Carver 38 Bulls Eye User manual

OPERATION MANUAL
Carver 38
“Bulls Eye”
Welcome aboard!
We are happy you have chosen “Bulls Eye” for your vacation. We are sure you will enjoy
cruising the lovely islands of the Pacific Northwest.
We hope this manual will help you become familiar with the boat. If you have questions
about the boat or about places to visit, please do not hesitate to ask the AYC staff.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Boat Operation
Engine Inspection
Start-Up
Shutdown
Getting Underway
Cruising
Docking
Fueling
Boat Electrical
A.C. (Shore) Systems
Inverter
Generator
D.C. (House) Systems
Batteries
Sanitation Systems
Marine Toilet
Holding Tank
Y-Valve
Water Systems
Fresh Water Tanks
Fresh Water Pump
Hot Water
Shower
Galley
Stove/Oven
Refrigeration/ Ice Maker
Heating Systems
Diesel Heater (DC)
Built-in Cabin Heaters (AC)
Engine-generated Heat (DC)

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Electronics
VHF Radio, Depth Sounder, Radar
GPS/Plotter
Entertainment
AM/FM Radio
CD Player
TV/Stereo
Anchoring/Mooring Cans
Barbecue
Dinghy/Outboard
Crabbing/Fishing
Other: Bilge Pumps/Safety
Thru-Hull Diagram
BOAT OPERATION

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Engine Inspection
Remember your “WOBBS” every morning: Water (Coolant), Oil, Bilges (Inspect and Pump-out),
Belts and Sea Strainer.
Check the level of COOLANT by removing the cap on top of each engine and testing for coolant with
finger or other means. Check the level of OIL in each engine by checking your dipsticks located
centrally. Look at the etch marks on each dipstick that indicate the proper oil level. DO NOT
OVERFILL OIL! Only fill if oil levels are below the ½ way mark. Please use a paper towel or oil
rag, not the dish towels! Check the general condition of the BELTS, HOSES, and FUEL LINES.
Ensure the valve on each RAW WATER THRU-HULL is in the ‘open’ position (lever in-line with
valve).
Observe the glass of each RAW WATER STRAINER for debris. If necessary, close the seacock,
open the strainer cover, clean the strainer, and reassemble. Remember to reopen the seacock. Check
your generator fluids as well.
Start-Up
Before starting the engines, do your inspection. The engines are started from the flybridge helm
station.
Ensure GEARSHIFTS are in ‘neutral’, or the engines cannot be started because of the “neutral
lockout”. THROTTLES should be run up and down and then brought almost back to the idle
position. Insert both keys into the IGNITION SWITCHES. Normally, plan to start the port engine
first. Before starting engines, activate the EVC control panel as shown on pages 5, 6 and 7.
Turn the key fully clockwise to engage the engine. If the starter does not engage when the key is
turned, move the gearshift lever slightly until you find neutral and try again while turning key.
If the engine cranks slowly or fails to turn over, check the condition of the battery on the
ELECTRICAL PANEL.
Disengage the shift function and move the THROTTLE to raise the engine speed to 1000 rpm on the
TACHOMETER. Warm the engine for about 5 minutes before engaging transmission. Observe the
readings of the gauges. The oil pressure will register between 3 and 5 bars. The engine temperature
should rise slowly.
Note -- If oil pressure is low, shut down engine, and inspect engine compartment and look for
possible cause (for example, loss of oil.) Caution -- If an engine is overheating or there is lack of
raw water expelled in the engine exhaust, stop the engine immediately. Recheck the raw water-
cooling system to ensure the seacock is ‘open’ (handle in-line with valve). Next, check the raw water
strainer for debris. Remove the strainer, clean, re-assemble, and reopen the raw water intake valve
(seacock). Restart the engine and re-check water flow from the exhaust. If water is not flowing
properly, the RAW WATER PUMP may need to be serviced. Seek help.
Shut-Down
Before shutting down, allow the engines ‘idle’ for about 5 minutes to cool them gradually and
uniformly. The time engaged in preparing to dock the boat is usually sufficient. Ensure each

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GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE is in the ‘neutral’ Turn off engines by turning key counter clockwise until
the engine shuts down.
Getting Underway
DISCONNECT the shore power cord (see 110-Volt next page). Close the PORTHOLES,
WINDOWS, and FORWARD HATCH. Turn on your VHF and electronics. ASSIGN crew members
their various positions. Once outside the marina, idle the engines while crew brings in fenders and
lines.
Cruising
Cruising speed is a maximum of about 3400-3600 RPMS. Your speed will vary depending upon the
weight and load and weather conditions. TRIM TABS can be put in the “bow down” position.
Note -- Avoid higher engine speeds as it causes higher engine temperature, possible damage, and
higher fuel consumption.
Docking
Have your crew make ready the lines and fenders and give clear instructions on how you will be
docking. Often times your crew will need to step off from the swim step with the stern line. Another
crew member will need to be at the bow or mid-ships to hand over the next lines.
Rock trim tab switches to the ‘bow up’ position (8 to 10 seconds) to make slow-speed backing and
turning easier. While moving slowly to the dock or mooring location, center the WHEEL (e.g.
rudders straight) and use only the GEARSHIFT/THROTTLE to maneuver the boat.
Bow Thruster
Use the bow thruster only for close quarter maneuvering, short thrusts of power will move the bow to
port or starboard. Maximum continuous running of bow the bow thruster is 3 minutes with an
interval of a minimum of 3 minutes before engaged again.
Fueling Up
OPEN FILLER CAPS located on the cockpit coaming, port and starboard, with a DECK FITTING
KEY which is kept in the upper cabinet on port side of entrance.

