs Performed 1.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE LOG Date Hour Meter Reading Service/Repairs Performed 1.
2 SAFETY You should fully understand and become familiar with the operating procedures and safety precautions in this manual and the other information in the owner’s packet before you launch your boat. Remember, “Safe boating is no accident.” Always operate your boat with consideration, courtesy and common sense. • Never allow passengers to occupy the upper deck while boat is underway. Also adhere to capacity limit of the upper deck.
PFD Type I, Wearable (Figure 2-1) has the greatest required buoyancy. Its design allows for turning most unconscious persons in the water from face down position to a vertical, or slightly backward, face-up position. Type I is most effective for all waters, especially offshore when rescue may be delayed. PFD Type II, Wearable (Figure 2-2) turns its wearer in the same way as Type I, but not as effectively. The Type II will not turn as many persons under the same conditions as a Type I.
Safe Operation No one signaling device is ideal under all conditions or for all purposes. Consider carrying various types of equipment on board. Approved pyrotechnic visual distress signals and associated equipment include red flares, hand-held or aerial; orange smoke, hand-held or floating; and launchers for aerial red meteors or parachute flares. Approved non-pyrotechnic equipment includes orange distress flags and electric distress lights.
be just as lethal over long periods of time. Symptoms of CO poisoning include: itchy and watering eyes, flushed appearance, throbbing temples, inability to think coherently, ringing in the ears, tightness across the chest, headaches, drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting, collapse, and convulsions. Operation By Minors Minors should always be supervised by an adult whenever operating a boat. Many states have laws regarding the minimum age and licensing requirements of minors.
Even with the best boat design and construction, CO may still accumulate in enclosed areas under certain conditions. Continuously observe passengers for symptoms of CO poisoning. CO in engine exhaust from your boat can accumulate within enclosed areas when your boat is operating at slow speed or stopped in the water. Installing rear canvas while underway increases the chance of CO accumulation in your boat. Tail wind can increase accumulation.
6. Make sure the water is adequate depth and free of obstructions. WATER SPORTS Water skiing, wakeboarding or riding a towed, inflatable apparatus are some of the more popular water sports. However, never exceed the limits of the ski bar. Also, never tow a inflatable device or another vessel from the ski bar, they are over the limits of the ski tow bar. Taking part in any water sport requires increased safety awareness by the participant and the boat operator.
WATER SPORTS RESPONSIBILITY CODE 4. Give immediate attention to a fallen skier. Always keep fallen skier on the operator’s side of the boat when returning to attend the skier. Operators should always have fallen skiers in sight. Be careful not to swamp the boat while taking a skier on board. Be aware that there are elements of risk in boating, skiing, and riding that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Know your ability level and stay within it.
3 SYSTEMS AND COMPONENTS AC System This section provides information about your boat’s electrical system, instruments, controls, and other equipment. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Some models may be equipped with a shore power inlet which supplies 110 volt AC power to an inverter and internal battery charger, lights, refrigerator, microwave, TV, and other outlets. The inverter can supply limited AC power for accessories while underway.
Speedometer Batteries produce hydrogen and oxygen gases when they are being charged. These explosive gases escape through the vent/fill caps and may form an explosive atmosphere around the battery if ventilation is poor. This gas may remain around the battery for several hours after charging. Sparks or flame can ignite the gas and cause an explosion. Remove the battery and recharge it ashore. The speedometer indicates the speed your boat is traveling across the water in miles per hour.
to control the boat because the wheel is easier to turn. Operators should be careful that they do not “oversteer,” that is, turn the wheel too far so a turn is tighter than intended. See your dealer or the steering system manufacturer’s information regarding routine maintenance for this system. gearshift controls. Check the engine or control manual or see your dealer for more detailed information. A single-lever control integrates the throttle and gearshift into a single hand lever.
MAX. WATER LEVEL DECK REFRIGERATOR SPRAY BAR AERATOR STAND PIPE/ DRAIN PLUG A refrigerator is available as optional equipment on some models. The refrigerator operates on a separate 12 volt DC power. When refrigerator is on, carefully monitor power remaining in batteries. Turn off refrigerator when batteries are low. Refer to the refrigerator manual for more complete information.
BEACON SYSTEM Your boat may be equipped with the Premier Beacon System. This is a digital, touch screen control and operation system located on your instrument panel. P U L L CORRECT INCORRECT FIGURE 3-2 J-CLIP™ only. You should not drive at highway speeds with playpen cover installed. If you do travel with your playpen cover on, then stop periodically and check your cover and poles. Premier Marine does not cover trailering issues under its warranty.
4 TRAILERING A correctly selected trailer supports your boat properly, makes towing safer, and makes loading and unloading easier. Proper trailer selection and setup are very important. Improper trailering is one of the major causes of damage to the tubes. Your pontoon must be well supported to prevent any damage during trailering. The pontoon’s weight should be supported the entire length of the tubes with a bunk trailer or the entire deck length with a mechanical folding trailer.
