Edgewater Networks 158CS Parts list manual

158CS
158CS Center Sport
OWNER ASSISTANCE MANUAL

158CS SPECIFICATIONS
LENGTH: 15’ 1” (4.6m)
BEAM: 6’ 7” (2.0m)
DRAFT (boat only): 10” (25.4cm)
BOAT WEIGHT: 900lbs (408.23kg)
WEIGHT CAPACITY: 1400lbs (636kg)
PERSON CAPACITY: 6
PERSON WEIGHT: 750lbs (341kg)
FUEL CAPACITY: 13 gal (49.21L)
TRANSOM HEIGHT: S-20
MAX POWER: 90hp (67kw)
MAX ENGINE WEIGHT: 325lbs (147.4kg)
COCKPIT DEPTH: 15.5” (39.3cm)
COCKPIT AREA: 39sq/ft (3.62m²)
APPROX LENGTH ON TRAILER: 21’ (6.4m)
BRIDGE CLEARANCE:
W/OUT TOP 4’ 6” (1.37m)
W/SUNTOP 6’ 6” (1.98m)
FLOTATION: UNSINKABLE LEVEL
HULL DEADRISE: 18°
U.S. Coast Guard CE
Maximum Capacities 6 PERSONS OR 341kg
6PERSONS OR 750 LBS 67kw MAX POWER
1400LBS PERSONS, MOTORS, GEAR CRATING
90 H.P. MOTOR

Owner’s Manual
158 CS
4-1-2014

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Dear EdgeWater 158 CS owner:
Congratulations on purchasing one of the finest small boats ever built. It has been constructed with
care from the finest available materials. At EdgeWater we take great pride in the quality and
craftsmanship that goes into each boat, large or small. We believe you’ll have many years of
enjoyment from your new EdgeWater and thank you for entrusting your leisure time to one of our fine
products.
This manual has been assembled to help you learn more about your new boat and increase your
enjoyment of it. Your EdgeWater has been built for a “Lifetime on the Water”.
Boat safe and boat smart, we wish you many years of boating pleasure.
Sincerely,
Peter Truslow
President
EdgeWater Power Boats

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Service Information
Please fill out the information below completely. It will help us in assisting you in the event your
EdgeWater needs service.
Customer Name ______________________________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________________________________________
City __________________________________________ State Zip
Phone _________________________Cell _____________________Business _____________________
E-mail Address _______________________________________________________________________
Dealer Name _________________________________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________________________________________
City ___________________________________________ State ______ Zip ______________
Phone _________________________________________ Fax __________________________________
Purchase Date __________________________________ Engine Make/Model ____________________
Delivery Date ___________________________________ Engine Serial # _________________________
Hull Number __DMA______________________________ Ignition Key # ___________________________
EdgeWater Power Boats, LLC. reserves the right to make alterations in the standard and
optional equipment without incurring obligation to those boats already having been built.
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this manual accurately
describes vessels being built at the date of printing.

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 General Information .................................................................6
1.1 General..............................................................................................................................6
1.2 Owner / Operator Responsibilities......................................................................................6
Chapter 2 Helm Control Systems.............................................................7
2.1 General..............................................................................................................................7
2.2 Steering System.................................................................................................................7
2.3 Engine Throttle and Shift Controls......................................................................................7
Chapter 3 Propulsion System...................................................................8
3.1 General..............................................................................................................................8
3.2 Engine Cooling System......................................................................................................9
3.3 Propellers ..........................................................................................................................9
3.4 Engine Power Tilt and Trim................................................................................................9
3.5 Engine Instrumentation ...................................................................................................10
Chapter 4 Electrical System ...................................................................11
4.1 General ............................................................................................................................11
4.2 Accessory Panel Switches ...............................................................................................11
4.3 Electrical System Maintenance ........................................................................................12
Chapter 5 Drainage System ................................................................... 12
5.1 General ............................................................................................................................12
5.2 Drain System Maintenance ..............................................................................................12
5.3 Cockpit Drains..................................................................................................................12
5.4 Transom Bilge..................................................................................................................12
5.5 Locker Drain........................................................................................................................12
Chapter 6 Safety Equipment...................................................................13
6.1 Required Safety Equipment ............................................................................................13
6.2 Suggested Safety Equipment - Inshore ............................................................................14
6.3 Suggested Safety Equipment – Offshore .........................................................................14
Chapter 7 Safe Operation .......................................................................15
7.1 Pre-Cruise Check List ......................................................................................................15
7.2 Basic Rules of the Road...................................................................................................16
7.3 Safe Operation.................................................................................................................17
7.4 Towing or Being Towed....................................................................................................18
7.5 Stopping the Boat.............................................................................................................18
7.6 Docking............................................................................................................................18
7.7 After Operation ...............................................................................................................19
7.8 Trailering Your Boat .........................................................................................................19
7.9 Launching Your Boat........................................................................................................20
7.10 Retrieving Your Boat ......................................................................................................20

