Grady-White Boats Freedom 285 User manual

Grady-White Boats, Inc.
5121 Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy, Greenville, NC 27834 • P.O. Box 1527 • Greenville, NC 27835-1527
Tel: [phone] • Fax: [phone] • http://www.gradywhite.com
Dear Grady-White Owner:
Welcome aboard!
Buying and owning a boat is a very special experience. Of all the many products you’ll ever
own we want your Grady-White experience to be the absolute best. That means providing the
descriptions, explanations and technical support that you need to enjoy your Grady-White with
confidence and security.
Your Grady-White exceeds all US Coast Guard safety standards and is built to standards
certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). Best of all, your boat is
built to Grady-White standards, standards that have served our owners through some truly
extraordinary conditions since our first models built in 1959.
The seaworthiness and safety of your Grady-White is highly dependent on the operation,
maintenance and care of your boat, so please read this manual thoroughly and keep it around for
reference. If you need further explanation or “hands-on” help, don’t hesitate to ask the people at
your Grady-White dealership; they have experience with the systems and operations of your boat.
If for any reason you need additional help, please feel free to call us at the factory. We sincerely
want to provide you with the help and information that will make your Grady-White experience
delightful.
Thanks for choosing a Grady-White. All of us at the factory and at your dealership are
dedicated to earning your confidence in Grady-White Boats. Again, welcome aboard.
Sincerely yours,
Kris Carroll
President
Grady-White Boats, Inc.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: CONSUMER INFORMATION
Owner’s Packet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–1
Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–1
Dealer’s Responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–1
Consumer Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–2
Hazard Warning Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–3
CHAPTER 2: SAFETY
Minimum Required Safety Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–1
Additional Recommended Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–1
Registration Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–1
Emergency Stop Switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–2
Emergency Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–2
Boating Safety Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–3
Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–4
Loading Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–5
Carbon Monoxide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–6
Suggested Boating Classes And Reading Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–7
CHAPTER 3: GENERAL INFORMATION
Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–1
Environmental Protection Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–2
Pollution Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–2
Discharge of Oil or Hazardous Substances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–2
Disposal of Plastics or Garbage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–2
Trailering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3
Predeparture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3
Casting Off And Approaching The Dock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3
Anchoring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–4
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–4
Shallow Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–5
General Information On Boat Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–5
Twin and Triple Engine Boats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–6
Commonly Used Nautical Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–7
CHAPTER 4: PERFORMANCE
Performance Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1
Engine Efficiency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1
Weather Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1
Load Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1
Marine Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1
Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1
Propeller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–2
Propulsion System – Outboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–3
Engine Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–3
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–4
Throttle/ShiftControls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–5
CHAPTER 5: INSTRUMENTATION AND SWITCHES
TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Yamaha Instrumentation Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–1
Yamaha Command Link Plus Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–1
Yamaha Helm Master™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–3
Switch Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–4
CHAPTER 6: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–1
Exterior Fiberglass Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–1
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–1
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–1
Finish/Waxing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–2
Repairing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–3
Bottom Paint. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–3
Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–3
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–3
Snaps and Zippers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–4
Vinyl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–4
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–4
Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–5
Polyethylene/Plexiglass/Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–5
Scuppers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–5
Caulking/Gasket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–5
Hardware/Stainless Steel Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–5
Hardware Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–6
Maintenance Procedure For Anodized Aluminum Components . . . . . 6–6
Fuel System Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–7
Fuel Tank Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–8
Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–8
Inverter Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–9
LED Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–9
180-232, 255-285, 306 & 307 DC Accy Wiring Color - Fuse/Breaker 6–10
Thermofoil Wood Grain Accents Care & Cleaning Guide . . . . . . . . 6–11
CHAPTER 7: WINTERIZATION AND STORAGE
General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–1
Boat Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–1
Cleaning And Lubricating The Boat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–2
Draining And Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–2
Head System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–2
Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–3
Engines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–3
Fuel System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–3
Storage Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–3
Getting Boat Out After Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–3
Prior To Launching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–3
After Launching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–4
CHAPTER 8: FREEDOM 285
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–1
Optional Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–1

