Pro-Line Boats 33 Express User manual

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Table of Contents
I. Introduction………. Page 5
Dealer/Customer responsibilities
II. Safety……….Page 5
Regulations
Equipment
Passenger safety
Rules of the road
Hazardous conditions
Alcohol
Carbon monoxide
Fire
Flooding
III. Controls……….Page 7
Ignition
Shift/Throttle
Steering
Instruments
Switches
Trim Tabs
IV. Systems……….Page 12
FreshWater
SeaWater
Head/ Waste
AC/Heat
Fuel/Oil
Electrical
Eco-Sound Exhaust System
After Market Accessories
V. Operation and Performance……….Page 30
Loading
Fueling
Starting
Service and Care
Winterization, Storage, Mooring
Propeller
VI. Service and Care……….Page 31
Fiberglass/Gelcoat
Marine Growth
Plexiglass
Stainless steel/Aluminum
Canvas
Upholstery: Vinyl, Fabric
Corrosion Protection – Zinc Anodes
Winterization, Storage, Mooring

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VII. Miscellaneous
Trouble Shooting Chart……….Page 35
Important Data For Identifying Your Boat……….Page 36
Specifications……….Page 38
Nautical Terms……….Page 40 through Page 49
Basic Seamanship……….Page 50
Accident Form……….Page 55 & Page 56
Rules of Seamanship……….Page 58
Navigational and Lateral Aids……….Page 62 & Page 63
Maintenance Log
Float Plan
Waterline Dimensions
Electrical Drawings
ILLUSTRATIONS
1. Helm Station……….Page 8
2. Warning Placard……….Page 10
3. Trim Tab Operation……….Page 11
4. Marine Sanitation Installation……….Page 13
5. Seacock & Raw Water Strainer……….Page 14
6. Water Systems……….Page 15
7. Battery Switch Drawing……….Page 18
8. Battery Switch Panel Drawing……….Page 19
9. Battery Switch Panel Photograph……….Page 21
10. Helm Constant Power Photograph……….Page 21
11. Eco Sound Exhaust Auto Cad Drawings……….Page 22
12. Eco Sound No Load Warnings……….Page 23
13. Eco Sound Sling Locations……….Page 24
14. Eco Sound Photographs……….Page 25
15. Steering Installation, Lower Station……….Page 27
16. Steering Installation, Upper Station……….Page 28
17. Plastic & Trash Warning Placard……….Page 52
18. Oil Discharge Warning Placard……….Page 53
19. Warning Placards……….Page 54
20. Accident Report Form……….Page 55 & 56
21. Waterline Dimensions……….Page 57
22. Navigational Aids Chart……….Page 62
23. Lateral Aids As See Entering From Seaward……….Page 63
24. Fuel Log……….Page 54 & Page 65
25. Maintenance Log……….Page 66 & Page 67
26. Float Plan Format……….Page 68
27. Main Wiring Harness……….(Pull-out rear pages)

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Introduction
Congratulations! You are now the proud owner of a new Pro-Line 33 Express fishing boat.
Welcome to 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 lifestyle.
Pro-Line’s commitment to the needs and wishes of the professional sport fisherman has resulted
in a superior fishing craft, providing you with comfort, performance, security and fish-ability.
All of our boats comply with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) safety regulations. They are designed
and crafted in accordance with the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA),
American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) standards, and the optional Common European
directive (CE),
This manual (to be kept onboard your Pro-Line) is designed to provide you with information
necessary for safe, efficient operation and care of your new Pro-Line. To maximize your
enjoyment and safety, take the time now to carefully review the documentation in your owner’s
pack and this manual, and really get to know your boat.
Dealer’s Duties
Your dealer's responsibilities include but are not limited to:
* Pre-delivery verification of proper rigging and operation.
* Providing adequate orientation in general operation of your Pro-Line. This includes an explanation of
specific safety considerations regarding the use of systems and components.
An explanation of owner’s packet literature and warranty registration cards for all separately
warranted equipment and accessories.
* Explaining local and out of area service procedures during and out of warranty periods.
Customer Responsibilities
*Be proficient in boat handling and safety. - THIS MANUAL IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE
COMPLETE TRAINING ON ALL ASPECTS OF GENERAL BOAT OPERATION.
* Read and understand the limited warranty.
* Read all literature and instructions and use and maintain all equipment as directed.
* Examine the boat at time of delivery to ensure that all systems function normally.
* Learn about and operate boat in accordance with local, state and federal laws, regulations and
registration forms.
* The owner is legally responsible for all liabilities of operation – secure insurance protection.
Safety
Your Pro-Line boat has been constructed with safety in mind, however the ultimate safety of you and your
passengers is in your hands. Plan your trips carefully. Insure ample fuel supply and reserve. Tell someone where
you are going and when you expect to return. Keep current charts onboard. Read and observe USCG
boating safety circulars.
Regulations
The USCG is the authority of all the waterways. State local authorities enforce boating regulations. You are
subject to marine traffic laws and "Rules of the Road" on federal and state waterways, and must submit to
boarding if requested by proper authority. There are many publications available from the Coast Guard
concerning regulations and more. For additional information call the boating safety hot line at 1(800) 368-5647.

