Cobalt Digital Inc 220 User manual

COBALT BOATS
Owner’s Manual
220

We Wish You Safe and Happy Boating!
Your Cobalt boat was built to meet or exceed all applicable boat building standards at the time of
manufacture. Your Cobalt boat was inspected and certified prior to introduction, and periodic inspections of
this model are conducted in-plant to ensure continued compliance. Cobalt is affiliated with the following
organizations for your safety and pleasure.
The American Boat and Yacht Council, Inc. (ABYC) 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 (USCG) and other authorities, the ABYC reviews marine
equipment and systems, including electrical systems, ventilation, steering, flotation, load capacity, fuel
system and others that may have an impact on your safety.
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) 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 NMMA provides an inspection and certification program to members. Inspections are
performed to the rigid and detailed standards of the USCG and ABYC. Certification requires compliance with
all applicable standards and recommendations.

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
COBALT
OBALT B
BOATS
OATS
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL

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
MARINE
ARINE S
SAFETY
AFETY S
STANDARDS
TANDARDS
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COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
WELCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .i
WEWISH YOU SAFE AND HAPPY BOATING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ii
WARRANTY PROCEDURE AND OWNER RESPONSIBILITY . . .vii
Certificate of Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .vii
Owner Responsibility/Warranty Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ix
Extended Service Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ix
If You Sell Your Cobalt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ix
BOATING TERMINOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x
Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xi
Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xiv
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 (CARB) Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Emission Control Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Proposition 65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Emergency Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
II - GENERAL SAFETY
Qualified Boat Operators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Safety While Boating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
III - NAVIGATION
“Rules of the Road”/Sound Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Encountering Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Navigational Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Warning Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
T
TABLE
ABLE OF OF C
CONTENTS
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IV - OPERATING INFORMATION
Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Boarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Launching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Getting Underway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Basic Maneuvering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Water Ski Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Boating At Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
High Speed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Anchoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Stopping Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Docking/Lifting/Storage/Trailering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
Environmental Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
V - INTERIOR/EXTERIOR CARE
Vinyl Interior and Upholstery Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Care and Cleaning of Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Dark Storage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Leather Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Vacuuming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Carpet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Fiberglass Finish Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
Stainless Steel Trim and Hardware Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
CorrosionX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
VI - CANVAS
Bimini Top – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Bimini Visor – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
Ski Tower Bimini Top – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Bow Tonneau Cover – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Cockpit Tonneau Cover – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Mooring Covers – Optional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
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
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Wet Locker Draining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Battery Connection(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Stereo Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Marine Toilet (Head) and Optional Macerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
VIII - TROUBLESHOOTING
Ignition Safety Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Starter Won’t Crank Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Engine Runs Erratically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Engine Vibrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Engine Runs but Boat Makes Little or No Progress . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Performance Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Fuel Injection Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
MODEL SPECIFIC INFORMATION
Model 220 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .220.1
SERVICE LOG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A
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COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
CERTIFICATE OF LIMITED WARRANTY
Subject to the terms and conditions in this warranty, Fiberglass Engineering, Incorporated, a
Kansas corporation doing business as Cobalt Boats (“Cobalt”), warrants to the original retail
purchaser (and any subsequent owner) of a new Cobalt boat purchased from an authorized
Cobalt dealer for personal, non-racing and non-commercial use (“Owner”), as follows:
Ten (10) Year Limited Transferable Warranty on Hull and Deck. Cobalt warrants that the
hull and deck including floor, stringers, bulkheads, motor mounts, transom and deck/hull
joints of a new Cobalt boat are free from structural defects in material and workmanship
under normal, non-racing and non-commercial use for a period of (10) years from the date of
delivery to the original retail purchaser.
Three (3) Year Limited Transferable Warranty on Gelcoat Finish, Upholstery, Canvas,
Components Not Separately Warranted by the Manufacturer and All Components
Manufactured by Cobalt Other Than the Hull and Deck. Cobalt warrants that the gelcoat
finish, upholstery, canvas, components not separately warranted by the manufacturers thereof
and all components manufactured by Cobalt with respect to a new Cobalt boat are free from
structural defects in material and workmanship under normal, non-racing and non-
commercial use for a period of three (3) years from the date of delivery of such Cobalt boat
to the original retail purchaser.
THERE ARE NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES OTHER THAN THE ABOVE LIMITED
EXPRESS WARRANTIES. IN THE EVENT ANY LAW DOES NOT PERMIT THE
DISCLAIMER OF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY, THEN IN NO EVENT SHALL ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE, EXTEND
BEYOND THE DURATION OF THESE EXPRESS WRITTEN WARRANTIES.
Some states do no allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above
limitation may not apply to you.
Exclusions. The above described limited warranties do not apply if such Cobalt boat has
been used at any time commercially, industrially, for racing or other competition or for
revenue producing purposes, and also do not apply to: (1) engines, outdrives, propellers,
controls, batteries, or other equipment or accessories which are separately warranted by the
manufacturers thereof; (2) engines, outdrives, propellers, controls, trailers, equipment or
accessories installed by persons or parties other than Cobalt or an authorized Cobalt dealer;
(3) windshield leakage, rainwater leakage, windshield or window damage or breakage; (4)
deterioration or damage, fading or shrinkage of upholstery, carpet or canvas; (5) damage
related to the alteration or modification of such Cobalt boat with any structurally affecting
addition, component or accessory not specifically in accordance with Cobalt’s specifications
or offered as an option by Cobalt; (6) damage, deterioration (ie fading or oxidation) of
gelcoat or other surface finishes, vinyls, fabrics, steel and steel finishes; (7) damage or
W
WARRANTY
ARRANTY P
PROCEDURE
ROCEDURE
AND
AND O
OWNER
WNER R
RESPONSIBILITY
ESPONSIBILITY
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COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
failures caused by operation of the Cobalt boat outside of the maximum horsepower
specifications recommended by Cobalt; (8) damage or failure related to repairs made by any
service provider not approved by Cobalt; and (9) damage or failure related to alteration,
modification, misuse, neglect, negligence, accident or failure to provide reasonable care and
maintenance of such Cobalt boat.
Remedies. During the applicable limited warranty period, as set forth above, covered
warranty repairs shall be made without charge by an authorized Cobalt dealer or, at the option
of Cobalt, by Cobalt at its plant in Neodesha, Kansas or at a facility specifically authorized
by Cobalt. All warranty repairs shall be subject to the authorization of factory-trained
personnel of Cobalt, whose decision shall be final. Transportation to and from an authorized
Cobalt dealer, and/or to and from the Cobalt plant in Neodesha, Kansas, for warranty repairs,
shall be at Owner’s expense. Repair of blisters, when authorized by Cobalt, are covered by
this warranty, provided the original factory gelcoat surface has not been altered in any way.
The rights and benefits granted under the above described limited warranty extend to (1) the
original retail purchaser of a new Cobalt boat, and (2) any owner of such Cobalt boat during
the applicable warranty period, commencing with the date of delivery of such Cobalt boat to
the original retail purchaser provided that such limited warranty is validated by such
subsequent owner, as set forth herein. COBALT’S ONLY RESPONSIBILITY, AND THE
OWNER’S ONLY REMEDY, IS REPAIR AS DESCRIBED IN THIS WARRANTY.
COBALT SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL,
INDIRECT OR SPECIAL DAMAGES.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
so the above exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights,
and you may also have other legal rights which vary from state to state.
How to obtain Warranty Service. To validate the above described limited warranty, (1) the
original retail purchaser or authorized Cobalt dealer must complete and return the warranty
registration card to Cobalt Boats at 1715 N. 8th Street, Neodesha, KS 66757, within ten (10)
days after purchase of any new Cobalt boat covered by such limited warranty, and (2) any
subsequent owner of a Cobalt boat during the applicable limited warranty period must give
written notice of the acquisition of a Cobalt boat to Cobalt 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 such Cobalt boat or by an
authorized Cobalt dealer to Cobalt within thirty (30) days after the discovery of the alleged
basis for any warranty claim. The five (5) year extended Service Agreement is administered
by a third party. For more information regarding this coverage and obtaining service, refer to
the Extended Service Agreement booklet in your boat bag.
WARRANTY PROCEDURE AND OWNER RESPONSIBILITY

