Zodiac MilPro Futura Commando FC 420 User manual

LIRE ATTENTIVEMENT CE MANUEL AVANT LA MISE EN SERVICE DE VOTRE ZODIAC.
READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE USING YOUR BOAT.
VOR BENUTZUNG IHRES BOOTES LESEN SIE DIESES HANDBUCH SORGFÄLTIG DURCH.
LEGGERE ATTENTAMENTE IL PRESENTE MANUALE PRIMA DI UTILIZZARE IL BATTELLO.
ANTES DE UTILIZAR LA EMBARCACIÓN, LEA ESTE MANUAL CON ATENCIÓN.
Manuel u Propriétaire
Owner’s Manual
Eigner Han buch
Manuele el Propriétario
Manual el Propietario
FUTURA COMMANDO
LIRE ATTENTIVEMENT CE MANUEL AVANT LA MISE EN SERVICE DE VOTRE ZODIAC.
READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE USING YOUR BOAT.
VOR BENUTZUNG IHRES BOOTES LESEN SIE DIESES HANDBUCH SORGFÄLTIG DURCH.
LEGGERE ATTENTAMENTE IL PRESENTE MANUALE PRIMA DI UTILIZZARE IL BATTELLO.
ANTES DE UTILIZAR LA EMBARCACIÓN, LEA ESTE MANUAL CON ATENCIÓN.
Manuel u Propriétaire
Owner’s Manual
Eigner Han buch
Manuele el Propriétario
Manual el Propietario
FUTURA COMMANDO
FC 420 – FC 470
FC 530 – F580
Z65501 Octobre 2013
LIRE ATTENTIVEMENT CE MANUEL AVANT LA MISE EN SERVICE DE VOTRE ZODIAC.
VOR BENUTZUNG IHRES BOOTES LESEN SIE DIESES HANDBUCH SORGFÄLTIG DURCH.
LEGGERE ATTENTAMENTE IL PRESENTE MANUALE PRIMA DI UTILIZZARE IL BATTELLO.

1/18
VOLUME 2
WARNING
•
••
•READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE USING YOUR BOAT.
•
••
•THIS OWNER’S MANUAL CONSISTS OF 2 VOLUMES THAT
SHOULD BE KEPT TOGETHER.
NOTE
- The Owner’s Manual is divided into 2 volumes:
- Volume 1 gives general rules of the road and boat use
recommendations, which should be followed onboard during
navigation.
- Volume 2 gives technical specifications and assembly instructions
for the boat and its equipment.
VOLUME 2 - OWNER’S MANUAL
BOAT TYPE: FUTURA COMMANDO
BOAT MODELS: FC 420 – FC 470 – FC 530 – F 580 EOD
SUMMARY
Page Page


 Assembly instructions 2 

 Boat storage after use 16


 Boat Inventory upon opening 2 

 General information 17


 The Inflation system 3 

 APPENDIX A-1
Technical Specifications A-2


 Boat assembly 5 Description A-4
Assembly of the boat A-8


 Boat inflation 7 Inflation system A-10


 Air Pressure 12


 Deflation and Folding 14

2/18
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
To identify the boat, turn to the APPENDIX:
Technical specifications (pages A-1, A-2)
Descriptions (pages A-3 to A-7)
ATTENTION
ASSEMBLE BOAT IN THE ORDER WE RECOMMEND AND FOLLOW
INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY. REFER TO THE PAGES INDICATED
BELOW FOR STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS.
Assembly instructions and storage Page Section
1 Boat Inventory upon opening 2 INVENTORY
2 Turn valves to the inflation position 3 INFLATION SYSTEM
3 Assemble the floorboards and stringers 5 BOAT ASSEMBLY
4 Manual inflation / Automatic inflation 7 BOAT INFLATION
5 Adjust the pressure 10 AIR PRESSURE
6 Store the boat 12 DEFLATION/FOLDING/STORAGE
7 General information 14 GENERAL INFORMATION
INVENTORY UPON OPENING
WARNING
DO NOT USE CUTTING INSTRUMENTS SUCH AS KNIVES OR
CUTTERS TO OPEN CARDBOARD BOXES.
FC 420 FC 470 FC 530
F 580
Boat carrying bag with: 1 1
1 boat bag + 1 floorboard bag
Buoyancy tube 1 1 1 1
Foot pump and hose 2 2 2 2
Owner’s Manual - 2 volumes 2 2 2 2
Repair kit with pressure gauge 1 1 1 1
Paddles 4 6 8 2
Document pouches 2 2 1 0
Floorboard type
Roll-up or hard deck Roll-up or hard deck
Rollup or hard deck
Hard deck only
Due to different boat configurations and custom definitions, please check with your vendor for exact
boat standard equipment and accessories.
You can equip your boats with many optional accessories (lifting slings, towing bridles, water-repellent
bags, SCUBA or CO
2
cylinders, anodized aluminum hard deck floors, etc.). Ask your Dealer for
advice. F580 do not have automatic inflation possibilities as factory standard equipment but can be
retrofitted and are only available with rigid anodizes aluminum deck floorboards and stringers.

