2009 Mari Star X Series Mastercraft Owners Manual

User Manual: 2009 MariStar X-Series

Open the PDF directly: View PDF .
Page Count: 88

Download
Open PDF In Browser	View PDF

ProStar
MariStar
X-Series
Saltwater Series

2009
MasterCraft
Owner’s Manual

welcome aboard
Congratulations on your boating choice! MasterCraft is the recognized world leader for inboard boats today and has been for over
forty (40) years. The quality, innovation, selection and value of MasterCraft boats are unmatched in the industry.
Please take a few minutes to read this Owner’s Manual completely in addition to carefully reviewing any additional information provided in the accompanying packet. These publications will help to answer most of the remaining questions you may have regarding the
new boat. If you have any additional questions after reading these items publications, please feel free to speak with your dealer. MasterCraft wants you to feel comfortable with your boat (and trailer, where applicable) from the very beginning of your experience as an
owner of our products.
All information in this Owner’s Manual is based on the latest product information available at the time of printing. Because of our
policy of continuous product improvement, we reserve the right to make changes at any time, without notice, in specifications and
models, and also to discontinue models. We also reserve the right to change specifications, parts or accessories at any time without
incurring any obligation to equip the same on models manufactured before the date of the change. MasterCraft recommends checking
www.mastercraft.com periodically, specifically the Knowledge Center, for updates and additional information.
Due to changes in specifications, models, parts and/or accessories that may occur after publication of this Owner’s Manual, the Owner’s
Manual may not cover every circumstance that may arise in owning and operating a boat. Also, the illustrations used in this Owner’s
Manual are intended only as representative reference views and may not depict actual model component parts. Information regarding certain on-board components furnished by suppliers other than MasterCraft, including the engine and power train components, is
provided separately by the manufacturers of those components. This information is available through your dealer. A reasonable effort
has been made by MasterCraft and its suppliers to provide the applicable information required to ensure a long-lasting and enjoyable
boating experience.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page i

dangers, warnings and cautions
Throughout this manual the terms “Danger,” “Warning,” and
“Caution” appear, alerting the boat owner and/or operator to
dangerous or potentially dangerous situations that may arise.
Those terms have the following respective meanings whenever
they appear herein:
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert
you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all
safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid
possible injury or death.

DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

these dangers, warnings and cautions, they are reprinted here,
along with the pages on which you will find them. Please note
that the safety information statements presented below are categorized for information purposes only, and are not presented in
any particular order of importance. Each of the statements referenced below and in the other sections of this manual provide you
with important safety-related information and must be read and
followed to avoid injury or damage, as applicable. We strongly
encourage you to cross-reference and read the dangers, warnings
and cautions within the context in which they are presented by
reading and reviewing those sections.

Failure to comply with safety-related information and instructions may result in serious injury or death to you and/or others.
Always use common sense when operating the boat or participating in any activities associated with the boat, including, but
not limited to, periods of time when the boat engine is shut
down and the boat is not in operation. (Page 1-2)
Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors may ignite, resulting
in fire or explosion. Be sure to keep all sparks and flames away
from the area while inspecting the boat’s fuel system. (Page 16-3)
Gasoline is explosive. If a gasoline odor is present or gasoline is
visually observed in the bilge area during inspection, DO NOT
START YOUR ENGINE! Remove the ignition key from the ignition switch and call an authorized MasterCraft dealer for service.
(Page 6-1, 16-8)
Gasoline is extremely flammable and high explosive under
certain conditions. Always stop the engine and never smoke or
allow open flames or sparks within fifty (50) feet of the fueling
area when fueling. (Page 6-1)

CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a
potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result
in property damage.

Take care not to spill gasoline. If gasoline is spilled accidentally,
wipe up all traces of it with dry rags immediately and dispose of
properly on shore. (Page 6-1)

Failure to adhere to and comply with the safety dangers, warnings and cautions that appear in this manual can lead to serious
illness, injury or even death and/or damage to your boat or the
property of others. Beyond these warnings, boaters have a personal responsibility to utilize a common sense approach to the
boating experience, including keeping individuals off or near the
swim platform and the stern area of the boat during the engine
operation. Personal floation devices (“PFDs”) save lives and ensure positive experiences. MasterCraft offers many proactive
approaches to the boating experience, but the consumer is ultimately responsible for the positive and safe involvement in
boating.

Be sure to review the Boating Safety section of this manual, which
immediately follows this section. Because of the importance of

To prevent a possible explosion, operate the blower for at least
four (4) minutes before starting the engine and always when at
idle or slow-running speed. Explosive gasoline and/or battery
fumes may be present in the engine compartment. Failure to operate the blower as instructed may cause improper ventilation of
the boat engine and bilge areas, and fuel vapors can accumulate
in this area, causing a fire or explosion which may result in death
or serious injury! (Page 5-3)

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page ii

off of the tower. Never allow passengers
to sit behind the tow rope attachment
point. Never allow loose tow rope ends
to dangle. Always be certain that all bolts
are in place and tight before and during
use. When the tower is up, watch for low
obstacles such as tree limbs, bridges or
power lines. (Page 1-4)

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorless and poisonous gas that accumulates rapidly and can cause serious injury
or death. Exposure to carbon monoxide can be fatal in a matter
of minutes. Exposure to even low concentrations of carbon
monoxide must not be ignored because the effects of exposure to
carbon monoxide can build up and be just as lethal as high concentrations. Carbon monoxide from exhaust pipes of inboard or
outboard engines may build up inside and outside the boat in
areas near exhaust vents, particularly during slow-speed operations. STAY AWAY from these exhaust vent areas, which are
located at the stern of the boat, and DO NOT swim or engage
in any watersports or other activities in or near the stern area of
the boat, including, without limitation, the swim platform and
the rear sun deck, when the engine is in operation. Under no
circumstances should the owner and/or operator allow persons
to hold onto the swim platform while the engine is operating
and the boat is in motion. These activities (sometimes known
as “teak surfing” or “platform dragging,” where the participant
holds onto the swim platform and is pulled through the water,
and/or “body surfs” immediately behind the boat) are extremely
dangerous, highly likely to result in death or serious bodily
injury, and are a misuse of this product.
(Page 2-1, 19-7)
The safety switch lanyard must be attached to the operator
whenever the engine is running. Failure to do so may result in
death or serious injury! (Page 5-5)
Never override or modify the engine emergency safety shut-off
switch in any way. (Page 1-2)
Before starting the engine, open the engine compartment and
check for gasoline fumes, fuel and oil leaks or the presence of
fuel or oil in the bilge. (Page 9-1)
Do not tow more than two (2) persons at one time on a tow tower. The tow tower approved for use on your boat should be used
only for water skis, wakeboards or recreational towables, and
not for parasailing, kite flying or towing other boats. Do not add
any attachments that are not approved for use on your MasterCraft boat. Do not climb on, sit on, stand on, jump off of or dive

Information regarding the maximum
number of people and/or additional
weight to the boat is included in the
Guide to Individual Models section of
this Manual. It is the boat operator’s
responsibility to ensure that the boat is
never overloaded. Too much additional
weight may cause the boat to overturn or
sink, which can result in serious bodily
injury or death. (Page 10-1)
Boat operators should never attempt to duplicate operational
skills of professional drivers. When such maneuvers fail, it can
result in serious injury or death. (Page 10-1)
Failure to comply with the requirement of operating the blower
for at least four (4) minutes before starting the engine may result
in serious injury or death to you and/or others. (Page 1-3)
Carbon monoxide is emitted from the engine’s exhaust system.
Never run the engine without proper ventilation. Do not run
the engine in a confined space or where fumes may be trapped.
Do not run the engine when the boat is stationary in calm wind
conditions. (Page 5-6)
Carbon monoxide is emitted from the engine’s exhaust system.
Never run the engine without proper ventilation. Do not run
the engine in a confined space or where fumes may be trapped.
(Page 19-5, 19-7)

DO NOT launch or operate the boat if any problem is found
during the Safety Check. A problem could lead to an accident
during the outing, resulting in death or serious injury. Any and
all problems should receive attention immediately. See your authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department for assistance.
(Page 7-1)
Battery electrolyte fluid is dangerous. It contains sulfuric acid,
which is poisonous, corrosive and caustic. If electrolyte fluid is
spilled or placed on any part of the human body, immediately
flush the area with large amounts of clean water and immediately seek medical attention. (Page 16-1)
When charging, batteries generate small amounts of dangerous hydrogen gas. This gas is highly explosive. Keep all sparks,
flames and smoking well away from the area. Failure to follow
instructions when charging a battery may cause an electrical

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page iii

charge or even an explosion of the battery, which could result in
death or serious injury. (Page 16-2, 16-4, and 19-2)
The engine box serves as a machinery guard. The engine must
be OFF whenever the box is open. Clothing or body parts can
get caught in moving parts, causing death or serious injury. Keep
away from moving parts! (Page 5-5, 16-3)
Adding additional ballast to a MasterCraft boat is not recommended, and can result in impaired visibility, diminished handling characteristics and instability when operating your boat,
and may result in potential structural and/or engine damage to
the boat, which damage will not be covered by your warranty.
(Page 10-1)

The platform must be raised and locked into position for use of
the platform while boating. No one should be allowed on the
platform until the platform is securely locked in place and the
engine is OFF. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or
death! (Page 19-8)
MasterCraft has determined that for the tower utilized on the
2009 models, the total weight of all accessories mounted on the
tower should never exceed 85 pounds, regardless of whether
the accessories are MasterCraft-approved and supplied or have
come from an aftermarket supplier. Exceeding this restriction
can result in tower failure, which could result in serious injury
or death to the boat operator and/or passengers. (Page 19-9)

Use of improper parts may cause component or engine failure.
Such failure may result in death or serious injury! (Page 12-1)
Towers on boats are intended for use for the towing of a maximum of two (2) individuals using water skis, wakeboards or recreational towables only. Use of the tower to tow other boats, kites
or for any other purpose may result in serious injury or death,
and may damage the boat, which will not be covered by warranty.
(Page 1-3)
All boats have weight limits. Failure to adhere to the posted limits
can cause operation instability and/or the boat to sink. This may
result in serious injury or death, as well as significant damage to
the boat, which will not be covered by warranty. (Page 2-1)
While operating attitude adjustment plates use caution. Improper use of plates can cause accidents, which may result in
serious injury or death.
While the boat is underway do not move one plate up or down
significantly as this may cause listing.
While at higher speeds do not over-trim, as this will cause the
bow to lower quickly, resulting in a reduction of speed and may
cause the boat to veer.
When in following seas or when running an inlet, the plates
should be fully retracted. This will allow for optimal performance.
ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATORS PROVIDE AN INSTANT RESPONSE. WHEN MAKING
ADJUSTMENTS, USE SHORT MOMENTARY TAPS OF THE SWITCH.
(Page 5-2)

Be sure all fasteners used are approved and rated for marine use.
Most fasteners used on MasterCraft boats are stainless steel or
specially coated to resist corrosion. (Page 12-1)
All replaced fuel components must meet United States Coast
Guard (“USCG”) and American Boat & Yacht Council, Inc.
(“ABYC”) standards, and must be Underwriter’s Laboratory
(“UL”)-approved. Inferior quality components pose a serious
safety threat to you and others, and the use of inferior components may result in serious injury or death. Resulting damage
may void the warranty. (Page 16-8)
Do not continue to run the engine if the oil pressure is low. If
you do, the engine may become so hot that it, or surrounding
components, could catch fire. You or others could be burned and
the boat seriously damaged. Check your oil level and add an appropriate amount of approved motor oil before operating again
or have your boat serviced by your local authorized dealer’s
service department. Note that damage to your engine from inappropriate oil levels can be costly to repair. Such damage is not
covered by your warranty. (Page 5-5)

Improperly stored anchors and/or anchor
line that has been improperly re-wound
through the windlass system, may create
a hazardous situation. People on-board
can trip on improperly stored materials, which can result in injury. Improperly stored materials can also move too
freely during boat operation and make
contact with individuals, again causing
injury. Properly store all anchor and lines
whether the boat is in operation or not,
unless the anchor and line are in use.
(Page 19-1)
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page iv

Some engine parts become very hot during operation. This inspection must be completed while the engine is cool to prevent
burns to your skin. Perform this task before starting the boat.
(Page 16-2, 16-5, and 16-6)
Towers should never have a total aggregate weight of accessories
exceeding 85 lbs. (U.S.) total. Excessive weight can cause tower
failure and the collapse of a tower or the disconnect of the tower
from the deck can result in injury or damage to the boat that is
not covered by warranty. (Page 1-3)

Continued operation after the warning light has illuminated
may cause severe engine damage. This will void your warranty.
(Page 9-2)
Because of the complexity of preparing a boat for proper winter
storage, as well as the possibility of extreme damage to the drive
train if a preparation error was made during winterization, MasterCraft recommends scheduling an appointment with an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department to permit a technician to perform all winterization procedures. (Page 17-1)
Add-on equipment may adversely affect the alternator output or
overload the electrical system. Such damage may not be covered
by the warranty. (Page 16-1)

When boating, avoid using the windshield as an aid for balance
or getting out of a seat. This causes undue stress to the window
frame and could damage it, which may not be covered under
warranty. (Page 7-1)
To ensure proper break-in and lubrication, boat owners should
not remove the factory break-in oil until after the initial ten
(10) hours of operation. At that time, an oil change should be
performed on the Indmar engines by an authorized MasterCraft service technician at an authorized MasterCraft dealer.
(Page 8-1)

Failure to follow the engine oil recommendations listed in the
engine manual can cause additional engine wear and increase
the possibility of engine component failure. Damage to the engine due to incorrect oil usage can be costly to repair, and is not
covered by the warranty! (Page 8-2)
Do not operate the starter motor continuously for more than
fifteen (15) seconds without at least two (2) minutes for a “cooldown” period. Failure to do so may cause the starter to overheat,
resulting in damage. Failure to release the ignition key after the
engine has started may cause damage to the starter motor and
drive. (Page 9-1)
Damage to the engine by use of lowquality gasoline or gasoline with an
octane rating below the minimum level
listed will void the warranty on the boat.
(Page 6-2)
Fuels that are blended to contain methanol or wood alcohol should not be used.
These fuels can corrode metal parts in
the fuel system and engine. Fuels that
contain methanol will damage the engine. Damage caused by the use of unapproved fuels is not covered by warranty.
(Page 6-2)

DO NOT use the ski pylon or any portion of any tower for lifting.
They are NOT designed to be used as a central lifting point. Also,
DO NOT use the stern ski tow as a lifting ring. The deck may be
damaged. See the Storage Cradle sub-section of this section. Also
never lift a boat with water in the bilge or containing a waterfilled device such as a ballast system or sack. The extra stress will
put an excessive load on the hull and lifting equipment that may
seriously damage the boat. Such damage may not be covered by
the warranty. (Page 11-1)

Extended storage with fuel in the system
can affect the fuel’s stability and may
require system inspection and fuel filter
replacement when the unit is placed back
into service. (Page 6-2)
Lifting slings must never contact shafts, struts or hardware protruding from the hull. Damage may result that would void the
warranty. (Page 11-1)
When the boat is out of the water, it is important to support the
hull correctly to avoid any hull damage. Such damage may void
the warranty. (Page 11-1)

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page v

Crossing cables or jumper cables may
result in damage to the electrical components due to incorrect battery connections. Such damages may not be covered
by your warranty. (Page 16-4)
Attention must be paid to any leakage
occurring in the propeller shaft log area.
Water intrusion into the transmission,
which can happen if excessive leakage
is occurring may cause serious damage.
Such damage may not be covered by the
warranty. (Page 16-3)
Allowing the fuel level in the fuel tank
to fall below one-quarter of a tank full
may affect the reliability of the fuel
pump or result in damage to the fuel
pump, which is not covered under warranty. (Page 5-6, 6-1)
Engines should always be operated within engine manufacturer guidelines. Failure to do so may cause significant damage to
the engine and drive train and is not covered under warranty!
(Page 10-3)
Continuing to operate the boat while the temperature is above
normal operating parameters may cause serious damage to your
engine. Damage to your engine resulting from operating the
engine in an overheated condition can be costly to repair. Such
damage is not covered by your warranty! (Page 5-9)
Do not overuse starting fluid. Too much starting fluid can cause
detonation within the engine that can damage components and
doing so may void your warranty! (Page 6-3)

Exposure to salt water will cause corrosion leading to significant
damage to stainless steel and chrome parts. Failure to thoroughly rinse salt water from all hardware, and to apply protective oil
after each exposure to salt water, will accelerate the corrosion of
hardware and will void your warranty. (Page 12-1)
The anchor, sometimes accompanied by a windlass, has been
provided to assist boaters in remaining in a chosen location.
Note that use of the anchor system will not guarantee a properly anchored boat or that the boat will remain in a stationary
position. Environmental, bottom conditions, current and tidal
conditions must be taken into consideration when anchoring the
boat. Only properly trained operators should set the anchor for
this system. Establishing a secure anchorage requires practice.
Damage to your boat may result due to improper anchoring
techniques. (Page 19-1)

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page vi

table of contents
Welcome Aboard................................................................ i
Dangers, Warnings & Cautions.......................................ii
Boating Safety................................................................ 1-1
Common Sense Approach........................................... 2-1
Rules of the Open Water............................................... 3-1
Guide to Individual Models......................................... 4-1
Instrument Gauges and Switches................................ 5-1
Using Care While Fueling............................................ 6-1
Safety Checks and Services.......................................... 7-1
New Boat Break-In........................................................ 8-1
Starting and Basic Operations..................................... 9-1
Operational Hints........................................................ 10-1
Lifting the Boat............................................................ 11-1
Corrosion Prevention................................................. 12-1
Cleaning the Boat........................................................ 13-1
MasterCraft Boat Care Products............................... 14-1
Scheduled Maintenance Checks & Services............ 15-1
Scheduled Maintenance.............................................. 15-1
Before Each Use
Raw Water Intake Strainer.................................... 16-1
Battery Connections and Hold-Downs............... 16-1
Cable Kinks, Wear and Interference.................... 16-2
Propeller Shaft Log................................................. 16-2
Fuel System Leaks................................................... 16-3
Exhaust System Leaks............................................ 16-3
Fully Charged Battery............................................ 16-4

After Each Use
General Cleaning and Storage.............................. 16-4
Quarterly Maintenance............................................ 16-5
Engine Starter Gear and Shaft Lubrication......... 16-5
Annual Maintenance................................................ 16-5
Check Engine Mounts........................................... 16-5
Check Propeller Shaft Coupling Alignment....... 16-6
Inspect Exhaust Flaps............................................. 16-6
Lubricate Steering System..................................... 16-6
Lubricate Shift and Throttle System..................... 16-7
Ballast Pump Impeller........................................... 16-7
Inspect Complete Fuel System for Leakage........ 16-7
Fire Suppression and Extinguishing.................... 16-8
Storage/Winterization................................................. 17-1
General Preparation................................................. 17-1
Fuel System Treatment............................................. 17-1
General Power Package Preparation...................... 17-2
Other Winterization Preparation........................... 17-2
Ballast System Preparations.................................... 17-3
Reactivating After Storage....................................... 17-3
Propeller Maintenance................................................ 18-1
Comfort and Convenience......................................... 19-1
Guide to Troubleshooting.......................................... 20-1
Limited Warranty Statement...................................... 21-1
Warranty Transfer....................................................... 22-1
Service Log................................................................... 23-1
Index............................................................................. 24-1

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page vii

boating safety
Your safety, as well as the safety of others with and around you,
is a direct result of how you operate and maintain your boat.
You—and anyone who will be operating this boat—should read
and seek to fully comprehend this Owner’s Manual, and any additional information provided by component manufacturers and
suppliers. Make sure that you understand all of the controls and
operating instructions before attempting to operate the boat.
Improper operation is extremely dangerous!

Observing the safety recommendations found in this Owner’s
Manual is critical to keeping your boating experience as safe
as possible during routine operation. Your failure to do so may
result in severe personal injury or death to you and/or others.
Use caution and common sense when operating your boat. Do
not ever take unnecessary chances!

General Precautions
The basic safety rules are outlined in this section of the Owner’s
Manual. Additional precautions throughout the Manual are
noted by the following symbols:

This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential
personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this
symbol to avoid possible injury or death.

Be certain that all operators of your boat are aware of the safety
information within this Owner’s Manual and that they use it to
conform to boat safety principles.
Boating safety starts with a thorough understanding of boat
operations. In addition to careful review of this Owner’s Manual,
you should also be aware that many sources of helpful information are available. MasterCraft urges you to pursue additional
training prior to the independent operation of your boat. However, training at any time from recognized boating and/or safety
organizations is beneficial.
The following is a listing of a few agencies and organizations that
offer safety training and/or information:

DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a
potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result
in property damage.
The precautions listed in this Owner’s Manual and on the boat
are not all-inclusive. If a procedure, method, tool or part is not
specifically recommended by MasterCraft, using it may place
you and others in an unsafe situation; in addition, you may render your warranty void. Remember: Always use common sense
when operating, servicing or repairing the boat!

American Red Cross, National HQ
8111 Gatehouse Road, 6th Floor
Falls Church VA 22042
(202) 737-8300
www.redcross.org
U.S. A. Water Ski Association
1251 Holy Cow Road
Polk City FL 33868
(863) 324-4341
www.usawaterski.org
Boat Owners Association of the United States
880 South Pickett Street
Alexandria VA 22304
(703) 823-9550
www.boatus.com
National Safe Boating Council
2550 M Street NW, Suite 425
Washington DC 20037
(202) 296-4588
www.safeboatingcouncil.org
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
2100 Second Street SW
Washington DC 20593-001
(202) 267-1001
www.uscg.mil

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 1-1

Safety Equipment

Federal law requires certain safety equipment to be on-board
your boat at all times. Responsible boaters carry additional
equipment in case of emergency. It is your responsibility to
check with the local boating authorities for any additional
requirements and/or equipment over and above the federal
requirements.

Required Equipment

Your MasterCraft boat has been equipped at the factory with
most of the federally required safety equipment for inland waters
(Class I, 16-foot-to-26-foot watercraft, and Class II, 26-foot-to40-foot watercraft). This equipment includes:
• ABYC-approved (American Boat & Yacht Club) marine mufflers with water injection;
• USCG-approved (United States Coast Guard) marine flame
arrestor;
• USCG-approved engine box ventilation with sparkless power
blower;
• ABYC-approved electric horn sound-warning device;
• USCG-approved inland lighting.
Additionally, you should always check that you have a fire
extinguisher on board, which is mandatory equipment. If you
desire to do so, you may buy an approved fire extinguisher from
MasterCraft as an optional purchase for your boat. If you decide
to purchase a fire extinguisher from an outside source, verify
that it meets or exceeds the federal performance mandate.
Federal law also requires at least one Type I, II or III Personal
Flotation Device (“PFD”), for each person on-board or being
towed on water skis, wakeboards or other recreational equipment. In addition, one throwable Type IV PFD must also be on
board. As the owner, obtaining the appropriate PFDs is your
responsibility and determining whether people on-board ,
including those who are underage, are required to wear PFDs
when underway. Your MasterCraft dealer can, and will be happy
to, assist you with your purchase of appropriate PFDs.
Note: Requirements for coastal waters and inland waters differ.
Check with the local boating authorities for more information.

Recommended Equipment

The responsible boat owner will avoid potential problems on
an outing by having additional equipment on board. Normally,
the decision regarding the appropriate equipment to take on
individual outings is dependent upon the body of water and
the length of the trip. We suggest the following equipment as a
minimum (your MasterCraft dealer can also assist you with additional recommendations):
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

An anchor with at least 75 feet of line;
A manual bailing device for removing water;
A combination oar/boat hook;
A day-and-night visual distress signal;
A first aid kit and manual;
An airway breathing tube;
A waterproof flashlight;
A non-electric horn or whistle;
A set of local navigational charts;
Mooring lines and fenders;
Extra engine oil;
A tool kit; and
A portable, battery-operated AM/FM radio or weather radio/
scanner.

Safety Afloat

The cause of many boating accidents is often the operator’s failure to follow basic safety rules or written precautions. Many accidents can be avoided if the operator is completely familiar with
the boat, its operation and can recognize potentially hazardous
situations before an accident occurs.

Failure to comply with safety-related information and instructions
may result in serious injury or death to you and/or others. Always
use common sense when operating the boat or participating in
any activities associated with the boat, including, but not limited
to, periods of time when the boat engine is shut down and the
boat is not in operation.
• Improper operation of the boat is extremely dangerous! Operators must read
and understand all operating manuals
supplied with the boat, before operation.
• On-board equipment must always
conform to the governing federal, state
and local regulations.
• Always attach the engine emergency
safety shut-off lanyard to a part of your
clothing (such as a belt loop) when operating the boat.

Never override or modify the engine
emergency safety shut-off switch in any way.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 1-2

• Never operate the boat while under the influence of alcohol
or drugs.
• Never stand or allow passengers to stand in the boat or sit on
the motor box or tower (where equipped) while underway.
You or others may be thrown within or from the boat, which
could result in serious injury or death.
• Prior to starting the engine, you must open the engine box
and check the engine compartment and bilge for gasoline
and oil vapors. You must also operate the blower for at least
four (4) minutes. Failure to do so may result in fire and/or an
explosion.

Failure to comply with the requirement of operating the blower for
at least four (4) minutes before starting the engine may result in
serious injury or death to you and/or others.
• Never remove or modify any components of the fuel system.
Removal or modification of any component of the fuel
system may cause a hazardous situation and will void the
warranty. The modern MasterCraft fuel delivery lines are
pressurized and attempting to loosen or remove them may
result in the uncontrolled release of fuel, which can be environmentally hazardous, and may potentially cause injury.
• Never allow any type of spark or open flame on board. It may
result in fire or explosion.

Skiing and Wakeboarding Safety

Skiers and wakeboarders are obligated to be as aware of the fundamental safety rules as operators. If you are new to water sports,
you should seek certified training before starting. You may find it
especially helpful to join a local water-sports club, if available, and
the U.S.W.S.A. (United States Water Skiing Association).
• Always remember that the majority of water-skiing and
wakeboarding injuries are the result of impacts with other
objects, so always look where you are going and be aware of
what is going on around you.

• Never put your arm, head or any other part of your body
through the handle/bridle of the ski or wakeboarding line,
nor wrap the line around any part of the body at any time.
• Never ski or wakeboard at night.
• Never ski or wakeboard directly in front of other boats.
• When adding accessories to the tower, ensure that the total
aggregate weight of the accessories does not exceed 85 lbs.
(U.S.). Exceeding the limit may result in structural failure
of the tower. MasterCraft strongly encourages the use of
MasterCraft towers and accessories only as they have been
tested and determined to meet product requirements,
including weight.