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Equipment
USCG regulations require the following equipment while operating your boat:
* Fire extinguisher
* Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each occupant
* One throw-able PFD
* Sound signal device
* Navigational lights if operated at night
* Sight signal (flare- night, orange flag- day) when in coastal waters or Great Lakes.
* Anchor and sufficient line
In addition, here is a list of suggested equipment you should have aboard your Pro-Line:
* First aid kit and blankets * Sea anchor with line
* Mooring lines and fenders * Bailing device
* Combination oar / boat hook * Tool kit and lubricant
* Spare prop, nut & washer * Spare fasteners, hose clamps, plugs
* Spare fuses and bulbs * Binoculars or telescope
* Local charts and compass * Water proof flashlight
* 2 way radio (with proper license) * EPIRB (emergency beacon)
* Floating key chain & spare keys * Navigation device
* Emergency food and water * Waterproof matches or lighter.
Passenger Safety
You are responsible for the safety and conduct of your passengers, make sure that:
* You instruct passengers on proper use and location of PFD’s. Children and non-swimmers should
wear one at all times.
* When underway each passenger is in a safe location, and knows to keep the boat balanced.
* At least one other person knows how to operate the boat in case of emergency.
* They are aware of dangers of the prop, and the possibility of sudden maneuvers and jolts.
* To turn the engine off and remove key when swimmers are near the propellers or when using the
dive platform.
* All keep away from lines under stress should they break and recoil.
Rules of the Road
Know and use the rules of the road, the information here is only a brief overview. For detailed information contact
the USCG.
Audible warning signals:
* One short horn blast: starboard course change.
* Two short horn blasts: port course change.
* Three short horn blasts: astern operation.
* Five horn blasts: doubt about previous signal, or danger.
* A single five-second blast every minute for fog operation
When overtaking give-way vessel announces intention with horn blast(s) and waits for same response then
completes maneuver.
When approaching head-on, both boats give way after giving appropriate horn blast (Preferably starboard).
When crossing, a vessel converging from the starboard has right of way, the port vessel gives way (both
acknowledge with one short horn blast).
Know and observe navigational buoys and markers.
Give way to craft under sail.

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Hazardous Conditions
Keep track of weather developments and avoid hazardous conditions, 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 to reach safe location.
* Reduce speed. If the boat leaves the water, you're moving too fast.
* If power fails, rig a sea anchor off the bow (an empty ice chest in a pinch).
* Stay with boat if it capsizes, unless it is burning out of control.
Alcohol
Never operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so is a Federal
offense.Don't drink and drive. If you have been drinking have someone drive who has not been drinking.
Carbon Monoxide
Be aware of and avoid conditions that can cause carbon monoxide poisoning (see USCG boating safety circular
77). Sources of carbon monoxide include any gas or diesel engine, any flame such as a charcoal grill, stove or
heater. Carbon monoxide can accumulate to deadly levels in enclosed spaces. Always ventilate occupied areas of
vessel with fresh clean air.
Fire
Be aware of and avoid conditions that 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
vigilant. Smoking is an ignition source that can start a fire. Don't allow smoking while fueling. Keep a USCG
approved fire extinguisher aboard at all times. Inspect the fire extinguisher regularly. Learn how to properly use
it and instruct other how to use it. Use water to fight fire as a last resort and then only after making arrangements
to abandon the boat if a fire should get out of control.
If a fire is burning out of control and you must abandon the boat keep the following in mind:
* Abandon the boat into the wind to minimize burn risk from floating fuel.
* Wear a PFD unless you must swim under burning fuel.
* If swimming under burning fuel throw a PFD outside of the burning area and swim under it.
Flooding
Be aware of the conditions that can cause your boat to flood with water and avoid them.
Possible causes of flooding include damage to hull or thru-hull fitting, waves washing into the boat, and water-
entering cockpit due to improper loading. If you allow water to enter the boat faster than the bilge pump can
expel it, the boat will become flooded and may capsize or sink.
Controls
Ignition
The ignition switch has three positions; off, on, and start. To start the engine, attach the safety lanyard, turn the
key clockwise against the spring pressure to the start position. As soon as the engine starts release clockwise
pressure allowing the spring tension to return the switch to the on position. If the engine fails to start in 5 seconds
of cranking allow the starter to cool off for 10 seconds and then repeat this procedure. For detailed instructions
see the engine manual located in the Important Papers Pack.
Safety Shut Down
The Safety shut down switch shuts off the engine in case the operator is thrown from the boat or incapacitated. To
ensure proper functions always attach the lanyard securely to the operator.