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Chapter 8 Routine Maintenance .............................................................21
8.1 Exterior Hull and Deck ....................................................................................................21
8.2 Engine..............................................................................................................................22
Chapter 9 Exterior Equipment ................................................................22
9.1 Swim Platform (optional) ..................................................................................................22
Chapter 10 Seasonal Maintenance.........................................................23
10.1 Engine............................................................................................................................23
10.2 Hull.................................................................................................................................23
10.3 Storage ..........................................................................................................................23
10.4 Trailer.............................................................................................................................23
Appendix....................................................................................................24

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1/General Information
1.1 General
The EdgeWater 158 CS is a semi-custom fishing vessel designed to be powered by a single
outboard engine.
1.2 Owner / Operator Responsibilities
Registration
Registering your boat is important to you. Federal Law requires that all powered, undocumented
vessels be registered in their state of principal use. Contact the appropriate agency in your local
state to obtain specific registration information.
Reporting Boating Accidents
All boating accidents must be reported to the proper authorities in the state which the accident
occurred. If someone dies or disappears as a result of the recreational boating accident, it must
be reported immediately, with a formal report being made within 48 hours. If there is damage of
more than $500, or if the boat is completely lost, a formal report must be made within 10 days.
Questions regarding accidents may be directed to the Boating Safety Hotline, 800-368-5647.
Education
Whether or not you are an experienced boater, attending a Boating Education Course can be
beneficial. If you are inexperienced, it is the best, safest way to begin your life on the water. If you
are an experienced boater, it’s always good to sharpen your skills.
Required Equipment
The U.S. Coast Guard requires certain equipment on each boat. In addition, they also set
minimum equipment and safety standards. For more detailed requirement information, obtain
“Federal Requirements And Safety Tips For Recreational Boats”, by contacting the Boating Safety
Hotline,
800-368-5647.
Some states and local agencies require equipment that is not required by the U.S. Coast
Guard. Your local agency or dealer can provide specific information regarding these non-
standard requirements.

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2/Helm Control Systems
2.1 General
The helm station is the control center for the boat. The main control systems are the engine
throttle/shift controls and the steering system. These provide the operator the ability to control
speed, direction, boat trim, and attitude. Each manufacturer provides manuals on the operation
and use of their systems.
2.2 Steering System
General
The manual which comes with your steering system provides specific information on your steering
system.
While running at slow speeds, most boats tend to wander slightly back and forth. Keeping the
wheel in the center without overcompensating for the slight wandering will prevent over steering
and reduce the tendency to wander.
Steering System Maintenance
Routine system inspection should occur regularly. Cables, linkage, and helm assemblies should
be inspected for wear, corrosion, cracking, or deterioration. Cleaning and light grease should be
applied to all exposed metal parts and other damaged or deteriorated parts should be replaced as
soon as possible.
2.3 Engine Throttle and Shift Controls
Refer to the engine manual supplied with your engine for specific information on your controls.
There are three major components of the engine throttle and shift controls: handles, throttle cable,
shift cable. Throttle and shift cables are push-pull and are connected to the fuel system
(carburetor or fuel injection) and the other to the shift rod linkage. By moving the handles forward
and back, the operator engages the cables thus controlling the amount of fuel being used and the
gear selector for forward, neutral and reverse. Careful use of the controls provides smooth,
responsive and safe operation.
Do not bring the throttle back abruptly to stop the boat unless it is an emergency. Allow
time for the engine RPM to come down to idle before shifting to reverse or severe gearbox
damage could occur. PLEASE REFER TO YOUR ENGINE OWNER’S MANUAL FOR
FURTHER OPERATIONAL PROCUDURES FOR YOUR OUTBOARD.

