Pro-Line Boats 23 express User manual

2008
Owner’s Manual
Specifications subject to change without notice. Actual boats may vary from drawings and/or photos.
Copyright 2007 Pro-Line Boats Inc., PO Box 1348, Crystal River, FL 34423
All rights reserved. February 14, 2007; Rev. December 3, 2007
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Table of Contents
Page
Introduction
Specifications........................................................................................................................ 1
Dealer Responsibilities......................................................................................................... 1
Customer Responsibilities.................................................................................................... 2
Owner’s Package.................................................................................................................. 2
Insurance and Registration................................................................................................... 2
Capacity................................................................................................................................ 3
Warranty................................................................................................................................ 3
Safety
Carbon Monoxide.................................................................................................................. 6
Emergency Treatment for CO Poisoning................................................................. 6
Where CO May Accumulate..................................................................................... 7
How To Protect Others and Yourself....................................................................... 7
Fire........................................................................................................................................ 8
Equipment............................................................................................................................. 8
Flooding ................................................................................................................................ 9
Hazardous Conditions .......................................................................................................... 9
Passenger Safety.................................................................................................................. 9
Regulations........................................................................................................................... 10
Rules of the Road................................................................................................................. 10
Alcohol .................................................................................................................................. 10
Controls
Throttle & Shift Controls........................................................................................................ 11
Ignition – Binnacle, Fwd, Neutral & Reverse Gear Operation................................. 11
Key Switch Alarm ..................................................................................................... 11
Lanyard Stop Switch ................................................................................................ 11
Shift / Throttle / Trim............................................................................................................. 12
Steering
................................................................................................................................ 12
Hydraulic Steering (Verado Power) ......................................................................... 12
Hydraulic Tilt Upgrade (Optional)............................................................................. 13
Power Trim ............................................................................................................... 13
Steering Wheel......................................................................................................... 13
Trim Tabs w/ Indicators (Optional)....................................................................................... 13
Systems and Accessories
Electrical System .................................................................................................................. 15
12-Volt Receptacle (Optional).................................................................................. 15
Battery Switch for Dual Batteries (Optional)............................................................ 15
Circuit Breakers........................................................................................................ 15
Switch and Breaker Panel........................................................................................ 15
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Lighting Systems................................................................................................................... 17
Cockpit Lights (Optional).......................................................................................... 17
Cabin Lights.............................................................................................................. 17
Navigation & Anchor Lights...................................................................................... 17
Remote Spot Light (Optional)................................................................................... 18
Spreader Lights and Courtesy Light (Optional)....................................................... 18
Instrumentation..................................................................................................................... 19
Horn – Electric.......................................................................................................... 19
Compass...................................................................................................... 19
Full Instrumentation / Analog Gauges (Digital – Suzuki 300 & Verado) ................. 19
Head Waste System............................................................................................................. 20
What is the Law?...................................................................................................... 20
Porta-Potti with Filler Board ..................................................................................... 21
Fresh Water System (Optional)............................................................................................ 21
Fresh Water Tank and Fill (Optional)....................................................................... 21
Fresh Water Pump (Optional) ................................................................................. 21
Fresh Water Cockpit Shower Faucet (Optional)...................................................... 22
Cabin Sink & Cabinet............................................................................................... 22
Sea Water System................................................................................................................ 22
Baitwell w/Raw Water Washdown and Baitwell Light.............................................. 22
Bilge Pumps.............................................................................................................. 24
Fish Boxes with Macerator Pump............................................................................ 24
Fuel/Oil Systems................................................................................................................... 24
Fuel Tank.................................................................................................................. 24
Fuel Fill Fitting.......................................................................................................... 25
Fuel Sender & Fuel Pick Up..................................................................................... 25
Fuel Water Separator............................................................................................... 25
Primer Bulb............................................................................................................... 26
Oil Tank and Oil Fill.................................................................................................. 26
Fuel / Oil Leaks......................................................................................................... 26
Stereo Equipment (Optional)................................................................................................ 26
AM/FM Stereo with CD Player, Speakers & Remote (Optional) ............................. 27
XM Stereo Upgrade (Optional)................................................................................. 27
Hardware............................................................................................................................... 27
Cleats........................................................................................................................ 27
Hand Rails................................................................................................................ 28
Gunwale Trim / Rubrail............................................................................................. 28
Anchor Roller............................................................................................................ 28
Storage..................................................................................................................... 28
Rod Holder Storage.................................................................................................. 28
