Owner`s manual

22 KODIAK
10.3 Pre-Cruise System Check
Before Starting the Engine
• Check the weather forecast. Decide if the planned cruise can be made safely.
• Be sure all required documents are on board.
• Be sure all necessary safety equipment is on board and operative. This should include items
like the running lights, spotlight, life saving devices, etc. Please refer to the Safety Equipment
chapter for additional information.
• Make sure you have signal kits and flare guns aboard, and they are in good operating condition.
• Be sure you have sufficient water and other provisions for the planned cruise.
• Leave a written message listing details of your planned cruise with a close friend ashore (Float
Plan). The float plan should include a description of your boat, where you intend to cruise, and
a schedule of when you expect to arrive in the cruising area and when you expect to return.
Keep the person informed of any changes in your plan to prevent false alarms. This information
will tell authorities where to look and the type of boat to look for in the event you fail to arrive.
• Check the amount of fuel on board. Observe the “rule of thirds”: one third of the fuel for the
trip out, one third to return and one third in reserve. An additional 15% may be consumed in
rough seas.
• Check the water separating fuel filters for water.
• Check the engine oil tank and other fluid levels.
• Set the battery selector switch as desired.
• Check the bilge water level. Look for other signs of potential problems. Monitor for the scent
of fuel fumes.
• Test the automatic and manual bilge pump switches to make sure the system is working
properly. The bilge pump automatic float switch can be tested by inserting a stiff wire or small
rod through one of the slots in the float chamber of the pump and lifting the float switch until
the pump turns on.
10-3