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 component manuals supplied to you in your
owner’s packet.
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 an unauthorized
dealership may be denied.
EXTENDED SERVICE AGREEMENT
With your Cobalt purchase, an Extended Limited Service Agreement is included. Your
dealer submitted the necessary forms to implement this coverage. Please read the
Extended Service Agreement supplied to you in your boat bag for specific coverages
and exclusions.
It is important your Cobalt boat is serviced per the engine manufacturer’s recommended
instructions. You must keep, in your possession, records of all service performed should
the extended service coverages be needed. This is to prove the required maintenance has
been performed. Be sure to collect receipts for work performed and make an entry in the
Service Log in the back of this manual.
If you have any questions referencing your Extended Service Agreement, please contact
your authorized Cobalt dealer.
IF YOU 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 (620-325-2653). If the proper transfer procedures are not followed, future
warranty may be denied.
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WARRANTY PROCEDURE AND OWNER RESPONSIBILITY
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL

FREEBOARD
BOW
DRAFT
STERN
WATERLINE
AFT FORWARD
HELM
BEAM
TRANSOM
LENGTH OVERALL (LOA)
PORT SIDE
STARBOARD SIDE
COB220
RADAR ARCH
GUNWALE
B
BOATING
OATING T
TERMINOLOGY
ERMINOLOGY
* An easy way to remember PORT side from STARBOARD side is “PORT” and “LEFT” both have four letters.
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
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COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
BOATING TERMINOLOGY
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
CAUTION
UNLOCK & REMOVE
KEY TO AVOID
BREAKING
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 GASO-
LINE 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 DAN-
GEROUS. ALL GASOLINE POWERED ENGINES AND GENER-
ATORS EXHAUST CARBON MONOXIDE (CO). DIRECT AND
PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO CO WILL CAUSE BRAIN DAM-
AGE 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.
!


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COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
BOATING TERMINOLOGY
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
!


xiii
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
BOATING TERMINOLOGY
TRANSOM OF BOAT
HELM
HELM (CALIFORNIA ONLY)
WALK-THRU DOOR/WINDSHIELD
CAUTION
-TO AVOID INJURY, GLASS DOOR MUST BE SECURED IN
A CLOSED AND LOCKED POSITION WHEN BOAT IS UNDER WAY.
USE BOTH TURN LOCKS TO SECURE DOOR

xiv
BOATING TERMINOLOGY
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
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 AN IMMINENTLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED,
WILL RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
INDICATES A POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED,
COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
INDICATES A POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED,
MAY RESULT IN MINOR OR MODERATE INJURY.
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
RESPONSIBILITIES
ESPONSIBILITIES AND AND S
SAFETY
AFETY
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL

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
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL

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
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
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.
• A Type 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
COBALT BOATS - OWNER’SMANUAL
KC-0071
KC-0043