Yamaha AR230 User Manual (2024)

1

IDENTIFICATION

NUMBER RECORDS

Record your Primary I.D., H.I.N., and engine numbers in the spaces provided to assist you in ordering spare parts from your Yamaha Boat dealer. Also record and keep these I.D. numbers in a separate place in case your boat is stolen.

PRIMARY I.D. NUMBER

F1UC

The Primary I.D. number is stamped on a label 1 attached to the inside of the engine compartment.

HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (H.I.N.)

The H.I.N. 2 is stamped into the hull on the right rear corner.

ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER

PORT

The Engine Serial Numbers are stamped on a label attached to the top of each engine’s oil tank.

STAR LABELS

This watercraft is labeled in California with a California Air Resources Board (CARB) star label 1. See below for a desciption of your particular label.

ONE STAR - LOW EMISSION

The one-star label identifies engines that meet the Air Resources Board’s 2001 exhaust emission standards. Engines meeting these standards have 75% lower emissions than conventional carbureted two-stroke engines. These engines are equivalent to the U.S. EPA’s 2006 standards for marine engines.

TWO STARS - VERY LOW EMISSION

The two-star label identifies engines that meet the Air Resources Board’s 2004 exhaust emission standards. Engines meeting these standards have 20% lower emissions that One Star- Low-Emission engines.

THREE STARS - ULTRA LOW EMISSION

The three-star label identifies engines that meet the Air Resources Board’s 2008 exhaust emission standards. Engines meeting these standards have 65% lower emissions than One Star- Low-Emission engines.

SAFETY

INFORMATION

The safe use and operation of this boat is dependent upon the use of proper operating techniques, as well as upon the common sense, good judgment, and expertise of the operator. Every operator should know the following requirements before operating the boat.

λBefore operating the boat, read the Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, the Operation Instruction Card, and all warning and caution labels on the boat. Also, watch the Basic Orientation Video provided with your boat. These materials should give you an understanding of the boat and its operation.

λNever allow anyone to operate this boat until they too have read the Owner’s/Operator’s Manual, the Operation Instruction Card, and all warning and caution labels, and if possible watched the Basic Orientation Video. Showing them the video may help reinforce the information contained in these materials.

LIMITATIONS ON WHO MAY OPERATE THE BOAT

λYamaha recommends a minimum operator age of 16 years old.

λAdults must supervise use by minors.

λKnow the operator age and training requirements for your state. A boating safety course is recommended and may be required in your state. You can find local rules by contacting the United States Coast Guard (USCG), the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, or your local Power Squadron.

λThis boat is designed to carry the operator, up to 9 passengers, and cargo. Never exceed the maximum load limit or allow more than 10 persons (or 9 persons if a water skier is being pulled) to ride in the boat at one time. Weight distribution affects performance. Keep weight in the boat low and evenly distributed from side-to-side and front-to-back. Remove any unnecessary cargo and store it on shore.

Maximum Load: 1800 lb. (816 kg) Load is the total weight of cargo, operator and passengers.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has regulations which describe minimum standards of safety. You must comply with these regulations, which apply to boats like your boat which are less than 26 feet long.

λPersonal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Type I, II, or III as required for all people on board (see “Operational Requirements” for more information), plus at least one Type IV (throwable type).

λFire Extinguisher:

At least one B-1 type hand-held portable fire extinguisher.

λVisual Distress Signals:

It is recommended that a USCGapproved pyrotechnic device be stored on your boat. A mirror can also be used as an emergency signal. Contact your Yamaha dealer or the Coast Guard for more information.

λSound Signalling Device:

Your boat is equipped with a horn that can be used to signal other boats. See “Rules of the Road” for more information.

λNavigation Lights:

Your boat is equipped with navigation lights for use between sunset and sunrise, and during periods of reduced visibility, such as fog. Be sure these lights are working and are turned on when necessary (see page 2-14 and 3-9 for more information).

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

The following equipment can help make your boating experience safer and more enjoyable:

λMooring fenders and lines.

λAnchor with suitable line (a “Danforth” type anchor and line that is at least 6-times the depth of the water where you will drop anchor are recommended).