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–1
Canvas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–1
Operation Of Standard Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–2
Accessory Switch Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–2
Other Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–3
Auxiliary Fuse Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–4
Accessory Outlet - 12 Volt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–4
Battery Select Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–4
Bilge Pumps/Float Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–5
Bilge Pump Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–5
Cockpit Shower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–5
Cockpit Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–5
Compass. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–5
Freshwater System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–5
Hardtop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–6
Main Circuit Breaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–6
Portable Head Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–6
Rigging Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–6
Seacocks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–6
Sliding Lounge Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–7
Stereo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–7
Trim Tabs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–7
Washdown Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–8
Operation Of Optional Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–9
AC Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–9
AC Powered Accessory Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–9
Grill Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–10
Operation with Shorepower Available. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–10
Operation from Inverter Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–10
Inverter Battery Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–10
Head Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–10
Marine Head (with Hand Pump) Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–10
Electric Marine Head Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–11
Emptying Marine Head Holding Tank By Overboard Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–11
Emptying Marine Head Holding Tank Through Deck Pump-out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–11
Portable Head With Deck Pump-Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–11
Portable Head With In-line Macerator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–11
Livewell - Raw Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–12
Outriggers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–12
Shore Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–13
Connecting The Shore Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–13
Disconnecting The Shore Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–13
Sirius Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–14
Ski Pylon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–14
Wet Bar with Sliding Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–14
Informational Drawings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–15
Access Plate And Rigging Tube Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–15
Accessory Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–16
Fuel System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–17
Typical Outboard Switch Panel Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–18

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Battery Wiring with Select Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–19
Freshwater System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–20
Safety Labels And Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–21
Livewell/Washdown Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–22
Livewell/Washdown System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–23
Marine Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–24
Portable Head With In-line Macerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–25
Stereo System Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–26
Inverter Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–27
Thru Hull Detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–28
CHAPTER 9: LIMITED WARRANTY
Registration Of Purchase: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–1
Five Year Hull Transferable Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–1
One Year Material And Workmanship Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–1
Warranty Claim Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–3
Transferable Warranty Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9–4

WELCOME
1–1
Chapter 1: Consumer Information
OWNER’SPACKET
Your Grady-White has many features and accessories that have existing printed material
provided by the various equipment manufacturers. This information is compiled in a package that
we will reference throughout this manual as an “Owner’s Packet.” This Owner’s Packet includes a
Grady-White Owner’s Manual and Engine Manual(s) to advise on operation, service,
specifications, maintenance, warranty, and other useful facts. While reading your Grady-White
manual, you will find other technical literature referenced as resources for detailed information.
The Owner’s Packet will also consist of operation guides, informative labels, and product
warranties you will need to be acquainted with. Your Owner’s Packet can also be used to retain
instructions and data compiled on additional equipment and accessories installed after delivery.
Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual, a book published by the National Marine
Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA), has been included with your Owner’s Packet as a
supplement. This publication will be referenced in your Grady-White Owner’s Manual to present
additional instructions and information on basic boating.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
The Grady-White warranty is located on the next to last page of this manual. Upon the
purchase of your new Grady-White Boat, the dealer will fill out a warranty card. This card
will be kept on file at the dealership and at the Grady-White factory. A copy will be provided for
your records and should be kept with other valuable documents for future reference. For questions
regarding your warranty please contact your dealership.
DEALER’SRESPONSIBILITIES
Throughout the fabricating and assembly processes, your Grady-White has undergone a series
of strict inspections. Subsequent to the final factory overview, your dealer must perform
additional pre-delivery checks and approve your Grady-White for delivery.
DEALER RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE PROVIDING THE FOLLOWING:
• An orientation of the general operation of your Grady-White.
• A warranty card to be completed and signed by the dealer and the customer. This warranty card
is to be sent to Grady-White Boats to validate the warranty.
• An explanation of safety issues regarding the use of containment systems and components.
• A complete Owner’s Packet containing literature and information regarding your Grady-White
and its separate warranted products’ operation, installation, and maintenance instructions.
• A review of all warranties pointing out the importance of mailing warranty and registration to
various manufacturers within the required time limits.
• Guidance on acquiring local and out of area service during and out of warranty periods.

