Cobalt Digital Inc 200 User manual

COBALT
Owner’s Manual
Owner’s Manual

Owner’s Name
Address
City State Zip
Hm. Phone Wk Phone
Cobalt Model Model Year Hull Serial No.
Engine Engine Serial No.
Drive Drive serial No.
Dealership
Address
City State Zip
Main Phone Service Phone
Sales Contact Service Contact
Extended Warranty Contract No.
Marina/Storage
Address
City State Zip
Phone Contact Name
O
O
WNER
WNER
I
I
NFORMA
NFORMATION TION
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL

Dear New Cobalt Owner,
From all of us at the factory and from your Cobalt Dealer, thank you for purchasing a
Cobalt. We greatly appreciate your business and look forward to a long and enjoyable
relationship with you as part of the Cobalt family.
This manual is designed to help you maximize the enjoyment of your Cobalt boat, and
to acquaint you with proper operation, care, storage, and maintenance of your
investment.
Even if you’re a seasoned boater and have previously owned a Cobalt, I recommend you
take time to read through this Owner’s manual. As you read this manual, please
remember that “common sense” and “courtesy” are the most valuable traits you can
have to fully enjoy safe boating. It is also to your personal advantage to become well
acquainted with the rules and general “know how” of boating.
For service and for assistance contact your Cobalt dealer. The dealership staff will be
happy to answer questions concerning maintenance, warranty, or any other operational
questions you may have about your Cobalt.
All the best in boating,
Pack St. Clair, Chairman and C.E.O.
i
C
C
OB
OBAL ALT T
B
B
O
OA ATS TS
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL

WEWISH YOU SAFE AND HAPPY BOATING!
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.
M
M
ARINE
ARINE
S
S
AFETY
AFETY
S
S
T
TAND ANDARDS ARDS
ii
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL

iii
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
WELCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .i
WEWISH YOU SAFE AND HAPPY BOATING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii
WARRANTY PROCEDURE AND OWNER RESPONSIBILITY . . .vii
Cobalt Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .vii
Owner Responsibility/Warranty Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .viii
Extended Powertrain Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .viii
If You Sell Your Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .viii
BOATING TERMINOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ix
Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x
Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xii
I - RESPONSIBILITIES AND SAFETY
Owner/Operator Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Registration/Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Required Safety Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Recommended Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Recommended Spare Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Education Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Seaworthiness Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Environmental Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
MARPOL Treaty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
California Air Resource Board (CARD) Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Emergency Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
II - GENERAL SAFETY
Qualified Boat Operators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Safety While Boating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
III - NAVIGATION
“Rules of the Road”/Sound Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Encountering Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Navigational Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Warning Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
IV - OPERATING INFORMATION
Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Boarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
T
T
ABLE
ABLE OF OF
C
C
ONTENTS
ONTENTS
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL

iv
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Launching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Getting Underway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Basic Maneuvering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Water Ski Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Boating At Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
High Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Anchoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Stopping Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Docking/Lifting/Storage/Trailering Your Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Environmental Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
V - INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CARE
Vinyl Interior and Upholstery Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Care and Cleaning of Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Dark Storage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Leather Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Vacuuming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Carpet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Fiberglass Finish Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Stainless Steel Trim and Hardware Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
CorrosionX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
VI - CANVAS
Erecting Canopy Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Side Curtains and Stern Curtain – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Bimini Top – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Bimini Enclosure – 226/246/262/263/293 (Optional) . . . . . . . . . .60
Bow Tonneau Cover – Optional (Bowriders Only) . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Cockpit Tonneau Cover – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Mooring Covers – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Stowage of the Canopy – 226/246 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Cobalt Canvas Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Other Canvas Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
VII - TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Engine Operation/Maintenance/Servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
The Break-In Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Winterizing and Off-Season Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
Lighting/Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Wet Locker Draining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Battery Connection(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Stereo Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Marine Toilet (Head) and Optional Macerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
TABLE OF CONTENTS

v
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
VIII - TROUBLESHOOTING
Ignition Safety Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Air Horn – 262/263/293 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Starter Won’t Crank Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Engines Runs Erratically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Engines Vibrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Engine Runs but Boat Makes Little or No Progress . . . . . . . . . . .74
Performance Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Fuel Injection Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
MODEL SPECIFIC INFORMATION
Model 200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200.1
Model 220 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .220.1
Model 226 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .226.1
Model 240 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .240.1
Model 240SD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SD.1
Model 246 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246.1
Model 262 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .262.1
Model 263 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .263.1
Model 282 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .282.1
Model 293 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .293.1
SERVICE LOG
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A
TABLE OF CONTENTS

