U.S. Department of

Homeland Security

United States

Coast Guard

Just because you’re boating, doesn’t mean you

don’t need to be vigilant about the dangers of

carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Carbon

monoxide is a toxic, odorless, colorless, tasteless

gas produced by the burning of carbon-based fuels,

such as gasoline, charcoal and propane. On boats,

CO gas is emitted by engines, gas generators,

cooking ranges and heaters. The build-up of CO

inside boat cabins, partially enclosed cockpits,

beneath swim platforms or other enclosed areas

is potentially deadly. Carbon monoxide in high

concentrations can be fatal in a matter of minutes.

Unless the symptoms are severe, carbon monoxide

poisoning is often misdiagnosed as seasickness;

however, lower concentrations must not be ignored

because the effects of exposure to carbon

monoxide are cumulative and can be just as lethal.

Let’s face it. Boating and carbon monoxide

poisoning are a dangerous combination. Here are

some typical accident scenarios to give you an idea

as to the extent of the problem:

 . . . about 9 a.m., water patrol officers were called

to help a woman who was screaming for help.

Officers found her husband unconscious on the

boat. He apparently passed out because of a carbon

monoxide leak aboard the boat. The boat’s carbon

monoxide detectors were not working.

Nowadays many boats are equipped with carbon

monoxide (CO) detectors, but the CO detectors

on many older boats are susceptible to false alarms

and might have been disconnected; other CO

detectors may appear to work when in fact they

may not sound an alarm in the presence of medium

to high levels of CO gases. The Coast Guard

advises the owners of all inboard and sterndrive

powered boats built prior to 1998 to inspect their

CO detectors. If the CO detector on your boat has

been disconnected, or if the exterior cover of the

device does not bear the word “marine,” the Coast

Guard urges immediate replacement with newer

CO detection technology.

Improvements in technology and reliability of

carbon monoxide gas detectors have reached the

point that their installation in accommodation

spaces should be considered by all safety conscious

recreational boaters. American Boat and Yacht

Council ABYC Standard A-24 recommends CO

detectors on any boat with accommodation spaces

and gasoline powered engines or generators.

Detectors are available as single and multi

station systems, fully integrated systems and selfcontained units with internal batteries. The major

drawback to the units with internal batteries is,

should the battery go dead, the detector is

incapable of indicating the presence of carbon

monoxide. The newer CO detectors have fault

circuit checks and other features that were not

available in the older models and are considered

more reliable with fewer false alarms.

On older CO detector models, detector

sensitivity (susceptibility to false alarms) increases

with the unit’s age; however, owners should learn

to react to every alarm as a situation which

BOATING AND CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

A DANGEROUS COMBINATION

Boating Safety Circular 86

August 2008

Inside:

News from CPSC .......................................... 7

Manufacturer Identification Code data ......... 8

Coast Guard Infoline termination ................. 8

Recall Campaigns .......................................... 8

Switlik Liferaft Inflation System Defect..... 19
2

requires immediate action. If your CO detector

sounds an alarm, and neither your engine nor a

generator are running, do not assume a false alarm.

A boat next to you might be the source of the CO

and the reason for the alarm. Boat owners should

replace their CO detectors as recommended by the

device manufacturer.

Follow this link to a list of marine type CO

detectors at the Office of Boating Safety website:

http://www.uscgboating.org/articles/

. . . three people who had been running a

generator to power an air conditioner aboard a

houseboat were sent to the hospital after

complaining of carbon monoxide poisoning

symptoms. The boat was in a canyon and the

children were sleeping in the rear of the boat next

to an open window, while a generator there was

running to power the air conditioning. Their

symptoms were headache, nausea and vomiting.

The common practice of running gasolinepowered generators to power air conditioning,

entertainment centers and galley appliances while

anchored or moored creates another situation in

which carbon monoxide can accumulate in

dangerous concentrations, particularly if an air

conditioner is located near the exhaust port for a

generator.

Gasoline powered portable generator sets also

produce carbon monoxide. Some marine

surveyors have reported seeing small generators

on boats that have been mounted in the bilge to

do nothing more than power high-wattage stereos.