λManual-type bilge pump.

λFirst Aid kit.

λWaterproof flashlight with extra batteries.

λTool kit with assorted screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches (including metric sizes), and electrical tape.

λOar or paddle (look for one with a boat hook on the other end).

λSpare parts, such as an extra set of spark plugs and fuses.

λNavigation charts for the waters where you will be boating.

λTow rope.

CRUISING LIMITATIONS

λScan constantly for people, objects, and other watercraft. Be alert for conditions that limit your visibility or block your vision of others.

λOperate defensively at safe speeds and keep a safe distance from people, objects, and other watercraft.

λDo not follow directly behind other boats.

λDo not go near others to spray or splash them with water.

λAvoid sharp turns or other maneuvers that make it hard for others to avoid you or understand where you are going.

λAvoid areas with submerged objects or shallow water.

λOperate within your limits and avoid aggressive maneuvers to reduce the risk of loss of control, ejection, and collision.

λThis is a high-performance boat – not a toy. Sharp turns or jumping waves or wakes can increase the

risk of back/spinal injury (paralysis), facial injuries, and broken legs, ankles, and other bones. Do not jump waves or wakes.

λDo not operate the boat in rough water, bad weather, or when visibility is poor; this may lead to an accident causing injury or death. Be alert to the possibility of bad weather. Take note of weather forecasts and the prevailing weather conditions before setting out in your boat.

λNever operate in water that is less than 3 ft. (90 cm) deep, otherwise you increase your chance of hitting a submerged object, which could result in injury.

3 FT (90 CM)

λLeave a “float plan” with a responsible person on shore. Tell where you plan to go and when you plan to arrive, and provide a description of your boat. Advise this person if your plans change and also when you arrive to prevent false alarms. A sample float plan is included on page 6-6.

OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

λAll riders must wear a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD).

PFD

λEye protection is recommended to keep wind, water, and glare from the sun out of your eyes while you operate your boat. Restraining straps for eyewear are made which are designed to float should your eyewear fall into the water.

λFootwear and gloves are recommended.

λNEVER operate the boat after consuming alcohol or taking drugs.

λFor reasons of safety and proper care of the boat, always perform the pre-operation checks listed on page 3-4 before operating.

λPassengers must always sit in a designated seating area, place feet on the deck, and hold on to the hand grips when the boat is in motion.

λAlways consult your doctor on whether it is safe for you to ride in this boat if you are pregnant or in poor health.

λDo not attempt to modify this boat! Modifications to your boat may reduce safety and reliability, and render the boat unsafe or illegal to use.

λAttach the engine shut-off cord (lanyard) to the PFD and keep it free from the steering wheel or other controls so that the engine stops if the operator accidentally leaves the helm. Failure to attach the engine shut-off cord could result in a runaway boat if the operator is ejected.

After operation, remove the engine shut-off cord and the keys to avoid accidental starting or unauthorized use by children or others.

1Engine Shut-Off Switch

2Engine Shut-Off Cord with Clip

3Cord connected to PFD

λScan constantly for swimmers and stay away from swimming areas. Swimmers are hard to see and you could accidentally hit someone in the water.

λAvoid being hit by another boat! You should always take responsibility to watch for other traffic; other boaters may not be watching for you. If they do not see you, or you maneuver more quickly than they expect, you risk a collision.

λMaintain a safe distance from other boats or watercraft, and also watch for boats’ ski ropes or fishing lines. Obey the “Rules of the Road” (see page 1-15), and be sure to check behind you before making a turn.

HAZARD INFORMATION

λNever start the engine or let it run for any length of time in an enclosed area. Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that may cause death within a short time. Always operate the boat in an open area.

It is also important to have the engines off when anyone is using the extended swim step on models equipped with one because of the carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases coming from underneath the step.

BOAT CHARACTERISTICS

λJet thrust turns the boat. Moving the throttle levers completely back to idle or the Neutral position produces only minimum thrust. If you are traveling at speeds above trolling, you will have rapidly decreasing ability to steer without throttle. You may still have some turning ability immediately after moving the throttle levers back to idle, but once the engines slow down, the boat will no longer respond to steering wheel input until you apply throttle again or you reach a trolling speed. Practice turning in

an open area without obstructions until you have a good feel for the maneuver.