Towers should never have a total aggregate weight of accessories exceeding 85 lbs. (U.S.) total. Excessive weight can cause
tower failure and the collapse of a tower or the disconnect of the
tower from the deck can result in injury or damage to the boat
that is not covered by warranty.
• Never attempt to fold a tower without assistance. Folding a
tower requires at least two (2) people.

Towers on boats are intended for use
for the towing of a maximum of two (2)
individuals using water skis, wakeboards
or recreational towables only. Use of the
tower to tow other boats, kites or for any
other purpose may result in serious injury
or death, and may damage the boat, which
will not be covered by warranty.
• Never jump from a boat that is moving at any speed, nor enter or exit the
water when the engine is running (ON).
(See the Common Sense Approach section
of this Owner’s Manual for additional
information regarding carbon monoxide
peril.)
• Never climb, sit or stand on a tower.
The tower is intended for towing only as
noted.
• Make sure that everyone knows and
uses approved skiing/wakeboarding hand signals and adheres
to common skiing, wakeboarding and boating courtesy.
• Never ride on the ski platform or hold on to the ski platform
while in the water during engine operation, including at idle.
Carbon monoxide fumes are expelled from the lower transom areas of your boat and can cause death or serious illness.
• The above mandates are not all-inclusive. It is the boater’s responsibility to operate the boat in a safe fashion and become
familiar with any and all rules and regulations governing boat
operation.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 1-3

Warning Plates and Labels
Do not tow more than two (2) persons at one time on a tow tower.
The tow tower approved for use on your boat should be used
only for water skis, wakeboards or recreational towables, and not
for parasailing, kite flying or towing other boats. Do not add any
attachments that are not approved for use on your MasterCraft
boat. Do not climb on, sit on, stand on, jump off of or dive off
of the tower. Never allow passengers to sit behind the tow rope
attachment point. Never allow loose tow rope ends to dangle.
Always be certain that all bolts are in place and tight before and
during use. When the tower is up, watch for low obstacles such
as tree limbs, bridges or power lines.

Read and note ALL warning plates and labels from bow to stern,
including those that are installed inside the engine compartment, lockers and under seating. YOU MUST READ AND
ADHERE TO ALL CAUTIONS AND WARNINGS IN AND
ON YOUR BOAT!

Operator’s License

Some states are implementing operator’s license requirements.
These requirements vary widely. Whether operating a boat locally or in a remote location, operators should verify with state
and local authorities regarding whether a license or training is
required. This should be checked at least annually.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 1-4

common sense approach
This Owner’s Manual has been developed
to help ensure an enjoyable experience as
you boat, wakeboard and ski with a fabulous MasterCraft boat. As stated earlier,
this information is not all-inclusive. There
are many factors to consider and additional information that you need to research
before undertaking any boating activity.
In addition to reading this Owner’s
Manual or other related material, and
familiarizing yourself with the proper
operation of the MasterCraft boat, you
should also always use common sense
when boating. For example, when anchoring the boat, you MUST turn OFF
the engine. In most models, exhaust
fumes containing carbon monoxide are
emitted from the exhaust flap area of the
transom immediately below the swim
platform. No one should ever be on the
swim platform or transom while the engine is operating. This
includes while using the shower option in those models where
the engine must run in order to create hot water. In those instances, showering must never be done on the swim platform
or transom as the carbon monoxide fumes are toxic.
MasterCraft strongly encourages individuals to wear Personal
Flotation Devices (PFDs). In many states, it is a legal requirement for children to wear them. Non-swimmers and swimmers
of limited ability of any age should never be without one.
A MasterCraft boat can be the source of countless hours of family fun, as well as building friendships. But it works only if YOU
use your head before, during and after your boating activity.
As you anticipate many good times ahead with the MasterCraft
boat, be sure that, first and foremost, you are well-prepared to be
a responsible operator.

the swim platform and is pulled through the water, and/or “body
surfs” immediately behind the boat) are extremely dangerous,
highly likely to result in death or serious bodily injury, and are a
misuse of this product.

All boats have weight limits. Failure to adhere to the posted limits
can cause operation instability and/or the boat to sink. This may
result in serious injury or death, as well as significant damage to
the boat, which will not be covered by warranty.
Overloading a boat may cause it to become unstable and may
potentially result in the boat’s flotation system becoming
overwhelmed. Too much weight can sink any boat! Within this
Manual and on a label mounted in each boat, except in the 280
and 265 models, is the weight limit for that specific model.
Bear in mind that total weight limits include water ballast,
gear brought onto the boat, additional options and all people.
Equally critical is how weight is distributed throughout the
boat. If too much weight is placed in one area it can have serious impact on maintaining control. Items and people can also
shift positions during operation, potentially causing a dangerous situation.
Model 280 and 265 are Yacht Certified and do not display a
listed weight limit on the boat. See information specific to
those models for guidance.
In calculating the amount of weight, you must also take into
consideration the weight of the gasoline and any ballast added. The weight of gasoline is approximately 5.8 to 6.5 pounds
(U.S.) per gallon, depending upon the weather and other
factors, including the addition of ethanol, which is slightly
denser and will add very slightly to the overall weight. Water
pumped into the ballast system will add 8.3 pounds (U.S.) for
every gallon added.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 2-1

rules of the open water
Just as there are rules that apply when driving a vehicle on the
street, there are waterway rules that apply when you are driving
a boat on the water. These rules are used internationally, and
they are enforced by the United States Coast Guard and local
agencies. You should be aware of these rules and follow them
whenever you encounter another vessel on the water.
In various geographic locations, certain rules prevail that may
be unique to the locale. Each state also has laws and boating
limitations that may be applicable only within their boundaries.
It is the operator’s responsibility to seek out this information and
become familiar with all safety-related information, laws and
rules governing boating operation.
The rules presented in this Owner’s Manual are condensed and
have been provided for convenience only. Consult your local
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA), Department of Motor
Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for
a complete set of rules governing the waters in which you will be
using your boat. If you plan to travel—even for a short trip—you
would be well-served to contact the regional USCGA, DMV or
DNR in the area where you will be boating. Often, basic information is available through websites sponsored and prepared by
these organizations and governing bodies.

Steering and Sailing Rules/Sound Signals

Any time two (2) vessels on the water meet one another, one
vessel has the right-of-way. It is called the stand-on vessel. The
vessel that does not have the right-of-way is called the give-way
or burdened vessel.
These rules determine which vessel has the right of way, and accordingly, what each vessel should do.
The vessel with the right-of-way has the duty to continue its
course and speed, except to avoid an immediate collision. When
you maintain your direction and speed,
the other vessel will be able to determine
how best to avoid you.

The General Prudential Rule

This rule is called Rule 2 in the International Rules and says,
“In obeying and construing these rules due regard shall be
had to all dangers of navigation and collision, and to any special circumstances, which may render a departure from the
above rules necessary in order to avoid immediate danger.”

Rules When Encountering Vessels

There are three (3) main situations in which you may encounter
other vessels, and you must avoid a collision. These are:
• Meeting (you are approaching another vessel head-on).
• Crossing (you are traveling across the other vessel’s path).
• Overtaking (you are passing or being passed by another vessel).
Using the adjacent image in which you are the boat in the center,
you should give right-of-way to all vessels shown in the white
area. In this instance, you are the give-way vessel. Both you and
the meeting vessel must alter course to avoid each other.

Meeting

If you are meeting another vessel head-on, and you are close
enough to run the risk of collision, neither of you has the rightof-way. Both of you should alter course to avoid an accident. You
should keep the other vessel on your port (left) side. (This rule
doesn’t apply if both of you can clear each other by continuing
your set course and speed.)

Crossing

When two (2) power-driven vessels are crossing each other’s path
close enough to run the risk of collision, the vessel that views the
crossing vessel to the starboard (right) side must give way.
If the other vessel is to the port (left) side, you are the stand-on
vessel, and provided the other vessel gives you the right-of-way,
maintain your course and direction.

The vessel that does not have the right
of way has the duty to take positive and
timely action to stay out of the way of the
stand-on vessel. Normally, the give-way
vessel should not cross in front of the
stand-on vessel. Slow down or change
direction briefly and pass behind the other
vessel. You should always move in such
a way that the stand-on operator can see
what you are doing.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 3-1

Fishing Vessel Right-of-Way

Under international rules, all vessels that
are fishing with nets, lines or trawls are
considered to be fishing vessels; however,
boats with trolling lines are not considered fishing vessels.
Fishing vessels have the right of way,
regardless of position, but these vessels
cannot impede the passage of other vessels in narrow channels.

Reading Buoys and Other
Markings

Overtaking

If you are passing another vessel, you are the give-way vessel.
This means that the other vessel is expected to maintain its
course and speed. You must stay out of its way as you clear it,
altering course and speed as necessary.
Conversely, if you are being passed by another vessel, you are the
stand-on vessel, and you should maintain your speed and direction so that the vessel can be steered around you.

Other Special Situations

There are additional rules to remember when operating your
boat around other vessels, such as:
• When navigating in narrow channels, you should keep to the
right when it is safe and practical to do so.
• When preparing to go around a bend that may obstruct your
view of other water vessels, you should sound a prolonged
blast on the horn or with a whistle for four (4) to six (6)
seconds. Even if no reply is heard, you should still proceed
around the bend with caution.

The waters of the United States are
marked for safe navigation by the lateral
system of buoyage. The markers and
buoys you encounter will have an arrangement of shapes, colors, numbers and lights to show which
side of the buoy a boater should pass when navigating in a
particular direction.
The markings on these buoys are oriented from the perspective
of being entered from a seaward direction while the boater is
going toward the port. Red buoys are passed on the starboard
(right) side when proceeding from open water into port, and
green buoys are passed on the port (left) side. When navigating
out of port, your position to the buoys should be reversed: red
buoys to port (left) and green buoys to starboard (right).
Many bodies of water are entirely within the boundaries of a
single state. The Uniform State Waterway Marking Systems have
been devised for these waters. This system uses buoys and signs
with distinctive shapes and colors to show regulatory or advisory information. These markers are white with black letters and
orange borders. The information signifies speed zones, restricted
areas, danger areas and general information.
Remember: Markings may vary by geographic location. Always
consult appropriate boating authorities before boating in unfamiliar waters.

Sailing Vessel Right-of-Way

Sailing vessels should normally be given the right-of-way. The
exceptions to this are:
• When the sailing vessel is overtaking the power-driven vessel,
the power-driven vessel has the right-of-way.
• Sailing vessels should keep clear of any fishing vessel.
• In a narrow channel, a sailing vessel should not hamper the
safe passage of a power-driven vessel that can navigate only in
such a channel.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 3-2

guide to individual models
ProStar 190

Fuel Tank
Filler

Engine
Compartment

Blower
Exhaust

Center
Drain Plug

Glove Box

Battery

(and ON-OFF Switch)

Bow Light

Built-in
Cooler
Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Stern Light Receptacle

(stern light stored beneath observer
seat lift)

Fuel Tank
Filler

Throttle/
Shift
Control

Center
Engine
Drain Plug
Compartment

Instrument
Panel

Circuit
Breakers

ProStar 197
X-7
Glove Box

Blower
Exhaust

Battery

(and ON-OFF Switch)

Bow Light

Built-in
Cooler
Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Stern Light Receptacle

(stern light stored beneath observer
seat lift)

Throttle/
Shift
Control

Instrument
Panel

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-1

Circuit
Breakers

Fuel Tank
Filler

Engine
Compartment

Center
Drain Plug

ProStar 214
X-14
Glove Box

Blower
Exhaust

Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

(and ON-OFF Switch)

Bow Light

Stern Light
Receptacle
(stern light in
storage)

Engine
Compartment

Fuel Tank
Filler
Throttle/
Shift
Control

Drain Plug

Instrument
Panel

(beneath swim
platform)

Circuit Breakers

X-1
Glove Box

Blower
Exhaust

Transom
Drain Plug

Battery

(and ON-OFF Switch)

Bow Light

Stern Light Fuel Tank Throttle/
Receptacle Filler
Shift
(stern light stored
Control
beneath observer

Instrument
Panel

seat lift)

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-2

Circuit Breakers

Engine
Compartment
Center
Drain Plug

Blower
Exhaust

Batteries

(and ON-OFF Switch)

MariStar 200
X-2
Navigation
Light

Glove Box

Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Stern Light
Receptacle

(stern light in storage)

Engine
Compartment
Blower
Exhaust

Fuel Tank Throttle/
Filler
Shift
Control

Fuel Tank
Filler
Batteries

Instrument
Navigation Panel
Light

Center
Drain Plug

Circuit Breakers

(additional breakers may be
near battery box)

MariStar 215
X-15

Glove Box

(and ON-OFF Switch)

Bow Light

Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Stern Light
Receptacle

(stern light in storage)

Fuel Tank
Filler

Instrument
Throttle/Shift Panel
Control

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-3

Circuit Breakers

(additional breakers may be
near battery box)

Fuel Tank
Batteries
Engine
(and ON-OFF Switch)
Filler
Compartment

Blower
Exhaust

MariStar 230
X-30
Center
Glove Box

Drain Plug

Bow Light

Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Stern Light
Receptacle

Fuel Tank
Filler

(stern light in storage)

Throttle/
Shift
Control

Instrument
Panel

(additional breakers may be
near battery box)

MariStar 245
X-45
Navigation

Batteries

(and ON-OFF Switch)
Fuel Tank
Center
Engine
Filler
Drain Plug
Compartment

Blower
Exhaust

Circuit Breakers

Light

Glove Box

Anchor/
Ladder
(optional)

Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Stern Light
Receptacle

(stern light in storage)

Fuel Tank
Filler

Throttle/
Shift
Control

Instrument Circuit Breakers
(additional breakers may be
Panel
near battery box)
Navigation
Light

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-4

Fuel Tank
Filler
Blower
Exhaust

Center
Drain Plug

Engine
Compartment
Batteries

Head

(and ON-OFF Switch)

MariStar 280
X-80

Navigation
Light
Glove Box

Anchor/
Ladder
(optional)

Circuit Breakers
Stern Light
Receptacle

(stern light in storage)

Fuel Tank
Filler

Sink
Fuel Tank
Filler

Trash
Receptacle

Engine
Compartment
Batteries

(additional breakers may be
near battery box)

Instrument
Throttle/
Panel
Shift
Navigation
Control
Light

Center
Drain Plug

X-Star
Navigation
Light

(and ON-OFF Switch)

Blower
Exhaust

Glove Box

Anchor/
Ladder
(optional)

Built-in
Cooler

Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Fuel Tank
Filler

Throttle/
Shift
Control

Navigation
Light

Instrument
Panel

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-5

Circuit Breakers

(additional breakers may be
near battery box)

Fuel Tank
Filler
Blower
Exhaust

Storage

CSX 220

Engine
Compartment Center
Drain Plug
& Seacock
Access

Sirius Radio Antenna
Navigation
Light
Anchor/
Ladder
(optional)

Transom
Drain Plug
(beneath swim
platform)

Stern Light
Batteries Receptacle
(and ON-OFF (stern light in
storage)
Switch)

Fuel Tank
Filler

Storage

(and ON-OFF
Switch)

Fuel Tank
Filler

Instrument
Throttle/
Panel
Shift
Control Navigation
Light

Waste
Engine
Removal Cap Head
Compartment
and Seacock
Center Drain
Access
Plug

Circuit Breakers

(additional breakers may be
near battery box)

CSX 265
Navigation
Light

Sirius Radio Anchor/
Ladder
Antenna
(optional)

Instrument
Panel

Blower
Exhaust
Batteries

Sink

Additional
Bilge
Access

Sink
Fuel Tank
Filler

Fresh Water
Fill

Throttle/
Shift
Control

Navigation
Circuit Breakers Light
(multiple locations including
cockpit and head)

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-6

instrument panels
ProStar 190, ProStar 197, X-1,
X-7, ProStar 214, X-14
Top row of gauges from left:

Oil pressure gauge
Engine temperature gauge
Speedometer
Multi-function/tachometer
Speedometer or Perfect Pass
Voltmeter
Fuel gauge
Lower left panel:

Horn
Seat Heat switch
Heater switch
Courtesy lights switch
Lower right panel:

Speedo adjustment switch
Clock adjustment switch
Nav/anchor lights switch
Bilge pump switch
Blower switch
Ignition key slot

X-Star, MariStar 280, X-80
Top row of gauges from left:

Tachometer
Speedometer
Video display gauge

MariStar 200, MariStar 215,
MariStar 230, MariStar 245, X-2,
X-15,X-30, X-45
Top row of gauges from left:

Oil pressure gauge
Engine temperature gauge
Video display gauge
Speedometer
Perfect Pass (option)
Fuel gauge
Voltmeter
Lower left panel:

Horn
Seat heat switch
Heater switch
Wash down switch
Courtesy lights switch
12-volt receptacle
Lower right panel:

Speedo adjustment switch
Display selector switch
Speedo adjustment switch
Nav/anchor lights switch
Forward bilge switch
Aft bilge switch
Blower switch
Ignition key slot

Middle left panel:

CSX 265

Middle right panel:

Port engine tachometer
Video display gauge
Starboard engine tachometer

Oil pressure gauge
Engine temperature gauge
Voltmeter
Fuel gauge

Lower left panel:

Horn
Courtesy lights switch
Shower switch
Heater switch
Ballast port switch
Ballast KGB switch
Ballast starboard switch
Lower right panel:

Tower light switch
Blower switch
Bilge pump switch
Nav/anchor lights switch
Ignition switch

Gauge panel upper:

Gauge panel lower:

Port engine multiple gauge: gas (upper left);
voltmeter (upper right); engine temperature
(lower left); oil pressure (lower right).
Starboard engine multiple gauge: gas (upper
left); voltmeter (upper right); engine temperature (lower left); oil pressure (lower right).
Switch panel, upper row:

Navigation/anchor light switch
Courtesy light switch
Tower light switch, foreward
Tower light switch, aft
Switch panel, lower row:

Three (3) bilge switches
Blower switch
Engine hatch switch

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-7

CSX 220

Upper panel:

Tachometer
Speedometer
Perfect Pass (option)
Display selector (multi-purpose gauge)
Starboard switch: speedometer calibration
Engine temperature gauge
Oil temperature gauge
Voltmeter
Fuel gauge
Port side switches, top row from left:

Navigation/anchor light switch
Forward/aft tower light switch
Courtesy light switch

Port side switchs, bottom row from left:

Forward bilge auto/manual switch
Aft bilge auto/manual switch
Freshwater switch
Up/down motor box hatch actuator switch
On/off bilge blower switch
Center switches:

Port ballast system fill/empty switch
KGB ballast system fill/empty switch
Starboard ballast system fill/empty switch
Starboard side console:

Glovebox
Garmin GPS/chartplotter/sounder (optional)
Clarion stereo AM/FM radio and CD player
(optional)
12-volt courtesy outlet
MP3/iPod input
Below steering helm:

Emergency engine safety switch
Ignition switch

measurements
ProStar 190
Length of Boat
19’8”
Width Amidship
91”
Boat Weight
2,620 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
21’6”
Towing Length
22”
Towing Width
100”
Fuel Capacity
28 gallons
Total Weight Capacity
7 people or 1,087 lbs.
ProStar 197, X-7

Length of Boat
Width Amidship
Boat Weight
Length of Boat w/Platform
Towing Length
Towing Width
Fuel Capacity
Total Weight Capacity

19’8”
91”
2,800-3,070 lbs.
21’6”
22’
100”
28 gallons
7 people or 1,087 lbs.

ProStar 214, X-14

Length of Boat
Width Amidship
Boat Weight
Length of Boat w/Platform
Towing Length
Towing Width
Fuel Capacity
Total Weight Capacity

21’4”
96”
3,100-3,300 lbs.
23’8”
24’4”
100”
40 gallons
11 people or 1,525 lbs.

X-1

20’7”
90”
3,200 lbs.
22’6”
22’3”
96”
33 gallons
11 people or 1,705 lbs.

MariStar 200, X-2
Length of Boat
20’
Width Amidship
96”
Boat Weight
3,350-3,500 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
22’1”
Towing Length
22’9”
Towing Width
100”
Fuel Capacity
45 gallons
Total Weight Capacity
11 people or 1,609 lbs.

MariStar 215, X-15
Length of Boat
21’8”
Width Amidship
100”
Boat Weight
3,425-3,575 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
23’9”
Towing Length
24’1”
Fuel Capacity
45 gallons
Total Weight Capacity
14 people or 2,325 lbs.
MariStar 245, X-45
Length of Boat
24’2”
Width Amidship
102”
Boat Weight
4,730-4,950 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
26’4”
Towing Length
26’1”
Towing Width
100”
Fuel Capacity
90 gallons
Total Weight Capacity
18 people or 2,635 lbs.
MariStar 280, X-80, 280 STS
Length of Boat
28’3”
Width Amidship
114”
Boat Weight
6,200 lbs./6,420 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
28’3”
Towing Width
114”
Fuel Capacity
100 gallons
Total Weight Capacity Yacht certified; no capacity rating
X-Star
Length of Boat
24’9”
Width Amidship
100”
Boat Weight
4,250 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
24’6”
Towing Length
24’
Towing Width
100”
Fuel Capacity
57 gallons
Total Weight Capacity
12 people or 1,770 lbs.
CSX 220
Length of Boat
21’5”
Width Amidship
102”
Boat Weight
4,300 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
23’7”
Fuel Capacity
46 gallons
Total Weight Capacity
12 people or 1,595 lbs.
CSX 265
Length of Boat
26’5”
Width Amidship
114”
Boat Weight
7,750 lbs.
Length of Boat w/Platform
29’2”
Fuel Capacity
125 gallons
Total Weight Capacity Yacht certified; no capacity rating

In calculating the amount of weight, you must also take into consideration the weight of the gasoline and any ballast added. The weight of gasoline
is approximately 5.8 to 6.5 pounds (U.S.) per gallon, depending upon the weather and other factors, including the addition of ethanol, which is slightly
denser and will add very slightly to the overall weight. Water pumped into the ballast system will add 8.3 pounds (U.S.) for every gallon added.
Overloading a boat may cause it to become unstable and may potentially result in the boat’s flotation system becoming overwhelmed. Too much weight
can sink any boat! Within this Manual and on a label mounted in each boat, except in the 280 and 265 models, is the weight limit for that specific model.
Bear in mind that total weight limits include water ballast, gear brought onto the boat, additional options and all people. Equally critical is how weight is
distributed throughout the boat. If too much weight is placed in one area it can have serious impact on maintaining control. Items and people can also shift
positions during operation, potentially causing a dangerous situation.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 4-8

instrument gauges & switches
Proper control of MasterCraft boats
extends beyond the steering wheel. Each
boat is equipped with multiple gauges
that provide information to guide the
operator in maintaining control. There
are also a variety of switches and buttons within the boat that control various
functions from comfort to watersports
enhancement to safety-related features.
It is important for the boat owner and/or
operator to become familiar with all
gauges and switches in the boat, the functionality of each, and how to respond to
alarms and warnings that the instrument
panel may provide.
In the Guide to Individual Models section
of this Owner’s Manual is a listing of
the locations of gauges and switches for
the various model instrument panels.
Operators should match up these listings with the actual panel.
Prior to boating, owners and operators should also review and
understand the following section regarding the boat’s electrical
components and operations through the battery or batteries, as
well as the circuit breaker system. A thorough understanding
of these systems is critical to avoiding potential issues that may
arise during an outing.
The following is an explanation of the functionality of the gauges
and switches that are listed for the various models.

12-Volt Receptacle

(All Models; Some May Have Multiple
Receptacles)
MasterCraft boats have one (1) or more
12-volt receptacles. Examine your boat to determine whether there are additional outlets.
Prior to plugging any accessory into a 12-volt
receptacle, ensure that the device is designed
for use when connected to a 12-volt receptacle and will not be damaged by the connection to the receptacle.

Accessory Switches

(All Models—Actual Switch Usage Will
Vary)
Instrument panels may be equipped with
Accessory Switches. In some instances, the
indicator may be labeled with the name of
the accessory, such as “Heater.” Accessory switches are two-position switches. Turning the switch upwards will turn a connected
accessory ON, while turning it down will turn the accessory OFF.

Aft Light Switch

(Models Equipped with Optional Lights)
Where equipped, an aft light switch allows
the operator to turn on aft facing tower
lights. The two-position switch is pressed
up for ON and down for OFF.

AM/FM Stereo,
CD Player,
Remote Control,
iPod and MP3
Player Connections

(Stereo Standard Installation on X-Series; Optional
on All Other Models; Remote
Control on Armrest, iPod and
MP3 Player Connections with Stereo Installation)
Boats may be equipped with a range of entertainment opportunities
from radios and CD players to connections for personal devices.
ALL radio and CD players will be located within the glovebox of the
boat. Remotes may be in the armrest or on the transom.
The iPod interface option features a cable located inside the
glovebox that allows the unit to simply be plugged in and run
off the boat’s electrical system. An optional plug-in location for
MP3 players is available. Be aware that all such devices are a
drain on the boat’s battery and electrical system. Care should be
taken to avoid excessive usage of such devices and by responding
to any alarms that sound so that the boat’s battery(ies) does not
become fully discharged.
Another option is a wireless stereo remote that will float if accidentally dropped overboard. The remote can also double as a
key fob for a limited number of keys.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-1

The stereo and components come with a separate manual
explaining operation of the devices. Please review and become
familiar with the equipment.

Attitude Adjustment
or Trim Tab Switch

(MariStar 230, X-30, MariStar 245, X-45,
MariStar 280, X-80)
MasterCraft utilizes Lenco attitude adjustment plate kits on several models. Dual
plate kits are available on the MariStar 280, X-80 and 280 STS
models; a single plate kit is used on the MariStar 245 and X-45,
as well as the MariStar 230 and X-30. On the dual attitude adjustment plate system, the plates operate independently of each
other to provide optimal performance by redirecting water flow
near the transom of the boat. These plates have been designed to
improve the overall attitude of a boat. If used properly, the plates
will improve the ride, reduce drag, increase speed and improve
the ride and fuel efficiency of the boat.
The operation of the attitude adjustment plates is basic. The
plane or planes will be mounted with the actuator(s) on the
transom of the boat. When the plate(s) is/are lowered, the water
flow is redirected, creating an upward force at the stern of the
boat. When the stern rises, the bow will lower.
Since these actuators are electromechanical, they provide an immediate response at the touch of the switch. The switch adjustments are based on the position of the bow. On the dual attitude
adjustment plate system, the right side of the switch controls the
starboard plate and the left side of the switch controls the port
plate. On the single plate system, there is only one switch control.
The system is set up this way to minimize the guesswork while
underway. To lower the starboard bow, press the right (starboard) switch where it reads DOWN. To lower the port bow,
press the left (port) switch where it reads DOWN. On the single
plate system, press DOWN.
Since our models have different weights, lengths, speed and performance, it will take some practice for the operator to understand how your boat reacts with the attitude adjustment plates
installed. The plates will allow your boat to get on plane faster
and continue planing at lower speeds. This will improve visibility
and the overall safety of your boat. When making adjustments
with the attitude adjustment plates, use short momentary taps
of the switch. Continued practice will help you become familiar
with how the plates perform.

