35.8.4
The placarded maneuvering speed shall be the
speed obtained with the boat prepared as described in
H-35.9.1.
35.8.5
A speedometer shall be provided on pontoon
boats when the maneuvering speed is less than the top
speed of the pontoon boat.
35.9
MANEUVERING SPEED TEST
PROCEDURES
35.9.1
Boat Preparation
35.9.1.1 The pontoon boat shall be rigged with equipment
recommended or provided by the boat manufacturer, and
tested with the highest horsepower production
powerplant(s) for which the boat is to be rated, i.e,
outboard engine(s), or which is to be installed in the boat,
i.e., sterndrive(s) and inboard(s). Equipment shall be
installed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
35.9.1.2 Install a speedometer. (See H-35.9.2.4.)
35.9.1.3 Install the lowest ratio, i.e., quickest steering
system offered on the pontoon boat model being tested.
35.9.1.4 Mount the engine manufacturer's recommended
propeller providing maximum speed.
35.9.1.5 Standard permanently installed fuel tanks shall
be no more than one-half full. Pontoon boats with outboard
engines, and without permanently installed fuel tanks shall
be tested beginning with one full portable tank for each
engine. Portable tanks shall be in their designated location,
or placed as far aft as practicable.
35.9.1.6 Place the outboard engine in the lowest vertical
position on the transom, or, if mounting instructions are
provided, at the height recommended. If a mounting height
above the transom is recommended and tested, then the
highest horsepower for which flush transom mounting is
recommended shall be tested.
35.9.1.7 Boat bottom, engine, and propeller shall be clean
and in like new condition.
35.9.1.8 The use of the following special equipment shall
be considered because of the potential for exceeding the
capabilities of the pontoon boat while performing this test;
35.9.1.8.1
racing type PFD,
35.9.1.8.2
helmet, and
35.9.1.8.3
emergency ignition stop switch.
35.9.2
Test Conditions
35.9.2.1 Testing shall be conducted on calm water with
the wind speed below 10 mph (9 knots).
35.9.2.2 The test shall be conducted with no load other
than a driver who shall weigh no more than 200 lbs.
35.9.2.3 The engine trim angle shall be adjusted to
provide maximum full throttle speed short of excessive
porpoising or propeller ventilation so that there is no loss
of directional control.
35.9.2.4 The maximum full throttle speed and the
maneuvering speed shall be verified by radar, GPS, or
other electronic means, or by the average of not less than
two timed passages over a measured course in both
directions.
35.9.3
Quick Turn Test Procedure
© 2003 American Boat & Yacht Council, Inc.
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