3/18
INFLATION SYSTEM
The inflation system is composed of:
INFLATION PUMP
(a) adapter (b) hose tip
(c) hose base (d) air outlet
To inflate:
Place the hose tip in the air outlet,
To inflate correctly, the pump should be flat on
the ground,
The boat will inflate better if pumping is done
at a regular rhythm.
a
b
cd
Use the hose adapter that corresponds to the diameter of the inflation valve.
OVERPRESSURE VALVE
(1) valve cap (2) overpressure valve (3) valve
base
The overpressure valves are equipped with a
non-return valve set to the desired pressure.
When inflating:
Remove the valve caps.
Stop inflating when air escapes (the correct
pressure has been reached).
When deflating:
The valve caps must be installed on the
overpressure valves.
3
1
2
WARNING
•
••
•NEVER INFLATE A BOAT WITH THE CAPS INSTALLED ON THE
OVERPRESSURE VALVES.
•
••
•REMOVE THE CAPS BEFORE INFLATING AND REINSTALL THEM
AFTER INFLATING.
•
••
•THE CAPS SHOULD REMAIN INSTALLED WHILE THE BOAT IS
ON THE WATER AND REMOVED WHEN THE BOAT IS NO
LONGER IN THE WATER.
•
••
•VALVE OPERATION SHOULD BE CHECKED FREQUENTLY.
•
••
•TIGHTEN THE CAPS ON THE VALVES GENTLY, ONLY ½ TURN.
LOWER BUOYANCY TUBE INFLATION
Lower Buoyancy Tube inflation hoses are a permanent fixture as they are permanently part of the
boat. To isolate the Lower Buoyancy Tubes from the Main Buoyancy Tube, simply tighten the butterfly
wing nut on the lower buoyancy tube clamps to close any air communication and unscrew them to let
the air through for automatic lower buoyancy tubes inflation.
Turn to page 10 for keel automatic inflation from the bow compartment, through a keel automatic
inflation kit.
Main Buoyancy Tube to Lower Buoyancy Tube inflation, through hose with clamp,
situated on the outboard transom, Port & Starboard.

4/18
INFLATION SYSTEM (CON’T)
INTERCOMMUNICATION VALVE (I/C VALVE)
(1) valve base (2) I/C valve flywheel
(3) valve insert (4) valve cap cover/pocket
(5) valve cap
To activate the valves in the inflation position:
Rotate the I/C valve flywheel to the “inflation” zone
(“red area”) at 12 o’clock,
unscrew the cap,
Screw the valve inserts into their bases, tighten
manually and firmly without damaging the threads,
To close the valves after inflation:
Rotate the I/C valve flywheel to the “navigation”
position (“green area”) at 6 o’clock,
Replace the caps, tighten manually & firmly,
To deflate the buoyancy tube:
Rotate the I/C valve flywheel to the “inflation” zone
(“red area”) at 12 o’clock,
Remove the valve inserts with their caps and store
them in their cap pocket/covers (4).
Red
Green
RAPID INFLATION PORTS - SCUBA/CO2 DIFFUSER
(1) Dust cap and it’s ‘O’ ring
(2) One way SCUBA/C02 valve diffuser & O
ring
(3) Valve base is part of the boat.
The rapid inflation valve ports allow the boat to
be inflated using a CO2 or a SCUBA cylinder.
When inflating manually, the rapid inflation
ports must remain plugged.
3
1
2
1
2
3
4
5
12 o’clock
Inflation position
Navigation position
6 o’clock

5/18
BOAT ASSEMBLY
ASSEMBLE THE BOAT ON A SMOOTH CLEAN SURFACE
ROLL UP FLOOR ASSEMBLY
Illustrations in APPENDIX page A-8
The slatted floorboard decking, arranged in a folding mat (Fig. 1), is uniquely designed to enhance the
rapid deployment concept, is completely removable and comes factory installed so that it rolls up
normally with the fold of the boat. It is constructed as a single, mat-type roll-up flooring system
consisting of slats made from anodized aluminum that are factory covered with wear-proof fabric.
Quick release buckle operated sheathes are installed on the aft area of this floorboard section to
secure 1 or 2 CO2 or SCUBA bottles, should the boat be deployed with such a system.
It is secured in the bow to the thrust board (Fig. 2) and between the transom and the transom retaining
batten in the aft (Fig. 3).
It is adjusted on the transom (Fig. 4) by two tension straps from floor to transom. Tighten straps 1” or
2.5cm past snug, and on the sides by placing the floor under the rubber triangular extrusion glued to
the bottom of the buoyancy tube on either sides of the transom inside the boat. (Fig. 3).
OPTIONAL ALUMINIUM FLOORBOARDS (FC 470, AS AN EXAMPLE)
Illustrations in APPENDIX page A-9
An aluminum floorboard hard deck system with its stringers does not allow the use of automatic
inflation. Nevertheless one can use an inflation bottle and feed an inflation hose to any of the I/C
valves, once the hard floorboard decking and stringers are installed.
When the slatted floorboard decking is not preferred for use, it is easily removed and as easily
replaced with the optional aluminum floorboards.
It is used when the boat requires a higher rate of speed, mobility and maneuverability, better
directional control through high sea conditions, as well as achieving better fuel economy. The optional
aluminum floorboards are made of lightweight anodized marine aluminum, are self-locking and come
in four panels and bow board(s) with two securing aluminum stringers. With practical training, the time
required to install the rigid flooring system can be reduced to only a few minutes.
It is mandatory to use this type of floor when using more than 40 HP engine (on FC 470) or a twin
engine combination of not more than 2 x 30 hp. All engines should be bolted through the transom.
The stringers (7, Fig. 3) are essential to the seaworthiness of the boat. They lock in the floorboards
and assure the rigidity of the entire structure.
NOTE: For other boats, see their HIN plate for specific HP ratings or page Appendix 2 in this document.
ASSEMBLY OF THE OPTIONAL FLOORBOARDS
Illustrations in APPENDIX page A-9
 Use soap & water at the corner reinforcements (c) (between the buoyancy tube and the bottom),
to slide & make it easier to position the floorboard elements (Fig. 1-B).
ATTENTION: NEVER USE TALCUM POWDER as they contain Silicones, which are harmful to the
boat.
Inspect each element to understand how it will be assembled:
The order of assembly of each element is indicated on a label in the upper right-hand-corner of
each floorboard,
The bow floorboard section has an upside and a down side position. The upside is identifiable by
a label of the sun (8) (Fig. 3). If the label is lost, use the lines on the aluminum junction profiles to
guide you, they are apparent when assembling.
Lightly inflate the buoyancy tube (this helps the elements to take their place).
Slide the bow floorboards (1and 2) (Fig. 4) into the corner reinforcement (c) (Fig. 1-B).
Place the aft element (5) against the transom (6). (fig.2).

