Cobalt Digital Inc 190 User manual

1998 COBALT BOATS
INTRODUCTION
Your new Cobalt is a high quality, luxury marine vehicle, designed and built to
provide safe and pleasurable boating. It is manufactured from the finest materials
available, to the highest standards in the industry. Like a fine automobile or aircraft,
given good care, regular service, and proper operation, your Cobalt will deliver
outstanding performance for many years.
i


TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. EQUIPMENT AND GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS
Educational Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.1
Safety Equipment and Boating Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.1
Navigation Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.1
Horn or Whistle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.1
Fire Extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.2
Lifesaving Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.2
Navigation on Inland Lakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.2
Navigation in Coastal and Intra-Coastal Waters . . . . . . . . . .1.2
2. MARINE SAFETY STANDARDS
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.1
3. INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CARE
Vinyl Interior/Upholstery Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.1
Care and Cleaning of Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.1
Dark Storage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.3
Leather Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.3
Vacuuming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.3
Carpet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.4
Canvas Top Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.4
Fiberglass Finish Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.5
Stainless Steel Trim and Hardware Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.6
4. BOAT OPERATION
Erecting Canvas Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.1
Side Curtains & Stern Curtain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.2
Camper Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.2
Bimini Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.3
Tonneau Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.4
iii


iv
C OBALT B OATS
Mooring Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.5
Stowage of the Canvas Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.5
Canvas Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.6
Captain’s Chair Adjustment and Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.6
Motor Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.7
Cuddy Cabin Access Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.7
Instrument Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.8
Engine Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.9
Power Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.10
Ignition Safety Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.10
Steering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.11
Warning Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.12
High Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.13
Lifting Your Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.14
Fold Down Boarding Ladder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.14
Water Ski Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.14
Deck Hatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.15
Fuel Filling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.15
Head Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.16
Side Bench Seat, 272 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.16
Swim Platform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.16
Telescoping Anchor Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.17
Shaft Alignment - Ski boat models only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.17
Packing Seal - Ski boat models only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.17
Refrigerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.18
110 VAC Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.18
Shore Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.18
Hot Water Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.18
Cabin Electric Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.19
Stove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.19
Shower Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.19
Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.19
Air Compressor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.20
Battery Charger and Isolator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.20
Windlass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.20
Air-Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.20
Global Positioning System (GPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.21
Waste Water Indicator Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.21
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.21
Stereo System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.21
Docking Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.21
Trim Tabs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.22

v
C OBALT B OATS
Extra Battery and Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.22
Portable Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.22
5. PROPELLERS AND PROPELLER CHART
General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.1
Stainless Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.1
Pulling Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2
Application Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.2
6. TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Engine Operation/ Maintenance/Servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.1
The Break-In Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.1
Winterizing and Off-Season Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.1
Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.3
Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.3
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.3
Lighting/Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.4
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.5
7. WARRANTY PROCEDURE AND OWNER RESPONSIBILITY
The Cobalt Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.1
Owner Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.2
Extended Powertrain Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.3
If You Sell Your Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.3
8. TROUBLE SHOOTING
Engine Won’t Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8.1
Starter Won’t Crank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8.2
Engine Runs Erratically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8.2
Engine Vibrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8.2
Engine Runs But Boat Makes Little or No Progress . . . . . . .8.3
Performance Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8.3
Fuel Injection Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8.3
9. SERVICE RECORD PAGES
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9.1

EQUIPMENT AND
GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Most boaters can enhance their enjoyment of boating experiences through increased
knowledge of safe operation, navigation, and regulation of pleasure boats. The U.S.
Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, and The American Red Cross offer
courses covering a wide range of boating knowledge and skills, Water Safety, First
Aid, and CPR. Cobalt encourages your participation in these programs.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND BOATING REGULATIONS
The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 (FBSA/71) established minimum safety
standards for boats and associated equipment, specified by the U.S. Coast Guard. In
addition, the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the American Boat
and Yacht Council work with boat builders to develop voluntary standards that
exceed base requirements.
The safety equipment on your Cobalt meets or exceeds the standards of the U.S.
Coast Guard, N.M.M.A., and the A.B.Y.C.
NAVIGATION LIGHTS
All power boats underway between sunset and sunrise must display proper
navigation lights. All boats at anchor must display a proper anchor light.
HORN OR WHISTLE
All boats over 16 feet in length must be equipped with an operable horn or whistle,
audible from one mile.
1.1
1