The generators were installed by the same

businesses that sold the stereos. Currently, no

portable generators meet the Coast Guard

Electrical and Fuel System Standards. The fuel

tank is usually on top of the generator directly

above electrical components that are not ignitionprotected. The exhaust system on a portable

generator is usually constructed of nonmarine

alloys that can rust through after brief exposure to

a salt water environment. The hot exhaust is

typically run to the transom by a dry (non watercooled) rubber hose. Once the exhaust hose on a

portable generator fails, it doesn’t take long to fill

the engine compartment and eventually the cabin

with dangterous levels of carbon monoxide.

. . . a child who vomited and who appeared to be

having a seizure were a family’s first clue something

was wrong. Before the ordeal ended, 21 people

aboard the boat were treated for carbon monoxide

poisoning in what one person called the largest case

of carbon monoxide poisoning he had seen. It was

the third such poisoning in the area in less than a

week, and the cases have spurred authorities to

again warn boaters about dangers posed by the

colorless, odorless gas.

Some houseboat transom designs consist of a

recessed area amidships forward of the swim

platform creating a cavity for engine and generator

exhaust ports. When the generator is running the

carbon monoxide gas buildup in this cavity, on or

near the swim platform, and near the rear deck

space is so high, that there is an imminent danger

of death for anyone in or near the cavity for even

a very short period of time. For that reason, all

owners and operators of boats equipped with swim

platforms and gasoline-powered generators with

exhaust ports on the transom are advised to turn

off their generators when their boats are at anchor

or moored and passengers are on or near the swim

platform or swimmers are in the water. Keep

passengers, particularly unsupervised children, off

the back deck or a swim platform while gasoline

engine(s) or a generator are running.

CO can accumulate anywhere in or around your

boat, including on back decks, swim platforms,

or on the water around generator exhausts. CO

can remain in or around your boat at dangerous

levels even if your engine or another boat’s engine

is no longer running! Don’t run engine(s) or

auxiliary generator(s) on boats with enclosed

accommodation spaces unless the boat is equipped

with a functioning marine carbon monoxide

detector that complies with ABYC A-24 - Carbon

Monoxide Detection Systems on Boats.

. . .authorities said one person died and three

others are out of the hospital after suffering carbon

monoxide poisoning while aboard a boat moored

at a marina. . . . when medical officials arrived

on the scene, they found all four victims

unconscious. A survivor said one of the engines

started to lose power, and the victim went below

to open the hatch leading to the engineroom. The

victim complained of not feeling well and
3

eventually collapsed. Authorities said they were

looking at both engines and the generator as a

possible cause of the carbon monoxide leak.

New propulsion engines and generator sets with

catalytic converters produce reduced quantities of

carbon monoxide; but what about the CO produced

on the large numbers of used-boats?

What to Inspect on Your propulsion Engine

or Generator Set:

* Inspect and confirm that the engine(s) and

generator(s) are properly tuned, and well

maintained.

* Inspect each water pump impeller and the

water pump housing; consider replacement if

worn.

* Inspect and confirm that cooling system(s) are

in working condition.

* Inspect and confirm that all hose clamps are

in good condition and securely tightened.

* Inspect and confirm that there are no leaks

around the cylinder head gaskets, exhaust

manifold gaskets, water inject exhaust elbows,

pipe nipples between water injected elbows and

exhaust manifolds, and exhaust pipes, hoses and

fittings.

* Inspect and check the generator temperature

sensor (if installed) to ensure that it has not been

damaged by exposure to excessive exhaust

temperature and that the sensor is still working

properly.

* Inspect and confirm proper operation of the

generator cooling water anti-siphon valve (if

equipped).

What to look for includes:

* Exhaust leaks

* Cracks in hoses, pipes and components

* Black streaking (this can mean loose parts are

allowing exhaust to escape)

* Corrosion in hoses, pipes and components

* Corroded pipe nipple on exhaust elbow (move

the elbow to check for looseness)

* Change in exhaust sound

* Change in exhaust smell in the engine room

or boat interior (CO is odorless, but may be mixed

with other exhaust gases)

* Check for pitting, pinholes, and cracks or loose

rust at the ends of pipe nipples and thread roots

* Replace any component that is cracked,

charred, or deteriorated.

. . . two women suffered carbon monoxide

poisoning while swimming among a number of

boats that were afloat in a cove at the far northern

end of a lake. Boaters often gather there and leave

engines and generators running, creating the

potential for CO poisoning. The women were

pulled from the water by off-duty firefighters. The

women were breathing on their own but in an

“altered stage of consciousness” because of the

CO poisoning.