Dive Platform - Integrated with Ladder .................................................................... 28
Drain Plug................................................................................................................. 28
Cockpit / Deck Drains............................................................................................... 29
Thru Hull Fittings ...................................................................................................... 29
Seating.................................................................................................................................. 30
Windows, Doors & Hatches.................................................................................................. 30
Windows................................................................................................................... 30
Windshield................................................................................................................ 31
Cabin/Companionway Door ..................................................................................... 31
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Transom Door........................................................................................................... 31
Hatches & Latches ................................................................................................... 31
Cabin Interior ........................................................................................................................ 33
Cabin Sink & Cabinet............................................................................................... 33
Stove (Optional)........................................................................................................ 33
Upholstery................................................................................................................. 33
Cabin V-Berth........................................................................................................... 34
Bimini Top (Optional)............................................................................................................ 34
Hard Top w/Storage Box (Optional)..................................................................................... 34
Hard Top w/Storage Box & Outriggers (Optional)................................................................ 34
Vinyl Upholstery.................................................................................................................... 35
Electronics (Optional) ........................................................................................................... 35
Bonding System.................................................................................................................... 35
Operation & Performance
Trim / Tilt............................................................................................................................... 36
Propellers.............................................................................................................................. 37
Starting.................................................................................................................................. 37
Before Starting the Engines..................................................................................... 37
Starting the Engines................................................................................................. 37
After Starting the Engines ........................................................................................ 37
Fueling .................................................................................................................................. 38
Before Fueling.......................................................................................................... 38
While Fueling............................................................................................................ 38
After Fueling ............................................................................................................. 38
Loading ................................................................................................................................. 38
Trailering and Launching
Selecting A Trailer................................................................................................................. 39
Check Before You Go Out On The Highway........................................................................ 39
Backing A Trailer................................................................................................................... 41
Pre-Launching Preparations................................................................................................. 41
Launching.............................................................................................................................. 42
Retrieval................................................................................................................................ 42
Storage.................................................................................................................................. 42
Service and Care
Fiberglass and Gelcoat......................................................................................................... 43
Epoxy Barrier Coat and Bottom Paint...................................................................... 43
Graphics................................................................................................................................ 44
Gunwale Trim/Rubrail........................................................................................................... 44
Water Pumps ........................................................................................................................ 44
Fuel Water Separators.......................................................................................................... 45
Compass............................................................................................................................... 45
Aluminum.............................................................................................................................. 45
Stainless Steel...................................................................................................................... 46
Corrosion Protection............................................................................................................. 46
Cabin/Companionway and Transom Doors......................................................................... 46
Windows................................................................................................................................ 46
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Windshield............................................................................................................................. 47
Curtain Package & Windscreen............................................................................................ 47
Canvas...................................................................................................................... 47
Isinglass.................................................................................................................... 48
Vinyl....................................................................................................................................... 48
Interior Vinyl – Cabin Headliner & Cabin Bolsters................................................... 48
Exterior Vinyl – Upholstered Seats and Cockpit Bolsters........................................ 49
Cloth...................................................................................................................................... 49
Cabin Cushions........................................................................................................ 49
Single Burner Butane Stove................................................................................................. 49
Winterizing and Storage ....................................................................................................... 50
Resealing.............................................................................................................................. 51
Additional Cleaning and Maintenance Products.................................................................. 51
Appendix
Helpful Check Lists............................................................................................................... 52
Each Time You Go On A Boat Trip.......................................................................... 52
Once A Month........................................................................................................... 52
Once A Year............................................................................................................. 52
Boat Identification Information.............................................................................................. 53
Trouble Shooting Chart......................................................................................................... 54
Wiring Diagrams ................................................................................................................... 55
While we endeavor to be as accurate as possible, certain changes in standard equipment, options and the like may
have occurred which would not be included in the Owner’s Manual. All weights and fuel capacities are estimates and
could/will vary with each vessel and with each application. In all cases, consult your local Pro-Line dealer for the
most current information.