Special Conditions

Head Sea: Lower both plates slightly by pressing BOW DOWN
on both sides of a dual system, BOW DOWN on a single system.
This will bring the bow down while maintaining speed. This also
allows the hull of the boat to absorb the impact of the waves.
This adjustment will result in a more efficient and smoother ride.
Following Sea: Make sure the plates are fully retracted by pressing BOW UP on both sides of a dual system, and BOW UP on a

single system. This will bring the plate(s) up to a fully retracted
position, decreasing lift in the stern and will allow the bow to
rise. If the plate(s) is/are deployed, the bow may dig.
Windy Chop: To raise the windward side of the boat on dual
systems, press BOW UP on that side. If this is not sufficient
press BOW DOWN on the leeward side of the boat. Do not
over-trim when attempting this. This will allow the windward
side of the boat to rise and will minimize spray.
Shallow Water/Hole Shot: Lower both plates completely on a
dual system by pressing BOW DOWN on both sides (the single
plate on a single system). This provides lift in the stern of the
boat and will keep the bow down. As you throttle up and speed
increases, raise the tab(s) by pressing BOW UP on both sides of
a dual system, and BOW UP on the single system.
Uneven Load: When equipped with a dual system, if one side
of the boat is higher than the other while running, press BOW
DOWN on the switch on that side. This will lower the tab on the
listing side (low side) to bring the boat level.
Porpoising: To stop porpoising, press BOW DOWN on both
sides of a dual plate system, BOW DOWN on a single system.
The plate(s) needs only to be deployed slightly to correct this
adverse situation.

While operating attitude adjustment plates use caution. Improper
use of plates can cause accidents, which may result in serious
injury or death. These cautions apply to the MariStar 280STS, X80 and 280 SST models only.
While the boat is underway do not move one plate up or down
significantly as this may cause listing.
While at higher speeds do not over-trim, as this will cause the
bow to lower quickly, resulting in a reduction of speed and may
cause the boat to veer.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-2

When in following seas or when running an inlet, the plates
should be fully retracted. This will allow for optimal performance.
ELECTRO-MECHANICAL ACTUATORS PROVIDE AN INSTANT
RESPONSE. WHEN MAKING ADJUSTMENTS, USE SHORT MOMENTARY TAPS OF THE SWITCH.

Ballast Empty/Fill Switches

(On Ballast-equipped Models Only)
On boat models equipped with a ballast
system, a separate three-position switch
will allow for the filling or emptying of the
ballast tanks and/or bags. Be aware that
the engine must operate at 1500 RPM
during the fill and empty processes.
Check engine specifications for related
engine idle speed, which may be too low
for the empty/fill operation to be properly
accomplished; it is likely that the boat will
need to be in motion during the filling and
emptying of the ballast system. Failure to increase engine RPM
to the required level may result in malfunction or permanent
damage to the ballast pumps that force the water through the
system. Such damage is not covered under your warranty. The
ballast controls vary in location by model, and the operator
should determine exact location prior to use. The three-position
switches are clearly marked; FILL, OFF (in center), and EMPTY.

Manual and Automatic Bilge
Pump Switch (Manual and
Automatic)

(All Models)
The bilge pumps on all V-drive models will
be in the automatic mode when the ignition key is turned ON. Some models may
have two (2) switches, one for the forward bilge and one for the
aft. In these instances, the switches will be marked. The manual
and automatic bilge discharge system is never completely off.
When in the automatic (default) position, a sensor alerts the
system to discharge water from the bilge area. Boat operators
are advised to leave the switch in the automatic position, unless
there appears to be excess water in the bilge. In that event, the
bilge pump can be manually activated by turning the bilge pump
switch to the manual ON position. Return the switch to the automatic position when finished emptying the bilge. Leaving the
switch in manual mode can result in damage to the pump and
may not be covered by warranty!

Blower Switch

(All Models)
A two-position rocker switch activates the
engine box ventilation blower. Push the top
half of the switch to turn the blower ON.

The blower must also be operated during idle and slow-speed
running, but is not necessary during cruising speed.

Circuit Breakers

(All Models)
All major boat circuits are protected from shorting and overload
by re-settable circuit breakers. If a
problem develops with one of the
following circuits, switch OFF the
circuit and wait for approximately
one (1) minute. Then fully push
the appropriate breaker button and
switch ON the circuit. If the circuit
continues to trip, there is a problem
somewhere that must be attended to immediately. See your authorized MasterCraft service department to resolve this matter.
The location of the main circuit breaker board is under the dash
panel. In some models, there is an additional breaker panel to
assist with the accessory load, and where equipped is located
near the battery box. There may also be a waterproof fuse for
the stereo amplifier, where equipped. If the boat’s accessories are
malfunctioning, check and then re-set breakers as necessary.
The engines are also equipped with breaker systems. The main
35A circuit breaker protects the engine electrical system and
components from overload. If the engine will not turn over with
the battery switch in the ON position, locate the red breaker reset button (labeled “35”) in the engine. There will be an audible
click. Try again to start the engine. If the breaker trips again, the
engine requires attention. Immediately take your boat to your
authorized MasterCraft service department.
In addition to the 35A circuit breaker, the engines are equipped
with additional component overload protection, including a 15A
ATO fuse for the fuel pump, a 15A ATO fuse for the injectors
and a 15A ATO fuse for the ECM unit.
If you suspect that any of these fuses may not be operating as
designed, you should take your boat to your authorized MasterCraft service department for inspection and repair.

Note: The blower must operate for a minimum of four (4) minutes before starting the engine at any time.

If during maintenance or inspection it becomes necessary
to remove or re-position any of the engine’s wiring or wire

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-3

harness(es) verify that the wiring has been returned to its original position and that all harnesses are routed correctly before
attempting to use the boat again. If a wiring clip or retainer
breaks, replace it immediately. Wiring is specifically routed to
eliminate problems related to engine heat and spray or immersion in liquids. Electrical problems may result if wiring is moved
from its original position!

in the COMBINE BATTERIES position. After
the engine is started, the switch should be returned to the ON position and NOT allowed to
remain in the COMBINE Batteries mode.

Clock Adjustment Switch

MariStar 280 and X-80: For normal operation
the port and starboard battery switches should
be placed in the ON position. The COMBINE
BATTERIES switch should remain OFF. The
engine and all accessories will receive power.

Courtesy Lights Switch

Note: The port battery is a dedicated start
battery for the port engine and the starboard battery provides
starting current of the starboard engine while also providing
power for accessory circuits. For transportation and storage, all
battery switches should be placed in the OFF position to isolate
both batteries from all circuits.

(MariStar Models)
MariStar models are equipped with a clock adjustment switch, which
is a three-position switch that is pressed upward or downward to add
or subtract time to the clock. The middle position is OFF.

(All Models)
This switch is a two-position switch that activates the courtesy lights within the boat.
Turning the switch upwards will turn the
lights ON, and turning it downwards will
turn the lights OFF.

NOTE: The switch knob may be removed when it is in the OFF
position. This is a security feature.
If either battery becomes discharged, start the engine with
the remaining charged battery and THEN set the COMBINE
BATTERIES switch to ON. The remaining engine may then be
started. Return the COMBINE BATTERIES switch to OFF. The
COMBINE BATTERIES switch should NOT be left ON.

Cruise Control Gauge

(Where Equipped)
Boats equipped with cruise control systems provide short manuals that describe how to operate
and maintain the cruise control system. Refer to
the appropriate manual prior to operation of the
system. Boats featuring the “simple” cruise system
function the same as an automobile with an ON/
OFF switch and +/- to increase or decrease speed.

Display Selector Switch

(ProStar 190, ProStar 197, X-7)
On the models equipped with the Multi-Function
gauge, this switch allows the operator to toggle between functions.

Dual Battery Operation Switch

CSX 220 and 265: The CSX 220 and CSX 265 are equipped with
dual batteries. One battery is reserved to provide engine starting
power and the other provides power for all electrical accessories.
These batteries are located under the starboard rear seat cushion.
To facilitate access, the batteries are mounted on a sliding tray,
which is secured with a pin. Remove the pin to slide the tray
forward for battery maintenance.
Outside this compartment, located on the side of the deck under
the starboard seat is the battery switch box. For normal operation of the boat, the switch should be set to ON. For transportation and storage, the switch should be moved to OFF. In the
event of a failure of the starter battery, the two batteries may be
combined to provide additional power to start the engine. This
can be done by setting the battery switch to COMBINE BATTERIES and starting the engine as normal. After the engine is
started, the switch should be returned to the ON position.

(All MariStar Models and Similar X Series, X-Star,
CSX 220, CSX 265)
MariStar and X-Star: For normal operation the battery switch
should be placed in the ON position. This allows the engine and
all accessories to receive power. The engine will recharge both
batteries with the switch ON. For transportation and storage,
the battery switch should be placed in the OFF position to allow
both batteries to be isolated from all circuits.

The battery charger inlet connector is also located in the battery
switch box. Please see information provided by the charger
manufacturer. Battery chargers installed by MasterCraft are of
the charger/maintainer variety. The charger may be left connected to the batteries indefinitely.

Note: The switch knob may be removed when it is in the OFF position. This is a security feature.

(All Models)
The engine emergency safety stop switch, called
the lanyard, is an ignition cut-off switch designed
to stop the engine in the event the operator is
thrown or moves too far away from the helm.

If the engine will not start because the battery is discharged, the
engine may be started from the house battery by placing the switch

Engine Emergency
Safety Stop Switch

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-4

The lanyard is equipped with a hook on one end that should be
attached to your clothing or PFD, and the opposite end has a
slide that fits over the ignition switch. Be sure that the slide is
firmly attached to the ignition switch before starting.
The ignition switch is located near the throttle control box, the
armrest or on the instrument panel. If the slide is left off or is
loose, the engine will crank but will not start. Operators should
NEVER attempt to override this safety system!

The safety switch lanyard must be attached to the operator whenever the engine is running. Failure to do so may result in death or
serious injury!

Engine Hatch Switch

(MariStar 280/X-80, CSX-220, CSX-265)
Where equipped, an engine hatch cover
switch allows the cover to open and close
electronically. The three-position switch is
pressed up to open and down to close the hatch.

The engine box serves as a machinery guard. The engine must
be OFF whenever the box is open. Clothing or body parts can get
caught in moving parts, causing death or serious injury. Keep
away from moving parts!

Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

(All Models)
The engine oil pressure gauge indicates
the pressure of the lubricating oil inside
the engine. The average pressure ranges
are between six (6) pounds per square
inch (PSI) at 1000 RPM to 40 PSI or
more at cruise range speeds. A reading
of pressure below 5 PSI at 1000 RPM may be caused by a low oil
level or other potentially serious problems that result in low oil
pressure. If you experience low oil pressure, stop your engine
immediately and check your oil level before operating again.

Do not continue to run the engine if the oil pressure is low. If
you do, the engine may become so hot that it, or surrounding
components, could catch fire. You or others could be burned and
the boat seriously damaged. Check your oil level and add an appropriate amount of approved motor oil before operating again or
have your boat serviced by your local authorized dealer’s service
department. Note that damage to your engine from inappropriate
oil levels can be costly to repair. Such damage is not covered by
your warranty.

Engine Synchronizing
Switch

(MariStar 280, X-80 and CSX 265)
This two-position switch allows
the engines to operate in synchronization. Do not engage the switch
unless the engines are running!
Step 1:

Start both engines. While at idle, press up on the Synch
switch to turn the synchronization function ON.

Step 2:

Push the port throttle to wide-open throttle.

Note: In the MariStar 280, the boat
is equipped with a four-lever control,
The lever closest to the driver is the
port engine shifter, which allows the
boat to move forward when shifted
forward, and backward when shifted
aft. The next lever is the starboard
engine shifter and performs the same
function. If both engines are running
and the boat is moving, the shifters
should be shifted together and in the
same direction. Doing otherwise can damage the system.
The next middle lever is the port engine throttle, which allows the
boat to feed fuel into the engine and operate in motion. Pushing
forward on it will signal the system that fuel should be sent to the
port engine. The engines can be run at different levels of throttle
BUT NOT WHEN UTILIZING THE SYNCH FUNCTION!
Step 3:

Using the starboard throttle, run the boat up to the
desired speed.

Step 4:

Press up on the Cruise switch adjacent to the Synch
switch. This engages the MC Cruise function.

Note: DO NOT use the any speed control (Perfect Pass, etc.)
function without turning on the Synch function as directed.
Doing so will cause erratic operation.
Step 5:

Now push the starboard throttle to wide-open throttle
also. The boat will run at the RPM level at which it was
running when the Cruise was engaged. If further adjustment is required or desired, adjust by pressing up or
down on the +/- switch adjacent to the Cruise switch.

Note: If the system is turned off (pressing down on the Cruise or
Synch switches), the operator MUST pull the throttles below the
cruise RPM to regain control of the system. During operation,
the starboard throttle must be beyond the set point of the cruise
for the function to work properly. A light in the switch will
blink if more throttle is required.
The port engine will have an RPM blip after the Synch switch is
activated and the throttle is moved to wide-open throttle. If the
engine actually accelerates to wide-open throttle, then the Synch
function did not take control of the port engine. In this instance,
reduce the speed and return to Step 1.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-5

Fuel Gauge

Ignition Key Slot

(All Models)
Fuel gauge readings are only approximate. This gauge is activated
with the ignition switch. The rocking
motion of the boat during normal
operation will cause the fuel gauge to
fluctuate. For a more accurate reading, make sure that the boat is level
and with little or no motion present.

(All Models)
MasterCraft boats come equipped with an
ignition key, which must be inserted in the
ignition key slot and used to activate the
boat’s electrical system. This, in turn, will
allow the boat to be started and operated.

MasterCraft recommends that operators do not run the boat
below a quarter of a tank, except as necessary to return to shore,
and not until the boat has been operated enough times to develop an understanding of how the fuel gauge readings relate to
the visual inspection of fuel left in the tank. Extending fuel usage
beyond the known capability of the boat may cause the boat to
run out of fuel and may leave you stranded off-shore.
Although it may be possible to see fuel in the bottom of the fuel
tank, you still may not be able to operate the boat. The fuel pickup system was designed to avoid introducing the small amount
of water and debris that unavoidably accumulate in the bottom
of the tank. Rather than relying on visual inspection, you should
pay attention to the fuel gauge.
Further, it is not recommended to allow the fuel to fall below onequarter of a tank full at any time as it may result in damage to the
fueling system. (See the Fueling section of this Owner’s Manual.)

Allowing the fuel level in the fuel tank to fall below one-quarter of
a tank full may affect the reliability of the fuel pump or result in
damage to the fuel pump, which is not covered under warranty.

Heater Switch

(Optional Installation for All Models)
Among the accessory options available for
your boat is a heater function. The heater’s
three-position switch is turned up for ON
(LOW), or turned down for ON (HIGH).
The center position is OFF. Warmed air
from an electrically powered heater box will be blown from
vents within the boat deck.

Horn

(All Models)
The horn is sounded by way of a button on
the instrument panel. Pressing the button
emits a loud and recognizable noise.

The key will be in one of four (4) positions:
• Off
• Accessory (including running the stereo
without the engine running)
• ON (engine is running)
• Start (turn the key to engage the engine
starter, then release to allow the key to automatically return
to the ON position)
Never leave the ignition switch in the ON position without the
engine running, as this will cause the battery to discharge.
Note: The MariStar 280STS is equipped with two (2) ignitions, one
(1) for each engine, allowing the engines to operate independently
of each other. Be sure to turn both ignitions OFF when the engine
is not in use.

Instrument Panel Gauge
Backlighting Switch

(All models equipped with the Video Display
Gauge System)
A three-position switch allows the operator to change
the instrument panel backlighting for the gauges. Pressing the top
of the switch will cause the lights to brighten, the center position
is OFF, and pressing down will dim the lights.

Low Voltage Battery Alarm

(All Models)
In the event that the stereo has been functioning when the boat
is not ON and running, the voltage drain on the battery (or batteries) may result in difficulties with re-starting the boat. It may
also cause intermittent erroneous or fluctuating gauge readings.
When the voltage level reaches 11.5 volts or below, the system
will shut off the stereo and sound the alarm for a period of two
(2) minutes to give boaters sufficient time to adjust. Generally, the appropriate action is to leave the stereo OFF, as well as
disengaging any other peripheral electrical components, and
keying ON the engine. Running the engine at a moderate rate
for several minutes without the additional drain of stereo and
unnecessary electrical equipment will allow the alternator to recharge the battery or batteries, unless the battery(ies) have been
used to the extent of their life span.

TRAN = Transmission alarm.This message will occur only
when the engine is running. Stop the engine and
check the transmission oil level as soon as this can be
safely done.

Multi-Function Gauge

(ProStar 190, ProStar 197, X-7, X-1
models only)
This gauge provides several functions of interest and support to the
boater. As a tachometer, it indicates
the engine speed in crankshaft revolutions per minute (RPM).
As you toggle to the hourmeter, it
registers the accumulated engine
operating time. Use the hourmeter
to keep accurate logs for scheduled maintenance. (See also the
Maintenance Section and Service Log.) Replacing the computer
(known as the MMDC) will erase the registered hours. The
hourmeter counts hours only when the engine is above 300 rpm.
The option exists to change the display to metric from the hours
screen. This is done by holding down the gauge selection display
button for three (3) seconds. When prompted, select English
or metric display. Wait an additional three (3) seconds and the
display will return to normal operation.
Toggle to the air temperature gauge (optional) to get an approximate reading of the ambient air temperature above the
water’s surface.
Toggle to the clock for the convenience of determining the time.
It can be adjusted by depressing the gauge selection display
button when the clock is displayed. After three (3) seconds the
colon will stop flashing. The hours are adjusted by pressing the
button down, while minutes are adjusted by pressing up. After
three (3) additional seconds the clock will return to normal
operation.
Alarms of the Multi-Function Gauge
In addition to the displays noted above, the multi-function
gauge also displays several alarms. The following messages will
be displayed if an alarm occurs:
VOLT = Voltage falls below 11.5 volts. This message indicates
that the battery has discharged to an extent that may
jeopardize engine cranking and starting if action is not
taken. Start the engine to at least idle, and allow the
battery to re-charge.
OIL =

Oil pressure is below 4 p.s.i. when the RPM is below
1000 RPM or the oil pressure is below 10 p.s.i. and
above 1000 RPM. This message will occur only when
the engine is running. Stop the engine and check the
oil level as soon as this can be safely done.

TEMP = High engine temperature alarm. This message will occur only when the engine is running. If the engine does
not automatically reduce speed to the “limp home”
level, manually reduce speed and return to the dock as
soon as this can be safely done. It may be necessary to
shut down the engine and seek a tow to the dock.

While air temperature readings are an optional addition to the
gauge, the lake temperature reading is standard on the gauge.
This comes from the paddle wheel located under the boat. If
the sensor becomes open or shorts out in the line to the battery,
it will read 32 degrees F. If the sensor is shorted to the ground
wire, it will read 150 degrees F. The SELF TEST feature of the
multi-function gauge is located on the lake temperature gauge.
With the lake temperature displayed, hold down the gauge selection display button for three (3) seconds or until the self test has
started. During the self-test, all the segments on the display will
light up. Also during the self test, the gauges will re-set, go to
mid-scale and then to full-scale. After two (2) sweeps the system
will return to normal.

Navigation/Anchor Lights Switch
(All Models)
A three-position switch serves to activate
exterior lighting. Turning the switch in
the up position will activate bow and stern
lights, the middle position is OFF, and the
down position is for stern-only lighting.

Other Alarms

(All Models)
Sensors check the oil pressure, engine and transmission temperatures. If the system detects readings outside the acceptable
range, the system shuts off the stereo and sounds the alarm for
a period of one (1) minute. This signals the need to return to
shore as soon as possible and seek assistance from your authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department to diagnose and, if
necessary, repair the problem.

Refrigerator Switch

(MariStar 280, X-80, CSX 265, X-65)
This switch will run the refrigerator when
turned ON. The refrigerator runs off the
boat’s electrical and battery system. Therefore, care should be given to ensure that the
battery is not drained to such an extent that
the voltmeter alarm sounds.

Seat Heat Switches

(Optional All Models for Driver’s Seat;
Certain Models for Observer’s Seat)
A two-position switch allows heat to be
turned ON for the driver’s seat. In some
models, an optional observer seat heat
switch is available and will be found on the
deck below the observer seat cushion.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-7

Shift/Throttle Control

(All Models)
With the exception of the MariStar
280, X-80 and CSX-265, a one-hand,
single-lever control operates as both
a gear shifter and a throttle. The
lever automatically locks in the neutral position (straight up and down)
for safety. The lever can be moved
from neutral only by raising the
lifter under the ball knob. Shifting is
accomplished by moving the lever
forward or backward. Center (straight up) is neutral. Moving
the lever forward engages the running gear; moving it back from
center puts the drive train into reverse.
Never attempt to shift without the engine running!
In the MariStar 280, X-80 and CSX
265, the boat is equipped with a
four-lever control, The lever closest to the driver is the port engine
shifter, which allows the boat to
move forward when shifted forward,
and backward when shifted aft. The
next lever is the starboard engine
shifter and performs the same function. If both engines are running
and the boat is moving, the shifters
should be shifted together and in the
same direction. Doing otherwise can
damage the system.
The next middle lever is the port engine throttle, which allows
the boat to feed fuel into the engine and operate in motion.
Pushing forward on it will signal the system that fuel should be
sent to the port engine. The engines can be run at different levels
of throttle.
This system allows greater maneuverability in docking, as well as
when the boat is in operation. However, it requires more practice and skill in order to avoid potential damage to the boat.

Shower and/or
Slick Boot Switch

(Optional Installations on
Most Models)
A single three-position switch
mounted in an aft position
storage area controls the
optional shower and optional
Slick Boot functions. The
switch is marked for each. Turn the switch toward the Shower
marking to turn ON the shower. Return to center for OFF.
Turn to the other direction to turn ON the Slick Boot. Return
to center for OFF. These instructions work whether the boat is
equipped with one (1) or both of the options, but will not be
found in boats that are not equipped with either option.

Sink Switch

(MariStar 280 and X-80)
On the face plate panel adjacent to the
sink is a two-position switch. Turning the
switch ON allows water to run through the
faucet into the sink. The water comes from
a freshwater tank that requires manual
refilling when the water has run out. Be sure to turn OFF the
switch after running water, and especially when the freshwater
tank has run dry.

Speedometer

(All Models)
The speedometer indicates the forward speed of the boat in miles per
hour (unless the boat is equipped
with a speedometer that measures
kilometers per hour, which is
available in the optional European
package.)
To calibrate the speedometer, you
need an accurately measured course
of 850 feet and a certified stopwatch, which is accurate to within
one-hundredths (.01) of a second. (This can be done with GPS,
when equipped.) To calibrate to A.W.S.A. official tournament
rules:
• Approach the course at 36 miles per hour (MPH) as indicated on the speedometer. Hold the speed steady and have an
observer check the course time with a stopwatch.
• If the course time is between 15.88 and 16.28 seconds, no
adjustments are necessary.
• If the course time is not within
that tolerance range, press up or
down on the calibration rocker
switch to adjust the speedometer’s
speed interpretation.

Tachometer

(All Models)
On boats not equipped with a
multi-function gauge, a separate
tachometer gauge is found. The
tachometer indicates the engine
speed in crankshaft revolutions per
minute (RPM).

Temperature Gauge

(All Models)
The temperature gauge indicates the water temperature inside
the engine’s cooling system as measured in degrees Fahrenheit.
The normal operating temperature will range from 140 degrees
Fahrenheit to 190 degrees Fahrenheit. Engines with electronic
fuel injection also have a control circuit inside the engine control
module that will cause the engine to run at reduced speeds if the
module senses that the engine is running too hot. If you notice

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-8

that your speed has reduced during
normal operation, but you have
not manually slowed the throttle,
monitor your temperature gauge. If
the gauge indicates excessive temperatures during operation, slow
down immediately and turn off the
engine. This indicates an engine
problem that needs to be checked by
the dealer!

information. Repeatedly pressing
the MENU button shuffles the tabs
to bring a new tab to the top of the
stack. Pressing the SELECT button initiates the screen represented
by the tab on the top of the stack.

Continuing to operate the boat while the temperature is above
normal operating parameters may cause serious damage to your
engine. Damage to your engine resulting from operating the
engine in an overheated condition can be costly to repair. Such
damage is not covered by your warranty!

Tower Lights Switch

(Optional Installation for All Models)
The location of the tower lights switch
(where equipped) vary by model and
should be located by the operator. In some
instances, there may be two (2) switches.
In all instances, the lights operate by using
two-position switches, one position for ON and the other for OFF.

Video Display Gauge

(Standard on MariStar 230,
MariStar 280, X-Star, X-2, X-14,
X-15, X-30, X-45, and X-80;
Optional on ProStar 214,
MariStar 200, 215 and 245)
Many MasterCraft boats feature
a color display gauge. The video
display gauge is capable of displaying engine, boat, and Perfect Pass
speed control information.

NOTE: At press time for this Owners Manual, additional functionality was being added to the Video
Display Gauge. All of the functions listed herein
will be available. Additional items will be described
by the brief manual provided by the manufacturer.
Information is divided into manageable pages or screens and
organized into a straightforward menu structure for presentation to the driver. Display controls, conveniently located along
the bottom of the gauge, allow rapid navigation of the menu
structure to display any desired information.

The system anticipates the need to
display information and automatically brings up certain screens
when they are necessary. For
example, the system automatically
displays a related screen when it
senses any of the following events:
• Adjusting the trim brings up
the Trim screen
• Adjusting the ballast brings up
the Ballast screen
• Pushing the Perfect Pass button brings up the Perfect Pass
screen
• Any alarm condition brings up
a warning screen

Selecting the DEPTH tab goes
to the screen illustrated following. This screen digitally displays
depth, water temperature, air temperature, and illustrates the depth
trend. The system also has a user
adjustable depth alarm that can be
adjusted from the SETUP tab.

Selecting the BALLAST tab goes
to the screen illustrated below. It
allows the driver to see the status
of all the ballast tanks installed
in the boat. This tab is a plug and
play tab so uninstalled ballast
tanks do not appear on the screen.

Display navigation is intuitive. Pressing the MENU button
brings up a display of the available information organized and
illustrated as file tabs with each tab representing a screen of
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-9

Perfect Pass is turned on and off
by pressing the remote perfect
pass button. Please refer to the
Perfect Pass manual for detailed
operating instructions.
Selecting the TRIM tab goes to
one of the screens illustrated
below. These screens display the
position of the installed singletrim tab or dual-trim tabs.
All screens display a Perfect Pass
icon when the Perfect Pass system
is turned ON.