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MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT FUEL! DIESEL! DIESEL! DIESEL! MAKE SURE
IT IS GOING INTO THE RIGHT DECK FILL! DOUBLE-CHECK!
Before pumping, have an oil/fuel sorbs handy to soak up spilled fuel. You should have a rough idea
of the number of gallons you will need by the engine hour indicator. Also periodically have someone
turn on the key to watch the fuel gauge.
Place the DIESEL nozzle into the tank opening, pump slowly and evenly, and note the sound of the
fuel flow. Pumping too fast may not allow enough time for air to escape, which may result in
spouting from the tank opening. As the tank fills, the sound will rise in pitch or gurgle. Pay attention
to the TANK OVERFLOW VENT on the outside of the hull near the tank opening. The sound may
indicate that the tank is nearly full. Top off carefully, and be prepared to catch spilled fuel. Spillage
may result in a nasty fine from law enforcement.
Replace each tank cap. Turn on blower before starting engines. Caution -- Clean up splatter and
spillage immediately for environmental and health reasons. Wash hands with soap and water
thoroughly.
BOAT ELECTRICAL
The electrical system is divided into two distribution systems: 110 volt and 12 volt DC.
The systems are controlled from the AC ELECTRICAL PANEL located above berth stairs on
starboard side and the DC AUXILIARY PANELS located next to the AC panel for cabinet circuits
and at the flybridge helm lower starboard side for operation functions. The BATTERY SWITCHES
FOUND aft of the AC panel, in the engine room bulkhead and near the generator. When not
connected to shore power, batteries are providing all power. Therefore, monitor the use of onboard
electricity carefully with your volt meter located, on the cabin DC panel and turn off electrical
devices that are not needed.
110-Volt AC System
SHORE POWER supports all AC equipment and receptacles on board, as well as the battery
chargers.

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To connect to shore power, plug the 30 amp POWER CORD into the boat and then into the dock
receptacle. Check the power rating/plug size of the nearest dock receptacle (that is 50 amp, 30 amp,
20 amp, or 15 amp). If necessary, add a CORD ADAPTER located in the cabinet on the port side of
the cabin entrance. Turn the dock power on. Cords coming off the bow can be wrapped loosely
around the bow line.
At the ELECTRICAL PANEL, flip the SHORE CIRCUIT BREAKER on. Check for reverse
polarity. Then turn on appropriate breakers for both battery chargers and other circuits as needed.
Watch you volt meter for load. If the load exceeds voltage, you will pop your breaker. If this occurs,
wait to turn on one of your systems (i.e. water heater) until your use of volts drop.
If your outlets fail to work, check your GFIs to make sure that they have not been tripped.
Inverter Power
The INVERTER provides AC power to the 110-volt receptacle plugs (i.e. the microwave oven) when
the boat is disconnected from shore power. The inverter does not provide power to the water heater
or the battery charger. Your inverter panel is located on the starboard side of the salon at the top of
the stairs to the berths, with an on/off switch. Make certain that it is on. The actual inverter is located
on the engine room fore bulkhead, starboard side.
The inverter’s power source is the DC house or inverter batteries located at the base of the fore
buckhead. The quantity of DC power is limited to the capacity of these batteries... Therefore,
running hair dryers, toaster, coffeepots, space heater, etc. and will quickly discharge the
house/inverter batteries. Use these items VERY SPARINGLY! Monitor your battery usage very
carefully!
Generator
To start your GENERATOR, first check that your generator’s fluids are topped off and the raw water
intake is open. The generator controls are located at the base of the cabin DC panel as well as on the
generator. First pre-heat the generator for about 20 seconds. Then while still pre-heating turn the
switch to start. Hold the switch in that position while the generator catches. (about 5-10 seconds).
Make sure water and exhaust is exiting center transom.
Generator current output will automatically override shorepower input. Then turn on AC systems as
you would on shore power one system at a time.
To turn the generator off, first take off the load by turning off AC breakers. Then turn off main AC
distribution switch. Lastly kill the generator by switching generator switch to “stop” until it dies.
House (12-volt) System
Five battery banks support 12-volt DC power: 1) port engine battery 2) starboard engine battery 3)
house battery bank 4) Inverter bank 5) Generator battery