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Engine Stop Switch
This device is designed to prevent the operator falling overboard while the engine remains
running. The engine stop switch lanyard should always be worn by the operator, while the boat is
in motion. Pulling the lanyard from the control will stop the engine. If the engine will not crank
properly, the lanyard may not be properly attached to the engine stop switch.
Do not use the engine stop switch to stop the boat unless it is an emergency as it may
impair your ability to quickly re-start the engine.
**NOTE** Each ignition key has a 3 digit number stamped on it. Please record this number
for future reference on the service information page in the front of this manual.
3/Propulsion System
3.1 General
Your new EdgeWater 158CS is designed to be powered by a single outboard motor. Most 2-cycle
outboards currently use an automatic system to mix the oil with the gasoline before the engine
uses it. On a 158CS equipped with a 2-cycle engine, the oil tank is maintained in the crankcase.
Make sure this tank always has a sufficient amount of the recommended 2-cycle oil for your
cruise, plus some reserve. 4-cycle engines require oil be maintained in the crankcase also.
Always check the crankcase oil level before each day’s run.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and use only the recommended oil
types.
Don’t attempt to service your outboard or any of its components unless you are
thoroughly familiar with its operation and dangers. Many of the moving part components
are exposed and can pose an extreme danger to anyone unfamiliar with their operation.
Always leave the servicing to a qualified technician.
Each manufacturer provides manuals designed to assist you in the proper operation and
maintenance of your new engine. Follow their guidance and schedules for proper operation of
your new engine. With a modern outboard there is little to do as long as proper maintenance is
performed, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. If the boat is to be kept in
saltwater for an extended period, electrolysis and marine growth can become a problem. When
leaving your boat in salt water overnight or for an extended period, tilt the engine as high out of
the water as possible. This will decrease the possibility of marine growth on the outside of the
engine, as well as reduce the potential of marine growth compromising the cooling water inlets in
the lower unit, which can cause overheating.
Do not paint your outboard’s lower unit with paints designed for boat hulls. Some can
cause severe damage to your engine. Check with your engine manufacturer to get their
recommendation.
Do not attempt control adjustments unless you are very familiar with their function, operation and
adjustment. Failure to properly adjust the system components can adversely affect your boat’s

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performance and safety. Mis-adjustment can also cause severe control, engine or lower unit
damage.
Please return all warranty cards for boat, engine and other related items. This will assist
you in the event you have a warranty problem.
3.2 Engine Cooling System
Most outboard engines are cooled by water taken in through ports in the lower part of the drive
section. Make sure these ports are free of debris or other items that might cause the flow to be
restricted. Maintain a routine vigilance to see that the visual inspection streams have a steady
flow of water. If they do not, shut down the engine to see if they are clogged or if there is a more
serious problem. Be especially watchful if you have gone through an area of vegetation or
shallow water as the intake ports can become clogged with weeds, dirt or other debris.
Do not run your outboard without water coming into the lower unit. The water pump
impeller can be damaged in only seconds of this type of operation.
3.3 Propellers
A turning propeller moves the boat through the water, forward or backward. They should always
be clean and free from nicks or dings, which can adversely affect performance. Your dealer can
assist you in the proper selection of a propeller for your boat. This selection is based on the
horsepower of the engine and its relationship to the size and weight of the boat.
Propeller sizes are determined by two numbers, which appear on different propellers at various
locations. They are listed in sequence, for example 13 x 17. The first number is the diameter of
the propeller and the second is the pitch. Pitch is the theoretical distance the propeller moves
through the water with each complete revolution. The larger the number the greater the
theoretical movement. It also follows that the larger the number the greater horsepower is
required to turn it. With a load which is “normal”, or usual for your boating activities, the engine
should be able to reach its maximum operating RPM range at wide open throttle (WOT). With a
light load on smooth water, the engine should reach its manufacturer’s rated maximum operating
RPM at wide open throttle (WOT) and maximum trim. If it does not, you may have a propeller
which has too much pitch. If it goes beyond the maximum recommended RPM range, you may
have too little pitch. Neither condition is good for the engine. You will get shorter engine life and
poorer performance than your boat and motor were designed to provide.
If your boat came from the factory with a propeller selected by EdgeWater, it should
already be optimized for the performance of your boat. Before changing the pitch or
diameter of your propeller, always check with your dealer to determine how the changes
will affect your boat and engine performance. Certain modifications such as bottom paint or options
that affect weight balance and/or wind resistance may lower peak rpm. Always check with your
dealer first if optimum rpm can not be attained.
3.4 Engine Power Tilt and Trim
The power tilt and trim system on your outboard provides the ability to optimize the running angle
of your EdgeWater 158CS to allow for load and sea conditions. Moving the outboard lower unit
toward the transom is generally referred to as trimming “in”, while moving the outboard lower unit