Selecting the MAIN tab goes to
the screen illustrated in the next
column. Any information available to the instrumentation system
may be selected by the driver to
be displayed in this screen. This
screen is organized into four (4)
quadrants with the user-selected
information digitally displayed in
each quadrant.
To change the information displayed simply:
• Press the UP or DOWN arrows to highlight the quadrant
that you wish to change
• Press SELECT to access the
pull down menu
• Using the UP or DOWN arrows highlight the desired information.
• Press SELECT again to store the change

MasterCraft boats equipped with
the video display gauge feature
integrated Perfect Pass Wakeboard
Pro speed control software.

Selecting the SET UP tab goes to
the pick list illustrated below. It
contains all the system controls of
the video display gauge. This tab
permits control of alarms, speedometer calibration, brightness and
contrast adjustment to name a few.
Using the UP and DOWN arrows
highlight the desired item and
press SELECT. Make the desired
changes and press MENU to save
and exit.

All system Warning Messages are
displayed on the video display
gauge. They will stay on for a
minimum of 10 seconds but, can
be acknowledged and hidden by
pressing the MENU button. Once
acknowledged after 10 seconds the
alarm will go away for 5 minutes.
If the alarm is still active it will
return after the 5 minutes.

The Perfect Pass application can be
entered by selecting the CRUISE
tab on the MENU screen or pressing the remote Perfect Pass button.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-10

Voltmeter

(All Models)
The voltmeter registers the electrical
activity necessary to operate your
boat. If the battery (or batteries, in
boat models requiring two [2]) is
low or non-functional, or if various
electrical items on the boat, such as
stereo equipment, are draining the
battery(ies) and impacting the boat’s
ability to function properly, the voltmeter will likely be the first gauge
to indicate that you have an electrical problem. The voltmeter
cannot tell you which battery is draining on boats with two (2)
batteries, but rather functions as a general alarm to alert boaters regarding potential issues. On boats equipped with two (2)
batteries, the alarm indicates severe drain on the engine starting
battery. To determine which battery is the engine starting battery, read the markings on the battery cables.

Variations in Gauges and Switches

Please note that not every gauge or switch explained in this
Owner’s Manual is found on every model. Some equipment is
optional and not every option is available on all models of MasterCraft boats.
Also, MasterCraft utilizes a variety of gauge and switch styles.
These differences are not in functionality. If a boat is equipped
with a gauge or switch that is labeled as described above, it will
operate in the same fashion as the description even if its appearance is different.
If the owner and/or operators are uncertain about a gauge’s or
switch’s purpose, do not operate the boat until consulting with
an authorized MasterCraft dealer. Some gauges monitor information that is critical to safe and long-term usage of the boat.
Some switches can affect maneuverability, as well as operations
that impact long-term use of the boat.

Wash Down Switch

(Optional Installation for all
MariStars CSX 220, CSX 265,
and X-Star, including Saltwater
Series)
A water tank option within available
models can provide a fresh-water wash of the boat interior. The
tank will be eight (8) or twenty-five (25) gallons capacity, depending on the boat model. The two-position switch is pressed
up for ON and down for OFF.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 5-11

using care when fueling
MasterCraft boats are equipped with a highly innovative fuel
system. This system is designed to provide years of trouble-free
service. Some of the latest innovations related to fuel handling
safety are also incorporated into the fuel delivery system.
The system uses a fuel pump mounted in a capsule that is installed directly in the fuel tank. A similar system has been used
in automotive vehicles for many years and has demonstrated
reliable service. The pump system in your boat was specifically
designed for the marine environment and contains a number of
added safety components that are unique to the marine environment. Because of the special nature of the design, there are no
user-serviceable parts. Any parts in need of service or maintenance will need to be addressed by an authorized MasterCraft
dealer. The technical team there is equipped with the special
tools necessary to disassemble and service the fuel capsule and
associated parts.
The fuel line in the boat’s bilge area that goes from the tank
to the engine is a special multi-layer armored line that is covered with a special material known as a fire sleeve. The fire
sleeve affords protection to the fuel line in the unlikely event
of a boat fire.
The sleeve is colored orange for easy identification of the fuel
line. MasterCraft recommends daily inspection of the bilge for
foreign materials and the possibility of gas or oil leakage detection. As part of your daily inspection, include a visual check of
the orange fire-sleeved fuel line. If you see damage to the sleeve
or line or in any way suspect damage or fuel leakage, DO NOT
START THE BOAT! Immediately call an authorized MasterCraft servicing dealer and let him or her assess the situation.
Even if the outing is canceled, leaking fuel can cause serious
damage to the environment and may be a potentially hazardous situation for people and property in the area. Therefore, it is
critical to attend to this matter as soon as possible.

Gasoline is extremely flammable and high explosive under certain
conditions. Always stop the engine and never smoke or allow
open flames or sparks within fifty (50) feet of the fueling area
when fueling.

Take care not to spill gasoline. If gasoline is spilled accidentally,
wipe up all traces of it with dry rags immediately and dispose of
properly on shore.

Indmar Engines

The following information applies to boats equipped with Indmar engines (which includes the RPT-1, MCX, LY6 and 8.1L):

What Type of Gasoline To
Use

All standard Indmar EFI engines run on
unleaded fuel of 89 octane or higher. Indmar recommends purchasing fuel from a
supplier that advertises availability of fuel
that meets “TOP TIER” specifications.
This fuel has additives and detergents
that will reduce the build-up of deposits
in the engine.
The goal of the TOP TIER detergent
gasoline standards is to create a winning situation for gasoline retailers,
engine manufacturers and boat operators. Currently, many gasoline retailers
provide fuels with lower-quality additive
packages that can build up deposits on
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 6-1

Extended storage with fuel in the system
can affect the fuel’s stability and may
require system inspection and fuel filter
replacement when the unit is placed back
into service.

Using Oxygenated Fuels or
Fuels with Alcohol

MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is an
oxygenate and octane enhancer. This
compound may be blended with fuel.
Fuel that is no more than fifteen percent
(15%) MTBE is acceptable for use in the
Indmar engine.
fuel injectors and intake valves. Others can build up deposits
in combustion chambers and may lead to intake valves sticking.
These lower levels of additives can have a negative impact on
engine performance and vehicle responsiveness.
For a current list of gasoline retailers supplying TOP Tier gasoline, go to www.toptiergas.com and click on RETAILERS.

Damage to the engine by use of low-quality gasoline or gasoline
with an octane rating below the minimum level listed will void the
warranty on the boat.

Ethyl alcohol, ethanol or grain alcohol is acceptable as long as
it is a blend and the blended fuel contains no more than ten
percent (10%) ethanol.

Fuels Outside the
United States and Canada

If the Indmar-equipped boat is operated outside the USA or
Canada, unleaded fuels may be difficult to obtain. Leaded fuels
are not recommended as engine components will last longer using unleaded fuel.

Volkswagen
Diesel-Power Engines
Fuels that are blended to contain methanol or wood alcohol
should not be used. These fuels can corrode metal parts in the
fuel system and engine. Fuels that contain methanol will damage
the engine. Damage caused by the use of unapproved fuels is not
covered by warranty.

See the fuel restrictions and information provided in the Volkswagen engine manual. Note that the Volkswagen diesel-powered engine does not have a pump-in-tank fuel pick-up system.
A traditional system is featured with these engines.

When the Boat Is Not Used for a While

MasterCraft and Volkswagen strongly recommend that the fuel
level never be allowed to get so low as to introduce air into the
fuel line. This can cause not only “stumbling” in the engine’s
performance, but can potentially cause damage to the system
and/or engine. It can also be very challenging to get the engine
to re-fire if there is an insufficient amount of fuel and the engine
ceases to run for that reason.

Indmar recommends the regular use of Sta-Bil® fuel stabilizer for
boat users whose outings consume less than a tank of fuel every
two (2) weeks. Today’s fuels are more susceptible to degradation,
and the use of a quality stabilizer will help ensure fewer problems for the occasional boater.
If the boat has not been used for more than thirty (30) days and
fuel remains in the tank (even stabilized fuel), the engine may
run poorly until the “old” fuel is used up. The manufacturer will
not pay for repairs to components that are inoperable or damaged from old and/or poor quality fuel, as this is not covered
under the engine warranty.

When Fuel Runs Out or
Too Low for Proper Operation

However, such a situation can occur, and in those instances, if
the operator is not able to take the boat to an authorized MasterCraft dealer to have the system primed and the engine re-fired,
the following procedure has been provided by Volkswagen to
attempt to get the system working again:

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 6-2

Step 1: Ensure the seacock is
open.

Step 13: This should be done
only as a last resort. Remove
the air filter and squirt starting fluid into the intake while
cranking the engine. Advance
the throttle lever to one-quarter
of its travel when spraying the
fluid.

Step 2: Ensure that there is
diesel fuel in the tank. Full is
better than partial, but if partial
is all, the tank should be at least
one-quarter or more full.
Step 3: Ensure the 12-volt
battery is fully charged. This becomes even more critical if the
restart requires multiple tries.
Step 4: Ensure the emergency stop button on the engine is in
the run position. (The button will be “out” or extended from
the block.)
Step 5: Prime fuel to the filter
by loosening the bleed screw
and hand priming the pump
to get all the air out of the
filter. Nothing but fuel should
be flowing out of the bleed
screw—no air.
Step 6: Tighten the bleed screw
on the filter and continue
priming fuel on the hand-priming pump. Observe the fuel
sight gauge on the engine. There should be no air bubbles in
the sight gauge.

Do not overuse ether. Too much starting fluid can cause detonation within the engine that can damage components and doing so
may void your warranty!
Step 14: Repeat until the engine starts. Allow the engine to run
for at least a couple of minutes at 1,000-1,200 R.P.M..
Step 15: Shut off the engine.
Step 16: After a few seconds, restart the engine to ensure that
the fuel flow has been re-established and is working properly.

Step 7: Open the throttle lever to approximately one-quarter
travel and attempt to start the engine. If the engine does not start
after several attempts, go to the next step.
Step 8: Remove the connector from the fuel pressure regulating valve.
Step 9: Loosen the injector nut
on the lies of the left and right
banks of the high-pressure rails.
Crank the engine over until
a steady flow of fuel is visible
coming out of the lines.

Step 10: Tighten the injector nut
on the lines on the left and right
banks of the high-pressure rails.
Step 11: Install the connector
to the fuel pressure regulating
valve.
Step 12: Crank the engine. If it
still does not start, repeat Steps
10 through 12 several times. If the engine still does not start,
continue to the next Step.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 6-3

safety checks and services
The following checks and services are
essential to safe boating and must be
performed. Get in the habit of performing these checks in the same order each
outing so that it becomes routine.

Before Each Operation

These tasks are best accomplished before the boat is launched.
• Follow all engine and drive train pre-operation maintenance
and safety checks as outlined in the engine owner’s manual
provided.
• Check the weather report, wind and water conditions.
• Check for recommended on-board tools and parts.
• Check that all drain plugs are installed properly, including
bilge and rear drain.
• Check the propeller and shaft for damage.
• Check that there is an adequate supply of fuel.
• Check that the steering system operates properly.
• Check that required safety equipment is on board.
• Check that the windshield and extrusions do not show any
damage.

the bilge compartment.
• Check all hoses and connections for leakage or damage.
• Check that all required Scheduled Maintenance Checks and
Services (see following sections) were performed.

During Operation

• Check gauges frequently for operating conditions.
• Pay attention that controls operate smoothly.
• Note any excessive vibration.

After Operation

• Check for fluid leaks.
• In boats equipped with a ballast system, drain water from
the ballast system before placing the boat on the trailer. If the
boat has ballast-pumping assistance to remove water from
the ballast system, note that the engine must be running at
least 1500 RPM during the pumping process (for both fill and
empty operations). This will necessitate draining water prior
to ceasing operation of the boat and loading on the trailer.
More information regarding ballast systems appears in various sections of this Owner’s Manual.
• Check the fins (where equipped), propeller, rudder and shaft
for damage after removing the boat from the water.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 7-1

new boat break-in
The first fifty (50) hours of operation are the most important for
the boat. Proper break-in will ensure maximum performance
and the longest possible power-train life. The break-in period allows moving parts within the engine and transmission to wearin properly. All MasterCraft boats are lake-tested on the water
before leaving the factory, but the break-in must continue for the
first fifty (50) hours of your ownership.

To ensure proper break-in and lubrication, boat owners should
not remove the factory break-in oil until after the initial ten (10)
hours of operation. At that time, an oil change should be performed on the Indmar engines by an authorized MasterCraft
service technician at an authorized MasterCraft dealer.
Failure to follow the break-in procedure exactly as stated will
void the engine warranty!
NOTE: Before operating the boat for the first time you must
read the engine manufacturer’s manual completely in addition
to this Manual!
The VW diesel engine does not require an oil change at 10
hours. The VW diesel engine requires an oil change every year
or 200 hours of operation. See the VW engine manual for specific guidelines and requirements to maintain the warranty.
Please follow the break-in procedure carefully. Close attention to
the following is very important:
• Maintain the proper oil level. Until the piston rings, cylinder
and other working internal parts are thoroughly seated, oil
consumption can be high and must be carefully watched.
(This continues to be important after break-in, as well).

• Vary the engine speed. Never run the engine for more than
three (3) minutes at any constant RPM during the break-in
period. Doing this will assist in the proper break-in of rings
and bearings.
• Plane the boat quickly. Operating the boat at low speeds
places an excessive load on the engine. Plane quickly, then
back down to a slower speed.

First Hours of Operation

Each engine manufacturer has detailed and specific requirements for proper engine break-in. That information is found
in the engine manual supplied, and must be followed exactly as
indicated. Failure to do so could cause engine damage and/or
failure that is not covered under warranty.

After Break-In

Once the break-in period is over, the boat may be operated continuously at any speed, but not beyond the maximum indicated
in the engine manual.
The engines are equipped with rev-limiters which will cause
a fluttering sound when reached. If the boat has the correct
propeller set-up, operators should never reach the limiter, but
if that happens, it is a signal that you should reduce the throttle
and check with an authorized MasterCraft dealer to determine
the cause.
Always remember that during normal operation you should allow the engine to warm up gradually. Be sure the engine is warm
before accelerating. Pay careful attention to the gauges. Also,
check the oil level frequently during the first fifty (50) hours of
operation since the piston rings and cylinders require that much
time to seat properly.

• Pay close attention to the gauges. It is
important to stop the engine immediately if the gauges indicate a problem.
Low oil pressure and overheating are
serious issues and require immediate
attention.
• Abnormal vibration or noises. These
symptoms can precede trouble and
should not be ignored. Occasionally,
hardware may work loose, mountings may need to be tightened or the
driveline may require attention.
• Fuel, oil or water leaks. Leaks can
pose a serious safety threat. If one
occurs, it is most likely to do so after a
few hours of operation.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 8-1

See the Scheduled Maintenance Checks
and Services section for more details.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 8-2

starting and basic operation
NOTE: If you are operating this boat
for the first time, you must follow
the engine and drive train break-in
procedures as described in the previous
section and the engine manual. Failure
to follow these procedures may result
in serious damage and may void any
warranties!

Before Starting

Familiarize yourself with the controls and
indicators used on this MasterCraft boat.
Perform all Safety Checks and Services as
described earlier. Also perform all Scheduled Maintenance Checks and Services.
Step 1: Lift the engine cover and inspect
the bilge and engine compartment for any fluid/vapor leakage.
MasterCraft recommends lifting the engine compartment cover for inspection before each use.
Step 2: Check the hull drain plugs. Make sure they are installed
and secure.
Step 3: Operate the bilge blower for at least four (4) minutes.
Leave the bilge blower ON through the starting process
and until the boat has planed.

Before starting the engine, open the engine compartment and
check for gasoline fumes, fuel and oil leaks or the presence of
fuel or oil in the bilge.
NOTE: Always start the engine with the control lever in the
neutral position or with the shift disengaged. Your boat is
equipped with a neutral-start safety switch that will not allow
the engine to be started when in gear.

Starting the Engine

Step 1: Attach the emergency engine safety switch tether (lanyard) to an article of your clothing and to the switch.

Step 2: For normal starting, leave the throttle lever in neutral.
The electronic controls will meter the correct fuel and
air automatically.
Step 3: Turn the key switch to the start position and hold until
the engine starts. Release the key as soon as the engine
starts.

Do not operate the starter motor continuously for more than
fifteen (15) seconds without at least two (2) minutes for a
“cool-down” period. Failure to do so may cause the starter to
overheat, resulting in damage. Failure to release the ignition key
after the engine has started may cause damage to the starter
motor and drive.
Note: While the engine is warming up, check to see that all
lights and gauges operate properly. Check that the steering
system operates freely. There should be no apparent leaks under
pressure. Re-engage the control lever after warm-up by returning the lever to neutral and pushing the throttle button back
into the engage position.

Shifting Gears

When shifting gears, always move the control lever smoothly
and quickly into gear. Do not hesitate. Slow gear engagement
could damage the shifting mechanism in the transmission.
Always allow the engine speed to fall to low idle (600-800 RPM)
before shifting gears.
Forward: Raise the lifter ball under the lever knob and then push
the control lever forward into the first forty-five (45) degrees of
travel. Throttle movement will begin after forty-five (45) degrees.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 9-1

Reverse: Raise the lifter ball under the lever knob and briskly
pull the control lever back into the forty-five (45) degrees of
travel. Throttle movement will begin after forty-five (45) degrees.
Once the shift has been completed, continue to move the control
lever slowly in the desired direction to increase speed.

Continued operation after the warning light has illuminated may
cause severe engine damage. This will void your warranty.

NOTE: When shifting from forward to reverse or reverse to
forward, be sure to stop the control lever in the neutral position and allow the engine to fall between 600-800 RPM before
completing the shift.

Stopping

Underway

Step 2:

If the oil pressure gauge indicates low or no oil pressure, immediately stop the boat as outlined below and check the oil level.
If the temperature gauge indicates overheating, immediately
stop the boat as outlined below and check the raw water impeller
for blockage. DO NOT operate the boat until the cause for the
warning has been found and corrected.

Step 1:

Step 3:

Slowly bring the control lever to the neutral position. If
the boat has been driven for a long period of time or at
high speed, allow the engine a 2-3 minute cool-down
period at low idle (600-800 RPM).
Turn the ignition key to the OFF position to stop the
engine.
If any problems were encountered during operation,
have the boat inspected by an authorized MasterCraft
dealer. Request any necessary repairs before resuming
operation of the boat.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 9-2

operational hints
MasterCraft urges all who will be operating the boat to seek
certified instruction from the local boating authorities. This section is designed to present the most basic operational principles.
It is NOT intended to cover all conditions encountered during
operation. Therefore, the principles presented in this Owner’s
Manual are limited to the facts related directly to the operation
of the boat, while the responsibility for the proper application of
these principles belongs with the boat owner and/or operator.

Adding additional ballast to a MasterCraft boat is not recommended, and can result in impaired visibility, diminished handling
characteristics and instability when operating your boat, and may
result in potential structural and/or engine damage to the boat,
which damage will not be covered by your warranty.

Never overload the boat. The maximum weight capacity as listed
on the certification plate includes all items added to the boat (including persons and gear). Proper distribution of weight is critical to boat performance. Allocate the load as evenly as possible.
The maximum weight capacity includes filled, factory-installed
ballast tanks and/or ballast bags, added by the customer.
Note that adding ballast bags reduces the number of people
and the amount of gear that can be added. Failure to adhere
to the total maximum capacity may result in too much strain
on the drive train or may sink the boat. This is not covered
under warranty! See the Common Sense Approach section of
this Owner’s Manual regarding weight, including calculations
for ballast and gasoline.

Emergencies

Know how to use and spot distress signals, and to offer assistance if possible. Remember, you may need assistance some day.

Courtesy

Always respect the rights of others on the water. Keep wide
when passing, slow down in crowded areas, be alert and be
aware of your wake and wash.

First Time Operation

When taking to the water for the first time, you must keep in
mind a few general guidelines:
• Practice makes perfect! Start in calm water with no wind or
current and plenty of room until you get the feel for the boat
and its controls.
• Proceed slowly! Give yourself time to think, react and maneuver.
• Recognize outside forces! Check the wind direction and
velocity, as well as water currents and waves.
• Have a crew on hand! Have friends
or family ready with fenders, lines and a
boat hook to assist you when docking, as
well as launching and loading.
• Remember that a boat is not an automobile! Boats cannot be maneuvered
and stopped like a car. Boats steer from
the stern (rear) and have no brakes.

Basic Maneuvering

Steering response is dependent upon
three (3) factors: rudder position, motion
and throttle. While high-speed maneuvering is relatively easy and takes little
practice, slow-speed maneuvering is
far more difficult and requires time and
practice to master.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 10-1

With both steering and propulsion at the rear of the boat, the
initiation of a turn pushes the stern of the boat away from the
direction of the turn. The stern follows a larger turning circle
than the bow. This is especially important to remember when
making maneuvers within close quarters.
While the effects of unequal propeller thrust (torque steering),
wind, and current may not always be present, a practiced driver
will use them to his/her advantage.
Unequal thrust is a phenomenon shared by all single-engine,
propeller-driven boats. With the rudder in the straight-ahead
position, a counterclockwise rotation propeller tends to cause
the boat to drive to port when going forward, and to starboard
when going backward.
At high speed, there is compensation for this effect, and it is
virtually non-existent. But, at slow speed—and especially during
backing—the effect can be very pronounced. This is the main
reason that most experienced drivers approach with the dock to
the starboard of the boat.
Stopping—or checking headway—is a technique that must be
mastered. With no brakes, reverse must
be used to stop the boat. The momentum
of the boat will vary according to the
load. Make it a practice to slow to nowake speed before shifting into reverse.

For the best engine performance and longevity, the wide-openthrottle (WOT) engine operation must be near the top of, but
within, the specified WOT operating range. To adjust the WOT
operating range, select a propeller with the proper diameter and
pitch. The propeller supplied on the boat was chosen for best allaround performance under average operating conditions.
Load, weather, altitude and boat condition all affect WOT engine operation. If the boat is used for several different applications such as wakeboarding, barefooting and cruising, it may be
necessary to have two (2) or more propellers of differing size and
pitch to allow the engine to operate in the WOT range for each
application.
Propping the boat should be done after the boat is loaded in the
manner in which it would normally be loaded for each application. For example, in propping the boat for wakeboarding, fill
the ballast tanks and add the people and gear that normally
would be expected in the boat. Take the boat out and after
warm-up, run it at wide-open-throttle and note the maximum
RPM. EFI engines are equipped with RPM limiters to prevent
over-revving. Take note if the RPM limiter is activated.

When practicing maneuvering techniques, always do so in open water that
is free of traffic. Adequate practice may
make the difference between a pleasurable boating experience or a potentially
damaging (at the very least, embarrassing) one.

High Speed Operation

MasterCraft boats are designed to be
a high-performance boat. Professional
drivers with advanced operating skills
perform high-speed maneuvers and turns on-a-dime. DO NOT
attempt to duplicate or simulate these feats. Paid, professional
drivers log thousands of hours on the water and carefully choreograph every move. Plans are made in advance in the event the
routine must be aborted. Maneuvers of this nature could cause
serious injury or death, as well as damage to your MasterCraft
boat that will not be covered under warranty.

Boat operators should never attempt to duplicate operational
skills of professional drivers. When such maneuvers fail, it can
result in serious injury or death.

If the WOT RPM is higher than the maximum RPM in your engine’s WOT operating range, the boat is under-propped. Installing a higher-pitched propeller will reduce the WOT RPMs. An
engine that is over-revving may quickly experience catastrophic
damage, which will not be covered under warranty.
If the WOT RPM is lower than the minimum RPM in your
engine’s WOT operating range, the boat is over-propped. Installing a lower-pitched propeller will increase WOT RPMs.
An engine that is under-revving is “lugging.” This places a
tremendous load on the pistons, crankshaft and bearings and
can cause detonation, piston seizure and other engine damage,
which will not be covered under warranty.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 10-2

Engines should always be operated within
engine manufacturer guidelines. Failure
to do so may cause significant damage
to the engine and drive train and is not
covered under warranty!
Elevation and weather also have a very
noticeable effect on the wide-open-throttle power of an engine. Since oxygen gets
thinner as elevation increases, the engine
begins to starve for air. Humidity, barometric pressure and temperature have a
noticeable effect on the density of air since
heat and humidity thin the air.
This phenomenon can become particularly apparent when an engine is propped for use on a cool, dry
day in spring and then is operated on a hot, humid day in summer, and does not have the same performance. Although some
performance can be regained by dropping to a lower-pitch propeller, the basic condition still exists. The propeller is too large in
diameter for the reduced power output. An experienced marine
dealer can determine how much diameter to remove from a
lower-pitch propeller for specific high-elevation locations.
MasterCraft’s engine manufacturers suggest that consumers consult with the dealer from whom the boat was purchased regarding the best propeller for the application in which the boat will
primarily be run. However, be aware that changing the propeller
may void the warranty. Again, working with an authorized MasterCraft dealer is your best bet to ensure excellent performance.

Unusual Operating Conditions

If the body of water is unknown, talk to local boaters about the
type of obstacles that may be encountered beneath the water’s
surface. Rocks, tree stumps and sandbars are all dangerous and
damaging. Be especially wary of rivers and man-made lakes.
Rapidly changing conditions can cause daily changes in underwater hazards.
Stay well clear of floating debris. What looks to be a small
branch in the water may well turn out to be an entire tree.
When traveling through weedy areas, keep an eye on the engine
temperature gauge. Weeds caught up and blocking the water
flow through the raw water intake or transmission cooler will
cause trouble. Also, after leaving the weedy area, shift to neutral
for a few seconds and then to reverse for a few seconds to unwind any weeds that may have wrapped around the propeller.

Docking and Tie-Up

Approach the dock slowly, with the starboard side of the boat if
possible. The natural tendency to torque steer with the rotation
of the propeller at slow speeds makes docking easier on that side.
Also, use wind and current to your advantage when docking.
Before tying up the boat, be sure to use enough dock bumpers
to protect the boat from damage. If possible, tie-up with the
bow toward the waves. Use good quality double-braided nylon
line. Tie-up only to the lifting or tie-down eyes. Never use the
handrails or ski pylon.
If the boat is to be moored for a long period of time, use chafing
protectors to protect the gel coat finish. Leave a little slack in the
lines, allowing for some wave movement or tidal action where
applicable.
If the boat is to be kept in or near water for the season, consider
the purchase of a boat lift and bottom paint for the hull. These
lifts prevent the build-up of marine growth on the hull as well
as protecting the boat from damage typical of on-water storage,
such as blistering. Make sure the boat lift supports the hull correctly. See the next section, Lifting the Boat.
NOTE: On boats that are equipped with the engine synchronizing switch (models with two engines), this switch
should be disengaged during docking or when loading and
unloading the boat from a trailer. These maneuvers require
a sensitive touch and control that may not be realized when
the switch is engaged.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 10-3

lifting the boat
When the boat is hoisted from the water,
proper use of the stern eyes or a sling
system is required for all MasterCraft
models. Though stern eyes are designed
to lift a boat from the water, care must be
taken to ensure you do not damage your
boat. A spreader bar used at the stern,
will help ensure that the load at the stern
eyes is vertical. A strap placed between
stern eyes, and then lifted from the midpoint, is not the recommended method,
and will put substantial additional stress
on the stern eye mounting location.