6/18
BOAT ASSEMBLY (CON’T)
Place elements (3) and (4) in a pointed “roof” (or a Teepee) position (Fig. 2).
Make sure the elements are straight and lined up.
Flatten the “roof” by getting into the boat and pulling UP on the grab lines (this prevents the fabric
from getting pinched (Fig. 2).
Make sure the floorboard (a) is correctly positioned in the corner reinforcement (c) (Fig. 1-B).
Position the stringers as indicated below and in (fig. 3 item 18, fig. 4 item 10).
PLACING THE STRINGERS
The stringers (7) (Fig. 3) are essential to the seaworthiness of the boat. They lock in the floorboards
and assure the rigidity of the entire structure. (Use soap & water to help you slide the stringers into
position).
Never place paddles on the bottom of the boat before having flattened
out the floorboard. It could damage them.
After having flattened out the floorboard to position the stringers (7) more easily, when the ground
is not level, slide the paddles under the boat bottom lengthwise, at about 20 cm (8 in.) on either
side of the exterior of the boat. (Fig. 3).
Place the stringers in the boat, (7) along the outside of the floorboard, way up is identifiable by a
sun sticker (8) always toward the top Fig 3.
Make sure the stringers are correctly positioned between the black stoppers (fig. 3 & 4 item 9)
located on the floorboard elements (fig. 4 item 9).
The entire thickness of the floorboard must enter the stringer cavity. To do this, pivot the stringer
back and forth to adjust. Do the same to make the stringers fit into the space in the transom corner
flange (Fig. 3 and 4).
When the boat is inflated, the interlocking construction of the floorboard facilitates final positioning of
the stringers, as the main buoyancy tube will press them into place in their floorboard grooves.

7/18
BOAT INFLATION
Illustrations in APPENDIX page A-10
We recommend the use of a manometer to check the inflation pressure.
FOOT PUMP INFLATION
Manual inflation is achieved with:
The foot-pump and hoses,
The valve caps and valve inserts.
NOTE Do not inflate boats stacked on one another.
Assembly
Open the bag, unroll the boat, and remove the accessories.
While inflating, make sure that:
-The roll-up floor is under the triangular extrusions situated just forward of the transom, between
the bottom and main buoyancy tubes,
-The lifelines or valves are not caught under the slatted floor, and the transom tension straps are
buckled loosely.
Manual inflation system
Valve inserts have a small diaphragm that will prevent air from rushing out. Valves become airtight
only once caps are installed.
The caps, with their washers ensure total air tightness (Fig. 2). Through the diaphragm, a small
and normal air leak will be noticed which is necessary for a pressure reading, which will be done
with a pressure gauge.
The intercommunicating valves (Fig. 3) function as gates, allowing air to flow into each airtight
chamber, then close to seal air pressure into their own respective chambers.
This same valve system is engineered to sense overpressure buildup in the air chambers.
An overpressure release mechanism self activates when the danger of overpressure is sensed
and immediately releases the excess, avoiding any possibility of causing severe damage to the
boat.
When installed after inflation, the lower chamber isolator clamps ensure the air tightness of the
shock absorbing tubes. All valves must be serviced regularly (minimum twice a year).
Manual inflation procedure
Screw all valve inserts into their I/C valves, and turn valve
flywheels to the inflation position “red area”. Make sure lower
tube clamps are opened,
Use the foot pumps smoothly, with regular and complete
motions. Position your foot pump hose into the Bow Port or
Aft Port valve insert and position your pressure gauge into
the Bow Starboard or Aft Starboard valve insert, so as to
monitor the inflation pressure visually from the other side of
the boat. Inflate until the pressure gauge indicates top of
green, go/no go or 240 millibars. Screw on both valve caps,
Inflate the keel (240 mbar/3.4 PSI) and screw the valve cap
on,
Isolate the lower buoyancy shock absorbing tubes with the
isolator clamps (Fig 4). Reset the valves in the navigation
position ("green area") @ 6 o'clock, thus isolating each
chamber.
Once the boat is in the water, the pressure may drop about 20 mbar because of the difference in
temperature. Before setting off, it is mandatory to verify the buoyancy tube pressure by a rotating all
I/C valves to 12 o'clock and verifying the boats pressure with the pressure gauge by inserting it into
any one of the I/C valves and topping up boat if necessary.
WARNING! ALL ZODIAC BUOYANCY TUBE OPERATIONAL PRESSURE MUST
BE 240 mbar = 3.4 PSI (+/- 5%)
to include main buoyancy tube, lower buoyancy tubes and keel