λThis Yamaha Boat is water-jet propelled. The pumps are directly connected to the engines. This means that the jet thrust will produce some movement whenever the engines are running. The boat has a “neutral” position, but since the boat is always producing thrust while the engines are running, some forward or reverse movement may occur.

λDo not use the reverse function to slow down or stop the boat as it could cause you to lose control, be ejected, or impact the steering wheel or other parts of the boat. This could increase the risk of serious injury. It could also damage the shift mechanism.

λReverse can be used to slow down or stop during slow speed maneuvering, such as when docking. Once the engine is idling, shift to reverse and gradually increase engine speed. Make sure that there are no obstacles or people behind you before shifting into reverse.

λKeep away from the intake grates while the engine is on. Items such as long hair, loose clothing, or PFD straps can become entangled in moving parts, resulting in severe injury or drowning.

JET THRUST NOZZLES

INTAKE GRATE

λStop the engines and remove the clip from the engine shut-off switch before removing any debris or weeds, which may have collected around the jet intakes.

λNever insert any object into the jet thrust nozzle while the engine is running. Severe injury or death could result from coming in contact with the rotating parts of the jet pump.

NIGHT OPERATION

λWhen using your boat before dawn or after dusk, you must have both bow and stern lights operating. When at anchor in the dark, the stern light must be lit. See page 2-14 for instructions.

WATER-SKIING

You can use the boat to tow a water skier, using the tow cleat provided.

It is the boat operator’s responsibility to be alert to the safety of the water-skier and others. Know and follow all state and local water-skiing regulations in effect for the waters in which you will be operating.

The following are some important considerations for minimizing risks while water-skiing.

λThe skier should wear an approved PFD, preferably a brightly colored one so boat operators can see the skier.

λThe skier should wear protective clothing. Severe internal injuries can occur if water is forced into body cavities as a result of falling into the water or while reboarding. Normal swimwear does not adequately protect against forceful water entry into rectum or vagin*. The skier should wear a wetsuit bottom or clothing that provides equivalent protection. Such clothing includes thick, tightly woven, sturdy, and snug fitting

apparel such as denim, but does not include spandex or similar fabrics like those used in bicycle shorts.

λA second person should be on board as a spotter to watch the skier; in most states, it is required by law. Let the skier direct the operator’s control of speed and direction with hand signals. The port-side seat swivels for a backward-facing observer. Be sure the seat is locked in place (pg. 2-16) before getting underway.

λWhen preparing to pull a skier, operate the boat at the slowest possible speed until the boat is well away from the skier and slack in the towrope is taken up. Make sure that the rope is not looped around anything.

After checking that the skier is ready and that there is no traffic or other obstacles, apply enough throttle to raise the skier.

λMake smooth, wide turns. The boat is capable of very sharp turns, which could exceed the abilities of the skier. Keep the skier at least 50m (164 ft), about twice the distance of a standard towrope, away from any potential hazard.

λBe alert to the hazard of the towrope handle snapping back at the boat when the skier falls or is unable to get up on the skis.

RULES OF THE ROAD

Your Yamaha Boat is legally considered a powerboat. Operation of the boat must be in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the waterway on which it is used.

Just as there are rules that apply when you are driving on streets and highways, there are waterway rules that apply when you are operating your boat. These rules are used internationally, and are also 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.

Several sets of rules prevail according to geographic location, but are all basically the same as the International Rules of the Road. The rules presented here in this Owner’s/Operator’s Manual are condensed, and have been provided for your convenience only. Consult your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or Department of Motor Vehicles for a complete set of rules governing the waters in which you will be operating your boat.

STEERING AND SAILING RULES

Whenever two 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 what each vessel should do.

Stand-On Vessel

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.

Give-Way Vessel

The vessel which 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, you should not cross in front of the vessel with the right-of-way. You should slow down or change directions briefly and pass behind the other vessel. You should always move in such a way that the operator of the other vessel can see what you are doing.

