Ranger Fisherman Series User manual

A MESSAGE FROM
RANGER FOUNDER,
FORREST WOOD
Congratulations! You and your new
Ranger are part of a celebrated legacy
of leadership spanning over four
decades. From the first six boats built
in 1968, Ranger has grown into an
internationally known household name.
Today, it’s the boat of choice for the
world’s most accomplished anglers as
well as Chevrolet, NASCAR, Cabela’s,
the Wal-Mart FLW Tour and countless
other leading organizations around the
globe. Most importantly, though, it’s your
boat of choice and we’re truly honored to
be a part of your family and the dreams and
memories you’ll share with others. As the
owner of a new Ranger boat, you’re eligible for
even more benefits from the Ranger Owner’s
Group. Drop us a line or visit our website at
rangerboats.com for more details. It’s just one more
way we’d like to say ‘thank you’.
This manual is intended to help you better understand your boat while also helping
make basic care and maintenance even easier. Additionally, it provides important
information essential for safe and pleasant boat operation. Please take the time to
study this manual along with your engine and equipment manuals before operating
your boat. Should you have questions, visit with your Ranger dealer or contact us at…
Ranger Boats • P.O. Box 179 • Flippin, AR 72634 • 870-453-2222 • rangerboats.com
We encourage you to make safety and courteous boating practices an integral part of
your outdoor activities. “Boat Smart From The Start.” Take a boating education
course and get a vessel safety check for your boat. For more information on these
important services, contact the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary at 1-800-368-
5647, www.cgaux.org, or the United States Power Squadrons at 888-FOR-USPS,
www.usps.org. Remember that common sense and sound judgment are two of the
most important elements to carry with you on every outing.
If we can be of additional help, feel free to give us a call, visit us on the internet,
contact your local dealer, or just drop us a line through the mail. Thank you, again, for
being a part of the legendary “Ranger Family!”
Sincerely,
Forrest L. Wood
Founder

Getting To Know and Handle Your Ranger®Boat
GETTING TO KNOW AND HANDLE YOUR RANGER
BOAT…
Your Ranger dealer should see that you have selected the proper
horsepower engine for the rating range of the boat model you have
chosen. The proper engine mounting height has been selected for
optimum performance and the correct propeller has been chosen.
Since most boats spend more time on the trailer than in the water, a
RangerTrail®trailer can extend the useful life of your new boat. The load
MUST be evenly distributed on the properly fitting “bunks” or “pads” of the
trailer. The boat should not rest on the loading rollers, but should properly
cradle on the bunks.
Always park your rig so that the trailer tongue is higher than the stern
of the boat, so that any water can drain from the hull when the drain plug
is removed. All livewell valves should be placed in the “empty” position to
properly drain your livewell plumbing.
A properly fitted boat cover will protect your investment from the
damaging effects of the ultraviolet rays of sunlight, as well as from road
film, rain and dirt abrasion while trailering. The cover also protects your
accessory equipment and fishing tackle from “prying eyes” and helps to
guard against pilferage.
Familiarize yourself with the instruments and indicators used with all
installed equipment. Factory equipment manuals are included to assist
you to properly operate your trolling motor; depth finders; engine
tachometer; speedometer; and any additional accessories that you have
installed. Naturally this Ranger manual is only complete when you have
completely studied your engine operating manual and are familiar with
engine operation.
Now you are ready for a ride in your new boat! This will be an exciting,
fun experience if you exercise the proper caution and observe all safety
rules and regulations.
Before launching your boat… stop on the ramp short of the water. Stop
your vehicle’s engine and set the parking brake. At the rear of the boat,
install your transom drain plug and remove the trailering tie-downs,
trailering arms, motor supports and/or support brackets. Slowly back the
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Failure to store/park your rig with the bow
elevated could allow rain water to
accumulate in the storage boxes.
NOTICE