8/18
BOAT INFLATION (CON’T)
Illustrations in APPENDIX page A-10 to A-12
AUTOMATIC INFLATION CO
2
OR SCUBA COMPRESSED AIR DIVE CYLINDER
GENERALITIES
Fast inflation is achieved with CO2 or SCUBA cylinder and hoses or manifolds, all of which are
always optional.
Please check the product definition of each boat type to determine with exactitude, what is standard
and what is not and which system do you need for your boat.
SCUBA DIVE CYLINDER INFLATION:
The unique ZODIAC fast inflation system permits the easy inflation of the entire boat fitted with an
80ft³ or 15 liter off the shelf SCUBA dive bottle in only a few minutes.
WARNING
The SCUBA dive cylinder may remain in its sheath during navigation.
SCUBA dive cylinders must be filled & tested by an authorized & approved SCUBA
bottle filling station, to CFR/DOT regulations and according to Federal, State & Local
Government laws, regulations & requirements, governing SCUBA & high-pressure
cylinders.
Usually, & after a full inflation, there remains enough compressed air in the bottle to
top up the boat, if necessary.
The optional compressed air rapid inflation system is composed of :
FC 420 – FC 470 FC 530 – (not on F 580)
Manifold with 2 inflation hoses
1 SCUBA first stage valve 2 SCUBA first stage valves
2 quick connect/disconnect high pressure hoses, port & starboard @ transom
1 SCUBA dive cylinder 2 SCUBA dive cylinders
CO2 Optional accessories:
1 inflation hose kit (2-way), referred to as the manifold.
1 CO
2
cylinder: CO
2
load = 5 kg = 11 Ibs equipped with a manually operated valve.
INSTALLATION OF SCUBA INFLATION SYSTEM.
Remove the protection dust caps from the inflation points located on the buoyancy tube on both
sides of the transom,
Screw the quick hose connector(s) on the inflation point(s),
Connect the hose fittings on the 2 quick connectors by pushing the quick release hose end, into
the connector,
Check that hose ends are correctly screwed on the bottle’s first stage valve and torqued down.
Attach the release mechanism(s) (first stage) on the SCUBA diving cylinder neck(s),
Position and secure the SCUBA dive cylinders in its/their sheath(s) on the roll up floorboard,
Check that the whole inflation system of the boat is prepared for fast inflation,
all I/C valves at 12 o’clock in red position,
O/P valve caps are off,
 Verify that all Zodiac valve caps & inserts are tightly screwed by hand to their valve bases,
 Unscrew butterfly nut on Lower Buoyancy Tube clamps, to let air through, for lower buoyancy tube
correct inflation.

9/18
BOAT INFLATION (CON’T)
INSTALLATION OF CO
2
INFLATION SYSTEM.
Remove the protection dust caps from the inflation points located on the buoyancy tube on both
sides of the transom,
Screw the CO2 high pressure hoses directly into the boat diffuser valves & tighten firmly,
Screw the hoses into the CO2 bottle “Tee” fitting & tighten firmly.
Make sure to use ‘O’ rings between each connection to avoid leaks or micro leaks.
Check that the boat’s I/C valves are ready for fast inflation (all I/C valves @ 12 o’clock in the red
position)
Bare in mind that unlike SCUBA air, CO2 is a nauseous gas, that must be used with precaution
and in a well ventilated area
Bare in mind that CO2 goes from a liquid (in the bottle) to gas and when it sublimes reaches
temperatures of minus 70ºC / minus 145ºF. Adequate eye protection and hand protection must be
worn when operating CO2 gases
WARNING
I/C VALVE POSITION FOR BOAT INFLATION
I/C VALVE POSITION FOR BOAT NAVIGATION
I/C VALVE POSITION FOR BOAT DEFLATION
INFLATION: turn all four I/C valve arrows to 12 o’clock, (inflation “red area”). This allows
gases to circulate throughout the boat during the inflation phase. Unscrew LBT wing nuts.
NAVIGATION: turn all I/C valves to 6 o’clock, isolate all compartments, screw LBT wing nuts.
DEFLATION: turn all I/C valve arrows to 12 o’clock and remove all valve caps and inserts.
BOAT DEFLATION
Turn the Intercommunicating valve flywheels, on all valves, to the INFLATION position (“red area”) or
12 o’clock.
The arrow on the intercommunication valve flywheel must be on the “INFLATION” position (“red area”)
at 12 o’clock
Unscrew all valve caps and insert from the main buoyancy tube, and store them in the valve
pockets,
Unscrew the keel valve or unhook the automatic keel inflation kit,
Unscrew the butterfly wing nuts from the LBT clamps,
Bring the main buoyancy tube toward the longitudinal center of the boat,
Use the boat’s bottom/hull as a rectangle, against which you will fold the main buoyancy tube,
Bring the boat cones on the transom and,
Roll the boat up, starting from the transom toward the bow,
Place the boat by lifting it, onto it’s carrying bag,
Fasten the carrying bag lashings.
* Never drag a boat in its carrying bag by its handles, but rather lift it to displace it !

10/18
BOAT INFLATION (CON’T)
FOLDING PREPARATION FOR SCUBA and CO2 AUTOMATIC INFLATION
Once the boats has been deflated and is flat on the ground, the following are instructions to
prepare the boat for automatic inflation either by SCUBA or CO2:
Assemble the manifold on the bottle of your choice (SCUBA or CO2) (1) do not tighten yet)
Place the bottle in the boats cylinder sheath, inflation head to Starboard (2) do not tighten the
sheath yet)
Position hoses, short hose to starboard making a loop so as not to kink it
Work the inflation bottle in such a way as to eliminate eventual kinks in the inflation hoses
Place hoses into diffusers and tighten them to the boat, long hose to Port, running inside the
sheath
Tighten the sheath straps (2) to immobilize the bottle
Tighten manifold (1) to the bottle
Make sure Overpressure caps are off
Lower buoyancy tube clamps are off
I/C valves are opened @ the 12:00 o’clock position
Keel automatic inflation kit is assembled and hoses are well fitted
Valve caps and valve inserts are placed in the I/C valves and are tight, except for the bow I/C
valve
Roll-up the boat once around it’s transom
Vacuum the remaining air from the boat through the I/C valve left opened in the bow, with a shop-
vac.
This operation takes about 2 minutes and must stop before the boat becomes completely hard
due to too much vacuum
Turn the I/C valve to 6 o’clock, disconnect the shop vacuum machine, and replace the valve insert
and cap tightly
Turn this I/C valve to 12 o’clock (only), so as to guarantee air flow in that area of the boat
Continue to roll the boat up and place in its carrying bag.
WARNING
It is mandatory that a trained person stay with the boat during automatic inflation, ready to
intervene and close the manifold immediately if necessary.

