Bennington Pontoon Manuale utente

Bennington Owner’s Manual 1

2 Bennington Owner’s Manual

Dear Bennington Owner,

Thank you for choosing to purchase a Bennington!

If you are like most boat buyers, you probably spent a great deal of time

researching the market, learning about different brands and debating dif-

ferent models. The fact that you purchased a Bennington indicates that

you value comfort, contemporary styling, attention to detail and quality

construction.

Proper use and care of your new boat are key factors in the level of en-

joyment you will experience. Please take the time to read and review

the material in this binder and in the enclosed NMMA (National Marine

Manufacturers Association) publication. In addition to many tips related to

maintenance and general usage, you will ﬁnd a great deal of information

related to your safety and the safety of your passengers. To further your

knowledge and safety of your new Bennington boat, please take the time

to view the “Lets Go Boating” DVD enclosed with this manual.

Our goal at Bennington is not only to build the best boats possible, but to

build the safest. We hope that you feel we have achieved that goal once

you have had the chance to use and enjoy your new boat. We take great

pride in producing a product that will likely serve as the platform for fam-

ily and friends to gather, spend quality time together and generate memo-

ries that will last a lifetime.

Thanks again for choosing Bennington. See you on the water.

Kindest Regards,

Tom Cooper

Vice-President & General Manager

Bennington Marine LLC

Bennington Owner’s Manual 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Subject Page #

Introduction.......................................................................................................................5

Dealer responsibilities.........................................................................................................5

Owner responsibilities ........................................................................................................5

Owner’s packet ...................................................................................................................6

State registration .................................................................................................................6

Insurance .............................................................................................................................7

Disposal of garbage.............................................................................................................7

Marine sanitary device........................................................................................................7

Safety..................................................................................................................................7

Basic safe boating recommendations..................................................................................7

Safety gear & equipment ....................................................................................................8

Safe boating practices .........................................................................................................9

Basic safe boating ﬁgure...................................................................................................10

Dangers, Warning and Cautions! ......................................................................................10

Carbon Monoxide (co)......................................................................................................11

Drugs & Alcohol...............................................................................................................11

Fuel system safety.............................................................................................................11

Lanyard stop switch ..........................................................................................................12

Hazardous conditions........................................................................................................12

Water - swimming safety ..................................................................................................13

Water - skiing safety .........................................................................................................13

Caring for your Bennington...........................................................................................14

Engine ...............................................................................................................................14

Aluminum surfaces ...........................................................................................................14

Electrical system care .......................................................................................................15

Floor coverings .................................................................................................................15

Livewell system care.........................................................................................................16

Furniture ...........................................................................................................................16

Canvas...............................................................................................................................17

Exterior graphic care.........................................................................................................18

Storage ..............................................................................................................................18

Underway with your Bennington ..................................................................................19

Boater’s checklist..............................................................................................................19

Launching your boat .........................................................................................................19

Reloading your boat..........................................................................................................19

Fueling your boat ..............................................................................................................20

Loading passengers & gear...............................................................................................21

Boarding your boat ...........................................................................................................21

Boat weight distribution....................................................................................................21

Storage areas .....................................................................................................................21

Steering your boat.............................................................................................................21

Boat speed.........................................................................................................................21

General navigation rules ...................................................................................................22

Docking ...........................................................................................................................22

Trimming ..........................................................................................................................22

4 Bennington Owner’s Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTINUED:

Subject Page #

Trailering your Bennington............................................................................................ 23

Boat trailer laws ................................................................................................................ 23

Capacity data..................................................................................................................... 23

Tongue weight .................................................................................................................. 23

Hitch.................................................................................................................................. 23

Chains ............................................................................................................................... 23

Backing a trailer................................................................................................................ 23

Launching recommendations ............................................................................................ 23

Loading your boat back on the trailer ............................................................................... 24

When the trailer is in several inches of water................................................................... 24