vi

vii
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
COBALT WARRANTY
Ten-year limited transferable warranty on hull and deck structure, two-year limited
transferable warranty on other component parts.
Cobalt Boats warrants the hull and deck, including floor, stringers, motor mounts,
transom and deck/hull joints, of each new Cobalt boat to be free from structural defects
in material and workmanship under normal recommended use for a period of ten (10)
years from the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser.
Cobalt Boats warrants the gelcoat finish, upholstery, components not having their own
warranty and all components manufactured by Cobalt Boats,other than the hull and deck,
of each new Cobalt boat to be free from structural defects in material and workmanship
under normal recommended use for a period of two (2) years from the date of delivery to
the original retail purchaser.
This warranty does not apply to (1) engines, outdrives, controls, batteries, or other
equipment or accessories which are separately warranted by the manufacturers thereof
(appropriate adjustments therefore being provided by the respective manufacturer); (2)
engines or accessories installed by persons or parties other than Cobalt Boats; (3)
windshield leakage, upholstery damage, carpet damage and gelcoat damage; and (4) any
Cobalt boat which has been altered, subject to misuse, negligence or accident, or used for
racing or commercial purposes.
The rights and benefits granted under this warranty to the original retail purchaser of a
new Cobalt boat shall extend to any owner of such Cobalt boat during the applicable
warranty period, commencing with the date of delivery to the original retail purchaser, as
set forth herein, provided this warranty is validated by such owner, as set forth herein. In
no event shall the owner of any Cobalt boat, covered by this warranty, have any rights or
benefits under this warranty which are greater than the rights and benefits which would
have been available under this warranty to the original retail purchaser of such Cobalt
boat had the original retail purchaser remained the owner of such Cobalt boat.
Cobalt Boats shall not be liable for special or consequential damages, such as, but not
limited to, damages for cost of replacement goods, or damages for claims of third parties
against the purchaser, or damages for loss of profits.
To validate this warranty, the original retail purchaser must return the warranty
registration card to Cobalt Boats within ten (10) days after purchase of any new Cobalt
boat covered by this warranty, and any subsequent owner of a Cobalt boat during the
applicable warranty period must give written notice of acquisition of a Cobalt boat to
Cobalt Boats within ten (10) days after such purchase.
Notification of any warranty claim, arising within the applicable warranty period, as set
forth above, must be made in writing by the owner of the Cobalt boat or by an authorized
Cobalt Boats dealer to Cobalt Boats within thirty (30) days after the discovery of the
alleged basis for any warranty claim.
W
W
ARRANTY
ARRANTY
P
P
R
ROCEDURE OCEDURE
AND
AND
O
O
WNER
WNER
R
R
ESPONSIBILITY
ESPONSIBILITY
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL

viii
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
During the applicable warranty period, as set forth above, warranty repairs shall be
made without charge by an authorized Cobalt Boats dealer or, at the option of Cobalt
Boats, by Cobalt Boats at its plant in Neodesha, Kansas. All warranty repairs shall be
subject to the authorization of factory-trained personnel of Cobalt Boats, whose decision
will be final. Transportation to and from an authorized Cobalt Boats dealer, and/or to
and from the Cobalt Boats plant in Neodesha, Kansas, for warranty repairs, shall be at
the owners’ expense.
In no event shall the liability of Cobalt Boats under this warranty exceed the purchase
price of the specific item or items to which this warranty relates.
This warranty constitutes the only express warranty covering a new Cobalt boat. Any
implied warranty, which may be determined to pertain to any component of a new Cobalt
boat, is limited to ten (10) years on the hull and deck structure, and limited to two (2)
years on all other component parts covered by the express warranty as set forth above,
except in those states which have other limitations on the duration of an implied warranty.
This warranty gives you specific rights and remedies. In addition, you may also have
other rights and remedies which vary from state to state.
OWNER RESPONSIBILITY/WARRANTY PROCEDURE
BEFORE OPERATING
Before operating your new Cobalt, it is necessary you read and understand this manual.
Also, take the time to read the other manuals supplied to you by your dealer.
WARRANTY SERVICE REQUIREMENTS
All Cobalt warranty service must be completed by an authorized Cobalt dealer. If you
are not able to return your boat to your selling dealership, you must contact him so he
may assist you in coordinating the warranty repairs. Any claims against Cobalt Boats
without prior approval from Cobalt Boats on repairs completed by a non-authorized
dealership may be denied.
EXTENDED POWERTRAIN WARRANTY
Your Cobalt warranty includes an Extended Limited Powertrain Warranty. Your dealer
submitted the necessary forms to implement this warranty. Please read the extended
warranty manual supplied to you by Passport Premiere.
It is important you have your Cobalt serviced per the engine manufacturer’s
recommended instructions. You must keep, in your possession, records of all service
performed should the extended powertrain warranty be needed. This is to prove the
required maintenance has been performed.
If you have any questions referencing your Extended Powertrain Warranty, please
contact your Cobalt dealer.
IFYOU SELL YOUR COBALT
Your warranties are transferable. If you sell your Cobalt to anyone other than an
authorized Cobalt dealer, please call Cobalt Boats for the appropriate warranty transfer
information (800-468-5764 or 620-325-2653). If the proper transfer procedures are not
followed, future warranty may be denied.
WARRANTY PROCEDURE AND OWNER RESPONSIBILITY

