MJM Yachts 29z Outboard - Manual (Page 6)

CHAPTER 1 OPERATION
- 6 - 29z
1.1 GENERAL
This manual has been compiled to help you operate your yacht with safety and pleasure. It
contains details of the yacht; the equipment supplied or fitted, its systems, and information on its
operation and maintenance. Please read it carefully, and familiarize yourself with the yacht
before using it.
If this is your first yacht, or you are changing to a type of yacht you are not familiar with, for your
own comfort and safety, please insure that you obtain handling and operating experience before
assuming command of the yacht. Your dealer or yacht club will be pleased to advise you of local
schools, or competent instructors.
PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL IN A SECURE PLACE ON THE BOAT, AND HAND IT OVER TO
THE NEW OWNER IF YOU EVER SELL THE CRAFT.
This Owner’s Manual is not intended to be a course in boating safety, boat handling, navigation
or general boating skills. It is the responsibility of the user to independently gain these skills.
Instead, this manual will serve as a reference for matters specific to the 29z. Standard options
are included in the manual with which your particular yacht may or may not be fitted. Custom
options may be addressed in an addendum.
1.2 QUICK START GUIDE (See CHAPTER 16)
A separate “Quick Start Guide” is included that briefly reviews the key items to check before
departure. Please review the topics in this manual before relying on the checklist – it is simply an
“at-a-glance” sheet to insure that you don’t overlook anything important.
1.3 OPERATING
PROCEDURES – ENGINE INSPECTION
To access the propulsion system, the stern-seat must be tilted up. The procedure is as follows:
- Remove the stern seat cushions and cockpit side cushions with supporting panels
- Turn the securing locks 90 degrees
- Pull up and back on the handle on centerline.
1.4 NAVIGATION
The builder installed navigation system option generally includes autopilot w/compass, depth-
sounder, chart-plotter, and radar. Modern marine electronics are a subject unto themselves and
you should refer to the manuals that came with the equipment you purchased. However, here are
a few points to consider:
ƒ If you are unfamiliar with navigation, educate yourself before using the boat. Electronic
equipment is NOT a substitute for navigation skills.
ƒ It is not recommended to rely solely on electronic charts- bring paper chart back-ups.
ƒ Depending on your chart-plotter, it may be necessary to power up the depth-sounder prior to
the chart-plotter.
ƒ It is prudent to check (or have checked) your compass alignment once the boat is in your
primary area of operation. See the Ritchie instructions for compensation.
ƒ Check that all equipment is functioning, even if you intend not to use it.
ƒ Radar functioning and properly aligned (Double-check when underway) See manual to
adjust, tune and operate.
Compass Heading & Calibration
There are 3 heading references for navigation on the 29z: (1) The compass on the dash, (2)
Autopilot fluxgate compass, and (3) GPS COG (Course Over Ground). All of these headings