DO NOT use the ski pylon or any portion of any tower for lifting. They are NOT designed to be used
as a central lifting point. Also, DO NOT use the stern ski tow as
a lifting ring. The deck may be damaged. See the Storage Cradle
sub-section of this section. Also never lift a boat with water in the
bilge or containing a water-filled device such as a ballast system
or sack. The extra stress will put an excessive load on the hull
and lifting equipment that may seriously damage the boat. Such
damage may not be covered by the warranty.

When the boat is out of the water, it is important to support the
hull correctly to avoid any hull damage. Such damage may void
the warranty.

Storage Cradle

Using Lifting Eyes

An overhead hoist with a minimum two-ton capacity should be
used to lift your boat. Cables should be properly rated for each
model. Each cable should be rated at or above the full weight of
the model to be lifted. When lifting, keep the bow slightly higher
than the stern to prevent any possibility of water running into the
engine exhaust manifold.

Using Lifting Slings

An overhead hoist with a minimum two-ton capacity should be
used. Slings must be six (6) inches wide by twenty (20) feet long
and each sling should have a minimum capacity rating that is
equivalent to the weight of the model that is to be lifted. Use an
eight-foot spreader bar on each sling to prevent damaging side
pressure to the deck or gunwale molding.

If a storage cradle is used, the hull must be properly supported
to prevent load damage. This can occur with as little as fifteen
(15) pounds per square inch of pressure. DO NOT support the
boat by resting the hull on the keel (the central fore-and-aft
structural member in the bottom of the boat’s hull, extending
from the bow to the stern). Vertical supports must extend from
the chine (the angular intersection of the bottom and sides of
the boat) to the keel with no gaps between the hull and cradle
supports. A total support area of at least 250 square inches is
required for proper support of boats under 25’ and 500 square
inches for boats over 25’. Protect all items extending from the
hull (i.e., the rudder, propeller, fins, etc.) to prevent them from
resting on the cradle or the ground. DO NOT apply any load
stress to the propeller, shaft, rudder, swim platform, water intake
grate or other protruding items.

Lifting slings must never contact shafts, struts or hardware
protruding from the hull. Damage may result that would void the
warranty.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 11-1

corrosion prevention
NOTE: DAMAGE DUE TO CORROSION IS NOT COVERED
UNDER WARRANTY!

flushed with fresh water for at least ten (10) minutes after each
use in such waters.
Boats operated continuously in salt water
should be equipped with the closed cooling system to preserve engine life.

Marine Growth

If accelerated marine growth is a problem
in the area in which the boat will generally be operated, an anti-fouling bottom
paint may be necessary to slow growth
while protecting the gel coat.
Before selecting a bottom paint, talk with
other boaters and an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department to
determine the product that works best in
the area. Many local variables may also
affect the selection of paint. Be sure to
follow the paint manufacturer’s directions
exactly.

Galvanic Corrosion

Galvanic corrosion (electrolysis) to the boat is the decomposition
of metal due to the effects of electrolytic action. When two (2) dissimilar metals are immersed in a conductive fluid (e.g., salt water),
an electric current is produced, much like the action of a battery.
As the current flows, it takes with it tiny bits of the softer metal. If
left unchecked, severe damage may occur over time.
If the boat is operated in salt, polluted or brackish waters, even
temporarily, the boat should be equipped with a transommounted zinc anode to prevent damage to those metal parts
coming in contact with the water.
The zinc is, by design, self-sacrificing. It is slowly eroded away by
electrolytic action and requires periodic inspection for deterioration.
If the zinc shows extreme erosion, it must be replaced to continue protection, or damage to other metal parts may result.
MasterCraft Saltwater Series boats come equipped with the zinc
anode. For fresh water boats that may be operated in polluted
or brackish water, an authorized MasterCraft dealer can provide
guidance in securing and installing a zinc anode for protection.

Salt Water Corrosion

The boat has been designed for operation in fresh water unless
it is a model in the MasterCraft Saltwater Series. If operating
a fresh-water model temporarily in salt, polluted or brackish
water, thoroughly flush the boat with fresh water as soon as
possible afterward. The entire engine cooling system should be

Be sure all fasteners used are approved and rated for marine use.
Most fasteners used on MasterCraft boats are stainless steel or
specially coated to resist corrosion.

Use of improper parts may cause component or engine failure.
Such failure may result in death or serious injury!

Stainless Steel and Chrome

Stainless steel and chrome-plated parts are not totally resistant
to corrosion. Occasional cleaning and polishing with a marine
chrome-and-stainless polish will maintain and extend the life of
these parts. In salt water areas, it is imperative that you thoroughly
rinse all hardware with fresh water and apply a light coating of
protective oil to enhance the appearance after each use.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 12-1

cleaning the boat
Periodic cleaning is the best way to keep your boat looking like
new. Regular washing and waxing keep dirt and build-up from
deteriorating the finish. Keeping your boat in a showroom-new
condition results in personal satisfaction and higher resale value.

MasterCraft vinyl is made to withstand the effects of sun, heat,
acid rain and soiling, under normal conditions, but this does not
preclude the cleaning requirements. Please consult the following
cleaning recommendations before cleaning your upholstery.

The boat is made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic resin material
that is easy to clean and care for. Several layers of resin material
are chemically bonded together to form the hull. The smooth
outside surface of the hull is a layer of gel coat resin. While the
gel coat is solid color, the thickness of the layer is only a few
millimeters thick—like paint on a car but much tougher, and
chemically bonded.

Certain household cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool,
and industrial cleaners may cause damage and discoloration,
and are not recommended for use. Dry cleaning fluids and
lacquer solvents should not be used as they will remove the
printed pattern and gloss. Waxes are not recommended, as
many contain dyes and solvents that can permanently damage
the vinyl’s protective coating.

Beneath the gel coat surface is a series of layers of chemical
resin, fiberglass mat and woven roving. It is these layers that
give the boat its strength and maintain the hull shape. The boat
bottom also uses special core-mat material for its strength-toweight and superior marine performance.

In some instances, consumers have reported the appearance of a
pink stain on vinyl that is resistant to various cleaning methods.
Although there can be other causes for pink staining in vinyls,
most pink stains are caused by dyes produced by micro-organisms. These dyes are metabolic products of the micro-organisms,
otherwise known as a form of fungi.

Even though MasterCraft has carefully crafted boats from
resilient materials, it is still the responsibility of the boat owner
to perform regular and routine cleaning maintenance to ensure
that the boat exterior, interior and components retain both appearance and strength of materials.

Hull

When washing the boat, use a mild detergent, such as Dawn
or Ivory dish soap, or similar commercially-produced detergent, and warm water solution. DO NOT use abrasive cleaners,
solvents, ammonia or chlorine, as these will damage the gel coat
surface. Under extreme conditions, special cleaners may be used
to remove marine growth from the hull. (See an authorized MasterCraft service department for further instructions.)

Upholstery

It is virtually impossible for consumers to avoid these microorganisms as they exist in the atmosphere, which are more
prevalent in high-humidity areas. Rain cleanses the air, with the
result being that the micro-organisms are deposited on items
such as marine vinyl.
While the vinyl is treated to resist the growth of micro-organisms (meaning the vinyl is not a food source), the stain results
from failure to properly clean and maintain the vinyl. This
means that after use, the upholstery must be cleaned with a soft
brush and warm soapy water, followed by a thorough rinse with
clean water.
This situation is worsened if the boat is stored without proper
ventilation or if the boat cover is put on while the vinyl is still
wet, creating a situation in which all forms of fungi (mold and
mildew) thrive.

While the vinyl is made to withstand the
elements, it is important to care for vinyl
by keeping it clean at all times. Many
substances may stain the vinyl if left
untreated over a period of time. Remember to remove any contaminant and clean
vinyl immediately.
Regular washing with mild detergent (see
attached information) and warm water
or vinyl cleaners is sufficient to keep the
cushion and vinyl coverings in good
condition. Do not soak the cushion, and
dry thoroughly after washing to prevent
mildew accumulations when the boat is
covered. Spray the cushions with a mildew repellent and prop them up in the
boat when it is covered to take advantage
of air circulation.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 13-1

Failure to follow these instructions in the proper care of upholstery may cause your warranty to be voided!
The cleaning table presented in this section is offered only as a
suggestion and as an aid in attempting to deal with stains. We do
not guarantee that the cleaning methods will work. Stains from
any external source are unlikely to be covered by warranty.

Carpet

Occasionally washing with mild detergent and warm water
or household carpet cleaners will help keep the carpet clean.
Thoroughly hose the detergent out of the carpet and into the
bilge. (This is a good time to clean the bilge also.) Allow the boat
to remain uncovered to air dry for several days to prevent any
mildew or odor caused by moisture.

Teak Wood

Regular cleaning and oiling of teak wood will maintain its original appearance. Use a teak cleaner that can penetrate the pores
of the wood and cleanse them of dirt and stains. Avoid caustic
teak cleaners since they can damage the wood. Immediately after
cleaning, an oil sealer should be applied with a soft cloth. (Follow the directions for application and maintenance that appear
on the cleaner and sealer can or bottle.)

Windshield

In cleaning tempered glass windshields, the normal glass
cleaners (from spray bottles or aerosol cans) work best. While
the glass is very strong, it can be scratched if anything abrasive
is used. Harsh chemicals or solvents should be avoided because
they may affect the vinyl gaskets or powder-coated finish on
the extrusions.
More care should be taken when cleaning the clear Eisenglass
curtains, which are an option on some boat models. Eisenglass
curtains are usually made with clear vinyl sheeting, which is
much softer and more prone to scratching and hazing than the
windshield glass is, only soft cloths and mild detergents should
be used.

Canvas Covers

The material used in constructing Bimini tops and boat covers
is made from 100 percent solution-dyed polyester fiber with
a urethane coating to provide excellent water repellency and
mildew resistance. This design allows the material to be easily
maintained. By following a few simple care and cleaning steps,
the fabric will continue to look good and maintain its fine qualities for seasons to come.
Important Background Information
Because the fabrics are woven, they are breathable. It’s also important to know that these fabrics are treated with a fluorocarbon finish, which enhances water repellency. This finish requires
replenishment after vigorous cleaning.
Polyester fabric will not support the
growth of mildew. Mold and mildew
need something on which to grow and
polyester fabric is not a desirable substance for such growth. Dirt or dust on
the fabric, however, is a perfect source
for mildew growth, which makes regular
cleaning of the fabric important.
There is no set time for when the fabric
should be cleaned, and the local environment has a great deal to do with determining cleaning frequency. Cleaning is
required less frequently in a dry environment than in a humid one where heavy
foliage exists.

Fiberglass Swim Platform

The fiberglass swim platform requires the same kind of regular—and gentle—cleaning that the rest of the boat needs. After
cleaning off any environmental debris, wash with mild soap and
warm water. Avoid the use of ArmorAll or similar types of rubber-shine products as these will speed the decay of the rubber
rather than protecting it.

The material has an applied finish
that deters mold and mildew growth, but it does not make it
mold-proof. Keeping the fabric free of dirt and foreign substances is important in deterring mold growth.
Cleaning
One of the best ways to keep the material looking fresh and new,
and to delay the need for deep or vigorous cleaning, is to hose
off fabrics with clear water on at least a monthly basis with clean
water. This practice will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply
embedded in the fabric, and it will eliminate the need for more
frequent and more vigorous cleanings.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 13-2

In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed approximately every
two (2) years.
The fabric can be cleaned while still in
the boat. When cleaning, it is important
to observe the following:
• Always use a natural soap—never
detergent.
• Water should be cold to lukewarm,
but never more than 100 degrees.
• Air dry only. Never apply heat to the
fabric.
Begin by brushing off loose dirt, and
then hose down the material. Prepare
a cleaning mixture of water and a mild,
natural soap that is free of detergents.
Use a soft-bristle brush to clean, allowing the soap to soak in. Rinse thoroughly and allow the fabric to
thoroughly air dry.
If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted chlorine bleach/
soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew, roof run-off and other
similar stains. Please keep in mind that chlorine bleach will not
change the color of the fabric, but chlorine bleach will eventually break down the fiber of any fabric. Therefore, this cleaning
method should be used as infrequently as possible.
The cleaning mixture should be mixed as follows:
• Four ounces (one-half cup) of chlorine bleach.
• Two ounces (one-fourth cup) of natural soap.
• One gallon of water.
Clean with a soft-bristle brush and allow the mixture to soak no
longer than twenty (20) minutes. Rinse thoroughly and allow to
completely air dry. Repeat if necessary.
If the top or boat cover is suitable in size for a washing machine,
these steps should be followed:
• Use only natural soaps—no detergent.
• Wash and rinse in cold water.
• Air dry. (Never put the fabric in a dryer.)
As part of the finishing process, the material has been treated
with a fluorocarbon finish, which enhances water repellency.
This finish is designed to last for several years, but it must be
replenished after a thorough cleaning. Based on test results, the
manufacturer recommends 303 High Tech Fabric Guard™ as the
preferred re-treatment product.
After cleaning and air drying, apply 303 in a thin, even coat.
When it has dried, apply a second thin, even coat. These two (2)
light coatings are more effective in restoring fabric water resistance than a single heavy coating. Keep in mind that 303 High
Tech Fabric Guard™ will work only as well as it is applied. This
means that the fabric must be free of dirt and detergents or the
Fabric Guard will wash away with the dirt particles.

Fabrics should be retreated after thorough cleaning or after five
(5) years of use.

Enclosed Head

An option on some models is the enclosed, portable head. This
convenience should be emptied on-shore within an acceptable
holding tank, septic system or sewer. It should never be emptied
within the boating body of water or on-shore, except in an approved receptacle!
After thoroughly cleaning with a mild detergent, add a neutralizing chemical made especially for portable heads, such as that
found in RV centers. The chemical will help deal with potential
odors that might otherwise be foul. Even with the use of this
neutralizing chemical, the head should be cleaned after each
outing.

Slick Boot

The optional Slick Boot should periodically be dismantled,
cleaned and the wand thoroughly rinsed. The Slick Boot material can sometimes become gelled, particularly in colder weather.

Acceptable Upholstery Cleaners
MasterCraft Vinyl Dressing
Vinyl Finish Vinyl Cleaner
Dish Soap (such as Dawn or Ivory)
303 High Tech Fabric Guard™

Unacceptable Upholstery Cleaners
409 (it states not for use on vinyl!)
Fantastik
Murphy’s Soap
Simple Green
DC Plus
Armorall
Top Kote Sealant

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 13-3

Son of a Gun
Orange 88 Degreaser
Roll Off
Bleach/Baking Soda
Turtle Wax/Tar Remover
APCO
Tannery
Harbor Master
Any product not listed above in the list of Acceptable Upholstery
Cleaners!
Do not use any silicone-based protectants because they will extract the plasticizers, leaving the vinyl hard and brittle. (Eventually
cracking will occur.)
Certain household cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool, and
solvent cleaners can cause damage and discoloration and are not
recommended. Dry cleaning fluids and lacquer solvents should
not be used as they will remove printed pattern and gloss. Bleach
will deteriorate the thread.

Common Stains Steps
Chewing Gum
Motor Oil
Spray Paint
Mildew or Wet Leaves*
Yellow Mustard
Oil-Base Paint
Suntan Lotion*
Tar/Asphalt
Lipstick
Latex Paint
Crayon
Ketchup
Grease
Ballpoint Ink*
Household Soil
Permanent Marker*
Coffee, Tea, Chocolate

1
D
B
B
C
A
D
A
D
A
A
D
A
D
E
A
E
B

2
A

B
B
B
B
B
B
B
B
B
B
B
B
B

A
C

DO NOT USE 409 CLEANER OR SILICONE-BASED PRODUCTS!!!
A = Medium-soft brush; warm soapy
water/rinse/dry.
B = Vinyl finish cleaner.
C = One (1) tablespoon ammonia, onefourth (1/4) cup of hydrogen peroxide,
three-fourths (3/4 cup of water/rinse/dry.
D = Wipe or scrape off excess (chill gum
with ice).
E = Denatured alcohol/rinse/dry.
*Sun tan lotion, shoe polish, wet leaves
and some other products contain dyes
that stain permanently.
Vinyl upholstery should be covered when
not in use to protect from further sun
exposure or natural acts of tree debris, air
pollutants and acid rain.
For storage, vinyl should be cleaned,
protected, covered and stored in a dry,
well-ventilated area.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 13-4

mastercraft boat care products
At MasterCraft we have made very effort
to produce the most environmentally
friendly products available for our boat
care line. We understand that as lovers
of the outdoors, we should do our part
to preserve our environment for the
next generation of boaters.

MasterCraft All Purpose
Cleaner

MasterCraft All Purpose Cleaner safely
and effectively removes grease, oil, cosmetics, glue, blood, mildew, soap scum,
ink, bird droppings, spider droppings,
scuff marks, pet stains, dust, pollen, fingerprints, food, beverages, sea salt residue and more from all marine surfaces
above and below deck. (See Cleaning
the Boat section of this Owner’s Manual
also.) MasterCraft All Purpose Cleaner is ideal for cleaning
plastics, rubber, metal, fiberglass, stainless steel, railings, steering
wheels and coolers. MasterCraft All Purpose Cleaner will leave
surfaces clean and restore optimum brilliance.
Part # 559125.

MasterCraft Boat Cleaner & Polish

MasterCraft Boat & PWC Cleaner & Polish is specially formulated to remove dirt, grease, bugs, bird and spider droppings, road
grime from towing, and water spots on contact. This detailer
requires no water and leaves a showroom shine that protects
against sun damage, ozone damage and dirt accumulation in
one easy step.
Part #559129.

MasterCraft Bilge Cleaner is specially formulated to dissolve
oil, grease, gasoline, diesel fuel, and sludge. MasterCraft Bilge
Cleaner will effortlessly remove those tough odor-causing elements that can make a day on the water less enjoyable. Safe for
fiberglass, wood and metal boats, and requires no scrubbing.
Part #559124.

MasterCraft Hull Cleaner

MasterCraft Hull Cleaner is the product of choice for the removal of water stains, iron and metal deposits and marine algae from
fiberglass boat hulls and bottoms. This non-acid based cleaner is
safe for you, your boat and the environment.
Part #559121.

MasterCraft Spray Wax

MasterCraft Vinyl Dressing

MasterCraft Vinyl Dressing is a one-step formula for the restoration and protection of vinyl, rubber, plastics and leather. When
dry, MasterCraft Vinyl Dressing leaves a transparent and waterrepellent gloss coating that beautifies and restores surfaces. Its
UV protection helps to prevent drying and cracking.
Part #559126.

MasterCraft Glass Cleaner

MasterCraft Bilge Cleaner

MasterCraft Spray Wax is a simple way to give your marine craft
that showroom shine while gaining the important UV protection that helps to prevent damage from the sun. Simply spray
on and buff off to maintain the original luster and protect your
investment.
Part #559123.

MasterCraft Boat Wash & Wax

Formulated specifically for marine applications, MasterCraft
Glass Cleaner will leave your marine surfaces streak-free and
amazingly clear. Won’t harm tinted windows or Eisenglass.
MasterCraft Glass Cleaner contains no ammonia, and it is fast
drying. Use on windshields, mirrors, chrome and more.
Part #559127.

MasterCraft Boat Wash & Wax is formulated as a premiumgrade concentrated boat wash and wax. This super high sudsing
formula has superior cleaning and rinsing properties in order
to minimize streaking and spotting on cleaned surfaces. It is
neutral in pH, and contains no harsh chemicals or phosphates.
It will not affect any known finishes including fragile gel coat
materials, and leaves a super bright, clear shine after rinsing.
Inhibited to prevent corrosion of steel piping and equipment.
Part #559122.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 14-1

MasterCraft Microfiber Detailing Cloths

MasterCraft Microfiber Detailing Cloths are the product of
recent developments in the manufacture and make-up of finequality detailing towels. They feature a soft surface that is ideal
for high-quality cleaning and detailing. They are perfect for use
in drying or polishing your boat, motorcycle, car, or any reflective surface and can absorb up to seven times their dry weight in
water. You’ll be amazed at how well these cloths work.
Part #559128.

MasterCraft Cleaning & Detailing Kit

The MasterCraft Cleaning & Detailing Kit combines seven
different products in a handy reusable bucket. The kit includes
MasterCraft All Purpose Cleaner, Glass Cleaner, Boat Wash &
Wax, Vinyl Dressing, Boat Cleaner & Polish, Microfibert Detailing Cloths and wash sponge.
Part #559120.

MasterCraft Marine Motor Oil & Filters

In addition to taking care of the visible parts of your boat, you
need to think about what you can’t see. The life of your marine
engine is dependent upon proper lubrication, regardless of its
make. That is why we’ve developed MasterCraft Marine Motor
Oil and Filters.
This premium marine motor oil was formulated specifically for
MasterCraft to use in high-performance marine engines. The
Marine Motor Oil provides high viscosity and film strength for
engine protection in high-load applications. MasterCraft Marine
Motor Oil is designed to protect against corrosion, wear, oxidation, varnish and sludge deposits. When used as directed, this oil
assures compliance with MasterCraft warranty requirements, as
do the filters.
MasterCraft Marine Motor Oil and Filters are exclusive products available only through authorized MasterCraft dealerships!
MasterCraft Marine Motor Oil Part #81051000, and MasterCraft
Oil Filter Part #81501001.
NOTE: The parts order numbers have
been provided to aid consumers in
placing orders with an authorized
MasterCraft dealer. These quality
products are available ONLY through
an authorized dealer!

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 14-2

scheduled maintenance checks and services
Frequency and Scheduled Maintenance

Proper care, maintenance and adjustment will contribute to the
peak performance of the MasterCraft boat, while also extending
the overall service life and the resale value.
The pages that follow provide instructions on how to accomplish the required checks, inspections and services listed. An
authorized MasterCraft service department is the best source for
proper maintenance.
Note: The engine and drive train require scheduled maintenance checks and services in addition to the boat’s other
maintenance requirements. Read and understand the engine owner’s manual that has been provided, and follow the
maintenance schedule to ensure proper operation and quality
service over the life of the boat and drive train. Failure to follow the maintenance requirements and instructions listed in
this and all other manuals may result in damage to the components, systems and equipment of the boat, which resulting
damage would not be covered by warranty! Safety issues are
also directly impacted by proper maintenance!
The following definitions apply to maintenance:
Check—Verify the operational readiness by physical measurement, i.e., measuring the oil level with the dipstick gauge or
alignment with a feeler gauge.
Inspect—Determine the operational readiness by examination,
i.e., by sight, sound or feel.
Change—Tasks required periodically to keep the boat in proper
operating condition, i.e., drain, replenish or service.

New Boat Break-In

Note: MasterCraft recommends the following functions be performed by authorized MasterCraft technicians at an authorized
MasterCraft dealer.
• Lubricate the engine starter drive gear
and shaft. (See Quarterly Maintenance
also.)
• Check the alignment of the propeller
shaft. (See Annual Maintenance also.)
• Have an authorized MasterCraft service department change the fuel filter
after the first fifty (50) hours of operation, and then again at one hundred
(100) hours for Indmar engines. The
fuel filter should be changed annually
even if less than one hundred (100)
hours are run during the previous
season. The Volkswagen diesel engine
requires oil and filter changes every
two hundred (200) hours, or annually,
whichever comes first.

Before Each Use

Before the engine has been started:
• Review the engine manual and trailer manual before each
outing.
• Review the Safety Checks and Services section of this Owner’s
Manual. There are important functions that must be followed
before, during and after every outing, without fail!
• Inspect the raw water intake water strainer for blockage. If
there is blockage, also check the transmission cooler (where
equipped).
• Check the cooling system level (fresh water cooling-equipped
boats only). See the engine owner’s manual for details.
• Inspect the battery connections and hold-downs.
• Inspect the drive train for loose or missing hardware.
• Inspect the throttle and shift cables for kinks, wear and interference with other components.
• Inspect the propeller shaft log for excessive water entry.
• Inspect the fuel system lines and connections for leaks.
• Inspect the exhaust system for leaks.
As you start the engine:
• Check that the voltmeter registers a fully charged battery.

After Each Use

• Refer to the Cleaning the Boat and Corrosion Prevention sections of this Owner’s Manual for guidance on a thorough approach to maintenance. Also pay attention to the information
provided regarding the maintenance of teak platforms and
accessories because the wood requires periodic maintenance
as well.
• Boats equipped with an optional flushing system for use
in salt water or brackish water should operate the flushing system.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 15-1

Annually (Every One
Hundred [100] Hours)

Note: MasterCraft recommends that the
following be performed by authorized
MasterCraft technicians at an authorized MasterCraft dealer.
Before the engine has been started or after
it has cooled:
• Replace the fuel filter (to be performed by an authorized MasterCraft
technician only).
• Check the propeller shaft coupler
alignment.
• Lubricate the steering system.
• Lubricate the throttle and shift cables.
• Check the engine mounts.
• Inspect the complete fuel system for
leakage.
• Check the fire extinguisher and suppression units on-board.

Quarterly (Every Fifty [50] Hours)

Note: MasterCraft recommends that the following functions be
performed by authorized MasterCraft technicians at an authorized MasterCraft dealer.
Before the engine has been started or after it has cooled:
• Lubricate the engine starter gear and shaft.
• Check the safety equipment.

Details follow in the next few sections.

MasterCraft recommends that many of
these functions be performed by authorized
MasterCraft technicians at an authorized
MasterCraft dealer!

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 15-2

scheduled maintenance
Before Each Use

Review the Safety Checks and Services section of this Owner’s
Manual. There are important functions that must be followed
before, during and after every outing, without fail! The Safety
Checks and Services notes that all drain plugs must be reinstalled
prior to operating the boat!

Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and the engine safety starting
switch disconnected. Be certain that the throttle/shift
control lever is in neutral. Locate the battery. Batteries
are placed in a variety of locations, depending on the
model. Check under the observer seat or behind the
rear seat.

Step 2:

Check Raw Water Intake Strainer
(where equipped)

Because a clogged raw water intake strainer puts undue strain on
the engine(s), the intake should be checked prior to starting the
boat. Boats with closed cooling systems are not equipped with this.
Step 1:

The raw water intake strainer serves to reduce or prevent
the intake of debris into the engine’s cooling system.
Therefore, it is critical that it be checked prior to starting the engine. If operating in brackish or dirty water
with considerable flora or algae, it is advisable to shut
off the engine during an extended outing to be sure that
the strainer is not clogged. If there is debris, even if it
is biodegradable, it should be manually removed from
the strainer. If there has been evidence of material in
the strainer routinely at the body of water on which the
boat is operated, it is recommended that the strainer be
cleaned again at the conclusion of each outing as it may
be easier to remove material when it is still wet.