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away from the transom is referred to trimming “out”. It is generally best to have the engine
trimmed in for acceleration from displacement to planning mode. This brings the bow down and
requires less fuel and effort on the engine’s part to plane off the hull.
The first 20oof movement aft of the transom is referred to as trim and is the area generally used to
operate the boat while on plane. The area beyond the first 20ois referred to as tilt and is usually
reserved for operating in shallow water or pulling up on a beach.
While running under normal conditions, the bow should be in a 3oto 5oup angle to maximize the
hull’s ride and performance. When sea conditions are rougher than normal, bringing the bow
slightly down may improve the ride and will also allow the boat to remain on plane at a lower
speed.
Watch the hoses and cable on your engine as it is tilted to its full tilt position. They may
become caught and damaged if the engine is in the wrong position.
3.5 Engine Instrumentation
The following is presented to familiarize you with the instruments, which may be on your boat.
Every boat is not equipped with full instrumentation.
All factory installed Yamaha engines include Yamaha’s digital multifunction tachometer
and speedometer. Refer to your engine operators manual for use details.
Tachometer
The tachometer displays the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) the engine is turning. There
is a designed operation RPM range for the engine. Become familiar with the operating range of
your engine and its operating characteristics. The tachometers designed to aid the boater to
assure the engine performs within that designed range. The tachometer can be used to better
understand the performance of your engine and your EdgeWater 158 CS. By monitoring your
tachometer as you operate your EdgeWater, you will find RPM ranges that work better in certain
sea and load conditions. Be alert the tachometer operation may provide an early indication of
difficulty, before it becomes irreversible.
Speedometer
The speedometer indicates the boat speed in miles per hour. Some types work using a spinning
wheel to determine the boat speed. Their accuracy can vary from the actual over the bottom
speed due to many factors. Other boat speedometers calculate the speed by amount of pressure
the moving water forces into a “pitot” tube. These gauges should only be used as indicators of
approximate speed and not used as absolute speed indicators. NOTE: All Yamaha
speedometers utilize a pitot tube. In the event that erroneous speed readings appear, it is likely
caused by debris clogging the pitot tube. Consult with your dealer on methods to clean the tube
and restore normal operation.
Temperature Gauge
This is designed to monitor the operating temperature of your engine’s cooling system. A sudden
rise from the normal should be investigated to determine if there is an obstruction in the cooling
system.

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Water Pressure Gauge
This gauge measures pressure in the engine cooling system. If the pressure changes from the
norm it could indicate a complete or partial blockage in the system or a water pump problem. If
this does not return to normal, your dealer should check it to make sure the cooling system is
operating properly. NOTE: Factory rigged boats are not equipped with water pressure gauges.
Voltmeter
This meter displays the voltage for the battery and charging system.
Hour Meter
The hour meter keeps a record of operating time and is very useful for scheduling maintenance.
Engine Alarms
Most outboards are equipped with several audible engine alarms. Your engine owner’s manual
will familiarize you with these and their sometimes-distinctive sounds.
Warning: If an engine alarm sounds, shut down the engine until the source of the problem is
determined.
Compass
The compass assists in determining your location by indicating your position relative to magnetic
north. For accuracy, your compass may need to be adjusted to take into account specifics of your
boat and geographic location. Please refer to the material provided with your compass for
“compensation”.
Instrument Maintenance
Your instrument faces should be periodically cleaned to keep them free of salt and atmospheric
debris. The ignition switches should be periodically sprayed with a contact cleaner/lubricant to
keep them free of corrosion and dirt.
4/Electrical Systems
4.1 General
Your EdgeWater 158CS operates on a 12 volt DC system, similar to your automobile. The battery
or batteries are typically lead acid type and require similar maintenance to your car’s battery. An
electrical schematic is included in the Appendix for specific location of electrical components.
4.2 Panel Switches
Your EdgeWater 158CS is equipped with panel mounted breakers located on the face of the
helms’ console. The panel includes a switch for navlights and a 12v outlet. A wiring diagram is
included with this manual to assist you in troubleshooting the boats’ electrical system.