1

1.2
G OVERNMENT R EGULATIONS
1
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
All inboard / outboard boats must carry an appropriate portable fire extinguisher in
operable condition and accessible location.
LIFESAVING DEVICES
All boats must carry one U.S. Coast Guard approved type 1, 2, or 3, wearable,
personal flotation device, of the proper size, for each person on board.
All boats over 16 feet in length must carry one U.S. Coast Guard approved type 4
throwable lifesaving device, such as a ring buoy or buoyant cushion.
To meet requirements, each lifesaving device must have a currently legible U.S.
Coast Guard approval stamp permanently affixed.
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
In spite of all efforts to the contrary, problems or mishaps sometimes occur while
boating. The items listed below should help make unexpected events more
manageable:
•Anchor and anchor line
•Compass
•Area charts
•First aid kit
•Distress signals ( flag for daylight, flares for darkness )
•Flashlight and spare batteries
•Portable radio
•Tool kit
NAVIGATION ON INLAND LAKES
Boats operating on inland lakes may be required to comply with local City, County,
State, and Federal regulations concerning equipment, navigation, and environmental
issues. These regulations vary considerably with locale. Contact your dealer, local
marinas, or the State Boating Law Administrator for specific local information.
NAVIGATION IN COASTAL AND INTRA-COASTAL WATERS
The U.S. Coast Guard has primary responsibility for regulation of these waters.
State and Local authorities may also regulate boating activities. Operation in these
waters may require knowledge of the International Rules of the Road, Aids to
Navigation, Inland Rules, and/or local regulations. Contact your dealer or the local
Coast Guard office for specific information.

MARINE SAFETY STANDARDS
The American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc. is an independent organization
dedicated to developing and maintaining the highest level of marine equipment
safety standards for U.S. boat manufacturers. Working closely with the U.S. Coast
Guard and other authorities, the A.B.Y.C. reviews marine equipment and systems,
including electrical systems, ventilation, steering, flotation, load capacity, fuel
systems, and others that may have impact on your safety.
The National Marine Manufacturers Association is an independent organization
involved in a wide range of activities aimed toward the promotion and improvement
of all aspects of boating. Members include manufacturers of boats, engines, and
marine equipment of all types.
One division of the N.M.M.A. provides an inspection and certification program to
members. Inspections are performed to the rigid and detailed standards of the
A.B.Y.C. and certification requires compliance with all applicable standards and
recommendations.
Every Cobalt is built to meet or exceed all applicable standards of these
organizations at the time of manufacture. Each model is inspected and certified
prior to introduction, and periodic inspections of the entire model line are conducted
in-plant to insure continued compliance.
We wish you safe and happy boating!
2.1
2

2

INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CARE
VINYL INTERIOR/UPHOLSTERY CARE
The vinyl fabric in your Cobalt’s interior has been especially selected to take the
tough punishment of the elements and hard usage of an active boater. Avoid sharp
objects that may cut or tear your vinyl.
The vinyl in your Cobalt has been coated with PreFixx protective finish. It’s
designed to be cleaned easily, over and over, without showing signs of wear. With
PreFixx protection, it is possible to remove stains that could never be removed
before. There are three families of sunscreen ingredients which may contribute to
the staining of the vinyl in your Cobalt.
• Aminobenzoic acids - e.g. PABA
• Hydroxy benzophenones - e.g. Oxybenzone
• P-methoxycinnamic acid - e.g. Octyl methoxycinnamate
This list should not be considered inclusive, although it does represent a large
selection of sunscreens which are known to stain vinyls, even treated with PreFixx.
In actuality, almost any sunscreen with a high percentage - two percent or above - of
active ingredients is a potential stainer.
Special care should be taken to prevent dark colored rubber products from coming
in contact with the vinyl upholstery. The optional mooring cover comes with black
rubber straps and these straps could stain the vinyl permanently.
CARE AND CLEANING OF VINYL
Day-to-day soil. Remove ordinary dirt and smudges with a mild soap and warm
water solution. Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth or towel. For more difficult stains, use
of a stronger detergent is recommended; provided the detergent manufacturer’s
instructions are followed closely.
Special cleaning problems. The following steps are recommended to clean stains
on PreFixx-protected vinyl upholstery. Many difficult stains can be removed when
3.1
3