The General Prudential Rule regarding the right-of-way is that if a collision appears unavoidable, neither boat has the right-of-way. Both boats must avoid the collision.

In other words, follow the standard rules except when a collision will occur unless both vessels try to avoid each other. If that is the case, both vessels become give-way vessels.

RULES WHEN ENCOUNTERING VESSELS

There are three main situations that you may encounter with other vessels which could lead to a collision unless the Steering Rules are followed:

Meeting: you are approaching another vessel head-on.

Crossing: you are traveling across another vessel’s path.

Meeting

If you are meeting another power vessel head on, and are close enough to run the risk of collision, neither of you has the right-of-way! Both of you should alter course to avoid an accident. You should keep the other vessel on your port (left) side. This rule does not apply if both of you will clear one another if you continue on your set course and speed.

Overtaking: you are passing or being passed by another vessel.

In the following illustration, your boat is in the center. You should give the right- of-way to any vessels shown in the white area (you are the give-way vessel). Any vessels in the shaded area must yield to you (they are the give-way vessels). Both you and the meeting vessel must alter course to avoid each other.

Crossing

When two power-driven vessels are crossing each other’s path close enough to run the risk of collision, the vessel which has the other on the starboard (right) side must keep out of the way of the other. If the other vessel is on your starboard (right) side, you must keep out of its way; you are the giveway vessel. If the other vessel is on your port (left) side, remember that you should maintain course and direction, provided the other vessel gives you the right-of-way, as it should.

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 until you are clear of it. Likewise, if another vessel is passing you, you should maintain your speed and direction so that the other vessel can steer itself around you.

GIVE-WAY

GIVE-WAY

VESSEL

OTHER SPECIAL SITUATIONS

There are three other rules you should be aware of when operating your boat around other vessels.

Narrow Channels and Bends

When navigating in narrow channels, you should keep to the right when it is safe and practical to do so. If the operator of a power-driven vessel is preparing to go around a bend that may obstruct the view of other water vessels, the operator should sound a prolonged blast of four to six seconds on the horn. If another vessel is around the bend, it too should sound the horn. Even if no reply is heard, however, the vessel should still proceed around the bend with caution.

Fishing Vessel Right-of-Way

All vessels fishing with nets, lines or trawls are considered to be “fishing vessels” under the International Rules. Vessels with trolling lines are not considered fishing vessels. Fishing vessels have the right-of-way regardless of position. Fishing vessels cannot, however, impede the passage of other vessels in narrow channels.

Sailing Vessel Right-of-Way

Sailing vessels should normally be given the right-of-way. The exceptions to this are:

1.When the sailing vessel is overtaking the power-driven vessel, the power-driven vessel has the right- of-way.

2.Sailing vessels should keep clear of any fishing vessel.

3.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.

“1” “3” “5” “7”

LIGHTED BUOY (Port Hand)

Odd number, increasing toward head of navigation. Leave to port (left) proceeding

OR

Old New

“3”

“A”

“2”

“1”

Proceeding toward head of navigation from seaward

SECONDARY CHANNEL BUOYS

STARTS NEW NUMBERING SYSTEM

C “1”

CAN BUOY

Odd number. Leave to port.

OR

N “2”

NUN BUOY

Even number. Leave to starboard.

No change

“2” “4” “6”

LIGHTED BUOY (Starboard Hand) Even number, increasing toward head of navigation. Leave to starboard (right) proceeding up-stream

OR

Old New

“A”

LIGHTED SAFE WATER BUOY

No number. Marks midchannel, pass on either side. Letter has no lateral significance, used for identification and location purposes.

LIGHTED PREFERRED

CHANNEL TO PORT BUOY

No number. Topmost band red - preferred channel is to left of buoy. Letter has no lateral significance, used for identification and location

Reading Buoys and Other Markers

The waters of the United States are marked for safe navigation by the lateral system of buoyage. Simply put, buoys and markers have an arrangement of shapes, colors, numbers, and lights to show which side of the buoy a boater should pass on when navigating in a particular direction. The markings on these buoys are oriented from the perspective of being entered from seaward (the boater is going towards the harbor). Red buoys are passed on your starboard (right) side when proceeding from open water into port, and black buoys are to your port (left) side. An easy way to remember the meaning of the colors is the phrase “red right returning.” When navigating out of the harbor, your position with respect to the buoys should be reversed; red buoys should be to port and black buoys to starboard.