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4.3 Electrical System Maintenance
At the beginning and end of each season the exposed electrical components of the switch panel
should be sprayed with a non-conductive rust/corrosion inhibiting spray. Light bulb connections
and running light connections should be covered with a non-water soluble lubricant. Care must
be taken not to get grease on the glass portion of the lights as it will cause them to overheat and
burn out. Inspect all wiring for breaks, loose terminals and sound insulation. Replace worn or
deteriorated components. Check the electrolyte level in the batteries regularly and fill with distilled
water, as necessary. DO NOT OVERFILL.
5/Drainage System
5.1 General
All water drains from your EdgeWater 158CS by gravity. Your boat is self-bailing at rest. It is important
to check drains frequently to make sure they are clear and free flowing. Review the schematic in the
Appendix and become familiar with the location of each thru-hull drain.
5.2 Drain System Maintenance
Essential tasks must be done periodically to maintain your boat’s ability to drain in adverse conditions.
x Clean motorwell drains to remove debris or other foreign objects which could prevent boat from
draining properly.
x Check bilge area for debris and foreign material which won’t allow drainage thru the transom.
x Flush drains to keep free flowing and clean.
5.3 Cockpit Drains
Your EdgeWater 158CS drains aft thru a deck drain and thru two drains located in the motorwell area.
When washing the boat down after use, use a hose nozzle with a high pressure stream to make sure
they are free running.
5.5 Locker Drains
On the 158CS, there is a forward bow locker which drains onto the deck by way of a thru-hull. It is
possible that under certain conditions sea water may enter the locker. This is normal and no cause for
alarm, some water may remain in the rear most part of the locker.

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6/Safety Equipment
6.1 Required Safety Equipment
Contact the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647, or 1-202-267-1070 to obtain
a pamphlet on the latest required and suggested safety equipment. The Coast Guard Auxiliary also
offers “Courtesy Examinations” to help ensure your boat is properly equipped.
The following is a list of required safety equipment to be aboard your boat. This may be modified from
time to time and it is suggested that you contact the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 800-
368-5647 or pick up a copy of the latest “Federal Requirements and Safety Tips of Recreational
Boats” pamphlet.
x P
Personal Floatation Devices (PFD’s)
These must bear a tag that they have been approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and must be in
serviceable condition. They must also be of the appropriate size for the wearer, i.e. for children there
must be children’s life vests on board. Many states now require children to wear PFD’s at all times. You
should check with your state to determine the proper requirements. You should maintain at least one
Type I, II, or III PFD for each person on board, plus one throwable device, a ring or boat cushion, Type
IV.
x
Visual Distress Signals
These are now required in virtually all waters of the United States. If in doubt, please check with the
U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Hotline at 1-800-368-5647 for a specific answer.
x
Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals
These must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, be in a serviceable condition, and be readily accessible.
They each have a service life date and are not counted beyond this date. These types include both
hand held flares and aerial flares.
x
Sound Signaling Device
You must have an efficient means of making a proper sound signal in the event of distress or poor
visibility. This may be a horn, whistle, or bell.
x
Navigation Lights
These come with your EdgeWater and meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements. It is important that you
periodically check to make sure they are in working order. It is very important these be checked prior to
any cruise which will keep you on the water after dark.
x
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is standard on all EdgeWater boats. These require regular inspection to make
certain they are ready for use. Questions may be directed to the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety
Hotline at 1-800-368-5647, or 1-202-267-1070. You should, as part of routine boat maintenance,
check to make sure your extinguisher is still operable.
Never discharge your fire extinguisher to see if it still works. This will cause it to lose
pressure. If it is accidentally discharged or if it is used on a fire, replace it immediately.