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Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Pro-Line Boats 23 Express sport fishing boat. Welcome
into the proud family of satisfied Pro-Line owners. Every expedition lets you enjoy the outstanding
features designed into every boat we construct. Your new Pro-Line is more than just a boat, it's a whole
new lifestyle.
Pro-Line's commitment to the needs and wishes of the sport fishing family has resulted in a superior
fishing craft providing you with comfort, performance, security, and outstanding fishability. All of our boats
comply with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) safety regulations and are designed and crafted in accordance
with the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the American Boat and Yacht Council
(ABYC) standards, and the Common European directive (CE).
This manual (to be kept onboard your Pro-Line) is designed to provide you with information necessary for
the safe, efficient operation and care of your new Pro-Line. Take the time now to carefully review the
owner’s manual and the additional information in your owner’s package to maximize your enjoyment and
safety as well as familiarize yourself with your new boat.
We have prepared this manual to help you fully enjoy each voyage while operating your boat safely.
While the information in the manual cannot and does not cover every boating situation, we urge you to
read this manual carefully and familiarize yourself with the boat before using it. If a specific method or
procedure is not recommended, you must make sure that whatever action you take is safe for you, your
passengers and others on the water. Always use common sense when boating.
Specifications
Length Overall (LOA) 23’ 0” Maximum Horsepower 300 hp
Beam 8’ 6” Bridge Clearance
Draft (Hull) 17” to Top of Windshield 6’ 6”
Deadrise 20ow/Top 9’ 0”
Weight Fuel Capacity 125 gal.
Hull – w/o Engines 3,900 Fresh Water Capacity (Optional) 10 gal.
Trailerable 5,900 Baitwell Capacity 18 gal.
Cockpit Area 52 sq. ft. Fishbox Capacity (2 @ 40 gallons each) 80 gal.
Cockpit Depth 25” Porta-Potti Capacity 2.8 gal.
Dealer Responsibilities
Your dealer's responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Pre-delivery verification of proper rigging and operation. Deliver the boat in water ready
condition unless you and your dealer have agreed upon other arrangements.
• Complete the pre-delivery checklist with the customer at the time of delivery.
• Provide adequate orientation in the general operation of your Pro-Line including an
explanation of the specific safety considerations regarding the use of the systems and
components.
• Provide an explanation of the owner’s package and literature, including the warranty
registration cards for the vessel, engines and all of the separately warranted equipment
and accessories.
• Discuss the terms of all warranties and emphasize the importance of registering each
warranty with the specific manufacturers.
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• Repair any damages that may have occurred to the boat while the boat has been in the
dealer’s possession.
• Provide service to Pro-Line boat owners within the locality of the dealership.
• Explain local and out of area service procedures during and after the warranty periods.
Customer Responsibilities
• Review and sign the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) report for the boat and motors with
your dealer to ensure that your boat is in top condition when you take delivery.
• Examine the boat at time of delivery to insure that all systems and components are
functioning safely and properly. Report any outstanding issues (i.e., scratches, missing
items, etc.) to your dealer before or during the delivery of the boat.
• Read all literature and instructions to ensure proper usage and operation of the
equipment as well as how to use and maintain all equipment as directed.
• Read and understand the limited warranty. Sign the warranty registration card and mail
it to Pro-Line Boats.
• Contact your local Pro-Line dealer for assistance with any warrantable repairs.
• Transportation of your boat to and from your dealer or repair facility for warrantable
repairs.
• Schedule your 20-hour boat and engine check up with your dealer.
• Know your boat and the rules of the road before you use your boat.
• Be proficient in boat handling and safety. This manual is not intended to provide
complete training on all aspects of general boat operations. We at Pro-Line urge all boat
owners and operators to attend a boating safety course before operating a boat.