Bennington Components & Systems ............................................................................. 24

Electrical wiring system.................................................................................................... 24

Batteries ............................................................................................................................ 24

Electrical switches ............................................................................................................ 25

Instruments........................................................................................................................ 26

Tachometer gauge ............................................................................................................. 26

Voltmeter gauge ................................................................................................................ 26

Fuel gauge......................................................................................................................... 26

Trim gauge ........................................................................................................................ 27

Hourmeter gauge............................................................................................................... 27

Speedometer gauge ........................................................................................................... 27

Oil pressure gauge............................................................................................................. 27

Water temperature gauge .................................................................................................. 27

Digital depth gauge........................................................................................................... 27

Digital depth/ﬁsh ﬁnder graph .......................................................................................... 28

12 Volt plug....................................................................................................................... 28

Stereo systems................................................................................................................... 28

Lights ................................................................................................................................ 29

Navigation lights............................................................................................................... 29

Docking lights................................................................................................................... 29

Anchor light ...................................................................................................................... 29

Controls............................................................................................................................. 29

Courtesy light.................................................................................................................... 29

Steering systems................................................................................................................ 30

Shift & throttle control system.......................................................................................... 30

Livewell system ................................................................................................................ 31

Fresh water system............................................................................................................ 32

Bimini top canvas ............................................................................................................. 32

Trolling motor ................................................................................................................... 32

Fuel system ....................................................................................................................... 33

Boarding ladders ............................................................................................................... 33

Privacy enclosures ............................................................................................................ 34

Fishing seats...................................................................................................................... 34

Tables ................................................................................................................................ 34

Cupholders ........................................................................................................................ 35

Bennington Performance................................................................................................35

Performance factors ..........................................................................................................36

Performance package boats...............................................................................................36

Ventilation .........................................................................................................................37

Bennington Owner’s Manual 5

INTRODUCTION

You have made an excellent choice by selecting a Bennington boat to enjoy during your leisure time!

Bennington “Is in the business of creating a dream come true for you and your family. Just like we

say, “we build the boats that dreams are made of.” Your dream includes something more than just a

well built boat. It means providing you with the peace of mind in knowing that your Bennington is

backed by the best warranties and service in the marine industry.

Please take the time to read this manual before you take your new Bennington out for the ﬁrst time.

Also, read all literature supplied with your boat by the manufacturers of the various components and

accessories used on your boat. In particular, you should become familiar with all warning labels

on your boat and all safety recommendations. Please use the NMMA Pontoon/Deck Style Boats

manual enclosed in conjunction with this manual.

Before your ﬁrst boating excursion, look your boat over and become familiar with it. Find its com-

ponents, gauges, and operating equipment, and learn how to use them. Please note your boats length

and height. If a family member or friend operates the boat, be sure he or she fully understands the

controls and operation of the boat.

Each boat operator is responsible for ensuring the safety of the boat passengers and other water

users. Passenger should also be aware that courteous, responsible riding is important. Also, make

certain children are under adult supervision at all times.

This manual is part of your boat’s equipment. It does not supersede or change any of the original

manufacturers speciﬁcations, operation or maintenance instructions. Always keep it on board. If

you transfer ownership of your Bennington, please give this manual to the new owner. If you move

and change your mailing address please contact Bennington Customer Service at 574-264-6336 in

order to update your records.

DEALER RESPONSIBILITIES

Throughout the fabrication and assembly processes your Bennington has undergone a series of strict

inspections. Subsequent to the ﬁnal factory overview your dealer should perform additional pre-de-

livery checks and approve your Bennington boat for delivery.

Dealer responsibilities include (but are not limited to) providing the following:

An orientation of the general operation of your Bennington.

An explanation of safety issues regarding the use of your new Bennington.

A complete owner’s packet containing all manuals and information regarding your Bennington boat

and other components related to your purchase.