ix
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
FREEBOARD
BOW
DRAFT
STERN
WATERLINE
AFT FORWARD
HELM
BEAM
TRANSOM
LENGTH OVERALL (LOA)
PORT SIDE
STARBOARD SIDE
COB220
RADAR ARCH
GUNWALE
B
B
O
OA ATING TING
T
T
ERMINOLOGY
ERMINOLOGY
*An easy way to remember PORT side from STARBOARD side is “PORT” and “LEFT” both have four letters.

x
BOATING TERMINOLOGY
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
WARNING LABELS
Warning labels must remain legible. If you suspect a label is missing or becomes
damaged, please contact your Cobalt dealer for immediate replacement.
Your Cobalt has several warning labels displayed to point out safety hazards. The areas
are as follows:
BOARDING LADDER/SWIM
PLATFORM
CARBON MONOXIDE
ENGINE FLAME ARRESTOR
DASHBOARD
CABIN DOOR
WARNING
LEAKING FUEL IS A FIRE AND
EXPLOSION HAZARD. INSPECT SYSTEM
REGULARLY. EXAMINE FUEL SYSTEM
FOR LEAKS OR CORROSION AT LEAST
ANNUALLY. ©NMMA 1990/ NO.200
WARNING - GASOLINE VAPORS CAN EXPLODE.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE:
• CHECK ENGINE COMPARTMENT FOR GASOLINE OR VAPORS.
• OPERATE BLOWER FOR 4 MINUTES.
• VERIFY BLOWER OPERATION.
• RUN BLOWER BELOW CRUISING SPEED.
WARNING!
SECURE DOOR WHEN CRUISING
DO NOT SIT, STAND, OR PLACE
HEAVY OBJECTS ON DOOR.
KEEP CABIN DOOR CLOSED WHEN
ENGINES OR GENERATOR ARE RUNNING.
DO NOT USE
CAUSTIC MATERIALS TO CLEAN.
WASH WITH MILD SOAP AND WATER.
WARNING
PROPELLER LOCATED BEHIND THIS BOAT.
CONTACT MAY CAUSE SEVERE INJURY OR FATALITY.
DO NOT APPROACH OR USE LADDER AND PLATFORM
WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
!

DANGER
CARBON MONOXIDE IS COLORLESS, ODORLESS AN
DANGEROUS. ALL GASOLINE POWERED ENGINES
AND GENERATORS EXHAUST CARBON MONOXIDE
(CO). DIRECT AND PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO CO
WILL CAUSE BRAIN DAMAGE OR DEATH. SIGNS OF
EXPOSURE TO CO INCLUDE NAUSEA, DIZZINESS AND
DROWSINESS.
Keep Cabin and Cockpit Areas Well Ventilated. Avoid
Blockage of Exhaust Outlets.
See Owner's Manual for More Details.
!