Inspect the Battery Connections
and Hold-Downs

Because poor connections or hold-downs may result in erroneous
voltmeter readings, MasterCraft recommends doing this before
starting the boat.

•
•
•
•
•

Check that the battery post connections are clean and
tight. If not:
Loosen and remove the negative terminal connection first. Be
careful not to touch the positive terminal with the wrench.
Loosen and remove the positive terminal connection.
Remove the battery hold-downs and remove the battery from
the boat.
Clean corrosion from the battery posts with a battery terminal cleaner.
Clean the battery with a water-and-baking-soda solution. Use
care to avoid allowing the solution to enter the battery vents.
Rinse the battery with fresh water.

Battery electrolyte fluid is dangerous. It contains sulfuric acid,
which is poisonous, corrosive and caustic. If electrolyte fluid is
spilled or placed on any part of the human body, immediately
flush the area with large amounts of clean water and immediately
seek medical attention.
• Use a battery terminal cleaning brush to remove corrosion
from the inside of the battery terminals. Clean the terminals
with a water-and-baking-soda solution and rinse with fresh
water.
• Check the battery box that normally holds the battery in
place to determine whether there is evidence of battery fluid
inside it. Battery fluids are corrosive and can cause permanent damage to the battery box. If fluid is evident, wash out

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 16-1

the box with the water-and-baking-soda solution as is used
in cleaning the terminals. Rinse with fresh water and dry
with a cloth.
• Reconnect the positive terminal first, then the negative.
Tighten the terminals. Coat both terminals completely with a
thin covering of marine grease. Be sure that the rubber boot
covers the positive terminal completely.
Note: The boat’s engine is designed to work with the standard
electronics installed in the boat. Adding other electrical components or accessories can change the way the fuel injection
controls the engine or the overall electrical system functions.
Before adding electrical equipment, consult an authorized
MasterCraft dealer’s service department. Otherwise, the engine may not perform properly.

Add-on equipment may adversely affect the alternator output or
overload the electrical system. Such damage may not be covered
by the warranty.
If a replacement battery is required, be certain to select a marine
battery with at least seven-hundred-fifty (750) cold-crankingamps at zero degrees (0o) Fahrenheit. Before disconnecting the
battery, make sure the ignition key and all accessories are in
the OFF position. Also remember to re-attach the cables in the
proper order, with the negative cable connected to the negative
[-] post and the positive cable connected to the positive [+] post.

When charging, batteries generate small amounts of dangerous hydrogen gas. This gas is highly explosive. Keep all sparks,
flames and smoking well away from the area. Failure to follow
instructions when charging a battery may cause an electrical
charge or even an explosion of the battery, which could result in
death or serious injury.

Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and the engine safety starting
switch disconnected. Be certain that the throttle/shift
control lever is in neutral.

Step 2:

Open the engine compartment and locate the throttle
and shift cables. Follow each cable back under the
floorboards and feel for any kinks and wear on the
outer jacket. Any sign of cable damage is cause for
replacement. See your authorized MasterCraft dealer’s
service department.

Inspect the Propeller Shaft Log
for Water Entry

After approximately three (3)-to-five (5) minutes of boat operation
in the water, shut off the engine and open the engine compartment.
Be careful to avoid burns from contact with hot engine parts. The
boat is equipped with a dripless shaft log and if it is showing any
signs of dripping, the boat must be taken to an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department for correction.

MasterCraft recommends the use of a spiral-cell type battery,
such as the Optima brand. These batteries exceed other batteries
in holding and extending a charge.

Inspect the Throttle and Shift Cables for
Kinks, Wear and Interference (RTP-1 and Twin
MCX Installations Only)

see visual evidence of fuel outside the system, cease
all operations and take the boat immediately to an
authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department to
determine the source of the leak. The leak must be repaired before the engine is restarted. Because the lines
on late model MasterCraft boats are pressurized, they
can be disconnected and/or removed ONLY by using
specialized tools that are not available to the public.

Attention must be paid to any leakage occurring in the propeller
shaft log area. Water intrusion into the transmission, which can
happen if excessive leakage is occurring may cause serious damage. Such damage may not be covered by the warranty.

The engine box serves as a machinery guard. The engine must
be OFF whenever the box is open. Clothing for body parts can
get caught in moving parts, causing death or serious injury. Keep
away from moving parts!
Step 3:

After three (3)-to-five (5) minutes of operation, shut
down the engine again and ensure that the engine
safety starting switch is disconnected. Be certain that
the throttle/shift control lever is in neutral. Again,
inspect the fuel system as well as possible. If the odor
of gasoline is strong or if you see visual evidence of
fuel outside the system, cease all operations and take
the boat immediately to an authorized MasterCraft
dealer’s service department to determine the source of
the leak. The leak must be repaired before the engine is
restarted. Because the lines on late model MasterCraft
boats are pressurized, they can be disconnected and/or
removed ONLY by using specialized tools that are not
available to the public.

This is important! Fuel leakage can lead to a build-up of
potentially explosive fumes within the engine compartment.
DO NOT IGNORE OR OVERLOOK THIS INSPECTION
AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY!

Inspect the Fuel System for Leaks

Inspect the Exhaust System for Leaks

This function should be performed prior to starting the engine;
and then again after about three (3)-to-five (5) minutes to determine whether any leaks are apparent.

Step 1:

First ensure the engine is OFF and the engine safety
starting switch is disconnected. Be certain that the
throttle/shift control lever is in neutral. The engine
must be cool.

Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors may ignite, resulting
in fire or explosion. Be sure to keep all sparks and flames away
from the area while inspecting the boat’s fuel system.
Step 2:

Open the engine compartment and visually check as
much of the fuel system from the tank to the engine as
you can see. If the odor of gasoline is strong or if you

First ensure that the engine is OFF and that the engine
safety starting switch is disconnected. Be certain that
the throttle/shift control lever is in neutral. The engine must be cool.

Open the engine compartment and visually check the
exhaust system from the engine to the transom for any
obvious damage to exhaust lines or the muffler.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 16-3

Step 3:

If leakage is apparent, tighten the hose clamps, being
careful to avoid crimping the hose. If the leakage is
significant, or is occurring at a location other than the
joints (such as a split in a hose), see your authorized
MasterCraft dealer’s service department for parts and
service. This is important! Exhaust fumes can cause
illness or impairment, including carbon monoxide
poisoning. Equally important to consider, leakage
can lead to a build-up of potentially explosive fumes
within the engine compartment. DO NOT IGNORE
OR OVERLOOK THIS INSPECTION! REPAIR AS
NECESSARY!

Jump-starting from another boat or battery is dangerous!
Charging a dead battery from an engine will put undue stress on
the alternator, which may cause it to fail.

Check That the Battery Is Fully Charged

As the boat is started, check all gauges, but pay particular attention to the voltmeter.
While starting the engine, check that the voltmeter reads between 12.4 and 14.5 volts. An erratic reading may be a sign of
low voltage. The voltmeter is the best indication of the state of
your battery. However, it is not fool-proof. While the reading
may indicate that the battery is producing current, if during a
previous operation you had reason to suspect a problem with
your battery, check with an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s
service department.
Current models are equipped with a low-voltage battery alarm.
In the event that the stereo has been functioning when the boat
engine is OFF, the voltage drain on the battery may result in
difficulties re-starting the boat. To avoid this situation, when the
voltage level falls to 11.5 volts, the system will shut off the stereo
system and sound an alarm for a period of two (2) minutes to
allow the operator time to turn the ignition key ON and start the
engine. Doing so will allow the engine’s alternator to recharge
the battery.

Crossing cables or jumper cables may result in damage to the
electrical components due to incorrect battery connections. Such
damages may not be covered by your warranty.

After Each Use
General Cleaning and Storage

Refer to the Corrosion Prevention and Cleaning the Boat sections of this Owner’s Manual. After each outing, the boat should
receive a general cleaning and drying prior to being stored. Even
if the boat is kept in a slip, owners/operators should wipe down
the interior and should periodically remove the boat from the
water for a general cleaning.

Charge dead batteries with a battery charger before attempting to start the engine. (Some MasterCraft models offer an
optional battery charger; but never jump-start the battery.)
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 16-4

Quarterly
(Every Fifty [50] Hours)

MasterCraft recommends that your quarterly—or fifty (50)
hour—maintenance requirements be performed by an authorized MasterCraft dealer. The staff there has the proper equipment and technical training to best meet your service needs.

Lubricate the Engine Starter Gear and Shaft

Annually
(Every One Hundred
[100] Hours)

MasterCraft recommends that your annual—or one hundred
(100) hour—maintenance requirements be performed by an
authorized MasterCraft dealer. The staff there has the proper
equipment and technical training to best meet your service needs.

Annual Maintenance
Some engine parts become very hot during operation. This maintenance must be completed while the engine is cool to prevent
burns to your skin. Perform this task before starting the boat.
Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and the engine safety starting
switch is disconnected. Be certain that the throttle/shift
control lever is in neutral. The engine must be cool.

Step 2:

Disconnect the positive (+) battery terminal.

Step 3:

Open the engine cover and locate the starter on the
lower starboard side of the engine.

Step 4:

Disconnect the starter and carefully remove it.

Step 5:

Lubricate the starter bendix with a light coating of
waterproof grease or white lithium grease.

Step 6:

Return the starter to the engine and reconnect. After
closing the engine compartment, reconnect the positive
(+) battery terminal.

Some boat owners choose to personally execute some maintenance procedures on their boats. MasterCraft has provided
information on several procedures. For safety reasons, a few
must be performed by authorized MasterCraft service technicians only, such as anything involving checks and repairs on the
fuel line, which is under pressure.
These matters must be addressed on a regular basis, at one hundred (100) hours or annually, whichever comes first, and these
procedures are in addition to seasonal preparation and winterization (see Storage and Winterization section for additional
details). All of these issues are extremely important to continued
boating pleasure, as well as long life for the boat, and the critical
matter of safety.
Even if the annual maintenance work is completed by an
authorized MasterCraft service technician, boat owners and
operators should still review this section and ensure that they
have some understanding of what is necessary to keep the boat
in top condition.
MasterCraft recommends that your annual—or one hundred
(100) hour—maintenance requirements be performed by
an authorized MasterCraft dealer. The staff there has the
proper equipment and technical training to best meet your
service needs.

Check the Engine Mounts

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 16-5

Some engine parts become very hot during operation. This
inspection must be completed while the engine is cool to prevent
burns to your skin. Perform this task before starting the boat.
Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and disconnect the engine
safety starting switch. Be sure that the throttle/shift
control lever is in neutral. The engine must be cool.

Step 2:

Open the engine box and locate the four (4) motor
mounts.

Step 3:

Check the tightness of the mounting hardware and
adjustment lock-nuts. Tighten any loose hardware
securely.

Check the Propeller Shaft
Coupling Alignment

Later-model MasterCraft boats are equipped with a dripless
propeller shaft log. If it is showing signs of drips, it must be corrected by an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service technician.

Inspect the Exhaust Flaps for Damage
Step 1:

Step 2:

Ensure the engine is OFF and disconnect the engine
safety starting switch. Be sure that the throttle/shift
control lever is in neutral.

Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and disconnect the engine
safety starting switch. Be sure that the throttle/shift
control lever is in neutral. The engine must be cool.

Step 2:

Remove the access panel in the rear trunk compartment in direct drive boats. In V-drive engines the steering is located in the engine compartment, beneath the
engine.

Step 3:

Turn the steering wheel so that the maximum amount
of steering cable is seen.

Step 4:

Use solvent to clean old lubricant from the cable end,
pivot and rudder shaft.

Step 5:

Spread a generous amount of white lithium grease over
the cable end. Work the steering wheel back and forth
and re-apply grease if necessary.

Step 6:

Using the flexible end of a grease gun, give two (2)
full shots of white lithium grease to the two (2) grease
fittings: one on the rudder shaft, and one on the pivot.
Clean up any old grease purged from the areas.

Step 7:

Rotate the steering wheel back and forth several times
to work the lubricant in.

Step 8:

Re-install the access panel.

Inspect the exhaust flap hinge for signs of deterioration. Replace the flap if necessary.

Lubricate the Steering System

Because this process should be completed while all movable components of the drive train are NOT in motion, MasterCraft recommends this be done while the boat is out of the water.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 16-6

Lubricate the Shift and Throttle System

Because this process should be completed while all movable components of the drive train are NOT in motion, MasterCraft recommends this be done while the boat is out of the water.
Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and disconnect the engine
safety starting switch. Be sure that the throttle/shift
control lever is in neutral. The engine must be cool.

Step 2:

Open the engine box and locate the shift and throttle
cable ends.

Step 3:

Shift to full-throttle-forward.

Step 4:

Lubricate the cable ends and connections with a coating of waterproof marine multi-purpose grease.

Step 5:

Lubricate the pivots and linkages with a light grease.

Step 6:

Shift the control lever from full-throttle-forward to fullthrottle-reverse several times to work the lubricant in.

Step 4:

Slide the plate back into place. No silicone is necessary.
Due to the built-in gasket, tightening the screws should
prevent leakage.

Inspect the Complete Fuel System
for Leakage

Although the boat engine is similar to an automobile engine, the
engine compartment differs substantially. The underside of an
automobile engine compartment is totally open to the atmosphere. This allows complete air circulation and ventilation. A
boat engine is housed in a closed compartment, the underside of
which is the bottom (hull) of the boat.
The enclosed engine compartment limits the ventilation of
gasoline and oil fumes. Because confined gasoline vapors mixed
with a little air can form an explosive atmosphere, it is important
to be especially vigilant in performing the following two (2)
operations:

Check the Ballast Pump Impeller

This applies only to boats equipped with some type of ballast
system. The number of ballast pumps varies from system to system.
Authorized MasterCraft dealers can provide guidance to locate
any and all pumps.
Step 1:

Remove two (2) of the cover screws and retain the
screws for the reinstallation process. Swing the cover
out of the way to allow access to the impeller location.

Step 2:

Using needle-nose pliers, pull the old impeller out of
the casing.

Step 3:

Install a new impeller. (It is intentionally larger than
the case. While gently squeezing it in, ensure that the
paddle wheels angle in the same direction—counterclockwise—all the way around.)
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 16-7

Step 1:

Run the bilge blower for at least four (4) minutes to
ventilate the bilge area each time before starting the
engine.

Step 2:

Inspect the boat bilge area under the engine for the
evidence of oil and gasoline—or any gasoline odor. This
inspection should take place the first time the boat is
started each day. Raise the engine cover and visually
look at the bilge area under the engine.

Fire Extinguisher and Suppression Units

MasterCraft recommends that boat owners include a check of
the fire suppression and extinguisher units during the annual
maintenance to be sure that they are always ready for use. Some
units may not require annual checks; refer to the signage and
labeling on the individual units for further guidance.

Gasoline is explosive. If a gasoline odor is present or gasoline
is visually observed in the bilge area during inspection, DO NOT
START YOUR ENGINE! Remove the ignition key from the ignition
switch and call an authorized MasterCraft dealer for service.
Note: If there is evidence of loose fuel fittings, deteriorated lines
or other problems associated with the fuel system, call an authorized MasterCraft dealer. Fuel system service on later-model
MasterCraft boats requires special service tools and special
training. Due to the potential for serious consequences when
errors occur in servicing the fuel system, MasterCraft strongly
encourages all boat owners and operators to seek professional
assistance from an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service
department whenever any service or perceived problems occur
within the fuel system.

All replaced fuel components must meet United States Coast
Guard (“USCG”) and American Boat & Yacht Council, Inc.
(“ABYC”) standards, and must be Underwriter’s Laboratory
(“UL”)-approved. Inferior quality components pose a serious
safety threat to you and others, and the use of inferior components may result in serious injury or death. Resulting damage
may void the warranty.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 16-8

storage and winterization
Storage or winter lay-up requires special preparation to prevent
damage to the boat. Since winter storage is an annual event, it
presents an excellent opportunity to perform the annual maintenance at this time, depending upon the amount of usage. Check
with an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department
regarding the boat’s needs to determine if this is the appropriate
time for annual service.

Without proper preparation, storage for long periods of time (at
any time of the year) may cause harm to various components of
the boat and drive train. Also, if the boat has been stored in below-freezing temperatures with water inside the bilge or engine
cooling system (including the heater or, shower, ballast tanks,
wash down tanks, coolers, or any container or area in which water has been located), this condition may result in major damage
from freezing, which would not be covered under the warranty.

Fuel System Treatment
Step 1:

If the boat will be placed in storage with fuel (no alcohol in the mix) in the tank, fill the tank with fresh fuel
and a sufficient amount of Sta-Bil® gasoline stabilizer
to treat the entire tank. Follow instructions on the container.

Step 2:

If the boat will be placed in storage with fuel that contains alcohol, the fuel tank should be drained as completely as possible, the fuel disposed of properly, and
Sta-Bil gasoline stabilizer added to any fuel remaining
in the tank. Follow the directions on the container.

Step 3:

Start the engine and operate at idle until the engine
reaches normal operating temperature. (To accomplish
this, the boat must be in the water or attached to a
water supply using a hose and suitable adapter that will
allow an uninterrupted supply of water to the engine.
If using a hose and adapter, adjust the faucet to avoid
over-cooling the engine at low RPM.) Run the engine
for at least fifteen (15) minutes and ensure that the fuel
stabilizer enters the engine’s fuel system.

Step 4:

Perform the annual maintenance as described in this
Owner’s Manual.

Refer to the engine owner’s manual for guidance regarding storage and winterization of the engine, transmission and components of the drive train.
The following procedures will help avoid most potential
types of damage during storage for a period not to exceed
five (5) months!

Because of the complexity of preparing a boat for proper winter
storage, as well as the possibility of extreme damage to the drive
train if a preparation error was made during winterization, MasterCraft recommends scheduling an appointment with an authorized
MasterCraft dealer’s service department to permit a technician to
perform all winterization procedures.

General Power Package Preparation
Step 1:

Lubricate the throttle and shift linkages and cables with
multi-purpose grease.

Step 2:

MasterCraft recommends that batteries be removed
from the boat for winter storage. Batteries should be
fully charged before being stored in a cool, dry location,
protected from the elements and fully re-charged before

General Preparation

Before starting you will need the following supplies:
•
Sta-Bil® Gasoline Stabilizer
•
Fuel filter
•
Low tack tape

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 17-1

being re-installed in the boat. Never store batteries
close to heat, spark or flame-producing devices.
Step 3:

Step 6:

On CSX 265 models equipped with the hot water
heater, any water in the tank must be removed to avoid
the risk of freezing and damage to the tank. The water
pumped into the heater comes from a freshwater holding tank, and it can be left in the water heater when the
boat is not in use, EXCEPT during extended periods of
storage. As with any part of the boat in which there is
water, it must be removed at the time the boat is winterized to avoid freezing that may cause damage to the
boat, the holding tank or the water heater. The water is
removed by running the shower until all the water has
come out or by disconnecting the plumbing fittings in
the forward service bay under the helm seats.

Step 7:

On MariStar 280s and X-80s equipped with heads, clean
the tanks with a mild cleaner or warm soapy water that
will not harm the finish. Avoid all petroleum-based
household cleaners. Store the head dry and clean. Failure
to do so may cause unnecessary odors and damage to the
tanks, and this is not covered under warranty.

Leave the engine box cover propped open about two
inches (2”) to ventilate the engine compartment.

On CSX 265 models equipped with heads, thoroughly
flush the system with fresh water. Empty the holding
tank and shut off the water supply to the head, removing the inlet waterline. Do not remove the brass cap on
the bottom of the valve. Press the flush lever until all
water is drained from the system.

Other Winterization Preparations
Step 1:

Remove the bilge drain plug immediately after taking
the boat out of the water. After a general bow-to-stern
washing, raise the bow of the boat higher than the stern
to allow as much water as possible to drain from the
bilge, while performing other storage preparations.

Step 2:

Thoroughly clean the hull, deck and interior of the boat
as soon as it is removed from the water. Cleaning at this
time is easier because any marine growth is still wet. Be
sure to allow a few days of air drying to prevent mildew
that results from trapped moisture. (See the Cleaning
section of this Manual.)

Step 3:

Apply a coat of wax to the entire surface of the boat. We
suggest MasterCraft Premium Marine Wax for excellent
coverage.

Step 4:

If the boat is equipped with a heater, shower or ballast
bags/tanks, be sure to disconnect the hoses and drain
any remaining water in the lines to avoid freezing. Even
small amounts of water in any of these areas can cause
significant damage upon freezing and such damage is
not covered under the warranty!

If using anti-freeze in this head, drain the potable water
tank and add freshwater anti-freeze to the potable
water tank. Flush the anti-freeze and water mixture
through the head and into the waste holding tank. Then
empty the holding tank. Never use automotive-type
anti-freeze in this freshwater system.
Step 8:

MasterCraft recommends the battery or batteries be
removed from the boat for winter storage. Batteries
should be fully charged before being stored ina cool,
dry location, protected from the elements and fully recharged before being re-installed in the boat.

Note: Be sure that hoses will not become entangled in the engine
V-belt when the engine turns over or the hose and/or the belt
will be damaged.
Step 5:

Use duct tape to seal the exhaust flaps to prevent dirt
and nesting rodents from entering.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 17-2

the complex nature of the reactivation process, MasterCraft recommends having an authorized MasterCraft
dealer perform this function.

Step 9:

Step 5:

If applicable, reconnect the hoses to your heater or shower.

Step 6:

Check the engine compartment and bilge for signs of
nesting animals. Clean as necessary.

Step 7:

Check the entire engine system for fluid, oil and coolant levels. Add as necessary.

Step 8:

Check the entire engine for cracks or leaks caused by
freeze damage.

Step 9:

Check all hose clamps for tightness. Install the bilge
drain plug and the rear drain plug in boats equipped
with certain types of ballast systems.

Step 10: Grease the propeller shaft taper and install the propeller.
Step 11: Fully re-charge and re-install the battery or batteries.

Ballast System Preparations
Step 1:

Attach a hose to the starboard side ballast hose that
comes out of the deck at the rear seat.

Step 2:

Place the other end into a gallon of non-toxic, RV-type
anti-freeze.

Step 3:

Turn the pump on to empty and pump anti-freeze into
the system until anti-freeze comes out of the thru-hull
on the side.
Turn the pump on to fill and pump anti-freeze back
into the jug.

Re-Activating the Boat After Storage
Step 1:

Remove the duct tape from the exhaust flaps.

Step 2:

Fully charge the battery and install it in the boat, following all safety precautions associated with changing
batteries.
Follow all instructions for reactivating the drive train as
detailed in the engine owner’s manual. NOTE: Due to

Step 3:

Ensure that all drain plugs throughout the boat and
drive train have been reinstalled to avoid unwanted
intrusion of water.

Cover the boat with a boat cover or tarp.

Note: If the boat is to be stored outside and subject to accumulations of snow, water and ice, a support should be made for the
boat cover so that it will not sag, rip or tear, thereby allowing
water to enter the boat. Two-inch diameter PVC plumbing pipe
is ideal for this purpose. It is readily available at local hardware stores, and it is easy to work with. Also, its rounded shape
will prevent damage to the canvas.

Step 4:

Step 12: Perform the daily maintenance as noted previously in
this Owner’s Manual. If it was not done prior to storage, perform the annual maintenance as well.
Step 13: If the boat is equipped with the optional fresh water
cooling system and was drained for storage, fill the
system with fresh coolant solution per instructions.
Step 14: Check the alignment between the output flange on the
transmission and the propeller shaft flange. If the maximum feeler gauge that can clip between the flange faces
at any point is 0.003”, the unit is properly aligned. If a
thicker gauge can be inserted at any point, the engine
must be re-adjusted until proper alignment is obtained.
This should be performed by an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department.
Step 15: For all models, with the boat in the water, cycle the key
ON and then OFF two (2) or three (3) times, allowing
ten (10) seconds between key cycles, before cranking
the engine. This allows the fuel pump to prime the fuel
lines; then start the engine. In the event the engine does
not respond, allow a two-minute cool-down period for
every thirty (30) seconds of cranking. When the engine
fires, keep a close watch over the gauge readings and
check for leakage and abnormal noises. Keep speeds
low for the first fifteen (15) minutes to allow the engine
to reach normal operating temperatures.
Step 16: In ProStar 197s equipped with ballast bags, when reconnecting the hook-ups, be sure to squeeze the prongs
to help slide the connector back on. Dish soap or some
similar product will help slide the connects back together. Note that the red ring goes over the raised ring
to ensure a working connection.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 17-3

propeller maintenance
Propeller damage is caused by striking solid objects. If the propeller is not rotating at the time it strikes a solid object, the damage is usually confined to just one blade and may be difficult to
see. If the propeller is rotating when it strikes an object, usually
the resulting damage can easily be seen on all blades.

Checking/Repairing Propellers

Changing Propellers
Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and the engine safety starting
switch is disconnected.

Step 2:

Remove and discard the cotter pin.

Step 3:

Remove the propeller nut.

Step 1:

Ensure the engine is OFF and the emergency safety
stop switch is disconnected.

Step 4:

Step 2:

Clamp a small rule scale to the shaft strut, parallel to
the shaft so that the end of the scale is 3/32-inches from
the leading edge of a propeller blade.

Tap the center hub of the propeller with a rubber mallet
to release the propeller. Inspect the shaft and propeller
splines for damage.

Step 5:

Rotate the propeller slowly. There should be no more
than 3/32-inch variance between the blades. If the
propeller is damaged, see an authorized MasterCraft
dealer.

Thoroughly clean and apply a light coat of waterproof
marine multi-purpose grease to the splined area of the
shaft and propeller.

Step 6:

Align the splines and carefully install the propeller onto
the shaft. DO NOT FORCE THE PROPELLER INTO
PLACE.

Step 3:

Step 7: Install the propeller nut and
torque to 50-ft-lbs.
Step 8: Install a new cotter pin and bend
the ends around the shaft to lock the
propeller on the shaft.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 18-1

comfort and convenience
MasterCraft offers significant standard and optional items to
make the boating experience more enjoyable. Some of these
items come with their own instructions and information from
the original manufacturer. In those instances, such as with the
stereo equipment, the manual is included with the boat. In other
instances, some general information is provided in this section.
If, at any time, you are uncertain about the use or care of
anything on the boat, never hesitate to contact your authorized
MasterCraft dealer for additional information and guidance.

the anchor door and remove any pins or lines securing the anchor in the bow roller. Remove the hand control from the underside of the door. Stand clear of the anchor and chain. Press the
ON button to enable the windlass. Press the DOWN button to
lower the anchor.

