Monterey Boats 186MS Owner'S Manual Download

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152

MONTEREY

BOATS

Routine Maintenance

In most cases, Karadon can be repaired if ac-
cidentally damaged. Minor damage, including
scratches, general or chemical stains, scorches or
burns, and minor impact marks, can be repaired
with a light abrasive cleanser and a Scotch-Brite®
pad. For heavier damage, light sanding and ma-

chine buffing may be necessary so contact your

dealer or a professional.

• Avoid exposing Karadon to strong chemicals,

such as paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. If

contact occurs, quickly flush the surface with

water.

• Remove nail polish with a non acetone-based

polish remover and flush with water.

• Do not cut directly on Karadon counter tops.

13.4 Bilge and Engine Compartment

To keep the bilge clean and fresh, use a commer-
cial bilge cleaner regularly. Follow the directions
carefully. The engine and engine compartment
should be kept clean and free of oil accumulation
and debris. All exposed pumps and metal compo-
nents, including the engine and drive gear, should
be sprayed periodically with a protector to reduce
the corrosive effects of the high humidity always
present in these areas.

Maintenance intervals are outlined in the engine
owner’s manuals. Their recommendations should
be followed exactly.

Periodically check the bilge pump for proper opera-

tion and clean debris from the strainers and float

switch. Inspect all hoses, clamps and thru-hulls for
leaks and tightness on a regular basis and operate
all thru-hull valves at least once a month to keep
them operating properly.

A flow of air into the bilge is provided by vents

located in the deck near the engine compartment.
Periodic inspection and cleaning of the ventilation
ducts is necessary to ensure adequate air circula-
tion.

Engines

Proper engine maintenance is essential to the
proper performance and reliability of your inboard
engines. Maintenance schedules and procedures
are outlined in your engine owner’s manual. They
should be followed exactly.

Proper engine operation requires a good supply
of clean, dry fuel. Improper marina fuel storage
techniques, limited boat usage, etc. can cause the
fuel to become contaminated.

The age of fuel can affect engine performance.

Chemical changes occur as the fuel ages that can
cause deposits and reduce the cetane or octane
rating of the fuel. Severely degraded fuel can
damage the engine and boat fuel tank and lines.
Therefore, if your boat is not being run enough to
require at least one full tank of fresh fuel a month,
a fuel additive should be added to protect it from
degradation. Your dealer or the engine manufac-
turer can provide additional information on fuel
degradation and fuel stabilizers recommended for
your engine.

In many states, most gasoline is blended with
ethanol alcohol. Ethanol is a strong solvent and
can absorb water during periods of storage. You
should refer to the engine operating manual for
information regarding alcohol blended fuels and
how it affects the operation of your marine engine.

13.5 Drainage System

It is essential that the following items be done pe-
riodically to maintain proper drainage of your boat:

•

Clean the cockpit drains with a hose to remove
debris that can block water drainage.

• Frequently test the automatic bilge pump

switches for proper operation. This is accom-

plished by lifting the float switch until the pump

is activated. You can also use a garden hose

to flood the bilge until the water level is high

enough to activate the pump.

•

Flush all gravity drains with fresh water to keep