xi
BOATING TERMINOLOGY
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
COBALT CHECK LIST
For maximum enjoyment and safety, check each of these items BEFORE you
start your engine:
-- DRAIN PLUG (Securely in place?)
-- LIFE-SAVING DEVICES (One for every person on board?)
-- STEERING SYSTEM (Working smoothly and properly?)
-- FUEL SYSTEM (Adequate fuel? Leaks? Fumes?)
-- BATTERY (Fully charged? Proper water level?)
-- ENGINE (In neutral?)
-- CAPACITY PLATE (Are you overloaded?)
-- WEATHER CONDITIONS (Safe to go out?)
-- ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT (Lights, horn, pump, etc.?)
-- EMERGENCY GEAR (Fire Extinguisher, Bailer, Paddle, Anchor and Line,
Signalling Device, Tool Kit, Etc.?)
RECOMMENDED SAFETY RULES
-- REMAIN SEATED WHILE UNDERWAY.
-- AVOID USING REAR PAD OR SUNDECK WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
-- DO NOT USE BOARDING LADDER WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING.
-- TURN OFF ENGINE AND ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS WHILE RE-FUELING.
-- TURN OFF ENGINE(S) WHEN SWIMMERS ARE NEAR BOAT.
WINDSHIELD WING,
DRIVER’S SIDE
COBALT CHECK LIST
WARNING
DO NOT OCCUPY EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM WHILE
ENGINE IS RUNNING OR ENGAGED. PROPELLER
CONTACT MAY CAUSE SEVERE INJURY OR FATALITY.
ALL GASOLINE POWERED ENGINES PRODUCE
CARBON MONOXIDE (CO). CO IS COLORLESS,
ODORLESS, AND DANGEROUS. DIRECT AND
PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO CO WILL CAUSE BRAIN
DAMAGE OR DEATH.
!

EXTENDED SWIM
PLATFORM
WARNING
EXTENDED SWIM PLATFORM MUST BE
ATTACHED WHILE BOAT IS IN USE TO AVOID
POSSIBLE INJURY OR DROWNING. SWIM
LADDER IS ATTACHED TO THE PLATFORM.
REMOVABLE FEATURE IS FOR BOAT
STORAGE PURPOSES ONLY.
!

WARNING
AVOID OBSTRUCTION OF NAVIGATION
LIGHTS AND POSSIBLE COLLISION. REMOVE CANVAS
BEFORE USING NAVIGATION OR ANCHOR LIGHTS.
NAVIGATION LIGHTS
WARNING
Keep hands
and feet
away from
drive unit
when tilting.
REMOTE TILT
SWITCH
!


xii
BOATING TERMINOLOGY
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
SYMBOLS
Throughout this manual specific precautions and symbols identify safety related
information.
The Safety Alert Symbol means ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS
INVOLVED!
INDICATES THE PRESENCE OF A HAZARD WHICH WILL CAUSE SEVERE INJURY,
DEATH OR SUBSTANTIAL PROPERTY DAMAGE.
INDICATES THE PRESENCE OF A HAZARD WHICH CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY,
DEATH OR SUBSTANTIAL PROPERTY DAMAGE.
INDICATES THE PRESENCE OF A HAZARD WHICH WILL OR CAN CAUSE MINOR OR
MODERATE PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
Indicates installation, operation or maintenance information which is important but not
hazard-related.
The precautions listed in this manual and on your Cobalt boat are not all-inclusive. If a
procedure, method, tool, or part is not specifically recommended, you must satisfy
yourself that it is safe for you and others, and the boat will not be damaged or made
unsafe as a result of your decision. REMEMBER--USE COMMON SENSE WHEN
OPERATING YOUR BOAT!

OWNER/OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES
Your safety, the safety of your passengers, and other boaters are among your
responsibilities as operator of this boat. Your boat must be in compliance with U.S.
Coast Guard (USCG) safety equipment regulations. You should know how to react
correctly to adverse weather conditions, have good navigation skills, and follow the
“Rules of the Road” as defined by the USCG and state/county/local regulations.
At the time of delivery, the owner/operator is responsible for:
•Understanding warranty terms and conditions of both the propulsion units and boat.
•Obtaining insurance.
•Examining boat to ensure proper operation of all systems.
Before operating the boat, the owner/operator is responsible for:
•Obtaining state registration of the boat.
•Providing the proper USCG required safety equipment.
•Following proper break-in procedure for the propulsion units.
•Understanding safety information and proper operating procedures within this
manual.
While operating the boat, the owner/operator is responsible for:
•Knowing that all safety equipment and personal flotation devices are in good
condition and suitable for your boat and passenger load.
•Having at least one other passenger who is capable of handling the boat in an
emergency.
•Following safe operating practices and the “Rules of the Road.”
•Understanding proper maintenance and knowledge of the boat’s operating systems.
•Providing safety training for the passengers.
•Avoiding use of alcohol and other drugs.
•Providing assistance to other boaters.
1
I
R
R
ESPONSIBILITIES
ESPONSIBILITIES AND AND
S
S
AFETY
AFETY
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL

