Chaparral 347 SSX 2024 Owner's manual

2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
Chaparral Boats, Inc.
chaparralboats.com
OWNER’S/OPERATORSMANUAL
P.O.DRAWER928
300INDUSTRIALPARKBLVD.
NASHVILLE,GA31639
PHONE:(229)686‐7481FAX(229)686‐3660
This manual has been compiled to help you operate your boat with safety and pleasure. It contains details of the craft; typical equipment supplied or fitted
its systems and information on its operation and maintenance. Please read it carefully and familiarize yourself with your boat before using it.
If this is your first boat, or you are changing to a new type, for your own comfort and safety please ensure that you obtain handling and operating experience
before “assuming command” of the boat. Your dealer or national sailing federation or yacht club will be pleased to advise you of local sea schools or
competent instructors.
Pleasekeepthismanualinasecureplaceandhanditovertothenewownerwhenyousellthecraft
For a complete list of standard and optional features and equipment, consult your local Chaparral dealer. Due to a policy of continual product
improvement, specifications are subject to change without notice. The weights and volumes shown are estimated and can vary from boat to boat
because of equipment, etc.
Chaparral boats meet or exceed both NMMA and U.S. Coast Guard standards.
REV:April2023

2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
Chaparral Boats, Inc.
chaparralboats.com
ModelInformation
This manual contains information on the following models:
347 SSX
The information refers to standards and options available for
the 2024 model year.
ThankyouforselectingaChaparralSSXmodel!
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2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
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TableofContents
ModelInformation..........................................................................i
(1) Introduction.................................................................................1
Welcome Aboard ..........................................................................................1
About This Manual.......................................................................................1
Construction and Standards ....................................................................2
Responsibilities.............................................................................................4
Laws and Regulations.................................................................................5
Owner’s Logs and Records .......................................................................6
Warranty Policy Transfer .........................................................................6
Customer Satisfaction.................................................................................7
Boat Data Record..........................................................................................8
Fuel Usage Chart...........................................................................................9
Travel Plan Log..............................................................................................10
(2)BoatingSafety.............................................................................11
Hazard Communication.............................................................................15
Safety Recommendations..........................................................................15
Safety Equipment .........................................................................................18
Running and Navigation Lights ..............................................................20
Safety Afloat....................................................................................................20
Checklist...........................................................................................................26
Water Sports...................................................................................................27
(3)Systems..........................................................................................30
Electrical Systems ........................................................................................
30
Fuel System.....................................................................................................33
Freshwater System......................................................................................33
Marine Sanitation Devices........................................................................35
Trim Tabs.........................................................................................................36
(4)Components.................................................................................39
Dashboard and Instrument Panel..........................................................39
Steering System.............................................................................................40
Throttle………………………………………………………………………………40
Power Trim.....................................................................................................41
Fire Extinguishers ........................................................................................41
Generator........................................................................................................ 41
Air Conditioner............................................................................................. 42
Automatic Fire Extinguisher................................................................... 44
Bilge Pump ..................................................................................................... 45
Bilge Blower................................................................................................... 45
Running and Navigation Lights.............................................................. 45
Navigation Light Switch Positions……………………………………….. 46
Docking Lights .............................................................................................. 46
Underwater Lights ...................................................................................... 46
Stereo Sound System.................................................................................. 46
(5)Underway.....................................................................................47
Transporting Your Boat............................................................................ 47
Launching and Loading............................................................................. 49
Boarding Your Boat .................................................................................... 50
Fueling.............................................................................................................. 53
Operating Your Boat................................................................................... 54
Anchoring Your Boat.................................................................................. 57
Mooring Your Boat...................................................................................... 59
Shutting Down the Engine ....................................................................... 59
(6)PreventiveMaintenanceandRepair..................................60
Engine............................................................................................................... 60
Tune Up ........................................................................................................... 61
Fuel System.................................................................................................... 61
Monthly Inspection..................................................................................... 61
Propeller.......................................................................................................... 61
Steering System............................................................................................ 61
Bilge................................................................................................................... 62
(7)InteriorandExteriorCare......................................................63
Fiberglass and Gelcoat............................................................................... 63
Hull Bottom Maintenance ........................................................................ 64
Bottom Paint (Anti-Fouling) ................................................................... 64
Hardware and Fittings............................................................................... 64
Windshield and Portholes........................................................................ 65
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2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
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Floor Covering ...............................................................................................65
Seat Coverings and Silicone .....................................................................65
Canvas (Weather Coverings)...................................................................66
Chaparral Logo ..............................................................................................67
(8)WinterizingandStorage.........................................................68
Lifting the Boat..............................................................................................68
Dry Storage Preparation............................................................................68
Systems and Components.........................................................................69
Engine ...............................................................................................................69
Stern Drive ......................................................................................................69
Fuel System.....................................................................................................69
Battery ..............................................................................................................69
Recommissioning .........................................................................................70
(9)Warranty.......................................................................................71
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2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
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INTRODUCTION1
WELCOMEABOARD
Congratulations!....