HITCH 6. Check with your state Department of Motor Vehicles for registration and licensing regulations in your state. Most states require that boat trailers be registered and licensed. TONGUE BRACKET 7. Be aware that a turn for the trailer is wider than a turn for the tow vehicle (Figure 4-2). When making a turn, be careful that your trailer does not strike another vehicle or object. CHAINS TRAILER PATH (BOTTOM VIEW) FIGURE 4-2 TURNING WITH A TRAILER FIGURE 4-1 SAFETY CHAINS 8.
LAUNCHING GUIDELINES LOADING YOUR BOAT ON THE TRAILER Before launching, stay to one side and watch a couple of launchings to notice any problems on the ramp and the effects of the wind and the current on launching. It’s a common courtesy to prepare the boat for launching away from the ramp. Follow these guidelines for loading the boat back onto the trailer: 1. Back the trailer into the water. 2. When the trailer is in several inches of water: • STOP the towing vehicle.
Attention: Remember to always use a lower unit brace or transom saver while towing with an engine. The increased engine weight of 4-stroke motors makes this very important. Premier Marine does not warranty transoms due to trailer damage. The use of playpen covers is also not recommended for use while towing. Wind resistance can cause the cover to stress and rip at high speeds. Premier Marine does not warranty damage to the boat or cover due to towing. 4.
5 UNDERWAY This chapter provides basic information for a typical boating excursion. All boaters are responsible for their own safety and the safety of others. Even though you may be an experienced operator, you can still benefit from reviewing the boating principles discussed in this chapter. Before you get underway, make sure you are familiar with local and governmental boating regulations and restrictions. BOATER’S CHECKLIST Go through the following checklist before starting on your cruise.
NOTE: Some Premier pontoons may be equipped with two fuel tanks. Boats so equipped have two fuel gauges at the console to monitor the amount of fuel available. Only one tank may be in service at a time on single engine boats. A valve on each tank allows the operator to select which tank is to be in service. In this case, the operator may be able to switch tanks while underway. 6.
LOADING PASSENGERS AND GEAR (CONTINUED) Outboards Powering and load capacities of pontoon boats follow the recommended practices of the American Boat Yacht Council, section H-35, and certified by the NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association). These capacities are based on formulas involving the length and volume of the pontoons as well as specific test procedures. You, the operator, are responsible for using common sense and sound judgment when loading your pontoon.
6. Lower the stern drive to the run position. Make sure all cooling water intake holes are submerged. 7. Attach the stop switch lanyard to operator. See engine Owner’s Manual for specific instructions. Passengers are to remain seated while casting off and underway. Sudden or unexpected movements may cause passenger to fall. Make sure passengers seated ahead of the helm console do not obstruct driver’s vision. STEERING Gasoline vapors are highly explosive.
BOAT SPEED upwards and generally increases top speed. Excessive trimming up can cause ventilation (Figure 5-4). Trimming down can cause the front of the tubes to plow through the water and can slow the boat down, a slight “up” trim angle is generally desirable. Adjusting trim to existing conditions while underway is necessary for good performance (Figure 5-4). The trim gauge is a general guide only, and accuracy of the gauge may vary from motor to motor.
GENERAL RULES OF SEAMANSHIP Dropping Anchor 1. Cross waves at right angles. 2. When caught in heavy water or squalls, head either directly into the waves or at a slight angle. Reduce speed, but maintain enough power to maneuver your boat safely. 1. Have a crew member carefully lower the anchor, keeping a slight tension on the line as the anchor drops. Maintain tension after the anchor reaches the bottom. Simply throwing the anchor overboard usually fouls the line and requires starting over. 3.
If you are mooring your boat for a short time, bow and stern lines may be the only lines you need. If you are mooring your boat for a longer time or the currents are swift, you should use spring lines. The stern spring line leads from the boat’s stern cleat forward to the piling or cleat on the dock. The bow spring line leads from the bow cleat aft to the dock. Do not moor your boat using the ski eye or ski pylon. Fire or Explosion If a fire occurs, stop the boat immediately.
dling characteristics. If the engine vibrates excessively after striking an underwater obstruction, it may indicate a damaged propeller. If vibration is noticeable, return to port slowly to prevent further drive and engine damage from an out-ofbalance condition. Watch the temperature gauge to make sure the engine does not overheat. and listen for fog signals. • Sound the horn at proper intervals to warn other boaters. • If there is any doubt in continuing boat movement, anchor.