11/18
BOAT INFLATION (CON’T)
INFLATION - NAVIGATION
The boat inflates in about 3 minutes at 20 °C (70 degrees F). Do not prevent unfolding.
Open the carrying bag and lightly unroll the boat on a flat surface, to reach the SCUBA first stage
air control inflation tap,
Verify that all I/C valves are still in the “INFLATION” position @ 12 o’clock,
Verify that all overpressure valve caps are off
Open the SCUBA bottle tap completely
WARNING
During automatic inflation, it is mandatory for a trained person to remain
with the inflation cylinder to stop the airflow if a mal function were to occur.
Airflow can be stopped by closing the bottle inflation tap manually.
Let the boat inflate until overpressure valves blow,
Close the SCUBA dive cylinder manifold(s),
The boat is ready to operate :
-Screw the O/P valves caps on their O/P valves (tighten moderately),
-Turn all I/C valve flywheels to the “NAVIGATION” position (“green area”) @ 6 o’clock,
-Fasten the LBT isolator clamps by tightening the butterfly nuts on their hoses,
-Note : The two lower air chamber isolator clamps (A-10, Fig 4) ensure the isolation of lower shock
absorbing tubes.
Inflate the keel with a foot pump to 240 mbar (3.4 PSI). OR
Inflate the keel by connecting the automatic keel inflation kit hoses between themselves, from the
bow main buoyancy tube to the keel itself. In navigation, one will disconnect the hoses between
themselves to isolate both buoyancy tubes. They have a one way valve at both connecting ends.
* KEEL AUTOMATIC INFLATION P/N Z66034 – (a non standard accessory)
On FC 470 a valve, factory installed in the bow of the boat, permits the inflation of the keel from the
Main Buoyancy Tube. This is achieved through the nonstandard accessory P/NZ66034 composed of
two banjo fittings, one into the bow of the main buoyancy tube & one into the keel valve. This optional
keel inflation valve has a quick release button that disassembles the inflation hoses, so as to isolate
the keel from the main buoyancy tube during navigation.
BOAT OPERATING PRESSURE
Check the boat’s pressure with a Zodiac pressure gauge frequently (twice a day).
- Main Buoyancy Tube pressure at which the overpressure valves will vent when inflating with
SCUBA bottle is 320 mbar = 4.64 PSI … (+/- 10%)
- Main Buoyancy Tube pressure at which the overpressure valves reset is 280 mbar = 4.06
PSI (+/- 10%)
- Main Buoyancy Tube maximum operating pressure 270 mbar = 3.9 PSI
- Main Buoyancy Tube minimum operating pressure 220 mbar = 3.2 PSI
Suggested operating pressure for the Main Buoyancy Tube, Lower Buoyancy Tubes and Keel
Buoyancy Tube is: 240 mbar = 3.4 PSI +/- 5%, when boat is inflated with a foot pump.

12/18
AIR PRESSURE
NOTE Before checking the boat’s air pressure, turn all I/C valves to the
"INFLATION POSITION" (“red area”). @ 12 o’clock,
Operating pressure for the buoyancy tube and the keel is 240 Mbar / 3.4 PSI, in the middle of the
“green area” on the “Go – NoGo” pressure gauge.
RECOMMENDATION: Your boat is equipped with a “Go NoGo” pressure gauge; we recommend you
purchase a “screw-on shop pressure gauge P/N Z7111 from your Zodiac Dealer. It will permit you to
read the pressure easily and efficiently during inflation, as it is graduated from 0 to 400 millibars. It will
also permit you to perform pressure tests, as the one that comes standard with the boat (P/N Z 1008)
is only a “Go NoGo“ pressure gauge. In the green it’s a go - In the red it’s a no-go and you have to top
up the boat until the pressure reaches the green = OK zone.
When inflating a boat without a pressure gauge, inflate until the overpressure valves open.
How to foresee pressure changes: Check and adjust the pressure in the compartments (by
inflating or deflating) when noticeable temperature changes occur, especially in tropical areas where
important temperature variations occur between morning and night. Make sure the pressure doesn’t
vary from the recommended boat operating pressure parameters of 240mbar = 3.4PSI +/- 10%
The ambient or water temperature will
alter the main buoyancy tube pressure
by 4 millibars or 0.06PSI for every
degree Celsius, or 1.8°Farenheit
variation as shown here:
1 bar = 1000 millibars = 14.50 PSI
240mbar x 0.01450 = 3.48 = 3.4 PSI
Ambient
or water temperature
Internal
buoyancy tube pressure
Plus 1°C or 1.8°F Plus 4 mbar or 0.06 PSI
Minus 1°C or 1.8°F Minus 4 mbar or 0.06 PSI
RISK OF PRESSURE LOSS
Example: Your boat is on the beach in the sun, temperature 50°C (122°F), at the recommend
pressure (240 mbar). When you launch the boat into 20°C (68°F) water, the temperature and the
internal pressure in the compartments will both decrease (as much as 110mbar). Consequently the
boat must be topped up to recuperate the pressure loss, due to the temperature difference (between
the ambient air and the water). By the same token, it’s normal to discover a pressure loss at the end of
the day when outside temperatures decrease.
WARNING
WHEN UNDER-INFLATED, THE BOAT WILL LACK RIGIDITY IN
NAVIGATION, WILL PERFORM POORLY AND AGE PREMATURELY.
IN CASE OF OVER PRESSURE OR OVER INFLATION
Example: The boat is inflated to the recommended pressure (240mb / 3.4PSI) at the beginning or
end of the day, low outdoor temperature =10°C/50°F. Later in the day, the boat is exposed to full
sunlight 50°C/122°F, either on the beach or on deck. The temperature inside the compartments will
increase (up to about 70°C/158°F) especially with a dark color buoyancy tube, causing the pressure
to double (480 mbar). Deflating is necessary to bring it back to recommended pressure. It therefore
is mandatory to turn the I/C valves to 12 o’clock, and leave the overpressure caps off, when boat is
stored inflated. Overpressure valves will regulate & keep the main buoyancy tube at their
acceptable operating pressure.
WARNING
WHEN OVER INFLATED, THE EXCESSIVE PRESSURE EXERTED ON
THE BOAT’S INFLATABLE STRUCTURE CAN CAUSE IRREPARABLE
DAMAGE. ALWAYS STORE INFLATED BOATS, WITH O/P CAPS OFF.