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Shift/Throttle
Your Pro-Line can be ordered with several different shift and throttle systems. Refer to the owner's packet to find
the manual pertaining to your particular installation. Separate throttles control the speed of each motor. Push the
levers ahead for full throttle; pull fully back for idle. Throttle back to idle before shifting into or out of gear.
Avoid over speeding the motors. The shift levers each have three positions, forward, neutral, and reverse. To
shift into forward push all shift levers fully ahead as one unit, pull all the way back for reverse. When starting the
engines, centralize the levers to the detent for neutral. The shift levers are equipped with a neutral safety switch to
prevent the motor from starting in gear. The shift levers can be operated independently for precise maneuvering
(do so at slow speed only). Refer to the engine manuals in your owner’s packet for more specific information.
Figure 1 - Helm Station
Steering
Your Pro-Line is equipped with a self-contained hydraulic steering system. The helm is a manually operated
hydraulic pump. When the steering wheel is turned the helm pumps fluid into one side of the cylinder and
evacuates fluid from the opposite side of the steering cylinder. This will extend or retract the steering rod, causing
the boat to turn. Periodically check the fluid level and fill if necessary. If the system needs fluid, refer to steering
manual in the important papers packet. After every 24 hours of operation check all nuts, caps, and hose fittings
for signs of leaking fluid and tighten if necessary. Check that the hoses are not chafing, or kinking on sharp
corners. Also check that hose ends are not damaged or distorted by the clamps. If your steering does not operate
properly, check the fluid level first, then look for leaking hoses or fittings and finally for air in the system. Read
STEERING INSTRUCTIONS located in the important papers packet. Notify your dealer immediately if any
problems occur with the steering system.
Instruments
Your Pro-Line instrumentation will vary according to the engine models that your boat has. Therefore the
following descriptions are general. For more specific questions that you may have, or for detailed information,
contact your dealer.
Fuel Gauge
Differences in temperature, humidity, speed and trim can affect fuel use and possibly the accuracy of this gauge. It
is important to verify the fuel flow in gallons per hour for your boat and make note of your gauge position with
respect to time for different RPM settings. No gauge can give 100% accuracy. If you notice unusually high or low
fuel consumption, investigate further to see if the engine is using more fuel than normal. Then check to see if
tank gauge has failed. Consult your dealer if there is any question about how much fuel is on board. You should
keep records of fuel you use on the pages marked “Fuel Log” in the back of this manual.

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Water Temperature
The water temperature gauge indicates the internal water temperature of your engine. Your engine is equipped
with a thermostat to quickly bring the engine up to its optimum operating temperature range. Read the engine
manual for exact readings. Your engines are equipped with an audio alarm system indicating an over-heat
condition. If the gauge or alarm indicates an over heat condition, immediately shut the engine off. Then you
must close the seacock and open the water strainers to inspect for obstructions such as aquatic vegetation or mud.
After finding the source of the over heating, restart engine and confirm that the over heat problem has been solved
by monitoring the temperature gauges and listening for the audio alarm. The Eco Sound by pass tubes will allow
exhaust gases to escape by way of the 2” through hull fittings when the boat is not on plane. These fittings are
located above the water line and all the way aft on both of the hull sides. There will be no water flowing out of
these fittings, so it is important to monitor the gauge to determine if the cooling water is flowing freely through
the engine once again.
Oil Pressure
The oil pressure gauge should be checked immediately when starting the engine. The pressure range is available
in the engine manual. Your engines are equipped with an audio alarm system indicating a low oil pressure
condition. Follow the procedures recommended in the engine manual and if low oil pressure exists consult your
dealer.
Volt Meter
The voltmeter indicates battery voltage. A normal reading is between 12 to 15.5 volts.
Never leave port if the battery condition is not correct. You may not be able to restart your engines with batteries
that are not properly charged. Notify your dealer immediately if the gauge readings are not correct. Check battery
voltage prior to starting and again after the engine is running at idle to insure a properly working charging system.
Tachometer
The tachometer indicates the revolutions per minute (RPM) of your engine. Do not operate the engine beyond the
limits stated in your engine manual. Abnormally low tachometer readings (for a given throttle setting) indicate a
loss of engine performance. Check the prop first. A reading higher than normal indicates a ventilating or
cavitating propeller or propeller damage. Notify your dealer before operating your boat under these conditions.
Rudder Indicator
There is a sender installed on the starboard side aft that sends information to a gauge at the helm. This will
display the rudder position when the ignition is turned ON.
Speedometer
The speedometer indicates the speed of your boat in Miles per hour (MPH).
The gauge operates by sensing water impact pressure from the pitot tube mounted on the transom. If the gauge
fails to give a reading, check for a blocked or loose pickup.
Options
See your dealer for the options list for this model boat. Options installed at the factory will have operating and
maintenance instructions located in the important papers packet.
Switches
Windlass
Refer to the windlass manual for operation of the windlass. A 30 Amp breaker located next to the windlass switch
mounted on the console protects the Windlass.
Lights
For operation at night, your Pro-Line is equipped with navigation and anchor lights to indicate your position to
other boaters. While running after dark the navigation lights are required to be on and visible to other boaters.
Visually verify operation and lack of obstructions. Lights are also provided for the cockpit, bait-well, helm and
cabin.