on your wise decision to purchase a Chaparral boat. We welcome you to
the family of thousands of other Chaparral boat owners. Since your boat
is a substantial investment, we are sure you selected your Chaparral
because of its value, style, comfort, and performance. This manual
contains valuable information concerning your boat’s operation,
maintenance, and care, plus tips on boating safety and seamanship.
ABOUTTHISMANUAL
More and more people are joining the ranks of boat owners. This manual
is written for the first-time boat owner or operator. Even if you are an
experienced boater, you will find much valuable information regarding
the safe operation and maintenance of your new Chaparral boat. Keep this
manual on your boat for ready reference.
Due to our policy of continuous product improvement, the illustrations
used in this manual may not be identical to the components, controls,
gauges, etc. on your boat, as they are intended to be representative
reference views. Some controls, indicators, or information may be
optional and not included on your boat model.
The precautions in this manual cannot and do not cover every boating
situation. If a specific method or procedure is not covered, you must make
sure that what you do is safe for you and others. Always use common
sense when boating! Remember, too, that ever safe boating excursion is a
happy experience.
This manual is part of your boat’s equipment. Print a copy and keep it on
board the boat at all times. If you transfer ownership of this boat to
someone else, be sure to give this manual to the new owner.
Your owner’s packet contains the manual for the boat selected. Also, in
this packet are instruction manuals from the suppliers of standard and
optional equipment for your boat. Examples of these manuals include the
engine, electrical equipment, pumps, and cabin amenities. The suppliers
of these products maintain their own manufacturer’s warranty and
service facilities. Be sure to fill out each warranty card and mail it to the
manufacturer to validate the warrant. Record all information regarding
these products on the “Boat Date Record.” A copy of this form is near the
end of this chapter under Logs and Records.
Important:keepthecompleteBoatDataRecordinasafeplaceat
home.Donotkeepitaboardtheboat.
Read this manual as well as the manuals for the systems and components
on your Chaparral boat. They provide the information needed for safe
operation and proper maintenance. The information in the manuals
provided by the manufacturers takes precedence over any information in
this manual if there is a conflict.
Following are summaries of each chapter in this manual:
1. Introduction
Included in this chapter is a summary of the manual plus general
information about construction and standards, dealer and owner
responsibilities, laws and regulations, logs and records, and the warranty
for your boat.
2. BoatingSafety
This chapter discusses potential hazards associated with bating, safety
recommendations, safety information and practices, and water sports
safety. It also discusses safety equipment needed to provide a safe
operating system
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Note:For your safety, this manual has specific safety warnings and
comments where appropriate. Be sure to read the entire manual.
3. Systems
Here you will find detailed information about the electrical and fuel
systems needed to operate your boat. This chapter discusses the fresh
water system and marine sanitation devices which make your boating
experience more comfortable.
