Procedure

Pre-Shift Safety Checks – Tiller Handle Type

1. Attach the emergency stop switch lanyard to the operator's PFD or arm before cruising and keep it attached at all times. WARNING: Do not attach the tether to clothing that can be torn easily. Arrange tether so it will not be caught by any object. Accidental tether pull causes unintentional engine stop, loss of control, and risk of man-overboard. 2. Ensure engine is at slow idle before attempting any gear shift (Forward, Neutral, or Reverse). WARNING: Shifting at high engine speed will cause gear and clutch damage. 3. Ensure the throttle grip is in the fully closed position before forcing a shift. WARNING: Forcing a shift with the throttle grip open may damage the steering system and/or shifting mechanism. 4. Allow engine to reach normal operating temperature before shifting into gear. If idle speed is elevated during warm-up and shifting causes difficulty returning to neutral, stop the engine, shift to neutral, then restart. WARNING: Shifting during warm-up at elevated idle may make it difficult to return to neutral. 5. Do not shift into Reverse while the boat is planing or at cruising speed. WARNING: Shifting into Reverse at speed causes loss of control, possible swamping, hull damage, and risk of man-overboard. 6. Avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration with passengers aboard. WARNING: Sudden speed changes may cause passengers to fall down or be thrown overboard. 7. Avoid unnecessary engine speed increases when shift is in Neutral or Reverse. WARNING: Excessive RPM in Neutral or Reverse may cause engine damage. 8. Minimize frequency of shifting between Forward and Reverse to reduce component wear. WARNING: Frequent shifting accelerates wear on gears and clutch components; replace gear oil earlier than the scheduled interval if frequent shifting occurs.