Large numbers of powerboaters often gather for

manufacturer-sponsored regattas or as spectator

boats at poker runs and other boat racing activities.

Unfortunately, when large numbers of boats gather

together they create significantly larger and more

concentrated amounts of carbon monoxide.

Individuals, particularly children, should avoid

swimming near large numbers of boats adrift or

at anchor with engines or generators running.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety

and Health (NIOSH) conducted a series of studies

of CO exposure on houseboats and express

cruisers and found high levels of CO gas at or near

the swim platform when the boats were either

stationary or underway. When a boat is stationary

and the engine(s) and/or generator set are running,

the CO buildup at the transom of the boat, on the

swim platform, and around the rear deck space

may be so high that it creates an imminent danger

for anyone who remains in these areas for even a

short period of time.

The use of hand-held showers at or near the swim

platform when gasoline fueled engine(s) and/or a

generator set are running is hazardous to your

health. As recently as a year ago, a website

provided skiboat owners with instructions for

installing an aftermarket hand-held hot water

shower system at the swim

platform.Unfortunately, instead of a hot water

heater, the system required the engine to be running

to heat the shower water. The Coast Guard

informed the author about the lethally high levels

of CO that may be found around the swim platform

during engine operation, and the website promptly

removed the article. The Coast Guard

recommends that any owner of a gasoline powered

boat who has installed a hand-held shower
4

connected to the engine’s raw water open cooling

system, to disconnect the shower immediately.

. . . officials say three people were found dead

this afternoon on a cabin cruiser. Officials say they

were apparently killed by carbon monoxide

poisoning. Around 1:00 pm, authorities responded

to reports of unconscious individuals and found

two women and one man dead inside the 30-foot

cabin cruiser. Carbon monoxide meters showed

the level of the deadly gas at 30 parts per million;

levels that high always require an evacuation of

the area.

Treat symptoms of seasickness as possible CO

poisoning, unless you can be sure it’s not carbon

monoxide.

Other CO Sources

Do not use any flame producing device in an

unventilated area. Any heater, stove or lantern that

produces an open flame uses oxygen. The

argument that these devices do not produce carbon

monoxide does not apply when they are used in

enclosed spaces. Alcohol heaters and stoves,

propane heaters and stoves, catalytic heaters, oil

lamps, gasoline lanterns, even charcoal stoves

consume oxygen. When the amount of oxygen in

the air gets below a certain level, these devices

produce carbon monoxide because of incomplete

combustion of their fuel. Ventilation must be

US Coast Guard Brochure -

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning –

What You Can’t See...Can Harm You

A comprehensive and easy-to-understand brochure about the dangers of carbon monoxide, how it

accumulates, and ways to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning can be downloaded and printed from the

Office of Boating Safety website:

http://www.uscgboating.org/command/co/tools.htm

Copies of the brochure are available by calling (202) 372-1067 or from your local Guard Auxiliary

Flotilla.

provided whenever any device producing an open

flame is used in a boat cabin.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Checklist

The Coast Guard recommends that new owners

be provided with a printed copy of the following

carbon monoxide checklist to show them how to

conduct appropriate system checks.

Each Time You Go On a Boat Trip

* Educate all passengers about where exhaust

outlets are located on your vessel, the symptoms

of CO poisoning, and where CO may accumulate.

* When docked, or rafted with another boat, be

aware of exhaust emissions from the other boat.

* Confirm that water flows from the exhaust

outlet when the engines and generator are started.

* Listen for any change in exhaust sound, which

could indicate an exhaust component failure.

* Test the operation of each CO alarm by

pressing the test button.

Once a Month

* Make sure all exhaust system clamps are in

place and secure.

* Look for potential sources of leakage from

exhaust system components. Signs include rust

and/or black streaking, water leaks, or corroded

or cracked fittings.

* Inspect rubber exhaust hoses for burned,

cracked, or deteriorated sections. All rubber hoses

should be pliable and free of kinks.
5

ABYC AND NMMA CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING DECALS

The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association

developed three standard CO decals for display on recreational boats. Order these CO decals directly from

NMMA (see below) or download a printable version at the Office of Boating Safety website:

www.uscgboating.org/command/co/tools.htm and print them onto paper with an adhesive backing to create

your own CO decals. Since the decals are not displayed on most used boats, the Coast Guard urges all

owners to obtain copies of the labels and to place them on their boats as indicated to inform others of the

hazards of CO poisoning.