4. Components
Standard features and optional equipment for your Chaparral boat are
discussed in this chapter. In general, these pertain to equipment and
amenities which make your boat a “home away from home.”
5. Underway
The intent of this chapter is to explain what you need to do before, during,
and after your boating excursion to make it an enjoyable and safe
experience.
6. PreventiveMaintenanceandRepairs
Preventive maintenance is the key to trouble-free operation and helps
protect your investment. This chapter explains what you should do to
maintain your boat and how to make adjustments and repairs.
7. InteriorandExteriorCare
This chapter tells you how to inspect, clean, and maintain your boat’s
interior and exterior.
8. WinterizingandStorage
What do you do when you need to winterize or store your boat for
extended periods of time? This chapter provides the necessary
information.
CONSTRUCTIONANDSTANDARDS
All Chaparral boats meet or exceed the construction standards set by the
U.S. Coast Guard, the National Marine Manufacturers Association
(NMMA), and the American boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) concerning
Navigation Lights
Factory installed fuel systems
Engine and fuel tank compartment ventilation
Flotation
Steering systems
Backfire flame arresters
Wiring specifications
NMMA certification means that the boat complies with applicable federal
regulations set forth by the U.S. Coast Guard. These regulations are based
on American Boat ad Yacht Council (ABYC) standards and recommended
practices.
All Chaparral models can be certified to carry the CE mark. The CE mark
certifies that the boat meets relevant parts of the European Directive for
Recreational Craft 94/25/EC of the European Parliament, including the
International Organization for Standards (ISO) and Recreational Marine
Agreement Group (RMAG) guidelines in effect at the time of manufacture.
We recommend that you see your dealer if you wish to modify factory-
installed equipment or add new equipment. Your dealer is qualified to
make such modifications or additions without placing the safety or design
integrity of your boat at risk and without invalidating the warranty.
Chaparral builds exceptionally high-quality boats. We offer numerous
extras you won’t see at a boat show. We’ve created a list for your review.
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Gelcoat
The advanced technology polyester we use offers superior weathering
resistance to surface yellowing and chalking. It will also help protect and
maintain the original glossy luster of your boat’s finish. Chaparral uses a
premium quality gelcoat which offers improved flexibility over other gel-
coats, minimizing the potential for cracking.
Resin
It’s an age-old problem. Water penetrates the gelcoat and blisters the
bottom. The key is the resin. To cut costs, most use a general purpose
resin. Chaparral uses a premium quality resin in the hull skin coat of every
boat in our line because of its superior bonding characteristics and
exceptional flex.
Plywood
The plywood Chaparral uses throughout our boats is pressure treated
with a wood preservative and fungi inhibiting chemical before it is kiln
dried.
LoomWrapWiring
Attention to rigging detail is a Chaparral hallmark. Instead of routing the
engine wiring harness haphazardly in the bilge in black tape, we rely on
automotive style flexguard loom that not only keeps things neat but also
protects against abrasion.
ThroughBoltedStainless‐SteelCleats
It’s one of the most often used components on your boat, but most people
think a cleat is a cleat, right? Wrong. Chaparral’s cleats are stainless steel
so they won’t corrode and so they won’t twist. Also, ours are big enough
to accept a full-sized looped line.
HeavyDutyRubRail
A rub rail is supposed to protect your boat. Chaparral uses a heavy-duty
PVC rub rail with stainless steel insert that absorbs far more impact
without denting.
AcousticalFoam
The name says it all. Acoustical foam is the best way we’ve found to absorb
engine noise.
AcrylicTops
Ours are acrylic because it’s a superior material that won’t crack, peel, or
mildew. Further, our acrylic tops won’t shrink or expand, which means
they look and fi t better in all weather conditions.
StainResistantFabrics
Accidents happen. Spilled drinks, wet bathing suits and soggy towels are
a fact of life on a boat. All our cabin fabrics are stain resistant. Buyers can
choose from a wide variety of colors. When it comes to interior fabrics, we
have the one that’s right for you.