2
I
REGISTRATION/DOCUMENTATION
The USCG requires that all power boats operated on the navigable waters of the U. S.
must be registered in the state of main use; also, many states require registration in that
state whenever boating on waters within their state boundary. Contact your state boating
authorities (and neighboring states) for registration information on boats and trailers.
Your dealer can supply you with the appropriate forms.
REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 (FBSA/71) established minimum safety standards
for boats and associated equipment, specified by the USCG. In addition, the ABYC and
the NMMA work with boat builders to develop voluntary standards that exceed base
requirements.
The included safety equipment on your Cobalt meets or exceeds the standards of the
USCG, ABYC and the NMMA. Some required safety equipment such as personal
flotation devices are not included with your Cobalt boat. Your Cobalt dealer can help
you choose the appropriate equipment.
Many states’ equipment requirements go beyond USCG requirements. Contact your state
boating office for further information.
Equipment requirements for coastal and inland waters differ. Check with local
authorities or the USCG for further information about coastal water requirements.
MINIMUM REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
PERSONAL
FLOTATION
DEVICES (PFDs)
FIRE
EXTINGUISHER
(Must say Coast
Guard Approved.)
DAY AND NIGHT
VISUAL DISTRESS
SIGNALS
CLASS 1
4.8 to less than 7.9 m
(16 to less than 26 ft.)
CLASS 2
7.9 to less than 12.2 m
(26 to less than 40 ft.)
CLASS 3
12.2 to not more than 19.8 m
(40 to not more than 65 ft.)
One approved Type I, II, III or V (if used according to Coast Guard requirements) device
aboard for each person on board or being towed on water skis, etc.; and, in addition, one
throwable Type IV device.
Orange flag with black square-and-disk (day); and an S-O-S electric light (night); or three
orange smoke signals, hand held or floating (day); or three red flares of hand held, meteor,
or parachute type (day/night).
Required only on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and those waters connected
directly to them, up to a point where a body of water is less than two miles wide.
Every vessel less than 12 meters (39.4 ft.)
in length must carry an efficient sound
producing device.
Every vessel 12 meters (39.4 ft.) but less than 20
meters (65.6 ft.) in length must carry a whistle or horn
and a bell. The whistle or horn must be audible for 1/2
nautical mile. The mouth of the bell must be at least
200 mm (7.87 inches) in diameter.
KC-0081.3
At least one B-I type approved hand
portable fire extinguisher (Not
required on outboard motorboats less
than 26 feet in length and not carrying
passengers for hire if the construction
of such motorboats will not permit
entrapment of explosive or flammable
gasses or vapors and if fuel tanks are
not permanently installed.)
WHISTLE/HORN,
BELL
EQUIPMENT
At least two B-I type
approved portable fire
extinguishers; OR at
least one B-II type ap-
proved portable fire
extinguisher.
At least three B-I type
approved portable fire
extinguishers; OR at
least one B-I type plus
one B-II type approved
portable fire extinguisher.
BOAT OPERATION
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
KC-0081.3

I
PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES
All boats must carry one USCG approved Type I, II, or III, wearable, personal flotation
device, of the proper size, for each person on board.
All boats over 4.8 m (16 ft ) in length must carry one USCG approved Type IV
throwable lifesaving device, such as a ring buoy or buoyant cushion. To meet
requirements, each lifesaving device must have a currently legible USCG approval
stamp permanently affixed.
The United States Coast Guard's Life Jacket Rule requires all children under the age of
13 years to wear Coast Guard approved life jackets, while aboard recreational vessels
underway, except when the children are below decks or in an enclosed cabin. This Rule
affects only those States which have not established requirements, by statute or rule, for
children to wear life jackets. For the remaining states, the rule recognizes and adopts the
existing state regulation even if it is less stringent. The penalties for a boat operator who
fails to have all children under this age wear a life jacket, are similar to those for failing
to have life jackets on board. Know your state’s laws and its requirements.
There are four types of PFDs to wear and one type used for throwing in emergency
situations.
Type I Life Preserver: Most buoyant PFDs are effective on all waters, especially open,
rough water.
Type II Buoyant Vest: Good for calm water near shore on most inland waters where
quick rescue is likely.
Type III Flotation Aid: Good for most inland water applications where quick rescue is
likely. Comes in various styles and some are designed for water sport activities.
TYPE III
FLOTATION AIDS
TYPE II
BUOYANT VESTS
TYPE I
LIFE PRESERVERS
3
BOAT OPERATION
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
KC-0041
KC-0051
KC-0042