A review of all warranties, pointing out the importance of mailing warranty and registrations to

various manufacturers within the required time limits and explanation of the Bennington Advantage

Extended Warranty Option. Instructions for obtaining warranty service.

OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES

The following are responsibilities (but not limited to) of the Bennington boat owner:

Read and understand the Bennington limited product warranty.

Study in detail all manuals, literature, and instructions enclosed and use all equipment in accordance.

Examine the boat and conﬁrm all systems are suitably working at the time of accepting delivery.

Render proper maintenance and periodic servicing of the boat, motor and components in accordance

with manufacturer suggestions and requirements.

6 Bennington Owner’s Manual

Operate all equipment in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.

Read all manuals and instructions supplied with your boat.

Being a safe boater. Bennington marine recommends that all boaters take boating safety courses and

always provide children with constant adult supervision.

Familiarize yourself with, and obey all warning labels on your boat.

Always obey all applicable federal, state, and local laws!

Insure your boat with a reputable insurance company.

Bennington marine has a permanent record of your boat, which is retained under its “Hull Identiﬁca-

tion Number” (HIN). Data regarding equipment and accessories, as well as dealer/shipping informa-

tion is documented.

When contacting your dealer concerning warranties, or service, please have all relevant information

such as Serial numbers (HIN), model, and boat color available. The “Hull Identiﬁcation Number”

(HIN) is located on the starboard rear corner of the boat. Failure to include the HIN may create

delays in service from your dealer.

Pontoon Boat (Starboard Stern Corner of boat)

“Hull Identiﬁcation Number” (HIN) found here on boat.

Please understand that the best possible way for you to obtain warranty or repair service is

to work with the Bennington marine dealership where you purchased your boat. Bennington

dealers are equipped to handle any concerns you may have after the sale of your new boat.

OWNER’S PACKET:

Your Bennington boat has many features and accessories that have existing printed material provided

by the various equipment manufacturers. This information is compiled in a package that we refer-

ence throughout this manual as an “Owner’s packet”. This owner’s packet includes a Bennington

marine owner’s manual, component manuals, and engine manual (if applicable) to advise on opera-

tion, service, speciﬁcations, maintenance, warranty and other useful facts. Your owner’s packet can

also be used to retain instructions and data compiled on additional equipment and accessories in-

stalled after delivery. Also, please read the NMMA manual, “Pontoon/Deck Style Boats” included.

WARRANTY & CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY:

The Bennington marine warranty statement is located in the owner’s packet. Upon the purchase

of your new Bennington boat, the dealer will complete the owner registration process. Please read

and understand the Bennington limited product warranty. Your Bennington dealer should be your

ﬁrst contact for all warranty problems and concerns. After your boat is registered with Bennington,

you will receive a Customer Satisfaction Survey for you to complete (allow 90 days). If you do not

receive this survey, please contact Bennington at 574-264-6336 or e-mail sales@Benningtonmarine.

com to receive a copy and to conﬁrm registration.

STATE REGISTRATION:

All motor craft not documented by the U.S. coast guard must display registration numbers. Every

boat equipped with propulsion machinery of any type must be registered in the main state of usage.

In nearly all states this means registration with the designated state agency. In a few jurisdictions,

the coast guard retains registration authority. Registration numbers and validation stickers must be

displayed on the boat according to regulations.

Bennington Owner’s Manual 7

Your Bennington marine dealer will either supply registration forms or tell you where they may be

obtained (a cost may apply). The registration agency will issue a certiﬁcate, which must be aboard

your boat at all times.

Some states and localities have limits in speed, noise and trailer speciﬁcations. It is your responsi-

bility to be aware of these laws and limits and to be sure that your boat, engine, and trailer comply.

Consult with local sheriff marine patrol, local coast guard ofﬁce, or state department of natural

resources for all boat registration rules and procedures.”