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The BATTERY SWITCHES are located on the engine room forward bulkhead. There is also a
battery switch in the cabinet next to the AC/DC panel in the salon. It provides battery power to both
DC panels. Normally, leave the THURSTER/ENGINE/ GENERATOR and HOUSE SWITCHES in
the ‘ON’ position. Note -- Do not change the position of the switches while the engines are running
or the alternator diodes will be damaged. Change positions with the engines off.
Your 12 volt panel shows all the systems supported by your house batteries. Primarily you will be
turning on the breakers for your lights, water pressure, electronics, entertainment, etc. Automatic
bilge pumps should always be left on.
There are two 12 volt; one at the top of the stairs from the berths for cabin functions and the second
on the flybridge lower starboard side for operational functions. These include navigation and other
instruments, windlass, bilge pumps, trim tabs, deck and steaming lights, radio, etc…
Your breakers should always be turned off after every use.
House Battery Bank & Switch
The HOUSE BATTERY BANK provides power for all DC systems, except the engines and
automatic bilge pumps. When disconnected from shore power, all 12-volt devices drain the house
battery. Use devices as needed. The DC voltmeter on the DC panel can be switched between Port,
Starboard, and House Battery banks to measure charging or resting battery voltages.
When a battery bank is being charged, the voltage will read from about 13.1 volts to 14.4 volts
depending upon state-of-charge of the battery bank. When the battery bank is at rest, (that is, not
being charged), the voltmeter can give a rough indication of the state-of-charge of the battery bank.
House and engine batteries are charged by the engine ALTERNATORS while underway. The
engine/house batteries are charged by the BATTERY CHARGER when connected to shore power.
Ensure the Battery Charger and Inverter circuit breakers at the electrical panel are ON. The
GENERATOR will also charge the batteries. The inverter charges the inverter battery. This battery
is the only source of power when using the inverter to provide A/C current, so use it sparingly. (e.g.
No blow dryers or other devices requiring high power.)
Voltage (Wet Cell Battery)
Battery State
12.65 volts 100%
12.47 volts 75%
12.25 volts 50%
11.95 volts 25%
11.70 volts 0%
Safety Breaker Panel

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Breakers for the auto bilge pumps, the auto sump pump, CO detectors, stereo memory, high water alarm, Volvo
Seakey Telemetric equipment, windlass, electric head, oil charger and electric shifts is located on the engine
room fore bulkhead, portside. Of particular importance to the charterer is the windlass breaker and the
bilge/sump pumps.
SANITATION SYSTEM
Marine Toilet
It is important that every member of the crew be informed on the proper use of the MARINE
TOILET. The valves, openings, and pumps are small and may clog easily. If the toilet clogs, it is
YOUR RESONSIBILITY!
Always pump the head for children, so you can make sure nothing foreign is being flushed.
Caution – Never put paper towels, tampons, Kleenex, sanitary napkins, household toilet paper, or
food into the marine toilet. Use only the special dissolving marine toilet tissue provided by AYC.
Bulls Eye has a vacuum flush toilet. When the foot peddle attached to the toilet is depressed, the
cacuum sucks the waste out of the toilet and moves it to the holding tank. To wet the bowl prior to
use, lift the foot peddle with your toe. It uses fresh water and the fresh water pump must be ‘on’ as
well. After flushing the toilet will partially fill with the fresh water in preparation for the next use.
Holding Tank

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The sanitation HOLDING TANK holds approximately 25 gallons. Be aware of the rate of waste
production. (about 1 gallon per flush) With an overfilled tank, it is possible to break a hose, clog a
vent, or burst the tank. The result will be indescribable catastrophe and an EXPENSIVE FIX to you.
Empty the tank EVERY OTHER DAY to avoid this problem.
The HOLDING TANK is located in the engine room beneath the center catwalk. Some may be
subject to a visual check with a flashlight or the “watermelon” test by thumping it. There is a tank
watch warning light located inside the lower cabinet directly across from the toilet on the right side,
but do not rely upon this as they often get clogged.
The holding tank is emptied in one of two ways:
#1 At the Marine Pump-Out Station, remove the WASTE CAP located on the swim deck, starboard
side. Insert the pump-out nozzle into the waste opening. Double-check your deck fitting! Turn on
pump and open valve located on handle. When pumping is finished, close lever on handle and turn
off pump. Remove from deck fitting.
If there is a fresh water hose on the dock, rinse the tank by adding 2 minutes of water into tank. Then
repump to leave the tank rinsed for the next charter. This also eliminates head odors.
#2 The tank’s contents can be discharged with the forward waste pump but only in Canadian waters.
Open the overboard seacock, starboard side, through cockpit hatch and turn ‘Y” valve to overboard
position. Turn on forward waste pump switch on D.C. panel. To operate waste pump pull switch
near waste seacock. Listen to the pumps’s sound. When the pitch becomes higher, the tank is empty.
Discharge may be observed on the starboard side. It should only take a few minutes to empty the
tank. When empty, push in pull switch, close seacock, turn off switch on D.C. panel and return ‘Y’
valve to pump out hose.
WATER SYSTEM
Fresh Water Tank(s)