3

3.2
I NTERIOR /E XTERIOR C ARE
3
these cleaning agents are used in the following order.
Step 1 cleaners: Nonabrasive household cleaners to be used with a cloth, damp
sponge or fine bristle brush.
• All-Purpose Spray Cleaner.
• Clorox™, Soft Scrub® with bleach.
• Household cleaners and bleaches. Rinse cleansed area with fresh water and dry
with a clean cloth.
Step 2 cleaners:* Solvent-type cleaner to be liberally applied with a cloth, damp
sponge or fine bristle brush.
• Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol).
• Lighter fluid (naphtha). Rinse cleansed area with fresh water and dry with a clean
cloth.
Step 3 cleaners: Strong, active cleaners to be applied with a soft cloth or damp
sponge. Use no more than six rubs; if stain persists, contact manufacturer. Dry
with another cloth, then rinse with clear water and dry.
• Nail polish remover (acetone/water)
It is extremely important to clean the stained area as quickly as possible, making
sure the recommended cleaning steps are followed in order.
Recommended Cleaning solutions for PreFixx-coated Nautolex vinyls
Staining Agent Cleaning Step
Spray paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2 - 3
Ballpoint pen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2 - 3
Lipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2 - 3
Yellow mustard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2 - 3
Bird droppings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2 - 3
Crayons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2
Eye shadow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2
Oily spot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2
Petroleum Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 - 2
Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Tea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Hair oil tonic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Urine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Grape juice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Olive oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Chocolate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Ketchup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Baby oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

3.3
I NTERIOR /E XTERIOR C ARE
3
FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS ARE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE
USED ONLY IN WELL VENTILATED AREAS. AVOID OPEN FLAME OR
SPARK.
DARK STORAGE AREAS
Often, when a boat is stored completely covered or in a dark building, the vinyl will
darken or become “dingy” looking. If this happens, simply place the boat in direct
sunlight for a few hours and the vinyl will brighten up.
LEATHER CARE
For Spots and Spills wipe up excess liquid immediately with a clean absorbent
cloth or sponge. If necessary, use clean luke warm water only and let air dry
naturally. If water is used, clean the entire area where the spot occurred. An example
would be the entire seat cushion or entire arm. Do not dry wet areas with hair
dryers, etc.
For Stubborn Spots and Stains use a mild non-detergent cleaner such as a bar of
Ivory soap or Amway L.O.C.. Apply the soap to a clean wet sponge, wash, then
rinse well. Let air dry naturally.
For Butter, Oil or Grease wipe excess butter, oil or grease off the leather with a
clean dry cloth, then leave it alone as the spot should dissipate into the leather in a
short period of time. Do not apply water or try to wash a butter, oil or grease spot.
Do Not Use Saddle Soap, cleaning solvents, furniture polish, oils, varnish, abrasive
cleaners, soaps or ammonia water.
1) These are recommended or suggested methods of cleaning, but the
manufacturer is not responsible for damage incurred while cleaning. 2) Always
try the cleaning method in a hidden area first to test the results.
VACUUMING
A very effective and easy way to keep your interior ship shape is giving it a good
vacuuming. The vacuum cleaner allows you to reach in tight areas such as under the
bow, and other storage areas. It’s also a great way to clean up any debris in the bilge
area.

