Pro-Line Boats 2009 26 Express, Owner'S Manual

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The throttle lever has three range positions:  “Forward”, “Neutral”, and “Reverse”.  The shift function occurs in the 
first portion of the lever travel.  After the transmission is shifted into gear, further movement of the lever advances 
the throttle. 
 
Push the throttle lever ahead to move forward and pull it back for reverse.  Centralize the lever to the detent 
position for neutral.  The throttle lever is equipped with a neutral safety switch to prevent the motor from starting in 
gear.  The initial short movement of the lever to engage the transmission should be made firmly to avoid causing 
gear clash. 
 

CAUTION:  Use care in shifting to avoid advancing the throttle more than intended.

Steering 

 
Steering systems will differ depending upon your selection of engine package.  Please carefully read the owner’s 
manual provided by the specific manufacturer. 
 
Check your particular engine specifications for details specific to your engine package.  Always follow the engine 
manufacturers recommendations relating to the care and maintenance of their product. 
 

Hydraulic Steering (Verado – Power) 

Your Pro-Line is equipped with a self-contained hydraulic steering system when your engine package is factory 
installed.  When the steering wheel is turned, the helm pump pumps fluid to the steering cylinder causing it to 
extend or retract.  Periodically, check the fluid level and fill as necessary.  Beware of adding too much fluid, 
especially if the ambient temperature is cold because subsequent expansion could cause leaking or damage to 
your system.  Refer to the owner’s manual that was provided by your engine manufacturer. 
 
After every 24 hours of operation check all nuts, caps, and hose fittings for tightness.  Make sure the hoses are 
not chafing or kinking on sharp corners.  Also, check that hose ends are not damaged or distorted.  The fluid 
should be changed annually under normal conditions and every six months during times of heavy usage.  If your 
steering does not operate properly, check the following: 
 

• 

Drive entanglements 

• 

Hoses and/or fittings for leaks 

• 

Level of the hydraulic steering fluid 

• 

Air in the steering system 

 
To properly check the steering system, start by turning the steering wheel port to starboard.  If the engine does 
not respond the same time as the steering wheel is being turned, this means that there is air in the steering 
system and the steering system needs re-bleeding.  When there is air in the steering, the steering wheel will feel 
“loose”.  Contact your dealer to have them bleed the steering system. 
 

Hydraulic Tilt Upgrade (Optional) 

Tilt steering is available when your engine package includes hydraulic steering. 
 

Power Trim

The power trim unit is located on the engine and can be operated by using the trim button on the engine or by 
using the trim toggle switch on the binnacle.  To ensure the power trim is working, start by pressing the toggle trim 
switch in the up position and trim the engine to the full up position.  Repeat the same process by pressing the trim 
toggle switch down and the engine will go into the full down position.  See the Trim and Tilt information in the 
Operations section of this manual. 
 

Steering Wheel 

The stainless steel steering wheel is mounted at the helm along with the binnacle, switch panel and other 
controls.  Please refer to the Care and Maintenance section of this manual for cleaning recommendations.