SuperiorPlasticsvs.Wood
Chaparral prides itself on building seats that are not only comfortable, but
durable. We use plastic seats because they hold their shape and don’t
retain water, reducing the potential for foam deterioration.
FlotationRequirements
All Chaparral boats meet or exceed U.S. Coast Guard requirements for
flotation
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RESPONSIBILITIES
Chaparral’s quality service does not end when you buy one of our boats.
Through our dealer network we do everything possible to ensure that you
are satisfied with your purchase. Every Chaparral dealer has a
responsibility to you, the boater.
Dealer
Dealer responsibilities include the following:
1. Discuss with you the terms of all warranties and stress the
importance of registering warranties with the appropriate
manufacturers.
2. Explain how you can obtain warranty service.
3. Complete new boat and pre-delivery inspection procedures. Sign the
form to certify that all items were completed.
Your Chaparral dealer can provide you with thorough instruction in the
operation of your boat. Please feel free to ask for assistance.
BoatOwner
Your responsibilities include the following:
1. Read this manual as well as all other manuals and information
included in your owner’s packet.
2. Schedule an appointment with your dealer to go over all warranties.
Keep a record of the hull number for future reference.
3. Inspect the boat at the time of delivery to make sure all systems and
components are operating properly. Chaparral recommends that you
refer to your engine warranty for initial inspection and service
requirements.
The new boat and pre-delivery inspection form (found towards the back
of this chapter) will help you as you inspect your new boat. After
completing your inspection, sign the form to certify you have inspected
the boat with your dealer.
4. Schedule an appointment with your dealer to go over the pre-delivery
engine service record. Sign this record to indicate your dealer has
explained this record to you.
5. Operate all equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
6. Become familiar with all federal, state, and local laws affecting your
boat and its operation.
7. Perform or provide for the appropriate periodic maintenance
outlined in the manuals and service guides.
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LAWSANDREGULATIONS
This section of the manual includes general information about
government regulations. You, the boater, are responsible for complying
with the requirements of federal, state, and local laws. If you have any
questions, contact the U.S. Coast Guard or other appropriate authority.
BoatRegistration
Federal and state laws require that every boat having propulsion
machinery of any type must be registered in the main state of usage.
Registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed on the
boat according to regulations. The registration certificate must be carried
on board when the boat is in use.
SafetyEquipment
The following equipment is required on all boats:
Display of Registration Numbers
Fire extinguishers
Personal flotation devices (PFD’s)
Navigation lights
Visual distress signal
Sound signaling device
See Chapter 2 for more information about safety equipment.
DischargeofOil
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil or
oily waste into or upon the navigable water of the United States or the
waters of the contiguous zone if such discharge cause a film or sheen
upon, or a discoloration of, the surface of the water or causes a sludge or
emulsion beneath the surface of the water. Violators are subject to a
penalty.
DisposalofPlasticsandOtherGarbage
Plastic refuse dumped in the water can kill fish and marine wildlife and
can foul vessel propellers and cooling water intakes. Other forms of
waterborne garbage can litter beaches and cause illness. U.S. Coast Guard
regulations therefore strictly prohibit dumping plastic refuse or other
garbage mixed with plastic into the water anywhere. Further, the
regulations restrict the dumping of other forms of garbage within 12
miles from shore on the east coast, and 9 miles from shore on the west
coast.
Within 3 miles of shore and in U.S. lakes, rivers, bays, and sounds, it is
illegal to dump plastic, dunnage, lining, and packing materials that float;
and any garbage except dishwater, gray water, and fresh fish parts.
Between 3 and 12 miles it is illegal to dump plastic, dunnage, lining, and
packing materials that float; and any garbage not ground to less than one
square inch.
Between 12 and 25 miles it is illegal to dump plastic, dunnage, lining, and
packing materials that float.