13/18
AIR PRESSURE (CON’T)
IN CASE OF UNDER PRESSURE OR UNDER INFLATION
Top the boat up to its recommended pressure.
Standard valve:
Unscrew the valve cap,
Inflate to adjust the pressure,
Check pressure with pressure gauge,
Screw back the valve cap manually & tighten firmly.
I/C Valve:
Turn all I/C valve flywheels to the inflation position, (red area) @ 12 o’clock,
Unscrew both butterfly wing nuts on the lower buoyancy tubes,
Unscrew any valve cap, and place the pressure gauge in that valve insert,
Unscrew the valve cap on the valve opposite the pressure gauge,
Insert the foot pump hose into that valve,
Inflate to adjust the pressure, while monitoring the pressure gauge on the other side of the
buoyancy tube, until correct and desired pressure is reached.
Turn all I/C valves to the “navigation” position (“green area”) @ 6 o’clock,
Screw back the valve caps on both valves. The one with the pressure gauge and the one you
were pumping air into the boat.
Tighten the butterfly wing nuts on the lower buoyancy tubes.
Return the pressure gauge to the repair kit, where it should be, and return the repair kit to one of
the boat’s pouches, as it always should be with the boat. (Same as the foot pump and hose).
Always take both with you, on your sorties.
IN CASE OF OVERPRESSURE
Standard valve :
Remove the valve cap from the compartment
to be deflated,
Release air by pushing gently on the
diaphragm or membrane (1), using an object
that will not
cut or puncture, such as a ball point pen.
CAUTION : MAKE SURE THE DIAPHRAGM
DOES NOT FOLD OVER ITSELF,
Screw the valve cap back into position.
1
I/C Valve:
Unscrew a valve cap and place the pressure gauge in it,
Turn all I/C flywheels to the “inflation” position (“red area”) at 12 o’clock,
Pull on the flywheels to let some air escape, at the same time monitor visually the pressure drop
on your pressure gauge.
When your pressure gauge registers the correct pressure, unscrew the pressure gauge and
replace all valve caps,
Follow all recommendations in above paragraph “Under Inflation - I/C valves”.

14/18
WASH – CLEAN – DEFLATE AND BOAT STORAGE
WASH AND DRY THE BOAT BEFORE STORING IT - or - DEFLATING IT FOR STORAGE:
Remove all equipment & rinse the boat with fresh water (do not get water inside of the foot pump)
Wash the boat with mild soap & water. Remove sand and various debris from under the boat.
Clean the boat between the bottom and the lower buoyancy tubes, and under the roll-up floor.
If removable, remove keel periodically (every 3 to 6 months) flush dirt and brush both sides of the
Velcro,
If removable, remove periodically (every 3 to 6 months) lower buoyancy tubes to flush out grit,
sand and pebbles.
Stand the boat upright on its cones against a wall to let water run out trough self bailers.
Deflate the lower buoyancy tubes and rinse inside the sheathes with abundant high pressure
water,
Check and clean all metallic parts.
Wipe the boat dry before deflating it, and rolling the boat up for storage.
FOLD THE BOAT:
Turn all I/C valves to the inflation position (“red area”) @ 12 o’clock and unscrew all I/C valve caps
and inserts, the keel valve cap and insert, and the lower buoyancy tube butterfly wing clamps.
Let the boat deflate on its own,
Install a new charged inflation cylinder, do not strap it in yet, bottle tap to Starboard, plug both high
pressure hoses into their diffuser fittings, check your I/C valves are opened at 12 o’clock with
lower buoyancy tubes clamps in off position, and overpressure valve caps removed.
When boat is deflated, replace all valve caps on I/C valves tightly, verify open wing nuts on lower
buoyancy tubes are off and O/P valve caps are also off.
Tighten the bottle straps to immobilize the inflation bottle,
Pull the buoyancy tubes inward (Fig. 1), place the cones on the transom,
Roll up the boat around it’s transom from the transom to the bow.
If air remains in the tubes, unroll the boat, let the air out & start again to role the boat up.
You can, open one of the bow I/C valves ( which are in their inflation position) remove valve cap and
insert, couple a shop-vac. to the valve and vacuum the boat to reduce its diameter in volume.
Once achieved the required vacuum (2 minutes is enough) turn I/C valve to 6 o’clock, reposition the
valves cap and insert on the I/C valve tightly, and turn the I/C flywheel back to 12 o’clock, so as to
guarantee a good air circulation when the SCUBA bottle is activated for boat automatic inflation.
CAUTION: During automatic inflation, always stand-by ready to turn the inflation bottle tap off, in case
of a malfunction. - This is a standard operating procedure –
Fig. 1 Fig. 2
Buoyancy Bottom
Deflated buoyancy tubes & pull them
inward
Fig. 3