Owner’s Package
Each Pro-Line boat comes with an Owner’s Package that contains this Owner’s Manual along with
materials supplied by various manufacturers whose products have been installed on your boat.
Manufacturers of certain products (i.e., Stereo, TV, Stove, Refrigerator, Microwave, Engines, Electronics,
etc.) provide their own limited warranty and owner’s manuals. While we have endeavored to be as
accurate as possible in this manual, if you should notice a discrepancy between the information in this
manual and that of the individual supplier’s manual, always follow the instructions in the supplier’s
manual.
Make sure that you complete the individual warranty cards for these products and forward them on to the
respective manufacturers to register for your warranty with them. Retain all materials in your Pro-Line
Owner’s Package for easy reference.
Insurance and Registration
As the owner of the boat, you are legally responsible for all liabilities of operation. Secure insurance
protection with a reputable insurance company through your local insurance agent.
Learn about and operate your boat in accordance with local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and
registration requirements.
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Capacity Information
In accordance with the National Marine Manufacturers
Association (NMMA) and the American Boat and Yacht
Council (ABYC), all boats 26 feet in length or less are
required to display a capacity plate. Your boat is rated
for the following capacities.
• Maximum capacity of persons may not
exceed 8 passengers. The combined
weight of those passengers may not
exceed a total combined weight of 1,150
pounds.
• Total weight including passengers, motor
and gear may not exceed 2,000 pounds.
• Maximum horsepower is not to exceed
300.
These capacity standards are based on Standards and
Recommended Practices for Small Craft published by the
National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
Warranty
The Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty is attached to the warranty card. After signing the warranty card,
your dealer will provide you with your copy of the warranty and mail the warranty card to Pro-Line Boats,
Inc. A copy of the Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty is also included in this chapter.
The Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty extends only to parts that were factory installed. Dealer installed
items are the responsibility of the dealer. All warrantable repairs are to be completed by an authorized
Pro-Line dealer. Your dealer should be able to assist you with any service or warranty related issues.
If for any reason you are dissatisfied with the services performed by your dealer, we suggest that you
discuss the matter with the service manager. The service manager is responsible for the quality of
service being performed and has a direct interest in resolving your issues to your satisfaction. If the
matter is complicated and cannot be resolved to your satisfaction by the service manager, we suggest
that you talk to the general manager or owner. In most cases a compromise can be reached.
If the matter cannot be resolved by the dealership to your satisfaction, contact the Pro-Line Boats
Customer Service Department by calling 352-795-4111 or by writing to:
Pro-Line Boats, Customer Service Dept.
PO Box 1348
Crystal River, FL 34423-1348
FAX: [phone]
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So that your dealer and we can provide you with the best possible service, please have the following
information available when calling or writing:
 HIN (Hull Identification Number)
 Selling dealer’s name and location
 Servicing dealer (if different from selling dealer)
 Nature of problem
 Names of dealership personnel involved with the situation
 Record of service performed and approximate dates
When contacting Pro-Line Boats, please keep in mind that your issue will most likely be resolved at the
dealership, using their facilities, equipment, personnel and/or sublet repair facilities.
Note: There are items that are not covered by the Pro-Line Boats Limited Warranty, including but not
limited to the following:
• Incidental and consequential damages (i.e., storage charges, telephone or rental charges
of any type, inconvenience or loss of time or income).
• Damage caused by neglect, lack of maintenance, accident, abnormal operation, improper
installation or service.
• Haul-out, launch and towing charges.
• Transportation charges, service call charges and/or travel time to and from a repair
facility, customer’s home or marina.
• Service requested by customer other than that which is necessary to satisfy the warranty
obligation.
• Oils, lubricants or fluids used in normal maintenance.
• Air freight, next-day or second-day air, or any special delivery fees unless pre-approved.
• Gelcoat cracking, chalking, crazing, discoloration, yellowing or blistering.
• Hull blisters that form below the water line: Osmosis blistering is not covered by our
limited warranty. The phenomenon of osmotic blistering is known to occur in salt water,
brackish water and/or fresh water. Any boat left in the water for any period of time is
susceptible. Most marine bottom paint manufacturers offer coatings that help protect the
hull against osmosis blistering. We highly recommend that you add a protective coating
to your hull. Find out which type of bottom paint is recommended for your area and have
an epoxy barrier coat and bottom paint applied by a professional.