Beyond 25 miles it is illegal to dump plastic.
The U.S. Coast Guard has issued these regulations to implement Annex of
the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships,
1973, commonly known as Annex V of the MARPOL (Marine Pollution)
Treaty 73/78. They apply to all U.S. vessels wherever they operate (except
waters under the exclusive jurisdiction of a state), and foreign vessels
operating in U.S. waters out to and including the Exclusive Economic Zone
(200 miles).
If your boat is 26 feet or more in length, the regulations require U.S.
recreational boaters attach one or more Coast Guard Trash dumping
Restrictions placards to your boat. The placard warns against the
discharge of plastic and other garbage with U.S. navigable waters and
specifies discharge restrictions beyond the territorial sea (generally
within 3 or more nautical miles of shore).
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2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
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The placard must also contain the warning that a person violating these
requirements is liable for civil and criminal penalties. The placard must
also state that local regulations may further restrict the discharge of
garbage. You may purchase these placards from local marinas, boat
dealers, or marine equipment suppliers.
The U.S. Coast Guard has also issued regulations requiring boats to have
sanitation system on board to control pollution. Wastes are to be stored
in a holding tank or other device, such as Porta-Potti, until the device can
be pumped out or otherwise disposed of at a shore facility. Discharging
this waste overboard is in most cases prohibited. Check with the Coast
Guard regarding regulations in your area.
OWNER’SLOGSANDRECORDS
At the end of this chapter are three (3) forms which you will find very
helpful.
Use the BoatDataRecord to record all important information about your
boat and the major components installed. Print a copy and after you have
entered all the data, store it in a safe place. Donotkeepthisformaboard
yourboat.
The TravelPlanLog provides a record of your destination, departure and
return times, boat description, passenger list, and other information
about the trip you have planned. At the bottom of the form is space for
listing emergency telephone numbers in case your return is delayed past
the expected time. It also has space for indicating information about the
person filling this report. Leave the completed form ashore with a
responsible person. We recommend you print several copies of this form
each boating season to ensure an ample supply.
The FuelUsageChart is a handy way to record information covering
engine hours, fuel consumption, miles traveled, as well as RPM
(revolutions per minute), Average MPH (miles per hour), and GPH
(gallons per hour).
WARRANTYPOLICYTRANSFER
Your Chaparral boat is backed by a Limited Express Warranty. It is
important that you are aware of its terms. If a problem arises with your
Chaparral boat as a result of workmanship or materials, contact your
dealer as soon as possible to determine whether correcting the problem
may be covered by the warranty. Please have your hull identification
number and necessary model numbers on hand for the items that may
need service or repair. Your hull identification number is below the rub
rail on the starboard aft corner of your boat.
The Chaparral Limited Warranty Policy may be transferred to subsequent
owner(s) providing the Ownership Transfer Record (OTR) is completed
and returned to the Chaparral Customer Service Office. The OTR is located
after the Chaparral Limited Warranty Policy in Section 11. Subsequent
owner(s) will receive the balance of warranty available subject to a
$100.00 deductible per occurrence for claims filed in accordance with the
Chaparral Limited Warranty Policy. The Ownership Transfer fee varies
depending on the boat model and size. See the Chaparral Ownership
Transfer Record for details and associated fees. YOU are responsible for
your safety and your boat, as well as the safety of passengers and other
boaters.
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2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
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BOATINGSAFETY2
SafetyLabelInformation
The following pages include general label
information found on the boat.
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InternationalSymbols
Waste Water Sewage Fresh Water Electrical Hazard
D
Diesel Fuel
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2024 SSX SPORT BOAT 31’ & Above
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HAZARDCOMMUNICATION
As you read this manual, please note the hazard warnings which alert you
to safety precautions related to unsafe conditions or operating
procedures. We have included these warnings because we are concerned
about your safety and the safety of your passengers. Hazard statements
generally have five (5) parts:
1. The Hazard Symbol
2. A signal word which indicates the severity of the hazard
3. A concise description of the hazard
4. The results of ignoring the hazard
5. Steps for avoiding the hazard
The three (3) signal words indicating the severity of the hazard are
danger, warning, and caution. The meanings they convey are as follows:
DANGER:calls attention to immediate hazards that WILL result in severe
personal injury or death.