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Getting To Know and Handle Your Ranger®Boat
boat and trailer into the water and unhook the winch strap hook. When in
the driver’s seat, put on and secure your life vest and attach the engine
emergency stop switch lanyard to your person. Start engine and back
your boat off the trailer. You should experience no problem if the water is
adequately deep for proper launching.
While you are easing along within the “No Wake” zone you should trim
your engine all the way down to its lowest position (in). Turn the steering
right and left to insure that there is no undue slack and inspect the
steering system. Look for any loose connections at the engine and
beneath the driver’s console (see pp. 28-32). Inspection of this crucial
linkage system can be visually made at home or at the lake, but should
be done at regular intervals. Before applying power and “opening it up”,
insure that all passengers are properly seated and are wearing an
approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD or Life vest). Check to see that
there are no obstructions in your path. We recommend that the front
pedestal seat be removed from the front deck base and positioned in the
special base provided in the front floor of the boat. If your boat has non-
adjustable pedestals, remove the extension pipe from the seat base and
install the seat base directly into the front deck receptacle. If your boat
has an optional deck extension and power pedestals, remove the lid in
the deck extension and secure the pedestal in the receptacle provided in
the floor. If the optional deck extension does not have a removable lid,
store your seat securely in the floor of the boat. This will provide for an
unobstructed view while driving. The power pedestal should be pushed
down into the lowest position. Should there be no base provided in the
floor, the seat should be removed and securely placed in the floor of the
boat.
When you have cleared the “No Wake” zone it is time to accelerate and
get your new boat “on plane”. Before applying power, insure that all
passengers are properly and securely seated in appropriate locations.
Abruptly move the throttle lever into the full open position (full forward).
The bow of the boat will rise into the air for a moment… this is normal
operation when a boat is “coming out of the hole” and is no cause for
alarm. The bow will quickly come back down into a level running position.
When the boat begins to accelerate rapidly, the throttle should be pulled
back to obtain a comfortable running speed. Always increase your speed
a little at a time until you are running at a speed at which you feel safe
and are in complete control…NEVER FASTER THAN YOUR
EXPERIENCE DICTATES! At this moderate speed you should begin to
trim your engine into a higher position (out). Please refer to your engine
owner’s manual for more information on power trim use and operations.

Getting To Know and Handle Your Ranger®Boat
Your speed will increase and the bow will lift. The boat will begin to run
with the back rear portion of the hull in contact with the water and steering
will become easier. Over-trimming will result in excessively high RPM
(note your tachometer) and the steering can develop “torque” or a “pull”
toward the right. Trim back down slightly for best operation. A different
trim setting (see your trim indicator) will be required for different throttle
settings. You will soon develop an instinctive feel for these settings. Your
ear will become attuned to the sound of the proper engine RPM. Again,
over trimming is to be avoided as excessive RPM can cause engine
damage and can also cause your prop to “blow out” (lose its grip on the
water because it is too near the surface). If the bow of your boat should
begin to bob up and down (called porpoising) you will probably have over
trimmed. Bump the trim button down a little until the motion stops.
If your boat should continue to “porpoise”, a slight increase in throttle
and speed will generally correct the condition. Proper distribution of the
load in your boat will make a great difference in its operation. Moving
tackle boxes or ice chests rearward or toward the front can greatly effect
boat performance and handling.
When beginning a turn with the engine trimmed in the higher positions,
the trim switch should be pressed to LOWER the engine further into the
water just prior to and during the turning of the steering wheel. Practice
and experience will determine just how far down you will need to trim for
safely handling a turn at various speeds and water conditions. Just
remember to MAKE SAFETY YOUR GUIDE when attempting any new
or unfamiliar maneuver. Proceed ONLY AT SPEEDS AT WHICH YOU
FEEL SAFE AND IN CONTROL!
Naturally, it is impossible to describe here all the different situations
that you may encounter. Just remember that COMMON SENSE is your
best safety precaution. Your new boat is built to safely carry you in
NORMAL OPERATION, but it is up to you to stay alert and to avoid
dangerous situations. Safe boating is in the hands of the operator.
Even the pleasant experience of the “first ride in your new boat” must
sometime come to an end. Hopefully you have purchased a “drive on”
trailer with your boat. The key to simple and effortless loading of your boat
is having the trailer in the proper position. This “right” position is
determined by the steepness of the ramp. Here, you will have to
experiment with the proper depth to have your trailer in. The most
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Improper use of power trim may lead to
excessive bow steer or steering torque
(pull) and could lead to accidental injury or death.
WARNING

Getting To Know and Handle Your Ranger®Boat
common mistake is having the trailer too deep, so a little time spent
experimenting with different depth positions can ultimately save you
much time and embarrassment. To load at slow speed, position your boat
to head directly between the guide bunks or guide rollers and use the
thrust of your outboard engine to drive the boat forward until the bow
contacts the roller on the bow stand block. Shut down your outboard and
fasten the winch strap hook to the bow eye. Tighten the winch strap and
lock winch before pulling the boat from the water. Your engine should be
trimmed up into a higher position before the trailer is pulled up the ramp
to prevent damage to the lower unit or propeller. Pull the rig up the ramp
and park well out of the way of other boaters. Stop your vehicle engine
and set parking brake. Remove the drain plug, open and drain the livewell
systems, and stow all loose equipment. We recommend that you install a
transom saver, or engine support brace, between the trailer frame and the
lower unit of your engine to prevent damage to your transom while the
boat is in transit.
For the most possible boating and fishing enjoyment familiarize
yourself completely with your boat and with the instruction manuals for all
additional equipment. If you are a novice, there are publications on good
seamanship recommended to make your boating safe and enjoyable. We
also recommend that you enroll and attend any of the excellent safe
boating courses offered and conducted by your area Power Squadron or
the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
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The operator (driver) is responsible for
the correct and safe operation of the
boat, the equipment aboard and the safety of all occupants aboard. We
strongly recommend that the operator read this manual and thoroughly
understand the operational instructions for the engine and all related
accessories before the boat is used.
WARNING