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6.2 Suggested Safety Equipment - Inshore
Suggested safety equipment, over and above the required equipment is:
xFirst aid kit and manual
xBoat hook
xTool kit
xAn adequate number and size of line should be on the boat. Bow lines should be at least 1/3 longer
than the boat’s length and stern lines at least as long as the boat. When operating in areas with
unusually high tidal range, this should be lengthened. The minimum size line for a small boat is 3/8”
diameter 3 strand nylon. Refer to one of the listed references in the Appendix for a complete
discussion on line size relative to boat length.
xWaterproof flashlight, with good batteries
xSpare batteries
xSpare boat keys
xBinoculars
xTow line. This should be a minimum of 50’ long with at least one size increase over the boat’s
mooring lines.
xDay/Night visual distress signals
xLocal charts and compass
xProperly sized anchor and line
xFenders of the proper size
Always carry water, even for a 10 minute cruise.
6.3 Suggested Safety Equipment – Offshore
In addition to the required equipment, and the suggested inshore equipment, there is additional
equipment which is prudent to have when venturing offshore. No matter what the conditions at the
start of the trip, the situation can change rapidly and all your equipment and skill can be required to
safely bring your crew home to safety.
xVHF radio
xA supplemental, portable VHF is also a good back-up
xSunscreen
xSpare propeller and the knowledge of how to properly change it, if required
xExtra clothing for changeable weather conditions
xSpare anchor with sufficient line for the water depth
xMirror
xCharts

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7/Safe Operation
7.1 Pre-Cruise Check List
xCheck provisions. Make sure you have plenty of water in the event you have a problem and are
delayed.
xCheck the weather forecast. Avoid sea conditions that are beyond the experience of yourself and
your crew.
xDo you have the correct safety gear aboard and is it in good working order?
xMake sure all fire extinguishers are in good working order.
xIt is advisable to carry jackets or foul weather gear in the event of adverse weather conditions.
Your EdgeWater 158CS is equipped with a maximum capacity rating plate permanently affixed to the
helm area of your boat. It will provide information regarding the maximum number of people you can
safely have aboard, the maximum amount of weight the boat can safely carry, and the maximum
horsepower your boat was designed to handle.
Do Not Overload your boat.
B
Before Starting the Engine
x Determine if the trip can be safely made by checking the weather.
x Are all the proper boat and personal documents on board?
x Check operational equipment, such as running lights and horns to make sure they are on board, and
operable.
x Make sure there are enough provisions for the cruise.
x Leave a float plan with someone who can notify authorities in the event you do not return in the
allotted time.
x Double check the fuel and engine oil levels.
x Set the battery switch for the proper setting, if so equipped.
x Check the emergency stop lanyard to see if it is properly attached, and that the shift lever is in the
neutral position.
Remember the rule of thirds: 1/3 out, 1/3 back, and 1/3 in reserve.
After Starting the Engine
x Upon initial start-up, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for engine break-in
x Check to be sure there is a tell-tale water stream exiting the engine.
x Check the gauges to determine if everything is nominal.
x Check to make sure everything is secure and properly stowed away; remember the boat’s movement
is dynamic and anything that is loose will become a hazard at the worst possible time.
x Have a great time on the water
Remember that the captain is responsible for the safety of the crew and passengers and
for his/her boat’s wake damage.

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Never operate the boat while under the influence of alcohol!
x Make sure someone else on-board knows how to operate the boat in the event you are injured and
unable to operate the boat.
If you are operating the boat for the first time, make sure you follow the engine
manufacturer’s break-in recommendations. This will assure proper break-in and reduce
the possibility of engine problems.
7.2 Basic Rules of the Road
The following is not intended to be a comprehensive course in seamanship and rules of the road, but
instead an introduction. It is strongly recommended that a boating safety course be taken from your
local Coast Guard Auxiliary or local Department of Natural Resources. There are also many good
reference books in your local library as well as numerous sites on the internet.
Remember, paddle boats, sailboats and other vessels (such as barges) which are unable
to maneuver, always have the right of way over powerboats. Sail boats, when under
power, are considered motor boats. However, always boat defensively.
Aids to Navigation
Along the coast lines and in navigable inland waters, aids to navigation have been placed by the U.S.
Coast Guard. These have been placed for the boating public’s safety. Please become familiar with
them and learn to use them to make your boating safer and more fun.