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BilgePump
Your Pro-Line is equipped with an automatic bilge pump system with a manual override. The pump is located at
the aft end of the bilge at the keel. The pump is mounted as low as possible. If the pump runs for a long time it
may mean that water is entering the bilge faster than the pump can expel it. Investigate and correct the cause
immediately. The automatic float switch is wired directly to the battery selector switch through a circuit breaker
located on the battery switch panel. Read page 17 for more information about the battery switch panel. Keep the
bilge area clean and free from debris that could block the bilge pump ports. The helm switch overrides normal
automatic operation on the primary pump. Circuit breakers are located at the helm. Keep the battery charged that
powers the bilge pumps. If the battery is discharged and flooding occurs, the boat could sink causing damage and
possible loss of life or property.
Blower
Operating the blowers prior to starting the engine is a procedure that must be followed. Always operate the
blower for a minimum of four minutes and check bilge for fumes before starting the engine. Operate the blower
whenever the engine is running, the boat is stopped or when you are running at low speeds. At planing speed air
will be forced into the bilge and will ventilate the engine compartment without running the blowers.
WARNING
Gasoline Vapors Can Explode
Before starting the engine check the
bilge and engine compartments for
gasoline or vapors. Operate blower
four minutes prior to starting engine.
Run blowers below cruising speeds.
Figure 2 - Fuel Warning Placard
Breaker Switches
Circuit breakers or fuses protect the wiring on your Pro-Line. Breakers are located next to the switches or on the
main breaker panel. If a device stops working immediately check to see if the circuit breaker is tripped or the fuse
is blown. A tripped breaker will protrude from its set position, indicating that the circuit has been overloaded.
Turn off the device(s) on the circuit then reset the breaker by pushing in once. If the breaker does not reset or if it
resets and then pops out again after the device is turned back on, then a short circuit exists or your device may be
damaged, overloaded or faulty. Correct the problem and then reset the breaker. If the breaker continues to pop
and you are certain the device, switch and wiring are in good repair; either the breaker is too small for the load or
it is faulty. Reduce the load or replace the breaker. Have this work done by your dealer or a certified marine
electrician.
Shaft Alignment
Aligning the engine with the propeller shaft is critical for smooth operation of your Pro-Line. The shafts are
properly aligned at the factory, but may change slightly after the boat is in use. Have your dealer heck the
alignment after delivery or after an extended lay-up. A slight misalignment can result in a loss of power, a
vibration or wear in the bearings. Your dealer should check the alignment occasionally, particularly if there is a
vibration, drumming sound or a loss of RPM.