WELCOME
1–2
CONSUMER RESPONSIBILITIES
THE FOLLOWING ARE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GRADY-WHITE OWNER:
• Read and understand the express limited warranty.
• Study in detail all literature and instructions enclosed, and use all equipment in accordance.
• Examine the boat and confirm all systems are working suitably at the time of accepting
delivery.
• Render proper maintenance and periodic servicing of the boat in accordance with suggestions
in the Owner’s Manual.
• Return the boat to the selling dealer for an engine inspection. Refer to the engine’s owner’s
manual for the proper maintenance schedule.
Grady-White Boats has a permanent record of your boat which is retained under its “Hull
Identification Number” (HIN). Data regarding equipment and accessories, as well as dealer/
shipping information is documented. When contacting your dealer concerning warranties or
service, please have all relevant information such as serial numbers (HIN) and model number
available. This information is on your copy of the warranty card.
The “Hull Identification Number,” located on the starboard side of the transom, is a
significant source of identification and must be noted in all correspondence and orders. Failure to
include the HIN only creates delay.

WELCOME
1–3
HAZARD WARNING LABELS
The hazard warning labels shown below are applied throughout this manual to alert the
customer of potentially dangerous situations that can lead to death, personal injury, and/or product
damage. We urge you to observe these warnings and comply with all safety recommendations.
D A N G E R
This symbol alerts you to imminently hazardous situations which WILL cause severe personal
injury or death if the warning is ignored.
W A R N I N G
This symbol alerts you to potentially hazardous situations or unsafe practices that COULD result
in severe personal injury or death if the warning is ignored.
C A U T I O N
This symbol alerts you to potentially hazardous situations that MAY result in minor personal
injury or cause product or property damage if the warning is ignored.
N O T I C E
This symbol calls attention to installation, operation, or maintenance information which is
important for proper operation, but is not hazard related.
!
!
!

WELCOME
1–4

SAFETY
2–1
Chapter 2: Safety
MINIMUM REQUIRED SAFETY EQUIPMENT
The US Coast Guard (USCG) requires that every boat have specific equipment on board.
Check with local regulations on mandatory equipment apart from the list of Coast Guard
requirements. See Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual, page 23, for details on the
following minimum required safety equipment.
•FireExtinguisher
Boats should be equipped with a marine approved fire extinguisher.
• Personal Flotation
All passengers must have an USCG approved personal flotation device (PFD).
Children and non-swimmers are advised to wear a PFD at all times.
• Sound Signaling Device (Horn, Bell Or Whistle)
Your Grady-White is equipped with a horn that meets USCG requirements.
• Visual Distress Signals
USCG approved visual distress signals are required on U. S. waters. See page 42 of the
pamphlet Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual enclosed with this manual for more
information.
• Lighting
Grady-White boats are equipped with navigational lights that meet requirements for
recreational vessels for inland and international waters.
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
In addition to the required safety equipment, there are additional items that will provide an
extra margin of safety and convenience for you and your passengers while boating. For an
extended list of basic gear, tools and spare parts, reference page 24 of the pamphlet Sportfish,
Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual enclosed with this manual.
Keep tools and spare parts in good condition. Replace parts removed from the spare parts kit.
Most importantly, use US Coast Guard approved or marine certified parts where applicable.
Conditions found requiring corrective action should be worked on by a qualified repairman.
REGISTRATION NUMBERS
Federal and State laws require a powerboat to be registered in the State where it is primarily
used. Registration numbers and validation stickers must be displayed according to regulations.
The registration certificate must be on board when boating. The boat serial number or Hull
Identification Number (HIN, page 1–2) is required on the registration form. The HIN is located
on the upper right hand corner of the transom, and is the most important identifying factor. The
HIN should be included in all documents and correspondence to provide you timely service.