CARPET CARE
The carpet in your Cobalt is made of the finest materials available. Scrubbing with
soapy water will handle most tough jobs. A simple hosing for mild cleanups will
bring out that new look. If your Cobalt has snap-in carpet you can remove it and
power wash at a coin operated car wash. Please thoroughly air dry before
reinstallation into your boat. Your dealer can suggest methods of cleaning difficult
stains in your carpet.
CANVAS TOP CARE
Boat canvas, in most cases, is subjected to more severe punishment than any other
type of canvas or fabric item. Moisture, dirt, heat, ultraviolet rays, salt water, and
chemicals from industrial fallout are all factors anxious to destroy your boat canvas.
These elements can do serious damage if left unchecked. Following are some ways
to slow the destructive process of canvas:
Moisture can cause shrinkage, mold, and mildew. The best method of prevention is
to allow all canvas items to dry thoroughly while installed on the boat. Shrinkage
can occur anytime an article is allowed to dry while loose. Most shrinkage will
occur the first few months after initial installation. When canvas items are erected on
the boat and properly adjusted, shrinkage will only occur in areas of looseness.
Mold and mildew can be avoided by keeping the canvas clean and well ventilated.
Dirt can create a starting point for mold when moisture is present. Cleaning
periodically with a mild detergent and water while unit is erected on the boat will
extend the canvas life and provide a better appearance. Cleaning can be
accomplished with a sponge, soft scrub brush or by using one of the serve-yourself
car washes. The unit should always be erected fully and adjusted to a tight, smooth
appearance before washing. Allow unit to air dry thoroughly before removing.
Chemicals from industrial fallout can cause decay of vinyls and fabrics if allowed
to accumulate. There are many different types of chemicals involved. Keeping your
canvas clean and covered is the best answer to prevent decay from chemical fallout.
Do not use polyethylene bags or tubes for stowage of canvas.
Ultraviolet degradation. Most synthetic fabrics or nylon parts today are U.V.R.
treated to resist ultraviolet effects. The best protection, however, is to avoid long
periods of stowage in areas subject to direct sunlight.
Salt water. Corrosive effects of salt water, as well as chemicals from industrial
fallout, can corrode brass or aluminum fittings or fasteners. Your canvas has snap
fasteners made of chrome plated brass and stainless steel. These can be protected by
keeping them clean and occasionally lubricating them with petroleum jelly.
3.4
I NTERIOR /E XTERIOR C ARE
3

3.5
I NTERIOR /E XTERIOR C ARE
3
In summary, the things you can do to protect your canvas items for extended
years of enjoyment are:
1. Keep it clean. DO NOT use harsh cleaners.
2. Side curtains and the rear window demand extra care to prevent scratching.
Ideally, they should be washed with clear water, preferably hosed off, wiping them
with your hand at the same time. Do not attempt to use a cloth or chamois skin. Any
dirt or grit in the cloth may result in scratches. Clear water and using your (clean)
hand is the safest way. When storing canvas with windows or side curtains, they
should be rolled rather than folded to prevent kinking and cracking.
3. Be sure that the top is completely dry before stowing.
4. Keep unit well ventilated when stowed. NO POLY BAGS.
5. Keep fasteners clean and lubricated.
The materials used to produce your boat top and curtains are the best obtainable.
Reasonable care will assure them of a long life and many years of service.
For storage, we recommend an optional mooring cover of marine canvas duck
that has the ability to breathe. Do not use convertible tops, side curtains, aft
curtains, tonneau covers, etc. for long term storage. These tops were not designed
for long term storage and do not provide good protection for your boat. Adequate
ventilation is not possible and mold/mildew will form. For more information on
appropriate covering for long term storage, please see your Cobalt Dealer.
FIBERGLASS FINISH CARE
The finish on your Cobalt is known as gelcoat. The gelcoat used by Cobalt is the
finest available on the market today. With all its properties, it is not impervious to
the elements and many types of water conditions.
The best way of taking care of your gelcoat finish is with prevention and proper
care.
A multi-purpose boat soap* should be used to clean exterior fiberglass/gelcoated
surfaces on your Cobalt after each use. This product, depending upon the ratio
mixed, is designed to clean anything from dirty hull and decks to greasy engines.
Always rinse and wipe off the finish with a damp towel or chamois.
A fiberglass restorer/wax* should be used to remove heavy oxidation, characterized
by chalky/faded surface as well as rust and exhaust stains. This product will not
only remove the oxidation but also leaves a wax protection on the cleaned surface in
one easy application.
Paste wax* will help retard the UV light damage. We suggest three coats be

