SEAS Catalina 30 Operating Guidelines
8/10/2021
Page 9 of 28
Starting
engine
:
1. Engine controls:
The throttle and
gearshift control levers are located
on the binnacle in front of the
wheel on the sides of the compass.
2. Throttle control:
The throttle
control lever is located on
starboard side of the compass.
Check operation of throttle by
rotating throttle lever forward. To
return engine to idle lightly rotate
throttle lever back. Unlike a car,
boat throttles do NOT return to idle
automatically when you let go; you
must move it manually.
3. Gearshift control:
The gearshift control lever is located on port side of the
compass. Check operation of gearshift lever by rotating forward for FORWARD
gear, back to vertical for NEUTRAL and then rotate backward to REVERSE gear
and forward again for NEUTRAL. Become familiar with FORWARD, NEUTRAL,
and REVERSE positions of the gearshift lever so you will know what gear you
are in by looking at the lever and by feel of the position of the lever. Always set
throttle to idle before shi
fting gears. Move shift lever to “NEUTRAL” position
before starting engine. NEVER shift while the engine speed is above idle
– if you
do you can damage the transmission. NEVER shift from FORWARD to
REVERSE, or from REVERSE to FORWARD without pausing in NEUTRAL
– if
you do you can damage the transmission. Replacement transmissions cost about
$2000 (2021 prices.)
4. Key:
Ignition key is kept in the engine compartment on the panel that provides
access to the engine oil dip stick. When taking out the key, check the oil level
and ensure that the engine cooling water seacock is open. Key is inserted into
ignition switch at bottom of engine instrument panel that is located on lower port
side of the cockpit by the helm. Make sure the shift lever is in NEUTRAL
position. Turn key clockwise one click, you will hear the low oil pressure alarm,
the electric fuel pump, and the engine room blower.