• Parts not installed by the factory
The Ten Year Limited Hull Structural Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for a nominal fee.
Please contact your dealer or Pro-Line Boats to obtain the applicable transfer form so that the new owner
will have piece of mind knowing that their pre-owned boat comes with the same structural hull warranty
protection that was afforded to the original owner.
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Safety
Your Pro-Line boat has been constructed with safety in mind. But, remember, boating safety and the
safety of your passengers is YOUR ultimate responsibility. You should fully understand the operations of
your vessel as well as the basics in boating safety.
Your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA) and the U.S. Power Squadrons (USPS) offer excellent
safe boating classes several times a year. If you have not already passed a boating safety course, we
recommend that you do so at your earliest convenience.
Plan your trips carefully. Insure ample fuel supply and a reserve. Tell someone where you are going and
when you expect to return. Keep current charts onboard. Read USCG boating safety circulars and follow
the safety guidelines.
Carbon Monoxide
Be aware of and avoid conditions that can cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning (see USCG boating safety
circular 77). Sources of Carbon Monoxide (CO) include any gas or diesel engine and any flame from
items such as a charcoal grill, stove or heater. Carbon Monoxide can accumulate to deadly levels in
enclosed spaces. Always ventilate occupied areas of the vessel with fresh clean air.
In high concentrations, CO can be fatal within minutes. The effects of CO in lower concentrations are
cumulative and can be just as lethal over long periods of time. CO poisoning is often confused with
seasickness. So be aware of the following CO symptoms: Itchy and watery eyes, flushed appearance,
throbbing temples, inability to think coherently, ringing in the ears, tightness across the chest, headaches,
drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting, collapse and convulsions.
Do not stand or swim near the motor when the engine is idling.
Carbon monoxide can harm and even kill you inside or outside your boat!
Did you also know:
• CO symptoms are similar to seasickness or alcohol intoxication?
• CO can affect you whether you're underway, moored or anchored?
• You cannot see, smell or taste CO?
• CO can make you sick in seconds? In high enough concentrations, even a few breaths
can be fatal.
Most important of all, did you know CO poisonings are preventable? Every boater should be aware of
the risks associated with CO - what it is; where it may accumulate; and the symptoms of CO poisoning.
To protect yourself, your passengers and those around you, learn all you can about CO.
Emergency Treatment for CO Poisoning
CO poisoning or toxicity is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. The following is
a list of things that should be done if CO poisoning is suspected. Proceed with caution. The victim may
be in an area of high CO concentration, which means you or others could also be in danger from
exposure to CO.
• Evaluate the situation and ventilate the area, if possible.
• Evacuate the area and move affected person(s) to a fresh air environment.
• Observe the victim(s).
• Administer oxygen, if available.
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• Contact medical help. If the victim is not breathing, perform rescue breathing or
approved cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as appropriate, until medical help arrives.
Prompt action can mean the difference between life and death.
• Shut off potential sources of CO, if possible. Correct ventilation problems and/or repair
exhaust problems as appropriate. Investigate the source of CO and take corrective
action, such as evacuating and ventilating the area, or shutting off the source of the CO
while at the same time evacuating and ventilating the area.
Where CO May Accumulate - Carbon Monoxide can accumulate anywhere in or around your boat
as shown in the following pictures:
Inadequately ventilated canvas enclosures.
Exhaust gas trapped in enclosed places.
Blocked exhaust outlets.
Another vessel's exhaust. CO from the boat docked next to you can
be just as deadly.
"Station wagon effect" or back drafting.
At slow speeds, while idling, or stopped. Be aware that CO can
remain in or around your boat at dangerous levels, even if your
engine or the other boat's engine is no longer running!
How to Protect Others & Yourself
You are in command of your boating safety. Follow these simple steps to help keep Carbon Monoxide
from poisoning you, your passengers or others around you.
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• Know where and how CO may accumulate in and around your boat.
