tighten the screw snugly (but do not over-tighten). Manually cycle
the wedge a couple of times after doing this to ensure that the screw
is snug, and the wedge moves correctly.
For the Surf Gate, there is a red hex bolt on the side of the
actuator. Opening this valve with a 3/8” wrench will allow the Surf
Gate to be moved into a closed position. Be sure to re-tighten the bolt
to prevent it from drifting open while operating the boat.
Care and Maintenance—147
Saltwater Boats
Perform the normal cleaning procedures described above in the
Salt Water/Brackish Water Maintenance. Boats operated in salt/
brackish/polluted water are especially vulnerable to accelerated
wear and tear. Never ignore the care and maintenance required to
keep your boat under warranty and in good condition for the life of
the boat.
Because the process of preparing a boat for long term storage
(more than two weeks) and/or winterization is extremely important
and takes some time to accomplish, this is often paired with the
annual maintenance preparation. Regardless of timing, however,
storage and winterization must never be overlooked, especially in
climates where the temperature will fall below freezing.
If the boat will not be used for an extended period, regardless
of season, or if the boat will be left in water full time during boating
season, there are precautions which should be taken.
STORAGE AND WINTERIZATION
Hull Gel Coat
If a boat will be left in the water all the time during boating season,
Malibu recommends using a bottom, hull paint to protect it. Even with
the highest grade of gel coat, continuous exposure to water, even
fresh water, will eventually result in damage to the finish. Therefore,
in these circumstances, boat owners must protect the finish with an
approved hull paint. Your authorized Malibu dealer can direct you to
the correct paint and can complete the preparation for you.
Failure to protect the hull from
excessive exposure to water or foul
weather can result in damage to the
hull point and get coat that is not covered under warranty.
Extended Non-Use
If a boat is not used for an extended period of time, and depending
on weather conditions, location, and other factors, this could be from
two (2) weeks to one (1) month—or beyond—owners should remove
the boat from the water if possible. Perform the expected storage
preparations, including removal of all ballast water, water from
the bilge area, and periodically check the battery status as certain
automatic functions are performed even when the boat is out of
the water and the battery switch is in the off position. It may be
necessary to occasionally charge the battery. See information above
and in the
Electrical Components section of the Dashes and Video
Screens chapter of this manual regarding battery maintenance and
the proper way to ensure batteries remain charged.