Be Responsible For Safer Boating
BE RESPONSIBLE FOR SAFER BOATING
•ALCOHOL and DRUGS - The debilitating effects of alcohol and other
drugs reduces reaction time and detracts from judgment. The
combined effect of the outdoor environment… sun, heat, wind, rough
water, and noise can be more fatiguing than one would imagine and,
combined with drugs or alcohol, can be very dangerous.
•GAME PLAN - Tell a friend, neighbor or another family member where
you will be boating and when you plan to return. Be certain that this
individual has a good description of your boat and any other identifying
information that could be needed to help find you should an emergency
arise.
•TOOLS and SPARE PARTS - Many people have been stranded by
minor breakdowns that they could have repaired themselves. It is a
good idea to carry a few tools and common spare parts and to be
familiar with simple repairs that you can easily accomplish.
•GASOLINE RESERVES - Never push your boating range to the limit of
your gas tank capacity… one-third of the fuel to go, one-third to come
back and one-third to reserve.
•GOOD BOAT KEEPING - A clean boat is a safer boat. Take care to see
that rods, lures, nets, gaffs and other potentially harmful gear are
properly stowed so that it cannot blow or move around while the boat is
underway. Perform all maintenance and safety checks regularly. Secure
all icebox or cooler lids and place any trash or debris safely under cover
until the trip is over.
•SPEED and SKILL - The fast and powerful boat can require the
operator to exercise a high level of skill and attention to driving. Only go
as fast as your skill and good judgment dictates is safe. You are in
charge of the well being of your passengers and yourself. Be alert for
any hazards in the water and operate your boat only in such a manner
as would be appropriate for the water conditions. Be a good boating
“neighbor” and do not create a hazard or annoyance to others. The best
safety equipment is your own good judgment.
•SKIERS and SWIMMERS - Do not allow operation of the engine when
anyone is in the water near the stern of the boat. Never back up to a
down skier or anyone in the water. Never drive your boat directly behind
a skier.
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Carbon Monoxide Warning
CARBON MONOXIDE
Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that is odorless, tasteless and
colorless. It is present in the exhaust of internal combustion engines.
Inhaling sufficient concentrations of carbon monoxide can be fatal within
minutes. Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning may include
headache, nausea, fatigue, drowsiness, confusion and vomiting. DO
NOT MISTAKE THESE SYMPTOMS FOR SEASICKNESS. If any of
these symptoms occur to you or any of your passengers, ventilate the
boat by opening the side curtains or forward hatch to remove the fumes
and immediately seek medical attention.
Carbon monoxide can be drawn into the cockpit area over the stern of
the boat. When operating the engine, ventilate the cockpit area by
removing side curtains or opening forward hatches to allow fresh air to
flow though. Do not operate the engine if your boat is moored in a
confined area.
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Exhaust from a running engine can
cause an accumulation of carbon
monoxide gas in the cockpit area when the canvas top and side
curtains are installed. Provide adequate ventilation when these
coverings are installed in their closed positions.
WARNING