• Maintain fresh air circulation throughout the boat at all times. Run exhaust blowers
whenever the generator is operating.
• Know where your engine and generator exhaust outlets are located and keep everyone
away from these areas.
• Never sit, teak surf or hang on the back deck or swim platform while the engines are
running. (Teak Surfing is a new and dangerous boating fad that involves an individual
holding on to the “teak” swim platform of a vessel while a wake builds up then lets go to
body surf on the wave created by the boat; hence the term - Teak Surfing.) Teak surfing
is never a safe activity.
• Never enter areas under swim platforms where exhaust outlets are located unless the
area has been properly ventilated.
• Although CO can be present without the smell of exhaust fumes, if you smell exhaust
fumes, CO is also present. Take immediate action to dissipate these fumes.
• Treat symptoms of seasickness as possible CO poisoning. Get the person into fresh air
immediately. Seek medical attention unless you are sure it is not CO.
• Install and maintain CO alarms inside your boat. Do not ignore any alarm. Replace
alarms as recommended by the alarm manufacturer.
• Get a Vessel Safety Check. A VSC is a free bow-to-stern safety examination.
Fire
• Be aware of and avoid conditions that can lead to accidental fire.
• Guard against and watch for fuel spills and leaks.
• Inspect wiring for damage or exposure that could lead to short circuits or arcing.
• Make sure those who smoke are careful to avoid accidental fire ignition.
• Do not allow smoking while fueling.
• Keep a USCG approved fire extinguisher on board at all times.
• Inspect the fire extinguisher regularly, learn how to use it properly and instruct others as
well.
• Use water to fight a fire as a last resort after making arrangements to abandon the boat if
a fire should get out of control.
• Keep the following in mind if a fire is burning out of control and you must abandon the
boat:
o Abandon the boat into the wind to minimize burn risk from floating fuel.
o Wear a PFD unless you must swim under burning fuel.
o If swimming under burning fuel, throw a PFD outside of the burning area
and swim under the burning fuel to it.
Equipment
USCG regulations require that you have the following Coast Guard approved equipment onboard while
operating your boat:
• Fire extinguisher(s)
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each occupant
• One throwable PFD
• Sound signal device
• Navigational lights if operated at night
• Sight signal device approved for day and night use when in coastal waters or the great
lakes
In addition, here is a list of suggested equipment you should have aboard your Pro-Line:
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• First aid kit and blankets • Anchor and sea anchor with sufficient line
• Mooring lines and fenders • Bailing device
• Combination oar/boat hook • Tool kit and lubricant
• Spare prop and hardware • Spare fasteners, hose clamps and plugs
• Spare fuses and bulbs • Binoculars
• Local charts and compass • Waterproof flashlight and spare batteries
• 2 way radio • EPIRB (emergency beacon)
• Floating key chain and spare keys • Navigation device
• Emergency food and water • Waterproof matches or lighter
Flooding
Be aware of and avoid conditions that can cause your boat to flood with water. Possible causes of
flooding include:
• Damage to the hull or thru-hull fitting
• Waves washing into the boat
• Water entering cockpit due to improper loading
• Failure to properly install the drain plug.
The boat will become flooded and may swamp, capsize or sink if water enters the boat faster than the
bilge pump can expel it.
Hazardous Conditions
Keep track of weather developments and avoid hazardous conditions whenever possible. When forced to
operate your Pro-Line in storm conditions:
• Wear PFD's.
• Stow loose gear and equipment.
• Place heavy items as low as possible.
• Head for the easiest port to reach a safe location.
• Reduce speed. You are moving too fast if the boat leaves the water.
• If power fails, anchor or rig a sea anchor off the bow (an empty ice chest in a pinch).
• Stay with the boat if it capsizes, unless it is burning out of control.
Passenger Safety
You are responsible for the safety and conduct of your passengers. Make sure that:
• You instruct your passengers on the proper use and location of PFD's. Children and
non-swimmers should wear one at all times.
• Each passenger is in a safe location when underway and knows to keep the boat
balanced.
• At least one other person knows how to operate the boat in case of an emergency.
