Owner`s manual

Helm Systems
2-1
Section 2
OS 285
Helm Systems
2.1 General
The helm controls consist of three systems:
the engine throttle and shift controls, the
steering system, and the trim/tab control
switches.
Manufacturers of control components pro-
vide an owner’s manual with their products.
Carefully read and familiarize yourself with
the manuals, paying specific attention to the
proper care and operation of control sys-
tems.
2.2 Helm Access
The helm station opens to provide access
for servicing the helm equipment. To open
the helm station, slide the seat back, tilt the
steering wheel to the full upright position and
open the two latches that secure the helm in
place. A strap holds the helm in the open
position. To secure the helm in place, close
the helm and secure the two latches.
2.3 Engine Throttle and Shift
Controls
Shift and throttle controls on your boat may
vary depending on the type of engines used.
The following control description is typical of
most outboard controls. Refer to engine or
control manuals for specific information on
the controls installed on your Pursuit.
A binnacle-style control at the helm of your
Pursuit has a single lever for each engine,
operating as a gearshift and throttle. Three
throttle positions are available: neutral
(straight up and down); forward (1
st
detent
forward of neutral); reverse (1
st
detent aft of
neutral).
Advancing the control lever beyond the shift
range advances the throttle in forward or
reverse. Each control is equipped to permit
the engine to operate at a higher-than-idle
RPM while in neutral for cold starting and
warm-up purposes.
The handles of dual lever controls may not
always align with each other at all RPM set-
tings due to variations in control cable rout-
ing, length and engine specific adjustments.
Often, a selected RPM will have proper
(side-by-side) alignment for the handles, but
the alignment may vary at other RPM set-
tings.
Control or cable adjustments may be
required to correct this condition should it
persist. See your Pursuit dealer for neces-
sary control and cable adjustments.
! WARNING
Always properly secure the helm sta-
tion before operating or transporting
your boat. Improperly secured helm
stations can open unexpectedly and
damage the boat or cause loss of con-
trol.
! WARNING
Under no circumstances, open the
helm with the engine(s) running. In
some situations, it is possible to acci-
dentally engage the engine shift into
gear and/or advance throttle controls
as the helm is opening. This can result
in loss of control, damage to the boat,
and injury to passengers.
! CAUTION
Always return the engine throttle
levers to the lowest possible speed
position before shifting. Never shift
the transmission at any throttle set-
ting above idle RPM.