WARNING:identifies hazards or unsafe practices that COULD result in
severe personal injury or death.
CAUTION:indicates hazards or unsafe practices that COULD result in
minor personal injury or product or property damage.
NOTE:Thisisageneraladvisorystatementrelatingtoequipment
operationandmaintenanceprocedures.Itsintentistocallattention
toinformationmoreimportantthannormaltext.
SAFETYRECOMMENDATIONS
The popularity of boating and other water sports has grown
tremendously in the past few years. Boating safety and the safety of your
passengers are your responsibilities. You should fully understand and
become familiar with the operating procedures and safety precautions in
this manual and the other manuals in the owner’s packet before you
launch your Chaparral boat.
Remember that along with the freedom and exhilaration of boating comes
the responsibility that you have for the safety of your passengers and the
other boaters who share the water with you. Throughout this manual,
specific precautions and symbols identify safety-related information. Be
sure to pay close attention to them.
SafeOperation
Keep your boat and equipment in safe operating condition. Inspect the
hull, engine(s), safety equipment, and all boating gear regularly.
Be very careful when fueling your boat. Be sure you know the capacity
of your boat’s fuel tank and the amount of fuel you use when operating
at frequently used engine speeds (RPMs). Ask your Chaparral dealer
about the capacity of your boat’s fuel tank.
Make sure you have enough fuel on board for anticipated cruising
requirements. In general, use 1/3 of your supply to reach your
destination and use 1/3 to return. Keep 1/3 in reserve for changes in
your plans due to weather or other circumstances.
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Be sure lifesaving and fire extinguishing equipment is on board. This
equipment must meet regulatory standards and it should be
noticeable, accessible, and in safe operating condition. Your
passengers should know where this equipment is and how to use it.
Keep an eye on the weather. Be aware of possible changing conditions
by checking local weather reports before your departure. Monitor
strong winds and electrical storms closely.
Always keep accurate, updated charts of the area on board your boat.
Before you leave the port harbor, file a Travel Plan with a family
member, relative, friend, or other responsible person ashore.
Always operate your boat with care, courtesy, and common sense.
Instruct at least one other passenger aboard in the basic operating
procedures in handling your boat. This person can take over if you
unexpectedly become unable to do so.
Do not allow passengers to ride on parts of your boat other than
designated areas.
Asked all passengers to remain seated while on the boat is in motion.
Do not use the swim platform or boarding ladder while the engine(s)
are running.
Understand and obey the “Rules of the Road.” Always maintain
complete control of your boat.
Do not overload or improperly load your boat.
The information on your boat’s capacity plate does not override your
responsibility for using common sense or sound judgment. Turbulent
water and unfavorable weather conditions reduce the capacity of your
boat.
Swimming
1. Swim only in areas designated as safe for swimming. These are usually
marked with a swim area buoy (see figure left). Do not swim alone or
at night.
2. Do not allow anyone near the propeller(s), even when the engine is
off. Propeller blades can be sharp and can continue to turn even after
the engine is off. Stay well away from areas marked by a diver down
float (see figure right).
SafeBoatingCourses
Your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the U.S. Power Squadrons offer
comprehensive safe boating classes several times a year. You may contact
the Boat/U.S. Foundation at 1-800-336 BOAT (2628), or in Virginia 1-800-
245 BOAT (2628). For a course schedule in your area you may also contact
your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or Power Squadron Flotilla for the
time and place for their next scheduled class.
U.S. Coast Guard Website: www.uscg.mil
Power Squadron Website www.usps.org
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