• Your passengers are aware of propeller dangers and the possibility of sudden maneuvers
and jolts.
• The engine is turned off and the key is removed when swimmers are near the prop or
using the dive platform.
• All passengers keep away from lines under stress in case they break and recoil.
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Regulations
The USCG is the authority of all waterways. Local authorities enforce State Boating Regulations. You
are subject to marine traffic laws and "Rules of the Road" for both federal and state waterways.
Therefore, you must submit to boarding if requested by the proper authority. There are many publications
available from the Coast Guard concerning regulations. Call the United States Coast Guard Info Line at
(800)-368-5647 for additional information.
Rules of the Road
Know and use the “Rules of the Road”. Your boat is subject to U.S. Coast Guard enforced marine traffic
laws known as “Rules of the Road.” There are two sets of rules: the US Inland Navigation Rules and the
International Rules. The latter rules are applicable to all vessels inside the demarcation lines separating
inland and international waters. You may obtain a copy of the rules from any of the following and by
requesting the publication titled “Navigational Rules, International - Inland.”
• Your local USGC
• The United States Coast Guard Info Line (800)-368-5647
• The USCG Headquarters by logging on to uscg.mil
The information here is only a “brief” overview. Please contact the USCG for detailed information.
• Audible warning signals:
o One short horn blast: starboard course change.
o Two short horn blasts: port course change.
o Three short horn blasts: astern operation.
o Five horn blasts: doubt about previous signal or danger.
o A Five-second horn blast every minute: for fog operation.
• When overtaking, give-way vessel announces intention with horn blast(s) and waits for a
response, then completes maneuver.
• When approaching head-on, both boats give way after giving appropriate horn blast(s)
(preferably to starboard).
• When crossing, a vessel converging from starboard has the right-of-way. Port vessel
gives way (both acknowledge with one short horn blast).
• Know and observe navigational buoys and markers.
• Give way to craft under sail.
Alcohol
Don't drink and drive. If you have been drinking, appoint someone who is an experienced boater and has
not been drinking to be the designated driver. Never operate a boat under the influence of drugs or
alcohol. Operation of motorized vessels while under the influence is a Federal offense carrying a
significant penalty.
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Controls
Controls and engine systems vary greatly from one engine manufacturer to another. Please read your
engine owner’s manual carefully.
Note: If your engine package was not factory installed, some components that are
normally standard installations may not be included.
Throttle & Shift Controls
Ignition – Binnacle, Forward, Neutral and Reverse Gear Operation
The binnacle on the 23 Express is located at the console forward of the helm seat. To ensure that the
binnacle is working properly, shift the binnacle forward to put the engine in forward gear. Make sure the
engine shifts smoothly into idle with no grinding of the gears. Bring the binnacle back into neutral and
repeat the same process while going into reverse. Again, ensure that there are no gears grinding. It is
important to check the binnacle at wide-open throttle (WOT) to ensure the binnacle is not stiff and
operates smoothly while going into the WOT position.
Actual binnacle will vary depending upon the engine package that was selected.
Key Switch Alarm
The key switch alarm is located in the binnacle and sounds when the ignition key is turned on. The key
switch alarm is actually a warning alarm that goes off when any overheating problems may occur with the
engine. To check the key switch alarm, turn the ignition key to the right but do not start the engine. The
alarm will sound ensuring that the engine warning alarm is working properly. When finished, turn the key
off.
Lanyard Stop Switch
To ensure the lanyard stop switch (also called the emergency stop feature) on the engine works properly,
first turn on the ignition key and start up the engine. While the engine is running, locate the lanyard stop
switch. The lanyard stop switch is installed in close proximity to the binnacle or the ignition key. While
the engine is running in the neutral position, pull the lanyard stop switch downward until the plastic
element at the end of the lanyard pulls the stop switch pin into the off position. This process will
automatically stop the engine and will ensure that the emergency lanyard stop switch is working properly.
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Shift / Throttle / Trim
Your Pro-Line can be ordered with different shift/throttle systems based upon motor type. Refer to the
owner's packet to find the manual pertaining to your particular installation. Each motor has an individual
tilt/trim switch located on the port throttle lever. Separate shift and throttle controls are available for each
outboard motor.