3.6
I NTERIOR /E XTERIOR C ARE
3
applied at the end or the beginning of the season, depending on the type of winter
boat storage (covered, enclosed storage facility), and again mid-season.
To extend the life of your gelcoat finish, Cobalt recommends the use of marine
canvas duck mooring covers totally covering the top deck of the boat for maximum
protection. Additionally, if your boat is to be stored where the sun is constantly on
the side or transom of the boat, you should consider having some custom skirting
made to compliment the mooring cover. Tonneau covers, although supply adequate
short term protection to the interior, will not protect the gelcoat finish. Please check
with your Cobalt dealer for further information on this subject.
*3M carries a complete line of fiberglass care products
STAINLESS STEEL TRIM AND HARDWARE CARE
Cobalt engineers strive to insure the brightwork and hardware on your boat is made
of the highest finish quality materials available within the design/function envelope.
Continuing research identifies, tests, and evaluates new materials and products as
they become available. Upgrades are made when added value to the customer is
proven.
“Stainless steel” is actually a grouping of steel alloys that employ base materials
such as nickel, chromium, and molybdenum in varying portions. Each blend
possesses different characteristics in terms of strength, durability, finish quality, and
rust and corrosion resistance. These materials are used to produce parts that are
cosmetically superior to regular carbon steel, are rust and corrosion resistant, yet
retain favorable physical properties for functional uses. Cobalt utilizes the highest
finish quality material appropriate to the exacting structural requirements of each
application.
Stainless steel, though highly resistant, is still capable of rusting, particularly in the
marine environment. Initial signs of rust and corrosion, left untreated, may result in
pitting and permanent damage to components. The following steps will help protect
against such occurrence:
Preventive steps
1. Clean and wax metal brightwork twice yearly and prior to extended storage. In
saltwater or other harsh environments, more often as needed. Many metal polish /
cleaners are commercially available that contain wax for one-step convenience.
2. Rinse with fresh water and wipe dry with towel or chamois before storing.
Rust / corrosion removal
1. Remove rust or corrosion promptly using a good metal cleaner / polish. Delay
may contribute to permanent finish damage.
2. Apply metal or automotive wax after cleaning for additional protection.
3. Do not use steel wool or other coarse abrasives.

3.7
I NTERIOR /E XTERIOR C ARE
3
4. Do not clean with acids or bleach.
5. Should you have reason to replace hardware or fasteners, be certain that
replacements are correct materials. Consult your dealer for further information.
6. Use of a good “breathable” storage cover will provide additional protection.
THESE SOLVENTS ARE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. EXERCISE PROPER
CARE IN CLEANING AND NOTIFY PERSONNEL IN AREA OF DANGER.
WEAR RUBBER GLOVES DURING ALL CLEANING ACTIVITY. USE
CAUTION IN CLEANING AROUND STITCHING AND WOODEN OR OTHER
DECORATIVE TRIM, SINCE THESE SOLVENTS COULD SERIOUSLY
DAMAGE SUCH AREAS.

BOAT OPERATION
ERECTING CONVERTIBLE TOP
1. Remove canvas top assembly from “top storage area”.
2. Attach top bow ends to top mounts on each side of the boat. Use quick disconnect
pins.
3. Remove storage boot and unroll canvas top.
4. Open frame and snap front of canvas to windshield.
5. Snap the straps to the eyelets on the windshield frame or deck.
6. Adjust straps for tight fit.
4.1
4

4
COBALT

4.2
B OAT O PERATION
4
SIDE CURTAINS & STERN CURTAIN - OPTIONAL
1. Zip the side curtains to the top.
2. Snap curtains to windshield and deck.
3 . Zip the stern curtain to the canvas top, snap the curtain to the deck, starting at the
center rear of the curtain and working forward evenly.
CAMPER TOP - OPTIONAL
1. Install “Convertible Top” as outlined.
2. Remove “Camper Top” from storage area.
3. Attach legs to “Camper Top” mounts (toward rear of boat) on each side of the
boat.
4. Remove storage boot and unroll “Camper Top” canvas.
5. Open “Camper Top” frame and zip front of “Camper Top” canvas to rear of
“Convertible Top”.
6. Zip side curtains to “Convertible Top”.
7. Zip aft curtain to “Camper Top”, starting at the center rear of the curtain and
working forward evenly.
8. Snap side curtains and camper top to deck and/or windshield.
COBALT