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Getting to Know and Handle Your Ranger Boat ......................................2
Be Responsible for Safer Boating ............................................................6
Carbon Monoxide Warning ......................................................................7
Special Information ..................................................................................9
Your Ranger Dealer’s Responsibilities ................................................9
Owner/Operator’s Responsibilities ....................................................10
Warning and Cautions ........................................................................11
Hazard Labeling ..........................................................................12 - 14
Hull Identification Plate ..........................................................................14
U.S. Coast Guard Capacity Information Plate ........................................15
Recommended On-Plane Seating Locations..........................................16
Gasoline Fuel System ............................................................................17
Your Livewell Aeration System................................................................22
Steering at Console ................................................................................28
Your Boat’s Finish ..................................................................................33
Maintenance and Repair ....................................................................33
Your Power Pedestals ............................................................................35
Key Locks, Carpet, and Upholstery ........................................................37
Cleaning Marine Vinyl .................................................................. 38 & 39
Adding Accessories To Your Boat ..........................................................40
Hook Up of Trolling Motor Leads ............................................................41
Wiring Diagrams ..............................................................................42 - 51
Electrical System ....................................................................................52
Fuse Panel Information ......................................................................52
Fisherman Series................................................................................53
Saltwater Series ................................................................................56
Z Comanche ......................................................................................58
Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats........................................62
Boat Data (Owner’s Information) ............................................................64
YOUR RANGER TRAIL
®TRAILER
General Information and Maintenance ..................................................65
Contained Oil Orbital Lubrication (COOL) Hubs ....................................65
Reporting Safety Defects........................................................................66
Trailer Brakes ..................................................................................67 - 69
RangerTrail Wiring ..................................................................................68
Before Towing Your Ranger Trail Trailer ................................................70
Towing Your Ranger Trail Trailer ............................................................70
Swing Hitch ............................................................................................71
Hitch Class Rating ..................................................................................71
Trailer Exploded View ....................................................................72 & 73
Ranger Trail Parts List ............................................................................74
Limited Warranty ............................................................................75 & 76
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Special Information
SPECIAL INFORMATION
The following special information is intended to alert you to possible
dangers and to information important to the safe operation of your boat
and other equipment. Observe them carefully. However, simply being
aware of the “WARNING”, “CAUTION” AND “NOTICE” notations in this
manual will not eliminate the dangers that they signal if you do not
implement the information. These warnings, plus common sense
operation will insure you a safe and fun boating or fishing outing.
Please take special note when you see one of the following signs:
ALL information or instructions in this manual could be necessary for
proper operation and/or maintenance. If you do not understand any
portion of this manual, please contact your Ranger dealer or our
Customer Service Department for any additional information.
IMPORTANT:
Your Ranger Dealer’s Responsibilities…
Generally, it is the dealer’s responsibility to the customer to make sure
that the boat has been equipped as ordered with a properly installed and
functioning engine that is within the horsepower rating specified for that
model boat. The dealer should see that the engine is outfitted with the
proper propeller for that boat model and for the load that the boat is
normally expected to carry.
The dealer should help to familiarize the customer with the onboard
equipment and explain operation of this equipment; the engine operation;
and the proper functioning and operation of the boat itself.
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Failure to follow the advice of a
“WARNING” may result in bodily injury
or death.
Non-compliance with “CAUTION”
instructions could result in failure of, or
damage to, the product and/or equipment.
WARNING
CAUTION
Draws special attention to installation,
operation, or other important maintenance
information.
NOTICE

Special Information
Prior to delivery, the dealer should make certain that the product and
equipment is completely operational; the proper propeller is installed; and
that all oil, fuel system and lubrication systems are understood. The
dealer should explain the operation of all instrumentation equipment, and
the boat electrical and livewell systems.
The dealer should check for correct carburetor adjustment, throttle and
steering functioning, and instrumentation accuracy. Engine cooling water
should be properly circulating.
The dealer should test for maximum engine RPM as specified in the
engine manufacturer’s specification sheet(s) and/or engine owner’s
manual for proper operation of all equipment and for proper adjustment
of steering effort and direction. All necessary adjustments for maximum
efficiency should be made.
Owner/Operator’s Responsibilities…
It is the owner/operator’s responsibility to perform all safety checks and
to ensure that all lubrication and maintenance instructions are complied
with for maximum safety and proper operation.
It is also the owner/operator’s responsibility to return the unit to the
Ranger dealer for a periodic checkup.
The owner/operator is responsible for the correct operation of the boat
and for the safety of its occupants. Be sure that all operators read this
manual before attempting to operate the boat. Your passengers should
be shown the location and use of all emergency equipment and one
passenger should be instructed how to handle the boat in case of
emergency. U.S. Coast Guard requirements for PFDs (Personal Flotation
Devices, or Life vests) can vary, depending on the type of boat. Be sure
to comply with the U.S. Coast Guard regulations that apply to your boat.
The owner/operator should, however, make certain that all passengers in
the boat are in possession of, and are securely wearing a PFD whenever
the boat is in operation. We strongly recommend that an engine
emergency stop switch be securely connected to the boat operator any
time that the engine is in operation!
Learn the waterway rules of the locality in which you intend to operate
your boat. Navigable waterways are controlled by Federal regulations
while inland lakes and Canadian waters are controlled by local
jurisdictions. Obey all regulations to protect yourself, your passengers,
and fellow boating enthusiasts.
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