The anchor, sometimes accompanied by a windlass, has been
provided to assist boaters in remaining in a chosen location.
Note that use of the anchor system will not guarantee a properly
anchored boat or that the boat will remain in a stationary position.
Environmental, bottom conditions, current and tidal conditions
must be taken into consideration when anchoring the boat. Only
properly trained operators should set the anchor for this system.
Establishing a secure anchorage requires practice. Damage to
your boat may result due to improper anchoring techniques.
To raise the anchor when accompanied by a windlass system,
start the engines to provide sufficient power. Raise the anchor
locker door. Remove the hand control from the underside of the
door. Stand clear of the anchor and chain. Press the ON button to enable the system, and press the UP button to raise the
anchor. Properly stow the anchor and line.

Anchor and Windlass

Some models are equipped with anchors, and there will be a designated storage area or stowage location on the boat. Check with
your dealer if you are uncertain about this area as it is important
to keep the anchor stowed when it is not in use. In some models,
the anchor is used in concert with a windlass, or guide, particularly in instances where the boat is expected to be used in deeper
water. The windlass will help avoid or reduce the likelihood of a
tangled anchor line.

Improperly stored anchors and/or anchor line that has been
improperly re-wound through the windlass system, may create
a hazardous situation. People on-board can trip on improperly
stored materials, which can result in injury. Improperly stored materials can also move too freely during boat operation and make
contact with individuals, again causing injury. Properly store all
anchor and lines whether the boat is in operation or not, unless
the anchor and line are in use.
To lower the anchor when accompanied by a windlass system,
leave the engine(s) running to provide sufficient power. Raise

Battery Charger

As a convenience, a battery charger is offered as an option. The
charger is designed to recharge the batteries and also to extend
the battery’s life in applications where it is stored for long periods of time. These are three-stage electronic chargers, completely automatic, lightweight, and silent. Unlike most automotive
chargers, this charger will not boil off the electrolytes in properly
installed and maintained batteries. The red and green LED

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-1

lights, which are mounted on the charger face, indicate when the
unit is recharging and maintaining the batteries.
Before charging a battery, do not operate the charger if the cables or an LED is damaged. Be sure that all accessories are OFF.
If the battery or batteries must be removed from the product,
always remove the grounded terminal from the battery first. Be
sure that the area around the battery is well ventilated while the
battery is being charged. Also ensure that the battery terminals
are free of corrosion. (See the Scheduled Maintenance section of
this Owner’s Manual for additional battery information.)

Note that towing with unapproved covers on the boat may result
in damage to the gel coat. MasterCraft recommends the use
of our towable cover only for towing. Other canvas and covers
have been developed and are available only through authorized
MasterCraft dealers for a variety of uses.

If the battery charger ever appears to be malfunctioning, see
your authorized MasterCraft dealer for assistance.

Coolers

On many models, a removable cooler is included, particularly on
models that do not have cold plates or a refrigerator. As with any
similar Igloo-type cooler, routine cleaning with warm soapy water is advised after each use. Check also whether anything from
inside the cooler has been spilled or in some manner ended up
in the storage area in which the cooler is kept. This should be
cleaned up immediately to avoid mold, mildew, stains or other
damage that is not covered under warranty.
Food items or anything that can create an odor should not be
left in the cooler. Neither should anything that can leak be left in
these units as they could potentially damage the cooler, and this
type of damage is not covered under warranty.

Fire Suppression and Extinguishing

Canvas Covers

One of the most popular options for MasterCraft boats are the
variety of canvas covers available. Speak with an authorized
MasterCraft dealer for details about what is available for each
model. MasterCraft strongly recommends having an authorized
MasterCraft dealer perform the installation as snap installation
can cause “crazing” (unwanted spider-web-like lines in the gel
coat) if the installation is not done correctly.
On-going care of the canvas is required to keep the material in
good condition for the life of the boat. See Cleaning the Boat section of this Owner’s Manual for more information.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-2

The U.S. Coast Guard requires a method of fire suppression on every boat operating within U.S. waterways. MasterCraft has made
this an optional installation because of the recognition that needs
can vary considerably. In some instances, consumers may want to
purchase a fire extinguisher from an aftermarket supplier. MasterCraft also offers a standard, manual fire extinguisher that can be
installed at the time of purchase or at any point after the fact. In
some models, an automatic fire suppression system is available for
the motorbox area. This system operates off a sensor, and there
is no need for the boat operator to manually start it. However, as
with any addition to a boat, there is potential for failure. For that
reason, MasterCraft recommends that boats be equipped with a
manual fire extinguisher unit as well.
MasterCraft further recommends that boat owners include a
check of the fire suppression and extinguisher units during the
annual maintenance to be sure that they are always ready for
use. Some units may not require annual checks; refer to the signage and labeling on the individual units for further guidance.

Step 3:

Pull the flush hand to open slide valve.

Step 4:

Pour deodorant directly into the lower tank, then close
the slide valve. Do NOT pour deodorant into the bowl
with the slide valve closed.

Step 5:

Stroke the air pump about 15 times or until air emits
through the relief valve on the water cap. Do not overpressurize the upper tank by covering the relief valve.
Do not let the upper tank pressurize when it is disconnected from the lower tank.

In using the toilet:
Step 1: Before each use, with the seat lid closed, pull the flush
handle to open the slide valve, then push to close. This
relieves air pressure that may be created in the lower
holding tank due to changes in temperature or altitude.
Step 2:

Pull the flush hand to release waste in the lower tank.

Step 3:

Push the flush button to rinse the bowl. Push the flush
hand to close the slide valve.

GPS and Chartplotter

All GPS and chartplotter systems come with extensive instruction manuals. Please refer to these manuals or the manufacturer’s website for details and guidance.

Head

To empty the holding tank:
Step 1: When the tank level indicator shows “FULL,” or at the
end of an outing, empty the lower tank.
Step 2:

Pull up on the rear latch to separate the upper tank
from the lower tank. Carry the lower tank to an authorized waste disposal area or a normal toilet. (DO NOT
DISPOSE WASTE IN ANY LOCATION, INCLUDING NAVIGABLE BODIES OF WATER, WHERE
SUCH DISPOSAL IS ILLEGAL OR CREATES AN
ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD.)

Step 3:

Rotate the discharge spout way from the tank and open
the vent on top of the holding tank. Empty the tank.

Step 4:

If water is available, rinse the lower tank before reassembling the portable toilet.

The following information is provided for the head installed in
a MariStar 280 or X-80:
Preparing the head for use:
Step 1: With the seat lid closed, pull the flush handle to open
the slide valve. Then push to close. This relieves air
pressure that may be created in the lower holding tank
due to changes in temperature or altitude.
Step 2:

Remove the water cap and fill the upper tank until
it reaches about 1 inch (25 mm) below the opening.
Replace the cap.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-3

Step 3:

Do not dispose of sanitary napkins or other non-dissolving items in the head. These items can cause plugging of the system.

Following operation:
Step 1: Dispose of waste properly. (DO NOT DISPOSE
WASTE IN ANY LOCATION, INCLUDING NAVIGABLE BODIES OF WATER, WHERE SUCH
DISPOSAL IS ILLEGAL OR CREATES AN ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD.)
Step 2:

On the CSX 265 head, the following instructions should be followed:
Before operation:
Step 1: Fill the freshwater tank and add deodorant to the holding tank through the toilet bowl.
Step 2:

Turn on the inlet water supply.

Step 3:

Turn on the electrical power to the system. (The
breaker panel is located in the head compartment.)

Step 4:

Flush water into the system by depressing the flush
lever (near the deck) until water starts flowing to
the vacuum pump, which requires approximately 15
seconds. The vacuum pump will run for approximately
60-to-90 seconds. When the system reaches operation
at the vacuum level, it will shut off.

Step 5:

Remember that the vacuum pump starts automatically.
Shut off the system before servicing and do not leave
the boat with the toilet system breaker on. (The breaker
panel is located in the head compartment.) Never use
drain openers, alcohol, solvents, etc., in the system as
these are likely to damage the head.

Keep the system clean, using mild detergent or cleaner.

Both types of heads are supplied with in-depth instructions,
which will be found in the head and should be removed and
read prior to the first use of the system. Store the instructions
with this Owner’s Manual and other important material regarding the boat.
Use only rapid-dissolve toilet paper with these head systems, and
only deodorant specially formulated for this type of head system. See instructions for details. In the event that anything from
the head’s bowl or holding tank escapes, it should be cleaned
as soon as practicable. Failure to clean any spillage may result
in unpleasant odors, mildew, mold and damage to the deck or
other areas of the boat. This is not covered under warranty.
See the Storage & Winterization section of this Owner’s Manual
for important information regarding the preparation of the head
for storage.

Head operation:
Step 1: To add water to the head before using, raise the flush
lever (near the deck) until the desired water level is
reached. Generally, more water is needed only when
flushing solids.
Step 2:

To flush the head, press the flush lever sharply down to
the deck until the contents clear the bowl. A sharp popping noise is normal when the vacuum seal is broken.
Hold the lever down for three (3) seconds. After flushing, let the lever snap back into position. If the flush
lever is accidentally released before waste clears the
bowl, do not flush again until the vacuum pump stops
running. A small amount of water remains in the bowl
after flushing.

Heater

All MasterCraft models offer a heater option. The heater’s threeposition switch is turned up for ON (LOW), or turned down for
ON (HIGH). The center position is OFF. Warmed air from an
electrically powered heater box will be blown from vents within
the boat deck. In regular use, the heater should not require any
routine maintenance. However, it is advisable to avoid placing

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-4

items in front of the vents, particularly when the heater is in use.
The heated air coming out could cause damage.
Never run the heater in a confined space, such as a garage or
shop. Fumes from the engine can have deadly consequences.
See also the Common Sense Approach section of this Owner’s
Manual regarding carbon monoxide danger.

Carbon monoxide is emitted from the engine’s exhaust system.
Never run the engine without proper ventilation. Do not run the
engine in a confined space or where fumes may be trapped.

Also note that the underwater lights should never be operated
unless the boat is in the water. Even though these are L.E.D.
lights, they generate some heat and require the cooling effect
of the water to avoid premature burn-out of the bulb.

Livewell/Kill Box/Catch Box

One of the options on the CSX models is a fishing package. The
boxes to hold catch are removable. Water is added manually to
the boxes when desired. Be sure to remove the water and catch
at the conclusion of the excursion. Leaving the water and/or
catch can result in unpleasant odors, mildew, mold and other
damage to the box that is not covered under warranty.

Hydraulic Steering System

Some models offer a hydraulic steering system as an option.
At any time, if the steering is sluggish, difficult, or shows any
signs of not working smoothly and properly, the boat should
immediately be taken to an authorized MasterCraft dealer for
attention. The hydraulic steering system is not accessible to the
consumer for repair or maintenance, all of which should be
done by the dealer.

Lighting

Some models may be equipped with incandescent bulbs in the
head, storage areas or in some instances in the forward and
aft-facing lights. These lights are replaceable as would be any
incandescent light bulb.
Other lighting that is L.E.D. will require replacement along
with the housing in which they are contained. This includes the
underwater lights, courtesy lights and other auxiliary lighting.
These lights will need to be replaced by an authorized MasterCraft dealer.

Refrigeration

Some models offer optional refrigeration. In the MariStar 280
and X-80 models, it is a refrigerator unit, which is free of CFCs,
and instructions are provided by the manufacturer. In the CSX
265 models, cold plates are provided in the two storage bins

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-5

The refrigerator operates by opening the coolbox door and
turning the thermostat knob clockwise. Shutting it off requires
turning the thermostat knob counterclockwise.

under the seat that are immediately aft of the steering helm.
These large stainless steel plates attach to the wall inside the storage bin, through which coolant circulates, similar to the operation of a regular refrigerator.
Note that the refrigerator and the cold plates function off
the boat’s electrical system. Attention should be paid to the
Voltmeter(s) to be certain that these systems do not over-drain
the electrical system.
On the MariStar 280 and X-80 refrigerator unit note that it
can be used in an ambient air temperature range of -4 degrees
Fahrenheit (-20 Celsius) to 130 F (55 C), and a maximum of
90 percent air humidity in constant operation. The device can
cool goods in a temperature range of 28 degrees F (-2 C) to
53 degrees F (12 C). It is equipped with a battery monitor that
switches the compressor off and on again, protecting the battery
and the compressor against damage.

Seat Heaters

For real comfort, some models offer a seat heater option, which
will be for the driver’s seat, and sometimes in the observer’s seat.
It is not offered for any other seating in the boat. The heater(s)
operate by a switch on the control panel. If the switch is turned
ON and the seat does not warm up, or appears to become too
warm, turn the switch to OFF and seek assistance from your
authorized MasterCraft dealer in remedying the issue.

The refrigerator is suitable for cooling food. If you wish to cool
medicine, please check to determine whether the cooling capacity is sufficient for the medicine in question.
Food items or anything that can create an odor should not be
left in the refrigerator or cold plate areas. Neither should anything that can leak be left in these units as they could potentially
damage the units, and this type of damage is not covered under
warranty. The condenser on the refrigerator should be kept free
of dust, dirt and anything that inhibits its proper operation. The
manufacturer also recommends leaving the drawer slightly open
if it will not be used for a period of time. This helps prevent
unpleasant odors from forming.
Refrigerator cleaning instructions have been provided by the
manufacturer. Note that it should always be OFF, and should
never be cleaned under flowing water or submerged in any kind
of body of water, including, but not limited to, a sink. Do not use
abrasive cleaning agents. If it is necessary to defrost the interior,
never remove layers of ice with hard or sharp tools as they can
damage the plastic of the vaporizer. Allow the unit to air defrost.

Shower or Wash Down

Many models offer a shower or wash down option. A single
three-position switch mounted in an aft position storage area
controls the optional shower and optional Slick Boot functions. The switch is marked for each. Turn the switch toward
the Shower marking to turn ON the shower. Return to center

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-6

for OFF. Turn to the other direction to turn ON the Slick Boot.
Return to center for OFF. These instructions work whether the
boat is equipped with one (1) or both of the options, but will not
be found in boats that are not equipped with either option.
On MariStars, CSX 220 or 265, the X-Star and the Saltwater
Series a tank option within available models can provide a freshwater wash of the boat interior. The tank will be eight (8), ten
(10) or twenty-five (25) gallons capacity, depending on the boat
model. The two-position switch is pressed up for ON and down
for OFF.
Do not use the shower with the engine running.

Carbon monoxide is emitted from the engine’s exhaust system. Never
run the engine without proper ventilation. Do not run the engine in a
confined space or where fumes may be trapped.
Routine maintenance is not required beyond occasionally checking the lines and shower head to be certain these elements are
not damaged in any fashion. Be certain to follow the Storage
& Winterization section’s instructions found elsewhere in this
Owner’s Manual.

Stereo Equipment

All stereo equipment, whether standard or optional equipment,
comes with extensive instruction material. Please refer to this
material or to the manufacturer’s website for details and guidance.

Swim/Boarding Platforms

One of the most attractive aspects of all MasterCraft boats
are the swim platforms attached to the transom of the boats.
Whether teak or fiberglass with inlays, the swim platforms are a
source of enjoyment.
MasterCraft reminds consumers to review the Common Sense
Approach section of this Owner’s Manual, and pay particular attention to avoiding “teak surfing” or “platform dragging,” which
expose the participant to excess carbon monoxide; and to the
information regarding use of the optional shower while standing
or sitting on the swim platform.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-7

Securing the Platform
Step 1: Lift the platform to approximately 20 degrees angle
from the boat.

Some platforms feature a bracket, which allows the platform to
fold down, reducing the amount of room required for storage.
Note that the platforms themselves are fairly heavy, and releasing
the bracket may result in the platform falling down and striking
the transom with excessive force. Please provide support to the
platform at the time of releasing the bracket, and slowly lower
the platform into place for towing or storage.

Step 2:

Lightly push the platform (do not shove nor jam) toward the transom to allow the platform to set in place.

Step 3:

Verify that the platform is in the locked position and
will not fall down. Failure to verify that the platform is
locked may result in the platform falling while someone is on it and could result in injury.

Step 4:

Insert one (1) safety hinge pin into each platform
bracket as shown in the top photo.

Many 2009 models are
equipped with a swim
platform that may be
folded down. To determine whether the boat
is so equipped, look
beneath the platform
and see if the bracket
with pin appears as in
the photo. If so, the
swim platform can
be folded. To do so
properly, follow these
instructions:
Folding Down the Platform
Remove the safety hinge pins in each swim platform bracket.
Begin by lifting the platform about four (4) inches upward while
easing the platform away from the boat transom. This will allow
the platform to move freely on the hinge.
NOTE: Ensure there is no tightness while the swim platform is
being folded. There should be no binding during this action.

The platform must be raised and locked into position for transportation of the boat, as well as use of the platform while boating. Leaving the platform down may result in damage to the boat
transom during transport that will not be covered by the warranty!

Tables

If the cockpit table option was selected for the applicable models, the table can be removed and stored. In doing so, ensure that
the table and leg are secure in a storage compartment. If they
are left out on the deck of the boat, they may shift or move and
cause injury. Stored away, they should also be situated so that
the metal top and bottom of the leg cannot rub against the table
top and cause scratches. This type of damage will not be covered
under warranty.
The bow table option on the CSX 265 does not remove for storage. Therefore, care should be taken to clean it regularly and
avoid damage from spray or UV rays.
See the Cleaning the Boat section of this Owner’s Manual for
information on cleaning the surfaces of all tables.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-8

Towers

Many MasterCraft models are now equipped with a tower,
whether as part of a standard package or as an optional addition. Again, MasterCraft strongly encourages the occupants of
the boat to review the Common Sense Approach and the Boating
Safety sections of this Owner’s Manual prior to use of the boat
and the tower component.
Occupants of the boat should never stand, sit or jump from the
tower. Nothing but MasterCraft-approved towing should be attempted. (See Boating Safety section of this Owner’s Manual.)
Boat owners are strongly urged to purchase tower accessories
only through an authorized MasterCraft dealer. MasterCraft
has carefully determined the maximum amount of accessories
and total weight that the tower can safely hold. Ignoring this
information could result in injury to the boat operator and/or
passengers.

The shower is located in the head compartment and at the
transom. Water is drawn in by way of a pump that is turned
on at the breaker panel in the head compartment. The heat is
provided by running the port side engine for 15-to-20 minutes.
After the water has been heated, however, the insulated tank will
retain the hot water for several hours. This allows the shower to
be run without the engine running, and if the engine is OFF, it
is possible to shower while standing on the swim platform. (See
Common Sense Approach section for cautions regarding using
the shower with the engine running.)
The water pumped into the heater comes from a freshwater
holding tank, and it can be left in the water heater when the
boat is not in use, EXCEPT during extended periods of storage.
As with any part of the boat in which there is water, it must be
removed at the time the boat is winterized to avoid freezing that
may cause damage to the boat, the holding tank or the water
heater. The water is removed by running the shower until all the
water has come out or by disconnecting the plumbing fittings in
the forward service bay under the helm seats.

MasterCraft has determined that for the tower utilized on the 2009
models, the total weight of all accessories mounted on the tower
should never exceed 85 pounds, regardless of whether the accessories are MasterCraft-approved and supplied or have come from
an aftermarket supplier. Exceeding this restriction can result in
tower failure, which could result in serious injury or death to the
boat operator and/or passengers.

Video Screen

The CSX 265 offers a video screen that drops down from the TTop option. See the accompanying instructional information to
determine how to use the unit. (See image above right.)

Water Heater

On the CSX 265 model, a four-gallon hot water heater is an
option. Unlike the shower option on other models, which draws
heat from a running engine, the CSX 265 water heater functions
as a hot water retention tank after the engine has run.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 19-9

guide to troubleshooting
The following chart will assist you in finding and correcting minor mechanical and electrical problems with your MasterCraft boat.
Engine manuals include troubleshooting suggestions regarding drive train issues.
To correct a problem, first determine what the symptom is. Start with the first cause and eliminate the possibility of each until the problem is corrected. Due to the specialized skill and tools needed to correct major issues, that information has not been discussed below. If
a problem is not addressed herein, please contact an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s service department.
When experiencing a problem, check the surroundings before shutting down the boat. If a sudden stop would place other boaters in
jeopardy, continue on until it is safe to slow or stop to analyze the situation. Always be aware of the surroundings and how actions may
impact other boaters!

Throttle/shifting problems.
Corroded cables.
Clean and lubricate the cables.

Low transmission oil level.
Replenish transmission fluid.

Sticking transmission shift detent ball.
Clean and lubricate the detent ball.

Kink in cable(s).
Have authorized MasterCraft technician

replace the cable(s).
Steering problems.
Corroded cable.
Clean and lubricate the cable.

Rudder worn.
See authorized MasterCraft dealer’s

service department.
Excessive vibration.
Bent strut.
Replace the strut.

Fouled propeller.
Remove objects from the propeller shaft and rudder.

Damaged propeller.
Replace the propeller.

Misaligned propeller shaft coupling.
Seek proper alignment.

Bent propeller shaft.
See authorized MasterCraft dealer’s

service department.
Electrical problems.
Open circuit breaker or blown fuse.
Re-set the circuit breaker or replace the fuse.

Loose wiring connections or corrosion.
Clean and tighten wiring connections.

Defective sending unit.
Replace the sending unit.

Shorted wiring harness.
Have the wiring harness repaired.

Defective switch or gauge.
See authorized MasterCraft dealer’s

service department.
No speedometer reading.

Defective speedometer.
Defective speedometer paddle wheel.

Have the speedometer checked or replaced.
Have paddle wheel checked or replaced.

Incorrection speedometer reading. Improper calibration.
Follow calibration instructions in

Instruments and Gauges section

of this Manual.
Gauges do not work or the
accessory does not work.

Breaker has tripped.
Fuse has blown.
Low battery.
Insufficient battery supply.

Re-set the breaker.
Replace the fuse.
Check the battery voltage for a loose ground.
Replace battery with one that has at least 750CCAs.

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 20-1

limited warranty statement
1. Limited Warranty and Term.
MasterCraft Boat Company, LLC.
(“MasterCraft”) warrants to the original retail purchaser that the following
components of each new boat shall be
free from material defects in materials and workmanship to the extent set
forth below, under normal use and
when operated and maintained in accordance with MasterCraft’s instructions, for the period indicated:
1.1 Deck, Hull, Liner and Stringers.
From the date of the original retail purchase, the deck, hull, liner
and stringer system (collectively,
“Structural Components”) is warranted for as long as the original
purchaser owns the boat.
1.2 Gel Coat. On condition that the consumer has provided
maintenance and care as described in the Corrosion and
Cleaning the Boat sections of the MasterCraft Owner’s
Manual, the gel coat, which is applied to all MasterCraft
boats at the factory, will be warranted for a period of one
(1) year from the date of the original retail purchase of
the boat or the initial use of the boat, whichever first occurs, for stress crazing of the gel coat. However, no warranty is provided, and MasterCraft expressly disclaims
any warranty for, scratching, discoloration or fading of
the gel coat because environmental operating conditions
and customer maintenance/care are factors that have a
significant effect on the condition and durability of the
gel coat.
1.3 Other Component Parts (Excluding Engine and Transmission. MasterCraft provides the following warranty for
other component parts of your MasterCraft boat:
(a) Instrumentation is warranted for three (3) years,
except depth finders and Perfect Pass;
(b) marine carpeting for five (5) years;
(c) upholstery vinyl for five (5) years; and
(d) fuel pump assembly for two (2) years provided the
customer follows maintenance and care requirements.
All other components (excluding engine and transmission), including upholstery stitching, are warranted for a
period of one (1) year. All warranties are from the date of
the original retail purchase of the boat or the initial use
of the boat, whichever first occurs.
1.4 Trailer and Trailer Component Parts. The brake calipers are warranted for a period of two (2) years; all other
components are warranted for a period of one (1) year
from the date of the original retail purchase of the boat

or the initial use of the boat, whichever first occurs. See
the Trailer Owner’s Manual for more details.
2. Engine and Transmission. The engines used in MasterCraft
boats are supplied by Indmar Products Company, Inc., in
Millington, Tennessee (“Indmar”); or Volkswagen Marine
Engines in Tampa, Florida (“Volkswagen Marine”). These
companies provide a separate warranty of three (3) years
from the date of the original retail purchase of the boat or
the initial use of the boat, whichever first occurs, for the
engine and transmission. A statement of the Indmar Power
Train Warranty or the Volkswagen Marine Warranty is provided separately to the original retail purchaser. MasterCraft
provides no independent warranty with regard to the engine
and transmission; however, the owner may contact MasterCraft at the address or telephone number listed in Section
7 of this Limited Warranty to obtain contact information
for making claims or inquiries under the applicable engine
manufacturer’s warranty. Contact information for Volkswagen Marine is provided in the warranty statement provided
at the time of purchase to the original retail purchaser.
3. Warranty Conditions, Limitations and Exclusions. MasterCraft boats are manufactured by trained craftspersons from
high-quality materials and components. However, conditions
outside MasterCraft’s control require specific limitations on,
and exclusions from, coverage under this Limited Warranty.
The Limited Warranty on the Structural Components set
forth in Section 1 of this Manual does not cover or include
any other components fastened or applied to the hull or deck.
This Limited Warranty constitutes the final, complete and
exclusive statement of warranty terms, and no other person or
entity is authorized to make any other warranties or representations on behalf of MasterCraft. Furthermore, the Limited
Warranty set forth in Section 1 (including all subsections)
hereof does not cover the following:

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 21-1

(a) damage caused by misuse, negligence, accident; collision or impact with any object;
(b) damage caused by any improper alteration or modification to the boat or any of its component parts or
accessories, including damage resulting from alteration,
modification, repair or replacement in such a way as to
increase the cubic-inch capacity or horsepower output
of the engine and boat as originally manufactured;
(c) damage caused by the use of improper or contaminated
fuel or fluids;
(d) damage caused by the use of customer-applied chemicals or accidental spills;
(e) damage caused by failure to maintain the boat in accordance with the maintenance provisions in the Owner’s
Manual or improper maintenance of the boat;
(f) damage caused by the failure to comply with any recall
or request for repair;
(g) damage resulting from the use of the boat for any racing, speed, commercial competition or performance
demonstration;
(h) damage resulting from use of the boat for rental, commercial or industrial purposes;
(i) damage to hardware and other components fastened or
adhered to the hull, deck or liner;
(j) damage caused by fire, theft, freezing, vandalism, explosion, lightning, wind, hail storms, flooding or other
natural disaster;

(k) damage to any component parts and accessories not
manufactured by MasterCraft, including but not limited to, the engine, drivetrain, transmission, propeller,
shift and throttle control levers and cables, pumps,
blowers, windshields, canvas, upholstery, tower and accessories, instrumentation and steering systems; however, such items may be warranted by the individual
manufacturer, and if possible, MasterCraft will provide
the owner with a copy of the manufacturer’s warranty:
(l) damage caused by use of any non-MasterCraft trailer;
(m) damage caused by improper support of the boat on
davits, hoist system or boat lift of any kind;
(n) damage to paints, varnishes, gel coat surfaces and

(o)

(p)
(q)
(r)

colors, chrome-plated or anodized finishes, floor and
floor covers and any other surface coatings, as well as
damage due to in-water storage without proper barrier
coat and bottom paints (NOTE: Although MasterCraft
uses the highest-grade gel coat materials, a condition
may develop where the bottom of the boat may show
signs of discoloration and/or blisters if the boat is left in
the water for long periods of time; therefore, a proper
barrier coat and bottom paint should be used whenever
it is anticipated that the boat will be left in the water for
an extended period of time);
damage to the trailer and its parts or components due
to abrasions, rock chips, rust, improper care or maintenance, or use in salt or brackish water; however, the
finishes of galvanized trailers, which are designed for
use in salt or brackish water, are warranted to be free
from damage resulting from use in salt or brackish water for one (1) year from the date of the original retail
purchase or the initial use of the trailer, whichever first
occurs;
damage caused by dealer-installed options or accessories;
damage caused by consumer-installed options or accessories;
and/or
all warranty coverage will expire after ninety (90) days
on boats used for commercial purposes.