INSURANCE:

The boat owner is legally responsible for any damages or injuries caused by the boat. In most states

this is true even if someone else is operating the boat when the accident occurs. You should carry

adequate personal liability and property damage insurance on your boat as you do on your home

and automobile. You should also protect your investment by insuring your boat, motor, and trailer

against physical damage or theft. Please contact a qualiﬁed Insurance professional to help you.

DISPOSAL OF PLASTICS & OTHER GARBAGE:

Plastic refuse dumped in water can kill ﬁsh and marine wildlife and can damage propellers and water

intakes. Other forms of waterborne garbage can litter beaches and cause infection and illness. U.S.

Coast guard regulations completely prohibit the dumping of plastic refuse or other garbage mixed

with plastic anywhere, and restrict the dumping of other forms of trash within speciﬁed distances

from shore. Do not litter.

MARINE SANITARY DEVICE:

You are responsible for obeying all local laws concerning waste discharge. If your boat has a porta-

potti, contact the coast guard, local marina, or your dealer for information concerning these laws.

At Bennington marine we are very concerned about the safety of all Bennington boat owners and

their families. That is why Bennington is committed to building the safest boats in the marine indus-

try.

You should fully understand and become familiar with the operating procedures and safety precau-

tions in this Manual and the other information in the owner’s packet before you use your Bennington

boat. Remember, it is the owner’s responsibility to be a safe boater, to follow and enforce safety

guidelines, and to use common sense to make safe boating a priority.

You should become familiar with all warning labels on your boat and all safety recommendations.

Please read all of the NMMA manual enclosed for additional safety information. Bennington marine

is NMMA certiﬁed. For more information go to www.NMMA.org.

Before using your Bennington boat, be sure all required safety equipment is on board. This includes

the minimum required equipment and additional gear needed for your outing. Periodically inspect

all safety equipment to be certain it is in proper operating condition. Make sure all passengers know

what safety equipment is on board, where it is, and how to use it. Also, you should understand (but

are not limited to) the following basic safe boating recommendations.

BASIC SAFE BOATING RECOMMENDATIONS:

Boating safety and the safety of your passengers is your responsibility. You should fully understand

all of the following safety precautions before you use your boat. Please take safe boating seriously

for the safety of yourself, your family and other water users.

Never operate a boat while under the inﬂuence of drugs or alcohol. Doing this is a federal offense.

Make sure only qualiﬁed drivers operate your boat.

Keep your boat and equipment in safe condition. Inspect the boat, engine, safety equipment, and all

boating gear regularly.

SAFETY

8 Bennington Owner’s Manual

Be sure lifesaving and ﬁre-extinguishing equipment is on board. This equipment must meet regula-

tion standards and it should be noticeable, accessible, and in safe working condition. Your passen-

gers should know where this equipment is and how to use it. Supervise children at all times.

Before you leave shore, tell a responsible person ashore where you are going and when you expect to

return.

Do not allow passengers to ride on parts of your boat other than designated seating areas. All pas-

sengers should remain seated while the boat is moving. Do not allow bow, transom, rail, sun deck

pad, furniture backrest, or swivel ﬁshing seat riding while your boat is moving.

Do not overload or improperly load your boat. The capacity plate is a guide for load limits. The ca-

pacity of your boat is reduced by turbulent water and other adverse weather conditions. Check water

and weather conditions before leaving shore. Use common sense and good judgment when loading

your boat.

Instruct at least one passenger on the fundamentals of basic and safe operation in the event of an

emergency.

NEVER ALLOW SWIMMERS/SKIIERS TO ENTER OR EXIT THE BOAT WITH THE

ENGINE RUNNING OR THE PROPELLER MOVING.

Obtain information and chart for new areas when possible.

READ, UNDERSTAND, AND FOLLOW ALL WARNING LABELS ON YOUR BOAT.

Never allow individuals under the age of 16 to operate your boat. Inexperienced drivers, passengers,

and all children should have constant and direct adult supervision.

