37. Boats - Launching and Starting Engine

 

Prior to Launching

  • Disconnect and remove tailboard, stow in vehicle.
  • Remove tie down straps at stern.
  • Ensure draining plugs are inserted and elephants trunk is up.
  • Fit GPS and EPIRB.
  • Erect ‘A’ frame and secure in place. Replace boat boxes.
  • Ensure Painter is fixed to bow.

Launching

  • Reverse onto slipway.
  • Ensure engine is up and engine support mounts are disengaged.
  • Reverse into water with the trailer to about 0.5m deep.
  • Allow RIB to roll off - keep hold of painter.
  • Ensure appropriate loading of equipment into boat.
  • Stow trailer and fit wheel clamp.

Engine Starting Procedure

  • Ensure boat is in water deep enough for engine.
  • Ensure engine is down sufficient engine is in enough water for cooling, but not deep enough to damage propeller.
  • Ensure divers are clear.
  • Check electrical isolator is ON.
  • Check fuel level.
  • Tilt engine down into water.
  • Connect petrol line to engine.
  • Pump fuel bulb until bulb is hard.
  • Ensure engine in neutral.
  • Ensure dead mans handle is ON and fixed around leg.
  • Choke (if required) switch up and hold.
  • Put starting throttle to fully on.
  • Turn ignition key to start engine.
  • Reduce starting throttle control lever. DO NOT OVER-REV.
  • Check the tell tales for good water spurt.
  • Reduce starting throttle when warm.
  • Allow engine to warm up at idle for several minutes before moving off.

 

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Page updated on April 2, 2005