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Shaft Seal Inspection
Your 33 Express propeller shafts will have dripless packing as a standard feature. Water is supplied to the seals
by providing cool raw water under pressure from each engine raw water pump. A crossover system provides for
water to be supplied to a seal even if one engine is not running. As the name implies, there will be no water
dripping as in a standard packing seal. Inspecting these seals should be part of your regular maintenance
schedule.
BENNETT TRIM TABS
Figure 3 - Trim Tab Operation
Trim Tab Operation
The optional trim tabs operate independently up or down to correct for differing conditions of wind or load.
Indicators show the relative position of the tabs in relation to the hull. For specific information refer to owners
packet. Before the boat is underway depress the bottom half of both switches until the tabs are fully elevated
(bow up position) while underway and in open water clear of other boaters, depress the top half of the switches in
half second bursts to achieve the desired degree of trim.
To correct a starboard list give the top half of the port switch a series of bursts until the list is corrected. To avoid
over trim, allow a few seconds between bursts to allow the boat to respond (if you over trim simply give the over
trimmed tab a burst or two in the opposite direction).
To trim the bow down push the top half of both rockers switch in half -second bursts.
Warning: Trim tabs can cause a dramatic change in the attitude and heading of your
boat. Adjust them only when in open water and clear of any obstructions.
Adjustments are to be made in small increments only.
Systems
Fresh Water System
The fresh water pump on your Pro-Line supplies water on demand when a drop in water pressure activates the
pressure switch. The manual switch located at the helm energizes the pump. A dockside fitting is provided. The

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plumbing is not designed for sustained high pressure. Do not leave the dock side water hooked up or switch on
while the boat is unattended or flooding and pump damage may result. Do not run the pump dry. A fresh water
tank supplies the sink and the shower. The tank and pump are accessible for maintenance or repair.
Warning: Operate the fresh water pump only when there is water in the tank. Running the system without
water may cause damage to the pump and will cause it to overheat. The pump will not automatically turn off
when the tank is empty. If the breaker switch is left on when the tank is empty, the pump will run and overheat.
Initial System Startup
1. Fill the tank approximately ½ to ¾ full. The tank has a capacity of 40 gallons.
2. Turn the FRESH WATER PUMP switch on.
3. Open each cold-water faucet, beginning with the faucet furthest from the water tank to let air escape.
Close the faucet when the water flow becomes steady and leave it close.
4. Open a hot water faucet to fill the water heater and allow air to escape from the line. Close the faucet.
5. Open each hot water faucet beginning with the faucet furthest from the water heater and allow the air
to escape. Close the faucet when the water flow becomes steady and leave it closed.
6. The pump will run until the system is pressurized and then shut off.
7. Fill the tank to its capacity.
Sea Water System
The bait-well switch controls a pump mounted on a seacock in the bilge. An overflow tube is provided that is
inserted into the drain to allow circulation to keep bait alive. The wash down pump is mounted just above the
bilge pump in the bilge. The pump is equipped with a pressure switch. Turn the main switch off if the pump is not
going to be used soon. Raw water is taken in by the thru-hull fitting with a seacock. A strainer on the pump filters
the raw water. The filter must be cleaned as needed to avoid pump damage. Seacocks on all below water line
fittings should be closed when not in use.
Fuel
The fuel tank on your Pro-Line is made of heavy gauge aluminum with internal baffling to minimize sloshing.
The tank is vented overboard. Inspect the vent for obstructions regularly. Deck plate access ports are placed over
the hose connections and the sending unit. Inspect the hose connections on a regular basis. Check for an odor of
fuel in the bilge. Check to see if any fuel is in the bilge. Water separating fuel filter units are located in the
engine room, usually on the engine. The spin on cartridges should be changed at least seasonally, more often
depending on use and conditions.
WARNING!! Avoid serious injury or death from fire or explosion resulting from leaking
fuel. You must inspect the fuel system for leaks at least once a year.
WARNING
LEAKING FUEL IS A FIRE &
EXPLOSION HAZARD. INSPECT
SYSTEM REGULARLY. EXAMINE FUEL
SYSTEM FOR LEAKS OR CORROSION AT
LEAST ANNUALLY.

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Typical Seacock and Raw Water
Strainer
Figure 5 - Seacock and Strainer
Your boat will have seacocks to shut off openings below the waterline in emergencies or when removing various
components for repair. A seacock is open when its handle is in line with the hose as shown above. Seacocks are
normally near the units they serve. Close all seacocks when the boat will be unattended for extended periods.
The seacock will have a sea strainer to protect the system it serves from clogging. It will provide an easy way to
remove occasional debris by opening the top to remove and clean the basket. Periodic inspection and removal of
any debris is essential regular maintenance for effective operation of the unit it serves. The frequency of these
inspections will vary depending on the amount of use and the local conditions.
To clean a sea strainer, start by shutting the seacock OFF. Then, and only then should you remove the wing nut
and cover, lift out the strainer basket and remove all debris. Reinstall the basket and cover. Tighten the wing
nut securely and OPEN the seacock.
Note: Periodic inspections and removal of debris is essential.
Note: Operate and lubricate seacocks frequently to keep them in good operating condition.

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Note: Close all of the seacocks on your boat when it is unattended for long periods of time.

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