SAFETY GEAR & EQUIPMENT

As the owner of your boat, you are responsible for supplying all required safety equipment. Check

state and local regulations and call the U.S. Coast Guard Safety Hotline at 800-368-5647 for infor-

mation about required safety gear. Minimum requirements include the following:

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) (Note - Some states may restrict the use of certain types of PFD)

• Fire Extinguisher

• Visual Distress Signal

• Navigation Lights

• Horn

• Throwable Life Buoy

Please note that children and non-swimmers are advised to wear Personal Flotation Devices at all

times.

Contact the U.S. Coast Guard for complete details pertaining to required safety gear and equipment.

In addition to the “required safety equipment”, there are additional items that will provide an extra

margin of safety and comfort for you and your boating passengers. You should consider adding

some or all of the following gear based upon your boating needs:

Basic Equipment:

Anchor and anchor line Sunscreen lotion Tow line

Dock fenders Boat hook Extra warm clothing

First aid kit Signal Flares Flashlight

Oar/Paddle VHF Radio Foul weather gear

Charts of the boating Area Ring Life Buoy Compass

Bennington Owner’s Manual 9

SAFE BOATING PRACTICES

YOU are responsible for your own safety, the safety of your passengers, and the safety of fellow

boaters. You are asked to follow (but are not limited to) the following safe boating practices:

Alcohol consumption and boating do not mix! Operating under the inﬂuence endangers the lives of

your passengers and other water users. Federal laws prohibit operating a boat under the inﬂuence of

alcohol or drugs.

SAFE OPERATION:

Safe operation means that you do not misuse your boat, nor do you allow your passengers to do so.

Safe operation means using good judgment at all times. It includes, without limitation, these actions:

Load your boat within the limits listed on the capacity plate. Balance loads bow to stern and port to

starboard.

Maintain boat speed at or below the local legal limit. Avoid excessive speed or speeds not appropri-

ate for operation conditions.

Do not use your boat in weather or sea conditions beyond the skill and experience of the operator or

the capability of the boat or passengers.

Be sure at least one other passenger is familiar with the operation and safety aspects of the boat in

case of emergency. Do not operate a boat alone!

Always keep all gates closed while the boat is in motion to prevent falls overboard and possible

injury or even death by a rotating propeller!

Do not exceed the maximum power rating stated on the certiﬁcation plate attached to your boat.

Make sure the passengers and gear do not obstruct the driver’s view or ability to move.

DO NOT SMOKE WHILE FUELING YOUR BOAT.

Do not allow passengers to sit on foredeck or sundeck while the boat is moving. This will prevent

falls overboard and possible injury or death by the rotating propeller.

Make sure the engine is off and the propeller is completely stopped before using boarding ladders.

Provide a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each boat passenger.

10 Bennington Owner’s Manual

BASIC SAFE BOATING FIGURE

*This Basic Safe Boating Figure is intended be a used as a general guideline only. It does not

exclude any other safety recommendations, laws, or procedures required by you as the owner of your

boat. While your boat’s ﬂoor plan maybe different from the model shown, the same safety precau-

tions apply.

For additional information concerning boat safety you can contact the American Boat & Yacht Coun-

cil at www.abycinc.org or call 410-956-1050.

DANGERS, WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS !

DANGER- Cases that might cause death, injury or considerable property damage if the danger is

disregarded.

WARNING- Cases that could potentially cause death, injury or considerable proper damage if the

warning is disregarded.

CAUTION- Cases of unsafe routines or hazards would cause lesser injury or property damage if

disregarded.

You should understand (but are not limited to) all of the DANGERS, WARNINGS AND CAU-

TIONS that will be addressed throughout this manual.

Do not sit on rails or

furniture backs.

Do not ride on sundeck

pads while boat is

moving.

Do not sit on deck with

legs or arms hanging

from boat.

Do not use ladder while

engine is running.

Do not sit on ﬁshing

seats while boat is

moving.

Setting Standards for Safer Boating

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