Many bodies of water used by boaters are entirely within the boundaries of a particular state. The Uniform State Waterway Marking System has 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. They signify speed zones, restricted areas, danger areas, and general information.

Remember, markings may vary by geographic location. Always consult local boating authorities before riding your boat in unfamiliar waters.

TO GET MORE BOATING SAFETY INFORMATION

Be informed about boating safety. Additional publications and information can be obtained from many organizations, including the following.

United States Coast Guard

Consumer Affairs Staff (G-BC)

Office of Boating, Public, and

Consumer Affairs

US Coast Guard Headquarters

Washington, D.C. 20593-0001

Boating Safety Hotline:

1-800-368-5647

Other Sources:

You can find local rules by contacting the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, or your local Power Squadron.

BOAT EDUCATION AND TRAINING

The Online Boating Safety Course, available through the watercraft section of the yamaha-motor.com website, is a free, 50-question learning course available to the public. Upon successful completion of 80 percent or better, the user can request a certificate of completion by mail or can download one immediately. The Online Boating Safety Course, provided by the Boat/US Foundation, is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and recognized by the United States Coast Guard. This course meets the education requirement for those states that recognize non-proctored, NASBLAapproved courses.

ACCIDENT

REPORTING

Boat operators are required by law to file a Boating Accident Report with their state boating law enforcement agency if their boat is involved in any of the following accidents:

1.There is loss of life or probable loss of life.

2.There is personal injury which requires medical attention beyond first aid.

3.There is damage to boats or other property which exceeds $500.00.

4.There is complete loss of a boat.

Contact local law enforcement personnel if a report is necessary.

ENJOY YOUR BOAT RESPONSIBLY

You share the areas you enjoy when operating your boat with others and with nature. So your enjoyment includes a responsibility to treat these other people, and the lands, waters, and wildlife with respect and courtesy.

Whenever and wherever you are boating, think of yourself as the guest of those around you. Remember, for example, that the sound of your boat may be music to you, but it could be just noise to others. And the exciting splash of your wake can make waves others won't enjoy. Avoid riding close to shoreline homes and waterfowl nesting areas or other wildlife areas, and keep a respectful distance from fishermen, other boats, swimmers, and populated beaches. When travel in areas like these is unavoidable, operate slowly and obey all laws.

Remember that pollution can be harmful to the environment. Do not refuel or add oil where a spill could cause damage to nature. And keep your surroundings pleasant for the people and wildlife that share the waterways: don't litter!

When you go boating responsibly, with respect and courtesy for others, you help ensure that our waterways stay open for the enjoyment of a variety of recreational opportunities.

3 2

40 45 35 MPH

9

1 4 2

50

OPERATION OF CONTROLS AND OTHER FUNCTIONS

1 Steering wheel

Your boat can be steered by turning the steering wheel the same direction you wish to travel, to the right or left. When the wheel is turned, the angle of the jet (output) nozzles at the rear of the craft is changed, and the change in direction of the nozzles changes the direction of the boat accordingly. Since the strength of the jet thrust determines the speed and direction of a turn, the throttle must always be opened above idle when attempting a turn, except at trolling speed.

Because boats steer from the stern (rear), the stern of the boat swings out in the opposite direction of your turn. If you turn to the starboard (right), for example, the stern of the boat will swing to the left. Keep this in mind when navigating near a person in the water, such as a down skier, or an obstacle, such as a dock.

TILT LEVER

The tilt lever 1 is located under the steering wheel and is used to adjust the tilt of the steering wheel. There are three positions.

To adjust the tilt, pull the lever up, and then move the steering wheel up or down to the desired position. The lever will lock into place when the wheel is moved into one of the three available positions.

•Never touch the tilt lever during operation, otherwise the steering wheel could suddenly change position, which may lead to an accident.

•Be sure the steering wheel is locked in position after adjustment. If the steering wheel is not locked in position, it may suddenly change position during operation, which may lead to an accident.