To order CO Decals from NMMA go to http://www.nmma.org/certification/publications/decals.asp or

contact the NMMA Order Desk at 1-888-558-2272 or email: orderdesk@nmma.org.

CO TRANSOM LABEL

(NW 206-08) This label is required on all boats sold in the State of California in accordance with

AB2222.

[Order from NMMA $75.00/250 plus S&H]

CO CABIN LABEL

(NW 205-08)

[Order from NMMA $62.50/250 plus S&H]
6

CO HELM LABEL

(NW 204-08) This label is required on all boats sold in the State of California in accordance with AB2222.

[Order from NMMA $75.00/250 plus S&H]

KNOW MORE ABOUT IT BROCHURES

The National Marine Manufacturers Association has published a series of “Know More About It” brochures.

The brochures are a great addition to owners manuals and information packages for the boat owner. They

have been developed by marine professionals and are widely used throughout the industry. Each of the

brochures offers important contact information and where to go to get additional information about each

of the topics:

Propeller Safety

This brochure explains the dangers of propeller strikes and lists safety checks and measures to ensure

propeller safety while boating. $15.00/100 plus S&H.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

This brochure outlines the dangers of carbon monoxide gases that are emitted from gasoline engines. It

advises how to avoid CO poisoning and identifies measures a boat owner can take to avoid the effects of

CO. $15.00/100 plus S&H.

Electrical Shock

This brochure outlines problems associated with dockside power on a boat. It explains proper handling of

electrical cable and practices in and around the dock electrical hookup. $15.00/100 plus S&H.

Marine Fuel Systems Safety

This brochure offers information on the inspection and maintenance of gasoline fuel systems onboard

boats. Also included are tips on hazard avoidance, a checklist for each time the boat is operated and annual

inspection guidelines. $15.00/100 plus S&H.

Water Skiing Safety

This brochure outlines proper water skiing etiquette, proper signals, and safe boat handling while towing

water skiers. $15.00/100 plus S&H.

To order any of the brochures, download an order form from http://www.nmma.org/certification/

publications/order.asp or contact the NMMA order desk at 1-888-588-2272 or email orderdesk@nmma.org.
7

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207

________________________________________________________________________

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CPSC Hotline: (800) 638-2772

November 2, 2007 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

Release #08-062

When Changing Clocks Back to Standard Time, Check

Batteries and Age of Alarms

CPSC Recommends Replacing Older Alarms

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Since 1992, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reminded

consumers to check smoke alarms and change batteries when they change their clocks, but in that time,

many alarms have lost their effectiveness. This year, CPSC wants to remind consumers to replace smoke

alarms every ten years and replace carbon monoxide (CO) alarms every five years.

In a national telephone survey of households conducted by the CPSC, 97 percent of homes had at least

one smoke alarm. That’s good news, but without fresh batteries, alarms will not work when needed. And

the sensors in alarms will degrade and lose effectiveness over time because of environmental contamination and age.

According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports, there were more than 1.6 million fires

reported in the United States in 2005. These fires caused about 3,700 civilian deaths and 18,000 injuries.

Additionally, from 2002-2004, CPSC estimated a yearly average of 166 deaths from unintentional, non-fire

related CO exposure.

“Millions of Americans are without adequate protection from fire and CO because the alarm’s battery is

dead or the alarm is too old,” said CPSC Acting Chairman Nancy Nord. “Alarms don’t last forever, and old

ones need to be replaced.”

Consumers need to remain vigilant against carbon monoxide poisoning and fires. CPSC recommends

three simple tips to protect your life, your loved ones, and your home:

1. Make sure your home is protected with both smoke and CO alarms. Combination smoke/CO

alarms are available in the marketplace.

2. Test alarms monthly to make sure they are working.

3. Once a year, change batteries when you change your clocks.
8

COAST GUARD MANUFACTURER

IDENTIFICATION CODE DATABASE

The Coast Guard requests your help in keeping

our Manufacturer Identification Code database

current. Accordingly, we ask each recreational

boat manufacturer to visit www.uscgboating.org/

recalls/mic_database annually to confirm your

company data.