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Federal Waterways Marking System Aids
Lateral Aids as seen from Seaward (portside green)
5
Daymark
3
Can Buoy
6
Daymark
4
Nun Buoy
Lateral Aids as seen from Seaward (starboard side red)
Lighted Buoy
(green light)
7
Lighted Buoy
(red light)
2
7.3 Safe Operation
Getting Underway
After clearing the dock, make sure the power trim (if so equipped) is trimmed down. (This will bring the
boat up on plane more quickly and easily.) Give the engine sufficient throttle to bring it to plane
briskly, then back down to the cruising speed of your choice, based on the sea conditions and your
planned activity.
x After coming on plane, raise the trim to a point where the engine is level with or slightly above the
plane of the water. This is usually with the bow at about 3oto 5o above level. This will provide the
smoothest, most economical operation.
x Keep a constant vigil for other boats and watercraft and be prepared to give way, or slow down, if
necessary. (We suggest you enroll in a boating safety course offered by the U.S. Power Squadron or
the Coast Guard Auxiliary.)
x When coming off plane, allow the engine to come back to an idle speed until the boat slows down.
x Shift to the neutral position.
Never allow anyone to sit on the gunwale while the boat is moving!

18
While underway keep a constant vigil for other craft that may be approaching, the gauges on your boat,
location of passengers and the general sound and feel of your craft. Often, a change in the way the
engine sounds or the boat feels will presage a problem. Your early attention may prevent a more
serious problem.
If you should strike an underwater object, bring the throttle to neutral and stop the engine.
Inspect the lower unit for damage. If none is apparent, proceed as before but heighten
your awareness of the engine and its operation to make sure a problem has not gone
undetected.
7.4 Towing or Being Towed
Sooner or later your will have the misfortune of having to be towed in or needing to tow someone back
to a safe landing. It is important that this be done properly so that a difficult situation does not
become worse. This comes under a longstanding, unwritten law of the sea that one boater will aid
another in time of distress. The 1971 Boating Safety Act grants protection to those assisting others at
sea as ”Good Samaritans” and absolves them of civil liability rising from the aid being provided.
When being towed, it is best to have a line passed from the tow boat to the one being towed, assuming
the towing boat has a line of adequate size and length. The tow boat should also tow the disabled
vessel from as close to amidships as possible. This reduces the tendency to yaw. If
possible, the towing boat should use a bridle attached to the two stern ski tow eyes.
The vessel being towed should attach the tow line to the bow eye that holds the boat
onto the trailer. This provides an optimal tow position and a strong tow point. Have
the occupants of the boat being towed sit aft of amidships, but not all in the stern.
Attention should be given so the boat remains balanced and on an even keel. Some
boats tow better with the engine tilted out of the water, others need the engine to act
as a rudder to be able to maintain a straight line. Start with the engine tilted. If that
does not work well lower the engine until it is about perpendicular.
You should never attempt to plane off the boat being towed.
7.5 Stopping the Boat
Gradually bring the controls back to the low forward position and allow the boat to gradually slow
down. After the boat has dropped into the displacement mode, shift to the neutral position. If you have
been running the boat hard for some time, allow the engine to idle for several minutes to gradually cool
down. After docking and securing the boat, raise the trim tabs to the fully upright position and turn off
the ignition.
7.6 Docking
Safe docking keeps your boat from being damaged and is an indicator of a capable and
knowledgeable captain. There are many docking maneuvers, which will be done while boating; only the
basics will be discussed here. Several constants to always use as guides while docking:
Perform docking at idle or no wake speeds. Always try to come into wind or current, whichever is
stronger. This allows you to use the natural forces on your boat to act as a natural brake. The skipper is
free to use the boat’s power to control speed and direction.