SAFETY
2–2
EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH
All Grady-Whites are equipped with an emergency stop switch. This is a safety feature that if
used properly will shut the engine(s) down if the operator leaves or falls from the helm position.
The ignition shutdown system includes a shut-off switch, switch clip, lanyard and lanyard clip.
The lanyard clip is attached to the operator. If a situation arises where the boat should stop, a pull
on the cord to release the clip from the shut-off switch will shut down the engine(s). To reset the
emergency stop switch, simply reinstall the switch clip. The decision to use the emergency stop
switch rests with the owner/operator. See page 82 in Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
While boating, unpleasant situations may develop. You should prepare yourself on how to
cope with them whether they happen aboard your vessel or someone else’s. Anticipate and plan
for specific situations such as fire, man overboard, collision, etc. to give you the confidence and
ability necessary to handle an emergency. The key is to remain calm. For emergency procedures,
see Section 4 in Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual.
• Rendering Assistance
The owner or operator of a vessel is required by law to render all practical or necessary
assistance to any person or vessel affected by collision, accident or casualty. However, you
are not required to endanger your vessel or passengers to render assistance.
• Accident Reporting
Report all boating accidents to your local authorities. Federal regulations require boat
operators involved in an accident to submit a written report within 48 hours. In the event of
death or disappearance, notification is required immediately by phone or radio in addition
to the written report. These reports can be submitted to the State Boating Law Administrator.
Forms can be obtained through the USCG, local harbor patrol offices, sheriff, and police
stations.
• Lightning Precautions
This awareness is included to ensure the safety of the owner and passengers. Always be
mindful of the weather! When a lightning storm advances, certain safety precautions should
be taken. Dock the boat and seek shelter on land. If this is not possible, seek refuge inside the
boat until the storm has passed. Stay out of the water! Lightning will seek a ground when it
strikes and may pass through metal components if it hits your boat. For this reason, avoid
contact with metal parts of the boat under these conditions.

SAFETY
2–3
BOATING SAFETY TIPS
Safety is an important aspect of boating. Your safety as well as the safety of your passengers
and vessel is your responsibility. The following precautions and the ones mentioned in section 1
of Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual will add to you and your passengers’ boating
safety and pleasure.
• Before operating your Grady-White read and study all operation and maintenance
manuals. It is important that you fully understand how to use your boat. Contact your Grady-
White dealer for questions. Proper use and service will insure quality performance and
longevity of your boat.
• A written float plan left with a responsible person can serve as valuable information should
you not return as scheduled. Upon returning, your primary responsibility is to notify the person
of your return.
•Never operate or allow anyone to operate your boat while under the influence of drugs or
alcohol.
• Individuals under the age of 16 should not be allowed to operate your boat.
Inexperienced drivers should have constant and direct supervision.
• Instruct at least one passenger on the fundamentals of basic boating and safe operation in the
event of an emergency.
• While boating, passengers should be settled in a safe position. Use hand holds and rails for
steadiness. Do not allow bow, transom or gunwale riding. The captain is ultimately responsible
for their passenger’s safety.
• Keep your boat speed under control. Respect for other boaters and those on shore are common
courtesies. The boat’s operator is responsible for injury or damage caused by the boat or the
wake. Your wake could swamp a smaller craft and endanger its passengers. Stay alert for
posted “No Wake Zones”.
• Become familiar with the handling personality and limitations of your boat.
•Never allow swimmers/skiers to enter or exit the boat with engine(s) running. A shift lever
in neutral could become engaged accidentally. Also, exhaust fumes from the outboard
engine(s) contain carbon monoxide gas. These fumes may concentrate in this area. See more
information on “Dangers of Carbon Monoxide” on page 2-5.
• Obtain information and a chart for new areas when possible.
• Clean water and air are responsibilities for all persons. Use litter containers on board and
dispose of refuse properly. See “Pollution Regulations” on page 3–3.
• Know and obey the “Rules of the Road”. See Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual,
beginning on page 25, for a better understanding of right of ways, signals and waterway
markers.

SAFETY
2–4
CERTIFICATION
This label means your Grady-White is certified by the
National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
With this tag, you are assured the fuel system, electrical
system, navigation lighting, ventilation, steering and other
design elements are not only in compliance with the US
Coast Guard regulations, but also meet the more stringent
standards of the NMMA. The NMMA is a national trade
organization serving all elements of the recreational
boating industry including manufacturers of boating
equipment. With this tag, you can have confidence in the
safety of your boat.
This label means that Grady-White has designed and built your boat to the ABYC standard H-
8, buoyancy in the event of swamping. Basic flotation is defined as having enough foam in the
boat to create buoyancy and prevent sinking under swamped conditions.
BASIC FLOTATION
THIS BOAT HAS "BASIC FLOTATION" AS
DEFINED BY ABYC STANDARD H-8.

