Re: new boater
Hello and welcome to the Boating life.<br /><br />Starting the motor:<br /><br />Connect the fuel line to the motor (IF not already done), there is a squeeze bulb somewhere between the motor and the tank. Pump it until it is firm. Next, there should be a bottom at the bottom of the shift/throttle lever that you push to dis-engage the shifting, but lets you advance the throttle in Neutral. I wouold say advance it between 1/4 and 1/3 throttle. Put the key in and turn to the on position. Push the key inward for the choke (You should be able to hear it click) With the key pushed in, crank the motor until it fires or about 25 seconds, which ever comes first. If it doesn't fire, squeeze the bulb again and repeat until it lights. Now keep in mind that the Force is a VERY cold blooded beast and just because it fires, don't take for granted that it is going to stay lit. You might have to start it several times. I would let it warm up for at least 5 minutes at NO MORE than 1500 RPM's.<br /><br />The "Plug":<br /><br />At the bottom of the boat just infront of the motor's prop is a hole in the boat for draining. That is where the "Plug" goes. I think Bayliner was using the brass screw type at that point in time. I use a cresent wrench and get it snug, don't over tighten it as it might strip or you might be fighting it to get it back off later.<br /><br />Loading and unloading:<br /><br />Wether you have a roller trailer or a bunk trailer, since you are new to this. I would not attemp tp drive the boat on or off the trailer until you get real good at controling it. <br /><br />For unloading. BEFORE you actually get on the ramp, make sure the plug is in, unstrap the transom tie-downs and unplug the lights (Helps to keep them from blowing when they hit the water). At the minimum have a bow line ATTACHED to the boat and a person holding onto it and if you have a dock next to the ramp, and another person, a line on the back is also a good idea. DO NOT!!!!!! unhook or loosen the bow strap/winch until the boat is toughing the water and the rope handlers are ready. At that point you can release the winch/bow strap and back it in till it floats off and then you can pull the trailer out from under it. but pull out slow uncase a rope, boat or something gets caught on the trailer. Move the boat as far down the dock as possible so as not to block anyone coming in or going out. Lower the motor and fire it up and have a blast.<br /><br />Retrieving, back the trailer into the water so that about 1/2 of the bunks are under water (BIG TIP HERE (Spray the bunks with silicone before you put the boat back on)) That helps the boat slide on the carpet like it would on rollers. Lift the motor up and push the boat as far up the trailer as you can and then attach the bow strap and crank it on the rest of the way. Slowly pull out and drive it out of the way and then take the plug out, put on the transon straps and stow everything for the trip home. If you are in need of any help, don't be afraid to ask someone there. Most people are more than happy to help as it lets you get off the ramp faster. <br /><br />I really hope this helps.<br /><br />Craig
<br /><br />Look into a power squadron or coast guard auxillary course. They will provide you with greater confidence that anything you see you will understand. Great way to make new friends as well.<br /><br />Best of luck to you and keep posting all your questions, I have not seen a better site for sharing information than right here.....