Coast Guard regulations require that a

manufacturer or importer who changes the

business name and/or address must advise the

Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch

of the change in writing. Print any changes to the

database on a copy of your company’s letterhead

or stationery or enclose a business card and mail

it to:

Commandant (CG-54223)

U.S. Coast Guard

2100 Second Street SW

Washington DC 20593-0001

U.S. COAST GUARD INFOLINE/HOTLINE

800-NUMBER — NO LONGER IN SERVICE

The U. S. Coast Guard Infoline (a toll-free phone

number formerly referred to as the Boating Safety

Hotline) was discontinued October 1, 2006 due to

budget shortfalls. At that time, the Coast Guard

requested our partner organizations to remove the

800 number from active websites and customer

assistance phone services, and to discontinue the

use of the number in all printed material.

It has recently come to the Coast Guard’s

attention that the CG Infoline 800 number (800-

368-5647) has been privately reactivated and now

leads to a secondary 800 number that is unrelated

to boating safety when dialed. All Coast Guard

field units have been directed to obliterate this

number from all forms and publications where it

appears. All replacement stock of these forms and

publications will no longer carry the CG Infoline

number.

RECALL CAMPAIGNS

ALUMACRAFT BOAT COMPANY

(St. Peter, MN)(060008T)

Year: 2001 – 2003

Models: Fisherman 145, Yukon, Lunker,

Navigator and Magnum

Units: 2,129

Problem: Hinge pin on seats produced by

Geldert’s LLC may come loose causing seat

back to separate from seat bottom

AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CORP.

(Torrance, CA)(070050T)

Year: 2003 - 2007

Models: BF15D & BF20D outboard motors

w/ serial nos:

BALJ1000001 - 1402293

BAMJ1000001 - 1403159

Units: 19,454

Problem: Possibility fuel chamber may crack

and leak fuel; possible fire/explosion from

starting and running engine

BAYLINER MARINE CORP.

MAXUM MARINE DIV.

(Everett, WA)(060050T)

Year: 2005 – 2006

Models: Maxum 1800SR with 4.3L Engine

Option

Units: 48

Problem: Possible steering binding condition;

possibility of loss of steering control

BAYLINER MARINE CORP.

(Everett, WA)(060045T)

Year: 2005 – 2006

Models: Bayliner 185 Bowrider with

4.3L Engine Option

Units: 1,971

Problem: Possible steering binding condition;

possibility of loss of steering control
9

BAYLINER MARINE CORP.

(Everett, WA)(060088T)

Year: 2007

Models: 195 Discovery

Units: 97

Problem: Improper helm installation results in

steering backwards; danger of collision

BENNINGTON MARINE CORP.

(Elkhart, IN)(07R2594S)

Year: 2007

Models: AZ240

Units: 55

Problem: Insufficiently sized openings in

natural ventilation system

BENNINGTON MARINE CORP.

(Elkhart, IN)(050077T)

Year: 2004 – 2005

Models: Pontoons w/ serial nos. ending in

404, 405 & 505 with Mercruiser

4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L, 350 MAG and 6.2L

I/O engines

Units: 230

Problem: Failure in Mercruiser power steering

pump hose may cause loss of steering control;

possibility of collision

BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL

PRODUCTS

JOHNSON MOTORS DIV.

(Sturtevant, WI)(060034T)

Year: 2004 – 2006

Models: Johnson 200 & 255 outboard engines

Units: 746

Problem: Malfunctioning Electronic Control

Module can cause hard starting leading to fuel

accumulation in the intake port; this condition

along with a misfire during starting can result in

severe engine backfire which damages the

engine’s collector assembly (air intake); if the

collector assembly breaks, the engine cover

could come off unexpectedly

BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL

PRODUCTS

EVINRUDE MOTORS DIV.