4
I
Type IV Throwable Device: Intended for heavy traffic inland waters where help is
available. Designed to be thrown to a person in the water and should never be worn.
Type V Hybrid PFD: Inflatable design for special use activities and may be used instead
of a Type I, II, or III PFD if used in accordance with the approval conditions on the
label and if worn when the boat is underway. Some Type V PFDs provide increased
protection against hypothermia.
•AType V PFD must be worn to be counted toward the minimum carriage requirements.
•Special PFDs are available for skiing and other water sports. These PFDs are constructed with materials
suitable for high impact falls.
PFDs are intended to help save lives. The operator should set an example by wearing
one. Wear a PFD whenever boating. It is especially important that children and non-
swimmers wear a PFD at all times. Make certain all passengers know how to put on and
properly adjust their PFDs. Also, selecting the proper type PFD for your kind of outing
helps ensure your time on the water can be the safest possible.
At the beginning of each season, check PFDs for damage and test for proper flotation.
Refer to the PFD manufacturer’s information.
Your Cobalt dealer can help you select appropriate PFDs and throwable lifesaving
devices for your area.
TYPE V HYBRID PFD
MUST BE WORN
WHEN UNDERWAY
TYPE IV
THROWABLE DEVICES
BOAT OPERATION
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
KC-0071
KC-0043

I
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
All inboard/outboard boats must carry an appropriate portable marine type fire
extinguisher in operable condition and accessible location.
The USCG and other law enforcement agency requirements for fire extinguishers are
only the minimum needed. Remember, install extra extinguishers where they might be
needed such as the galley and engine compartment. Inspect extinguishers on a regular
basis.
1. Recharge
2. Overcharge
VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS
Federal law also requires boats 4.8 m (16 ft ) and longer to carry day and night visual
distress signals when operating on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas or
those waters directly connected to them, up to a point where the body of water is less
than two miles wide. Carry several types of signaling devices to handle a variety of
conditions. Have enough signals on board to last three days.
Some pyrotechnics are restricted from use on certain bodies of water, so check with local
authorities.
Your Cobalt dealer can help you select appropriate visual distress signals for your area.
HORN OR WHISTLE
All boats over 16 ft in length must be equipped with an operable horn or whistle,
audible from one mile.
2
1
5
BOAT OPERATION
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
KC-0083

6
I
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
In spite of all efforts to the contrary, problems or mishaps sometime occur
while boating. Stock these items listed below on your boat to help make
unexpected events more manageable.
•Anchor and anchor line
•Local charts and compass
•First aid kit and manual
•Distress signals (flag for daytime, flares for darkness)
•Flashlight and spare batteries
•Portable radio and spare batteries
•Cellular phone
•Mooring lines and fenders
•Binoculars
•Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)
•Boat Hook
•Sun glasses and sun block lotion
•Bailing device (bucket, hand pump)
•Combination oar/boat hook
•Lubricant
•Tool kit
•Spare propeller, nut and washer
•Spare fuses and bulbs
•Tow line
•Parallel ruler and dividers
•Spare keys
•Spare fuel
•Food and water
•Auxiliary starting battery
RECOMMENDED SPARE PARTS
The following list contains common spare parts you should carry onboard. Review all
the equipment on your boat. Be sure to have spare parts available to maintain and make
minor repairs if necessary. Refer to all operator’s manuals in your owner’s packet for the
manufacturer’s recommended spare parts.
•Extra lanyard for ignition safety switch
•Engine and generator oil
•Hydraulic fluid for the steering system and trim system
•Extra ignition keys
•Tape, tie straps and rope
•Light bulbs and fuses
•Propeller with attaching hardware
BOAT OPERATION
C OBALT B OATS - O WNER ’ S M ANUAL
KC-0090