The throttle lever has three range positions: “Forward”, “Neutral”, and “Reverse”. The shift function
occurs in the first portion of the lever travel. After the transmission is shifted into gear, further movement
of the lever advances the throttle.
Push the throttle lever ahead to move forward and pull it back for reverse. Centralize the lever to the
detent position for neutral. The throttle lever is equipped with a neutral safety switch to prevent the motor
from starting in gear. The initial short movement of the lever to engage the transmission should be made
firmly to avoid causing gear clash.
CAUTION: Use care in shifting to avoid advancing the throttle more than intended.
Steering
Steering systems will differ depending upon your selection of engine package. Please carefully read the
owner’s manual provided by the specific manufacturer.
Check your particular engine specifications for details specific to your engine package. Always follow the
engine manufacturers recommendations relating to the care and maintenance of their product.
Hydraulic Steering (Verado – Power)
Your Pro-Line is equipped with a self-contained hydraulic steering system when your engine is factory
installed. When the steering wheel is turned, the helm pump pumps fluid to the steering cylinder causing
it to extend or retract. Periodically, check the fluid level and fill as necessary. Beware of adding too much
fluid, especially if the ambient temperature is cold because subsequent expansion could cause leaking or
damage to your system. Refer to the owner’s manual that was provided by your engine manufacturer.
After every 24 hours of operation check all nuts, caps, and hose fittings for tightness. Make sure the
hoses are not chafing or kinking on sharp corners. Also, check that hose ends are not damaged or
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distorted. The fluid should be changed annually under normal conditions and every six months during
times of heavy usage. If your steering does not operate properly, check the following:
• Drive entanglements
• Level of the hydraulic steering fluid
• Hoses and/or fittings for leaks
• Air in the steering system.
To properly check the steering system on the 23 Express, start by turning the steering wheel port to
starboard. If the engine does not respond the same time as the steering wheel is being turned, this
means that there is air in the steering system and the steering system needs re-bleeding. When there is
air in the steering, the steering wheel will feel “loose”. Contact your dealer to have them bleed the
steering system.
Hydraulic Tilt Upgrade (Optional)
Tilt steering is available when your engine package includes hydraulic steering.
Power Trim
The power trim unit is located on the engine and can be operated by using the trim button on the engine
or by using the trim toggle switch on the binnacle. To ensure the power trim is working, start by pressing
the toggle trim switch in the up position and trim the engine to the full up position. Repeat the same
process by pressing the trim toggle switch down and the engine will go into the full down position. See
the Trim and Tilt information in the Operations section of this manual.
Steering Wheel
The stainless steel steering wheel is mounted at the helm
along with the binnacle, switch panel and other controls.
Please refer to the Care and Maintenance section of this
manual for cleaning recommendations.
Trim Tabs with Indicators (Optional)
The trim tabs on the 23 Express come equipped with auto retract. The planing tabs are located on each
side of the transom on the bottom of the hull. The trim tabs operate independently, up or down, to correct
for differing conditions of wind or load. Refer to the owner’s packet for specific information.
Check the operations of your trim tabs before getting underway. To operate the trim tabs locate the trim
tab rocker switches on the console. Press both switches forward and hold them down. This will engage
both trim tabs and will ensure they are working properly while in the full down position.
The switch on the port side operates the starboard trim tab. The switch on the starboard side operates
the port trim tab. To check each trim tab individually, press one of the trim tab rocker switches forward
and check to see if the opposite trim tab goes down. For example if the starboard trim tab switch is being
pressed down, the port trim tab should be going down. Repeat the same process for the opposite side.
While underway and in open water, clear of other boaters, depress the top half of the switches in half-
second increments to achieve the desired degree of trim. To correct a starboard list, depress the top half
of the port switch in small increments until the list is corrected. To avoid over trim, allow a few seconds
between tab adjustments to allow the boat to respond. If you over trim, simply give the over trimmed tab
an adjustment in the opposite direction. Push the top half of both rocker switches in half-second
increments to trim the bow down.
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