SAFETY
2–5
LOADING CAPACITY
Though overloading is a primary cause of many boating accidents, improper loading is
equally hazardous. Boaters should know the amount of weight on board and evenly distribute the
weight within the boat.
At the helm station you will find a NMMA Yacht Certification tag. This means your yacht
complies with the Coast Guard safety standards. (NOTE: Any boat with an overall length of 26
feet or greater is defined as a “yacht” by NMMA.
YACHT CERTIFICATION
DESIGN COMPLIANCE WITH NMMA REQUIREMENTS IN EFFECT
ON THE DATE OF CERTIFICATION IS VERIFIED.
MANUFACTURER RESPONSIBLE FOR QUALITY CONTROL
NATIONAL MARINE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION
MEETS U.S. EPA EVAP STANDARDS
USING CERTIFIED COMPONENTS
THIS BOAT COMPLIES WITH U.S. COAST GUARD SAFETY
STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF CERTIFICATION
GRADY-WHITE BOATS, INC., GREENVILLE, NC
R
ABYC R
using standards

SAFETY
2–6
CARBON MONOXIDE
Carbon Monoxide, commonly written CO, is a colorless, odorless gas emitted from any boat’s
exhaust. The gas is similar in weight to the air we breathe. Therefore, it cannot be expected to rise
or fall, but will accumulate in confined spaces.
Carbon monoxide is poisonous, and potentially fatal if breathed over an extended period of
time. Symptoms of CO poisoning include dizziness, nausea, headache, sleepiness, vomiting,
throbbing in the temples, muscular twitching, and an inability to think clearly. If you or anyone
else experience these symptoms, immediately get away from fumes and into an area where
plenty of fresh air can be consumed. If any symptoms from above persist, seek medical
attention.
Carbon monoxide can accumulate in cabins and under canvas. If your boat is equipped
with a canvas that encloses the aft cockpit and propulsion equipment, do not operate the boat with
this canvas closed.
Outboard engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide. These fumes may concentrate at
the motorwell area. Do not board your vessel with the engine(s) running. Also, do not occupy the
motorwell area with the engine(s) running.
Operators need to be aware of the influence of other boats on their vessel as well as the effects
they have on neighboring crafts. Of primary concern is the operation of an auxiliary generator
with boats moored along side each other. This situation creates an atmosphere which is filled with
CO, and extremely dangerous.
W A R N I N G
CO is produced by all combustion engine(s) and generator sets.
Avoid brain damage or death from carbon monoxide.
Keep cockpit and cabin areas well ventilated.
Avoid blockage of exhaust outlets.
Signs of exposure include headache, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness.
W A R N I N G
BE AWARE of the significance your exhaust may have on other vessels. Likewise, BE AWARE
that the operation of other vessel's equipment may influence the carbon monoxide concentration
on YOUR vessel.
W A R N I N G
Exhaust fumes from engine(s) contain (CO). Boats with canvas deployed are more likely to collect
exhaust fumes. Avoid brain damage or death from (CO). Keep cockpit and cabin areas well
ventilated. Signs of exposure include headache, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness.
!
!
!

SAFETY
2–7
SUGGESTED BOATING CLASSES AND READING MATERIAL
Like a car, boats must be operated according to safety rules and traffic regulations. Although
we include some basic boating tips in this manual, a thorough review of the safety rules and
regulations for boating is beyond the scope of this text.
We support the work of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power
Squadrons. We urge you to attend any instructional classes sponsored by these organizations.
Reference page 10 of Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s Manual for training options, and page
28 for information on charts and maps. For further knowledge on boating, we advise that you
review the following publications:
• Piloting, Seamanship And Small Boat Handling
(Chapman)*
• Boatman’s Handbook
Tom Bottomly
• Sorensen’s Guide To Powerboats
Eric Sorensen
FOR MORE INFORMATION ONBOATING SAFETY COURSES INYOUR AREA CALL:
• Boating Education Hotline......................................................1-800-336-BOAT (2628)
• US Coast Guard Boating Hotline............................................1-800-368-5647
• Contact Your Local Coast Guard