4. Disclaimer and Limitation of
Implied Warranties. THE EXPRESS
LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH
HEREIN IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
AND TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT
PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW,
MASTERCRAFT DISCLAIMS, AND
THE OWNER HEREBY EXPRESSLY
WAIVES, ANY AND ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS OF ANY KIND OR NATURE,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OTHER
THAN THOSE WARRANTIES WHICH
ARE IMPLIED BY, AND ARE INCAPABLE OF EXCLUSION, RESTRICTION OR MODIFICATION UNDER APPLICABLE LAW. THE
TERM OF ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES THAT CANNOT
BE DISCLAIMED UNDER APPLICABLE LAW, INCLUDING,
BUT NOT LIMITED TO, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THE
FOREGOING EXPRESS WARRANTY PERIODS APPLICABLE
TO THE RESPECTIVE COMPONENTS. SOME STATES DO
NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES AND/OR DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON THE
AMOUNT OF TIME AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO
THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 21-2

RIGHTS. YOU MAY HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY
FROM STATE TO STATE.
5. Limitation of Liability.
5.1 Liability Limitation: Exclusion of Consequential
Damages. This Limited Warranty is for the benefit of the
owner and MasterCraft, and shall not create or evidence
any right in any third party. THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE COMPONENT PARTS
AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY
IS THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CONSUMER.
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY
APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT SHALL MASTERCRAFT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, INDIRECT, PUNITIVE OR
EXEMPLARY DAMAGES OR LOST PROFITS WHATSOEVER ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY
TO USE THE BOAT OR ANY COMPONENT PART
THEREOF, OR FOR ANY BREACH OF THIS LIMITED
WARRANTY OR OTHERWISE, EVEN IF MASTERCRAFT HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY
OF SUCH DAMAGES OR SUCH DAMAGES COULD
REASONABLY HAVE BEEN FORESEEN BY MASTERCRAFT. However, some states do not allow the exclusion
or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so
the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
5.2 Purchase Price Limitation. In any event, MasterCraft’s
entire liability under any provision of this Limited Warranty shall be limited to the repair or replacement of the
boat, trailer or component part, or the refund of the purchase price paid by the consumer for the boat, trailer or
component part found to be defective within the applicable warranty period. This shall constitute MasterCraft’s
sole liability and obligation in the event of any claim
arising out of its performance or non-performance of any
provision of this Limited Warranty. Because some states
and jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation
of liability, the above limitations may not apply to you.
6. Transfer of Limited Warranty.
Upon the first sale, conveyance or
other transfer of the boat or trailer
by the original retail purchaser, any
remaining unexpired Limited Warranty coverage shall be transferred to
the second owner and shall remain
in effect for the remainder of the
applicable warranty period(s) set
forth in Sections 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 and 1.4
hereof (which warranty periods begin
to run from the date of the original
retail purchase of the boat or trailer,
or the first use of the boat or trailer,
whichever first occurs, as applicable),
upon delivery of the warranty transfer
card and payment of the applicable
warranty transfer fee to MasterCraft.
With respect to the Lifetime Limited

Warranty (granted only to the original retail purchaser) on
the Structural Components set forth in Section 1.1 hereof, if
the sale, conveyance or other transfer of the boat by the original retail purchaser to another person or entity occurs within
three (3) years of the date of the original retail purchase of
the boat by the original retail purchaser, then the Limited
Warranty on the Structural Components shall be transferred
to the second owner and shall continue in effect for a period
of ten (10) years from the date of the original retail purchase
of the boat by the original retail purchaser. If the sale, transfer or conveyance of the boat by the original retail purchaser
occurs more than three (3) years after the date of the original
retail purchase of the boat, then the Limited Warranty on
Structural Components (as well as all other warranties) shall
be void as of the date of transfer and shall not be transferable
to the second owner.
Only one (1) transfer under the provisions of this Section
6 (from the original retail purchaser to the second owner),
within the applicable time period, may be made. In the
event of a sale or transfer of the boat or trailer by a second
owner to a subsequent purchaser, all coverage under this
Limited Warranty shall immediately be terminated and the
Limited Warranty shall become null and void. No transfer
of this Limited Warranty will operate to extend the warranty
periods set forth in Section 1 hereof. In order to effectuate the transfer of the Limited Warranty, the original retail
purchaser and the new owner must properly fill out the warranty transfer card found in the back of the Owner’s Manual
and deliver the completed card, together with a check made
payable to “MasterCraft Boat Company, LLC.” in the amount
of the warranty transfer fee, via U.S. Mail, postage prepaid,
to MasterCraft at the address shown on the warranty transfer
card. The card and check for the warranty transfer must be
post-marked within the time period specified above in this
Section 6 in order for the warranty transfer from the original
retail purchaser to the second owner to be effective.
7. Warranty Claims. In order to maintain warranty service
under this Limited Warranty, the owner must return the defective boat or component part to an authorized MasterCraft

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 21-3

dealer’ service department, or to MasterCraft’s factory at the
below address, within the applicable warranty period. For
questions regarding warranty service or to obtain information regarding warranty service or to obtain information regarding the nearest authorized MasterCraft dealer, please contact
MasterCraft at the following address or telephone number:
MasterCraft Boat Company, LLC
Attention: Warranty/Customer Service Department
100 Cherokee Cove Drive
Vonore, Tennessee 37885
1-423-884-2221
Subject to the terms of this Limited Warranty, any covered
boat or component part with a material defect in materials
or workmanship that is returned to
an authorized MasterCraft dealer’s
service department or MasterCraft’s
factory during the appropriate warranty period will be repaired or
replaced, at MasterCraft’s sole option,
without charge to the owner for parts
and labor. This provision is subject to
the following terms and conditions:

remainder of the applicable warranty period;
(c) MasterCraft shall, in its sole discretion, fulfill its obligation to repair or replace any defective item at its factory
or authorized service department;
(d) The owner shall be responsible for all costs associated
with the transportation of the boat, towing bills, trailer or
component part(s) to the authorized MasterCraft service
department and for any return transportation.
8. No Modification of Warranty. No oral or written information, advice or communication of any nature by or
from MasterCraft or its representatives, employees, dealers, agents, distributors or suppliers shall create a warranty
or in any manner increase or modify the scope of this
Limited Warranty in any manner whatsoever.

(a) MasterCraft shall be obligated
only to repair or replace those
items that prove defective, in
MasterCraft’s sole discretion,
upon examination by a MasterCraft authorized dealer service
department or MasterCraft’s own
personnel, as applicable;
(b) MasterCraft warrants its repairs
or replacements only for the

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 21-4

warranty registration and transfer
For the first purchase of a specific MasterCraft boat, the boat must be registered. You should be aware that under federal law, completion of the registration process is a requirement and should be completed as follows:
1. Dealer must complete the warranty registration at date of sale.
2. Dealer must secure buyer’s signature!
3. Dealer must notify MasterCraft, via electronic registration that the boat has been purchased, and all required information must be
submitted. As boat owner, you should ensure that the dealer has complied with this requirement. This is the method of providing
information that will allow MasterCraft to notify you in case of any mandatory recalls or other issues requiring your attention.
If the MasterCraft boat is subsequently
sold by the original purchaser, MasterCraft offers a transferable warranty to
the second owner. In accordance with
the MasterCraft Limited Warranty, the
remaining warranty against structural
defects in the hull and deck will be transferred to the new owner when the following has been accomplished and verified
within fourteen (14) days of the sale date:
• Receipt of the completed form below.
• Copy of the sales invoice.
• Payment of $450.
Upon verification, the remaining warranty will transfer, retroactive to the sale
date.
Forward form and payment to:
MasterCraft Boat Company, LLC
100 Cherokee Cove Drive
Vonore TN 37885

Warranty Registration Transfer
(forward this copy to MasterCraft)

Boat Serial Number __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Model No. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Engine Make _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Serial No. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Trans. Type ________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Serial No. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please Print
Previous Owner ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
New Owner’s Name _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Street Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________
City ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
State _______________________________________________________ Zip Code ____________________________________________
Home Phone (___________) _________________________________________________________________________________________
Business Phone (__________) ________________________________________________________________________________________
Date of Purchase ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Second Owner’s Signature ___________________________________________________________________________________________
MUST BE SIGNED!
Be sure to enclose payment and a copy of the purchase receipt within fourteen (14) days of the sale date.
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 22-1

service log
As Needed Date

Date

Replace raw water impeller
Add/change oil and filter
Replace battery

Every 50 Hours
Lubricate starter gear & shaft
Change engine oil & filter
Check all safety equipment

Every 100 Hours
Clean flame arrestor
Replace water impeller
Engine tune-up
Change transmission fluid
Check engine mounts
Check prop shaft coupling alignment
Inspect exhaust flaps
Lubricate steering system
Lubricate shift & throttle system
Check/replace ballast pump impeller
Inspect complete fuel system
Change fuel filter

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 23-1

index
12-Volt Receptacle.......................................................................5-1
Accessory Switch.........................................................................5-1
Accessory Weight on Towers.................................................. 19-9
Aft Light Switch...........................................................................5-1
After Each Use.......................................................................... 16-4
Alarms, Other..............................................................................5-8
Alcohol, Oxygenated Fuels or Fuels with.................................6-2
All Purpose Cleaner................................................................. 14-1
AM/FM Stereo.............................................................................5-1
Anchor & Windlass.................................................................. 19-1
Anchor Light Switch, Navigation..............................................5-7
Annual Maintenance................................................................ 16-5
Approved Fasteners.................................................................. 12-1
Attitude Adjustment or Trim Tab Switch.................................5-2
Automatic Bilge Pump Switch, Manual/..................................5-3
Backlighting Switch, Instrument Panel....................................5-7
Ballast Empty/Fill Switch...........................................................5-3
Ballast Pump Impeller............................................................. 16-7
Ballast System Preparation (Storage)..................................... 17-3
Basic Maneuvering................................................................... 10-1
Basic Operation, Starting &.......................................................9-1
Battery Alarm, Low Voltage.......................................................5-7
Battery Charger......................................................................... 19-1
Battery Connections................................................................ 16-1
Battery Fully Charged.............................................................. 16-4
Battery Operation Switch, Dual................................................5-4
Before Each Use........................................................................ 16-1
Before Starting.............................................................................9-1
Bilge Cleaner............................................................................. 14-1
Bilge Pump Switch, Manual/Automatic...................................5-3
Blower Switch...............................................................................5-3
Blower, Operate...........................................................................9-1
Boarding Platforms, Swim/..................................................... 19-7
Boat Cleaner Polish.................................................................. 14-1
Boat Not In Use for a While.......................................................6-2
Boat Wash & Wax.................................14-1
Boating Safety..........................................1-1
Break-In, New Boat................................8-1
Buoys & Other Markings, Reading......3-2

Clock Adjustment Switch...........................................................5-4
Comfort & Convenience......................................................... 19-1
Common Sense Approach.........................................................2-1
Coolers....................................................................................... 19-2
Corrosion Prevention.............................................................. 12-1
Courtesy Lights Switch...............................................................5-4
Courtesy..................................................................................... 10-1
Crossing (Vessels)........................................................................3-1
Crossing (Vessels)........................................................................3-1
Cruise Control Gauge.................................................................5-5
CSX 220........................................................................................4-6
CSX 265........................................................................................4-6
Dangers, Warnings and Cautions.................................................ii
Display Selector Switch...............................................................5-4
Docking & Tie-Up.................................................................... 10-3
Dual Battery Operation Switch.................................................5-4
Each Use, After......................................................................... 16-4
Each Use, Before....................................................................... 16-1
Emergencies.............................................................................. 10-1
Empty/Fill Switch, Ballast..........................................................5-3
Engine Emergency Safety Stop Switch......................................5-5
Engine Hatch Switch...................................................................5-5
Engine Mounts.......................................................................... 16-5
Engine Oil Pressure Gauge.........................................................5-5
Engine Synchronizing Switch....................................................5-5
Engine, Starting...........................................................................9-1
Equipment, Safety, Required & Recommended......................1-2
Exhaust Flaps............................................................................ 16-6
Exhaust System Leaks.............................................................. 16-3
Eyes, Lifting............................................................................... 11-1
Fasteners, Approved................................................................. 12-1
Fire Extinguishing & Suppression.......................................... 16-8
Fire Suppression & Extinguishing.......................................... 19-2
First Time Operation............................................................... 10-1

Cables, Throttle & Shift.......................16-2
Calculating Weight.................................2-1
Canvas Covers (Clean)........................13-2
Canvas Covers......................................19-2
Carbon Monoxide..................................2-1
Carpet (Clean)......................................13-2
Catch Box, Livewell/Kill Box..............19-5
Cautions, Dangers, Warnings and...........ii
CD Player.................................................5-1
Chartplotter, GPS and..........................19-3
Chrome, Stainless Steel &....................12-1
Circuit Breakers......................................5-3
Cleaning & Detailing Kit.....................14-2
Cleaning the Boat.................................13-1
MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 24-1

Ignition Key Slot.................................5-6
Impeller, Ballast Pump.................... 16-7
Individual Models, Guide to..............4-1
Indmar Engine (Fuel).........................6-1
Instrument Panel Backlighting
Switch..............................................5-7
Instrument Panels...............................4-7
iPod.......................................................5-1
Key Slot, Ignition................................5-6
Kill Box/Catch Box, Livewell/........ 19-5

Fuel Gauge....................................................................................5-6
Fuel Level Runs Out or Too Low (Volkswagen)......................6-2
Fuel Level Too Low (General)...................................................6-1
Fuel System Leakage................................................................ 16-7
Fuel System Leaks..................................................................... 16-3
Fuel System Treatment (Storage)............................................ 17-1
Fueling..........................................................................................6-1
Fuels Outside U.S. and Canada..................................................6-2
Galvanic Corrosion.................................................................. 12-1
Gasoline to Use, Type.................................................................6-1
Gauge, Cruise Control................................................................5-4
Gauge, Engine Oil Pressure........................................................5-5
Gauge, Fuel...................................................................................5-6
Gauge, Multi-Function...............................................................5-7
Gauge, Speedometer...................................................................5-8
Gauge, Tachometer......................................................................5-9
Gauge, Temperature....................................................................5-9
Gauge, Video Display..................................................................5-9
Gauge, Voltmeter...................................................................... 5-11
Gauges & Switches, Variations................................................ 5-11
Gears, Shifting..............................................................................9-1
General Power Package Preparation (Storage)..................... 17-1
General Preparation (Storage)................................................ 17-1
General Prudential Rule.............................................................3-1
Glass Cleaner............................................................................ 14-1
GPS and Chartplotter.............................................................. 19-3
Guide to Individual Models.......................................................4-1
Hatch Switch, Engine..................................................................5-5
Head (Clean)............................................................................. 13-3
Head........................................................................................... 19-3
Heater Switch...............................................................................5-6
Heater......................................................................................... 19-4
High Speed Operation............................................................. 10-2
Hints, Operational.................................................................... 10-1
Horn..............................................................................................5-6
Hull (Clean).............................................................................. 13-1
Hull Cleaner.............................................................................. 14-1
Hydraulic Steering System...................................................... 19-5

Leakage, Fuel System....................... 16-7
Leaks, Exhaust System..................... 16-3
Leaks, Fuel System............................ 16-3
License, Operator’s..............................1-4
Light Switch, Aft..................................5-1
Light Switch, Navigation/Anchor......5-7
Lighting the Boat.............................. 11-1
Lighting.............................................. 19-5
Limited Warranty Statement................................................... 21-1
Livewell/Kill Box/Catch Box................................................... 19-5
Loading...................................................................................... 10-1
Low Voltage Battery Alarm........................................................5-7
Lubricate Steering System....................................................... 16-6
Maintenance, Scheduled.......................................................... 16-1
Maneuvering, Basic.................................................................. 10-1
Manual/Automatic Bilge Pump Switch....................................5-3
Marine Growth......................................................................... 12-1
Marine Motor Oils & Filters................................................... 14-2
MariStar 200.................................................................................4-3
MariStar 215.................................................................................4-3
MariStar 230.................................................................................4-4
MariStar 245.................................................................................4-4
MariStar 280.................................................................................4-5
MasterCraft Boat Care Products............................................ 14-1
Measurements..............................................................................4-8
Meeting (Vessels).........................................................................3-1
Microfiber Detailing Cloths.................................................... 14-2
MP3...............................................................................................5-1
Multi-Function Gauge................................................................5-7
Navigation/Anchor Light Switch...............................................5-7
New Boat Break-In......................................................................8-1
Oil Change After New Boat Break-In.......................................8-1
Oil Pressure Gauge......................................................................5-5
Operate Blower............................................................................9-1
Operating Conditions, Unusual............................................. 10-3
Operation, First Time.............................................................. 10-1
Operation, High Speed............................................................ 10-2
Operational Hints..................................................................... 10-1
Operator’s License.......................................................................1-4
Other Alarms...............................................................................5-8
Other Winterization Preparation........................................... 17-2
Overtaking (Vessels)...................................................................3-2
Oxygenated Fuels or Fuels with Alcohol..................................6-2

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 24-2

Platforms, Swim/Boarding...................................................... 19-7
Precautions, General...................................................................1-1
Propeller Maintenance............................................................. 18-1
Propeller Shaft Coupling Alignment..................................... 16-6
Propeller Shaft Log................................................................... 16-2
ProStar 190...................................................................................4-1
ProStar 197...................................................................................4-1
ProStar 214...................................................................................4-2
Pump Switch, Manual/Automatic Bilge...................................5-3
Quarterly Maintenance............................................................ 16-5
Raw Water Intake Strainer...................................................... 16-1
Re-activating Boat After Storage............................................ 17-3
Reading Buoys & Other Markings............................................3-2
Receptacle, 12-Volt......................................................................5-1
Refrigeration Switch....................................................................5-8
Refrigeration............................................................................. 19-5
Registration & Transfer, Warranty......................................... 22-1
Remote Control (Stereo)............................................................5-1
Rules of the Open Water.............................................................3-1
Rules When Encountering Vessels............................................3-1
Rules, Steering & Sailing.............................................................3-1
Safety Afloat.................................................................................1-2
Safety Checks & Services............................................................7-1
Safety Training Organizations...................................................1-1
Salt Water Corrosion................................................................ 12-1
Scheduled Maintenance Checks & Services......................... 15-1
Scheduled Maintenance........................................................... 16-1
Seat Heat Switch..........................................................................5-8
Seat Heaters............................................................................... 19-6
Service Log................................................................................ 23-1
Shaft Log, Propeller.................................................................. 16-2
Shift & Throttle System............................................................ 16-7
Shift Cables, Throttle &............................................................ 16-2
Shift/Throttle Control.................................................................5-8
Shifting Gears...............................................................................9-1
Shower/Slick Boot Switch...........................................................5-8
Shower/Wash Down................................................................. 19-6
Sink Switch...................................................................................5-8
Skiing & Wakeboard Safety...................1-3
Slick Boot (Clean)................................13-3
Slick Boot Switch, Shower.....................5-8
Slings, Lifting........................................11-1
Sound Signals ........................................3-1
Special Situations, Other.......................3-2
Speedometer ..........................................5-9
Spray Wax.............................................14-1
Stainless Steel & Chrome....................12-1
Starter Gear and Shaft.........................16-5
Starting & Basic Operation..................9-1
Starting Engine......................................9-1
Starting, Before......................................9-1
Steering & Sailing Rules/
Sound Signals...................................3-1
Steering System, Hydraulic................19-5
Steering System, Lubricate ................16-6
Stereo Equipment ...............................19-7
Stopping .................................................9-2

Storage & Winterization.......................................................... 17-1
Storage Cradle........................................................................... 11-1
Storage, Re-activating Boat After........................................... 17-3
Swim/Boarding Platforms....................................................... 19-7
Switch, Accessory .......................................................................5-1
Switch, Aft Light..........................................................................5-1
Switch, Attitude Adjustment or Trim Tab................................5-2
Switch, Ballast Empty/Fill..........................................................5-3
Switch, Blower..............................................................................5-3
Switch, Clock Adjustment..........................................................5-4
Switch, Courtesy Lights..............................................................5-4
Switch, Display Selector..............................................................5-4
Switch, Dual Battery Operation................................................5-4
Switch, Engine Emergency Safety Stop.....................................5-5
Switch, Engine Hatch..................................................................5-5
Switch, Engine Synchronizing...................................................5-5
Switch, Heater..............................................................................5-6
Switch, Instrument Panel Backlighting....................................5-7
Switch, Manual/Automatic Bilge Pump...................................5-3
Switch, Navigation/Anchor Light..............................................5-7
Switch, Refrigeration...................................................................5-8
Switch, Seat Heat.........................................................................5-8
Switch, Shower/Slick Boot..........................................................5-8
Switch, Sink..................................................................................5-8
Switch, Tower Lights...................................................................5-9
Switch, Wash Down................................................................. 5-11
Switches, Variations in Gauges &........................................... 5-11
Synchronizing Switch, Engine...................................................5-5
Table of Contents...........................................................................iii
Tables.......................................................................................... 19-8
Tachometer...................................................................................5-9
Teak Wood (Clean).................................................................. 13-2
Temperature Gauge.....................................................................5-9
Throttle & Shift Cables............................................................. 16-2
Throttle Control, Shift.................................................................5-8
Throttle System, Shift & . ........................................................ 16-7
Tie-Up, Docking &................................................................... 10-3
Tower Lights Switch....................................................................5-9
Tower Towing Safety...................................................................1-4
Towers........................................................................................ 19-9

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 24-3

Wakeboard Safety, Skiing &...............1-3
Warning Plates and Labels.................1-4
Warnings and Cautions, Dangers........ii
Warranty Registration &
Transfer........................................ 22-1
Warranty Statement, Limited......... 21-1
Wash Down Switch.......................... 5-11
Wash Down, Shower/...................... 19-6
Water Heater..................................... 19-9
Weight Distribution
and Limits.....................2-1, 4-8, 10-1
What to Watch When Underway......9-2
Wide Open Throttle......................... 10-2
Windlass, Anchor &......................... 19-1
Windshield (Clean).......................... 13-2
Winterization Preparation,
Other............................................. 17-2
Winterization, Storage &................. 17-1
Towers, Accessory Weight on................................................. 19-9
Transfer, Warranty Registration &......................................... 22-1
Trim Tab Switch, Attitude Adjustment or................................5-2
Troubleshooting, Guide to...................................................... 20-1
Underwater LED Lighting....................................................... 19-5
Underway, What to Watch.........................................................9-2
Unusual Operating Conditions.............................................. 10-3
Upholstery (Clean)................................................................... 13-1
Upholstery Cleaners................................................................. 13-3

X-1.........................................................4-2
X-14...............................................................................................4-2
X-15...............................................................................................4-3
X-2.................................................................................................4-3
X-30...............................................................................................4-4
X-45...............................................................................................4-4
X-7.................................................................................................4-1
X-80...............................................................................................4-5
X-Star............................................................................................4-5

Variations in Gauges & Switches............................................ 5-11
Vessel Rights-of-Way..................................................................3-2
Video Display Gauge...................................................................5-9
Video Screen............................................................................. 19-9
Vinyl Dressing........................................................................... 14-1
Volkswagen Diesel Engines (Fuel)............................................6-2
Voltmeter................................................................................... 5-11

MasterCraft 2009 Owner’s Manual - Page 24-4

World Headquarters
MasterCraft Boat Company
100 Cherokee Cove Drive
Vo n o r e T N 3 7 8 8 5 U . S . A .
423•884•2221
423•884•2295 fax
w w w. m a s t e r c r a f t . c o m

ProStar
MariStar
X-Series
Saltwater Series

Source Exif Data:

File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.6
Linearized                      : No
XMP Toolkit                     : Adobe XMP Core 4.0-c316 44.253921, Sun Oct 01 2006 17:14:39
Instance ID                     : uuid:0651fbee-aaf1-4e25-bcd2-d8cbfc638fd2
Document ID                     : adobe:docid:indd:b18fc947-123b-11dd-bbb2-a37c445a9de9
Rendition Class                 : proof:pdf
Derived From Instance ID        : 20289a2e-1217-11dd-9c5f-f5765c2a739e
Derived From Document ID        : adobe:docid:indd:20289a2c-1217-11dd-9c5f-f5765c2a739e
Manifest Link Form              : ReferenceStream, ReferenceStream, ReferenceStream
Manifest Placed X Resolution    : 300.00, 300.00, 300.00
Manifest Placed Y Resolution    : 300.00, 300.00, 300.00
Manifest Placed Resolution Unit : Inches, Inches, Inches
Manifest Reference Instance ID  : uuid:EEB05BFA1712DD11B1F09479D862A60A, uuid:9C2516FD3D12DD118F0DB5477D826891, uuid:9F2516FD3D12DD118F0DB5477D826891
Manifest Reference Document ID  : uuid:EDB05BFA1712DD11B1F09479D862A60A, uuid:9B2516FD3D12DD118F0DB5477D826891, uuid:9E2516FD3D12DD118F0DB5477D826891
Create Date                     : 2008:05:27 07:55:17-05:00
Modify Date                     : 2008:06:06 09:27:37-05:00
Metadata Date                   : 2008:06:06 09:27:37-05:00
Creator Tool                    : Adobe InDesign CS2 (4.0)
Thumbnail Format                : JPEG
Thumbnail Width                 : 256
Thumbnail Height                : 256
Thumbnail Image                 : (Binary data 11240 bytes, use -b option to extract)
Format                          : application/pdf
Producer                        : Adobe PDF Library 7.0
Trapped                         : False
Has XFA                         : No
Page Count                      : 88
Creator                         : Adobe InDesign CS2 (4.0)

EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

2009 Mari Star X Series Mastercraft Owners Manual

Navigation menu

Versions of this User Manual:

Views

Navigation