15/18
Place the boat in the bag using the following procedures (Fig. 4):
- In one bag, store the optional hard deck floorboard and stringers, in the other bag, the inflatable
boat.
- Fold over the top and buckle the lanyards,
- Tighten the lateral tightening cords, making sure no accessories are sticking out.
Fig. 4
BOAT DEFLATION AND FOLDING
DEFLATE BOAT AND PREPARE IT FOR THE NEXT AUTOMATIC CO2 - SCUBA INFLATION
WARNING!
When using
CO2 or SCUBA
compressed air
inflation system
When the boat is deflated, assemble the valve inserts and their caps. Set the
intercommunicating valve flywheels to the inflation position “red area” at 12
o'clock and most important, remove the caps from the overpressure valves. The
gases must run through the intercommunicating valves into the next chamber and
so on, to inflate chamber after chamber and the lower buoyancy tubes.
If one of the l/C valves were to be closed, “green area” at 6 o'clock, the gases
would not inflate the whole boat. There also is a possibility of damaging a boat
baffle beyond repair, because of this.
INFLATABLE BOAT STORAGE AFTER USE
To store the boat inflated:
•Open the self bailers,
•Rinse the boat with fresh water to eliminate sand and all particles,
•Let the water out through the transom self bailers,
•Store boat bow up, (5 to 10 degrees is sufficient, so it will self drain through it’s bailers, in case of rain,
•Deflate keel if boat will be stored inflated for more than 24 hours (so as not to bow the thrustboard).
•Once deflated, replace the keel valve cap and insert to avoid water penetration into the keel tube,
•Unscrew the overpressure valve caps, so as to let the over pressure vent if necessary
•Turn the boat upside-down for storage, to avoid particles and bird droppings from entering the boat.
WARNING
NEVER STORE OR ROLL-UP A BOAT THAT HAS NOT BEEN WASHED
AND DRIED.
NEVER STORE A WET, ROLLED-UP BOAT.

16/18
GENERAL INFORMATION
CYLINDERS – CO2 OR SCUBA BOTTLES
Control Code and Tare Weight (TW) are stamped on the upper shoulder of the bottle. The cylinder
is subject to a hydrostatic test every 5 years, and must be decommissioned if it fails the test.
The CO
2
bottles have a safety or overpressure disk on the operation head. In the event of
overpressure due to unusual ambient climatic conditions, this disk ruptures to discharge the
cylinder, thus preventing any damage to it.
All CO
2
bottles, compressed air bottles and dive cylinders should be laid down on the ground
when not in use. A compressed air cylinder when left standing up can become a life threatening
hazard. If it were to fall and shear its neck, it will become a life threatening projectile.
HOW TO CHECK A CO2 GAS CYLINDER
The Tare Weight is stamped on the bottle. Add 11 pounds of CO
2
charge to this figure, to
determine gross weight of bottle and gas.
A precision scale is needed to check actual weight. Weigh the cylinder with its operation head and
compare with the previously determined weight.
The acceptable tolerance is + or - 5 % of the gross weight.
INFLATION HIGH PRESSURE HOSES
Check for any cracks or cuts. If detected, change the hose (Never repair a high-pressure hose).
Change all fiber gaskets after each CO
2
inflation, or use “re-usable” O-rings.
Neoprene o-rings do not have to be discarded and replaced after each use, but MUST be checked
for cracks and changed accordingly.
CO
2
, when discharged into the atmosphere, goes from its liquid stage to a gaseous one. During
this time called its sublimation, the gases will reach -70 to -80 degrees C, or -94 to -112 degrees
F.
Adequate precautions must be taken not to exhaust CO2 these gases into sensitive environments.
Adequate eye and hand protection gear must be worn at all times.
DANGER: Do not inhale CO2 gases. Use an adequate respirator and only use CO2 gases in well-
ventilated areas.
WARNING
NEVER REPAIR AN INFLATION HOSE always REPLACE IT.
NEVER RE-USE A CRUSHED GASKET always REPLACE IT.
SERVICE YOUR CYLINDERS REGULARLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH
FEDERAL, NATIONAL, STATE, AND LOCAL REGULATIONS.
MAINTENANCE - EVERY 6 MONTHS:
Service all valves, valve inserts, valve caps and l/C valves by cleaning their threads, washers and
O-rings, and calibrate them where applicable. Service all I/C valves every 6 months or as required.
Pressure test: inflate boat to 240 mbar, check with shop gauge & tighten all valves & caps.
Check the air tightness of all inflation points & valves with a soap & water solution for bubbles
Change all O-rings every 12 months, as that is their life expectancy.
Inflate boat; stabilize its pressure for 1 hour. Record the ambient temperature at the end of it.
Top up pressure to 240 mbar if needed. Always start pressure tests @ 240/250 millibars.
Isolate all compartments, valves in navigation position “green area” and clamp the lower buoyancy
tube to isolate them. After 5 hours, open all chambers between themselves and take the pressure
reading: Correct any variations in pressure in proportion to the ambient temperature variation. Add
or subtract to the new-recorded pressure 4 millibars for every 1 degree Celsius (1.8º F = 1ºC)
increase or decrease shown on the pressure gauge. Only deal with pressure drops greater than 4
mbar per hour (i.e. 20 mbar for 5 hours). If temperature goes up, reduce as many times 4 as
Celsius difference.