SAFETY
2–8

GENERAL I NFORMATION
3–1
Chapter 3: General Information
FUELING
Please study the following precautions carefully. Consult your dealer if you have any
questions. Prior to your initial fill-up, check your engine manual to confirm the type of fuel and
octane rating specified by the manufacturer. Tanks should be filled when the boat is not in use to
reduce the accumulation of moisture and condensation. Add stabilizer to fuel that won’t be used
in 60-90 days.
Fuel containing up to a 10% ethanol blend (E10) is acceptable for use in your boat. Do not use
alcohol blended fuel that has greater than 10% ethanol such as E15 or E85. These concentrations
may be harmful to fuel system components and outboard engines. Other considerations related to
Ethanol fuel blends:
•Avoid mixing E10 with fuels that contain MTBE, an additive to gasoline in some fuel
blends that oxygenates the fuel to reduce emissions.
• Use a 10 micron fuel filter to capture particulate contaminants that may be loosened from
the fuel system due to the solvent nature of alcohol blended fuels.
• Carry spare fuel filters with a 10 micron rating on your boat for emergency replacement if
required.
Before Fueling:
•Shut down all engines.
•Turn battery select switch(es) to “off” to insure that all fans, lights, etc. are off.
•Close all ports, hatches, windows and engine compartments to prevent fumes from
accumulating in closed areas.
•Extinguish cigarettes and all other lighted materials.
•Have a fire extinguisher near.
During Fueling:
•Observe all safety regulations for the safe handling of fuel.
•Keep the fuel supply nozzle in contact with the fuel fill opening to prevent any static
sparks.
After Fueling:
•Tighten the fuel cap until the audible clicking indicates it is secure. Check fuel hoses,
connections, and tanks for leaks or deterioration. Wash and clean up any spilled fuel.
Dispose of clean up rags or sponges on shore. Do not store these clean up rags in the boat.
•After fueling ventilate all ports, windows, hatches and other closed areas. Conduct a “sniff
test” to make certain all fumes are vacant before using the battery select switch(es).
W A R N I N G
Safety during fueling requires CAUTION and COMMON SENSE.
!

GENERAL INFORMATION
3–2
See warnings and check list in Section 6, page 46 of the Sportfish, Cruisers, and Yachts
Owner’s Manual. Reference “Fuel Tank Compartment” on page 6–8 for more information on
cleaning the fuel tank compartment.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
All Grady-White boats meet the Environmental Protection Agency standards in effect at the
time of manufacture. All boats have the EPA label incorporated within their NMMA certification
label.
POLLUTION REGULATIONS
The U.S. Coast Guard defines restrictions on the discharge of oil or hazardous substances and
plastics or garbage in the “Federal Requirements for Boating and Boating Safety”. You should
have received this pamphlet when you registered your boat. Detailed below is a summary of those
regulations. You should read the pamphlet and become familiar with any local restrictions where
you operate your vessel. Passengers or crew members aboard your boat should also be notified of
these regulations.
Discharge of Oil or Hazardous Substances
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil or hazardous
substances, which may be harmful, into or upon U.S. navigable waters. Vessels 26 feet (7.9m) in
length or over must display a placard at least 5” x 8” (12.7cm x 20.3cm) with the text shown
below. If your boat is 26 feet or greater in length, an adhesive backed label that meets these
requirements is provided in your owner’s packet. It is your responsibility to display this placard
on the vessel in a conspicuous place in the machinery space or at the bilge pump control.
Disposal of Plastics or Garbage
The MARPOL ANNEX V is the Act to prevent pollution from ships and other vessels.
Federal regulations prohibit the discharge of plastic garbage anywhere in the marine environment.
Plastic includes, but is not limited to: synthetic fishing nets, ropes, lines, straws, six pack holders,
styrofoam cups and lids, bottles, buckets and plastic bags. These regulations also restrict the
disposal of other types of garbage within specified boundaries from shore. Any vessel 26 feet