6 CARING FOR YOUR BOAT Corrosion/Electrolysis Proper care helps assure that your boat will continue to look like new after years of service. We recommend that maintenance and repairs be performed by your dealer, however, some owners may prefer to take care of routine maintenance and repairs themselves. For those individuals, this chapter includes general information and basic procedures.
water after each use and flush it from top to bottom, inside and out with fresh water. Clean hardware and spray with a marine corrosion inhibitor every week or even more often. Salt water can also affect the engine. Contact your dealer or Premier Marine for additional information about using your boat in salt water. (“Canvas” in this section refers to the various enclosures available, Bimini tops and boat covers.) If canvas is wet, let it air dry before you store it. Never store canvas damp or wet.
7 WINTERIZATION & STORAGE This chapter includes general information for winterizing and storing your boat after the boating season. Your dealer can advise you about preparing your boat for storage. Following the procedures in this section helps extend the life of your boat and its equipment and simplifies fitting out after storage. life jackets and other safety equipment inboard, be sure to leave space around them for adequate air circulation.
10. Test the operation of the navigational lights and other lighting on board. Repair or replace as necessary. If you are storing your boat on a lift, make sure it is supported properly on the bulkheads of the tubes. A bunk type support should support the entire length of the tubes. A folding lift type should support the entire length of the deck. 11. Reinstall the drain plug after coating the threads with Teflon® tape. Some models have expandable rubber drain plugs. Be sure they are tight.
8 HELPFUL INFORMATION BOATING REGULATIONS Meeting Head-On The local Sheriff Marine Patrol, local Coast Guard office, or state Department of Natural Resources is responsible for enforcing boating regulations. Their goal is to help the boating public. Your are subject to marine traffic laws and the “Rules of the Road” for both federal and state waterways; you must stop if signaled to do so by enforcement officers, and permit to be boarded if asked. The “Rules of the Road” can be obtained from your local U.
The General Prudential Rule if intent is not clear. A short blast is 1 or 2 seconds long. A long blast is 4 to 6 seconds long. The Navigational Aids Chart at the end of this chapter lists the meanings of the -various whistle signals. The General Prudential Rule regarding right-of-way is that if a collision appears unavoidable, neither boat has right-of-way. As prescribed in the “Rules of the Road,” both boats must act to avoid collision.
NAVIGATIONAL AIDS Aids to navigation (ATONS) help you to travel safely on the water. They help you get from one place to another and are most helpful if you have a nautical chart. NOTE: IMPORTANT: NEVER tie your vessel to an ATON . It is illegal because your boat blocks the ATON from the view of other boaters. Decreased visibility can contribute to a serious accident which may result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
9 BOATING TERMINOLOGY Abaft Toward the stern. Abeam Amidships, at a right angle to the keel. Aboard On, in or into a boat. ABYC American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc., the organization that sets voluntary safety and construction standards for small craft in the U.S. Below Beneath or under the deck. One goes below when going down into the cabin. Bend To fasten by means of a bend or knot.
Cleat A piece of wood or metal with projecting ends to which lines are made fast. Clinker A method of planking in which the lower edge of each strake overlaps the upper edge of the strake next below. (Also called lapstrake.) Coaming A raised edge, as around part or all of a cockpit, that prevents seawater from entering the boat.
Marina A place, essentially a dock area, where small recreational craft are kept; usually where floats or piers as well as service facilities are available. More toward the center of a vessel; inside; a motor fitted inside the boat. MAYDAY A radio distress call from the French “m’aidez” (help me); SOS in Morse Code. Inland Rules Rules of the road that apply to vessel operation in harbors and certain rivers, lakes and inland waterways. Mooring Commonly the anchor chain, buoy space, pennant, etc.
Pier A structure, usually wood or masonry, extending into the water used as a landing place for boats and ships. Pile Slip A vertical wooden or concrete pole driven into the bottom; may be a support for a pier or floats; also used for mooring. (1) A berth for a boat between two piers or floats; (2) The percentage difference between the theoretical and the actual distance that a propeller advances when turning in water under load. Sole The cabin or cockpit floor. Piling A structure of piles.
VHF Radio A Very High Frequency electronic communications and direction-finding system. Wake Moving waves created by vessel motion. Track or path that a boat leaves behind it when moving across the water. Wash The loose or broken water left behind a vessel as it moves along; the surging action of waves. Waterline The intersection of a vessel’s hull and the water’s surface; the line separating the bottom paint and the topsides.
NAVIGATIONAL AIDS CHART LATERAL AIDS AS SEEN ENTERING FROM SEAWARD PORT SIDE REMEMBER THESE RULES 1. OVERTAKING - PASSING: Boat being passed has the right-of-way. KEEP CLEAR. 2. MEETING HEAD ON: Keep to the right. 3. CROSSING: Boat on right has the right-of-way. Slow down and permit boat to pass.
® Only the best boats on the water are fully certified for building and safety standards by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Never purchase a boat unless you see the NMMA CERTIFIED sticker—just like the one on a Premier pontoon. NMMA certification means your pontoon is five times safer than a non-certified boat. The following trademarks are the intellectual property of Premier Marine, Inc.