17/18
BOAT PRESSURE TEST:
BUOYANCY TUBE FABRIC BOAT BUOYANCY TUBE
STABILISATION TIME
HYPALON / NEOPRENE 2 HOURS
If the boat has been folded and stored for a long period of time, the
stabilization period will be doubled.
During the boat’s stabilisation period, you must check the following:
☞Verify the air tightness of all valves.
☞Verify all boat buoyancy tube assemblies, when and where accessible.
☞Verify that there are no porosity or pin-hole leaks anywhere on an airtight structure.
Whatever your remarks may be on the verification above, it is imperative you
perform a pressure test, to quantify eventual leaks.
Naturally except, if there is a cut in the buoyancy tube which would impede the
buoyancy tube inflation.
TEST
Note down the following:
•The ambient temperature,
•The atmospheric pressure,
•The buoyancy tube pressure (240/250mbar) with the Zodiac pressure gauge.
TEST DURATION : 24:00 hours
minimum
As specified in I.S.O 6185, authorized pressure drop is 20% in 24 hours.
For buoyancy tubes whose operating pressure is 240 Mbar, Zodiac allows the following tolerances.
Boats between 0 & 1 year 12,5% or 30 Mbar Per 24
hours
Boats between 1 & 2 years 15% or 36 Mbar Per 24
hours
Boats 2 years old & more 20% or 48 Mbar Per 24
hours
Check, clean and grease the intercommunicating valves with Triple-Guard grease Zodiac P/N
Z65134.
Strip all wooden parts of their paint yearly, and repaint them with 3 coats of polyurethane paint,
varnish, or good quality marine deck paint.
Check all overpressure valves, gas manifolds, and high pressure hoses for abrasions, cracks or
rust. Never repair high pressure hoses or O/P valves, but always replace them.
Verify the alignment of the engine, which must be centered with the longitudinal axis of the boat.
30 HP engines and greater must be through bolted through the boat’s transom & secured with a
rope to the safety loop of the metal engine transom plate.

18/18
GENERAL INFORMATION (CON’T)
The adjustment of the angle of the engine in relation to the transom is essential to obtaining the
best performance from your boat (generally on the 2nd tilt pin position).
The boat will porpoise if the engine is too far out from the transom (tilt).
The boat will buckle if the motor is too far into the transom (trim).
The height of the outboard motor also affects the boat's performance (water through the clamps, or
cavitation).
Engine clamps should be securely tightened by hand & retightened after 10 minutes of navigation.
The choice of the propeller pitch is also most important, so as not to over-rev the engine.
The engine cavitation plate should be not more than an inch under the lowest part of the transom
and never higher than the lowest part of the transom.
A circuit breaker line is mandatory to avoid possible accidents. It must be attached to the pilot. In
case of his separation from a moving boat, the line will disconnect the circuit breaker and shut off
the engine instantly, thus minimizing any limb injuries to an overboard person.
Do not let the gasoline spill in the boat. If it were to happen, wash with abundant water, then wash
with soap, once returned from the mission.
LOAD DISTRIBUTION
A boat’s maximum payload is greater than its planning load, and varies with the boat type.
In heavy seas from the bow: load the bow of the boat and trim the engine in a bit …
In heavy seas from the stern: load the stern of the boat and trim the engine out a bit …
Correct load distribution can be achieved by shifting personnel or objects in the boat. Once on
plane, best results are obtained with loads ¾ aft.
Do not sit in the bow triangle. NEVER sit on a collapsible fuel tank.
Do not sit on the buoyancy tubes, for safety reasons. Always hold on to a lifeline for safety.
Wear a certified and approved PFD/Personnel Flotation Device or Lifejacket at all times.
TOWING
Never use the bow-carrying handle, use the 2 D-rings on each side of the bow, and attach a towing
sling.
For best performance while towing, cross towing lines, port to starboard and starboard to port, thus
describing an "X" with your towing line.
LIFTING
When hoisting a boat with a lifting sling, use the 2 D300 lifting rings on top of the buoyancy tubes in
the bow, or (for older boats) the 2 eyebolts of the thrust board - and always the 2 transom
eyebolts.
Do not hoist boat with personnel on board,
Only use a certified lifting sling and check its SWL (Safe Weight Load) with the manufacturer of the
lifting sling.
Inspect all your lifting appliances regularly at least every 12 months, or better still, have it done by a
professional.

ANNEXE – APPENDIX – ANHANG – ALLEGATO – ANEXO
ANNEXES
Caractéristiques Techniques A1-A2
Description A3-A4-A5-A6-A7
Illustrations :
Montage du bateau A8-A9
Le système de gonflage A10-A11-A12
APPENDIX
Technical Specifications A1-A2
Description A3-A4-A5-A6-A7
Illustrations :
Boat assembly A8-A9
Inflation system A10-A11-A12
ANHANG
Technische Daten A1-A2
Beschreibung A3-A4-A5-A6-A7
Abbildungen:
Montage des bootes A8-A9
Aufblassystem A10-A11-A12
ALLEGATO
Caratteristiche techniche A1-A2
Descrizione A3-A4-A5-A6-A7
Illustrations :
Montaggio del battello A8-A9
Il sistema di gonfiaggio A10-A11-A12
ANEXO
Características técnicas A1-A2
Descripción A3-A4-A5-A6-A7
Ilustraciones :
Montaje de la embarcación A8-A9
El sistema de hinchado A10-A11-A12