(Sturtevant, WI)(060052T)

Year: 2004 – 2007

Models: Evinrude E-TEC 40, 50, 60, 75 and

90

horsepower outboard engines

Units: 24,767

Problem: Fuel system pressurization during

assembly may have damaged fuel filter; possible

fire/explosion if ignition source present

BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL

PRODUCTS

(Quebec, Canada)(080022T)

Year: 2008

Models: RXP-X 255

Units: 3,170

Problem: Abrasion of fuel vent hose by

steering stem arm may cause fuel and/or vapor

leakage; possible fire/explosion if ignition

source present

BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL

PRODUCTS

(Benton, IL)(060093T)

Year: 2003 - 2007

Models: All Sea-Doo Sportster (2003 - 2006)

All Sea-Doo Speedster 200

(2004 - 2006)

All Islandia (2006)

All Utopia (2006)

2007 Speedster 200

2007 Speedster 150

2007 Islandia

2007 Utopia

Units: 4,702

Problem: On Sportboats equipped with Rotax

naturally aspirated 155 horsepower 4-TEC

engine internal airbox parts can detach and be

drawn into throttle body; throttle plate may jam

and prevent return of throttle to idle position;

danger of collision
10

BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL

PRODUCTS

EVINRUDE OUTBOARDS DIV.

(Waukegan, IL)(050039T)

Year: 2001, 2004 & 2005

Models: All 2001 200 – 250 HP DI models

2004 200 – 250 HP DI models

w/ serial nos. 5050319 and later

2005 100 & 115 HP DI models

w/ serial nos. All up to 5111879

2005 135 – 175 HP DI models

w/ serial nos. All up to 5111879

2005 200 – 250 HP DI models

w/ serial nos. All up to 5088447

Units: 5,922

Problem: Under certain operating conditions a

fuel injector fastener could loosen and/or break;

possible fire/explosion if ignition source present

BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL

PRODUCTS

EVINRUDE MOTORS DIV.

(Sturtevant, WI)(060042S)

Year: 2006

Models: 40 horsepower outboards

Units: 204

Problem: Engine Management Module allows

engine to be started in gear

BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL

PRODUCTS

JOHNSON OUTBOARDS DIV.

(Sturtevant, WI))(050042T)

Year: 2004

Models: 200 HP 4 Stroke outboards

Units: 237

Problem: Incorrect flywheel casting

composition could cause flywheels to come

apart; possibility of injury to boat occupants

CARAVELLE POWERBOATS, INC.

(Americus, GA)(06R1292S)

Year: 2006

Models: 237 LS Bow Rider

Units: 49

Problem: Insufficiently sized openings in

natural ventilation system

CARVER BOAT CORP.

(Pulaski, WI)(070042T)

Year: 2000-2003

Models: 396, 410 & 444

Units: 396

Problem: Muffler bonding material may fail;

danger of carbon monoxide poisoning

CARVER BOAT CORP.

(Pulaski, WI)(060049S)

Year: 1997 – 2007

Models: Mariner 350 and 360

Units: 914

Problem: Isolation bulkhead forward of engine

compartment not completely sealed; possibility

non-ignition-protected components could be

exposed to fuel vapors

DORAL INTERNATIONAL

(Grand Mere, QC)(050072T)

Year: 2003 – 2005

Models: Elegante 330SE w/ HINs:

CA-QJAD3182D303 –

CA-QJAD5226C505

Boca Grande 360SE w/ HINs:

CA-QJAE3092K203 –

CA-QJAE5189B505

equipped with Volvo 8.1 or

Mercruiser 8.1 inboard engines

Units: 34

Problem: Missing “L” shaped support

brackets could allow metal and semi-rigid

rubber exhaust hoses to disconnect from each

other sending raw cooling water and carbon

monoxide into engine room

FOUNTAIN POWERBOATS

(Washington, NC)(06R1320S)

Year: 1993 – 2007

Models: 42 Lightning and 42 Executioner

Units: 361

Problem: Fuel lines from saddle tanks lack antisiphon protection
11

FINELINE INDUSTRIES

(Merced, CA)(060058T)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: Centurion

Units: 293

Problem: Left and right tower Heim bolt on

Evolution Towers may pull out causing tower to

fall into cockpit; possible injury to operator and/

or passengers

GODFREY MARINE

(Elkhart, IN)(07R2593S)

Year: 2007

Models: SD2400

Units: 43

Problem: Insufficiently sized openings in

natural ventilation system

HARRIS KAYOT MARINE, LL

(Fort Wayne, IN)(08R2736S)

Year: 2007 - 2008

Models: V220

Units: 134

Problem: Insufficiently sized openings in

natural ventilation system

HUNTER MARINE

(Alachua, FL)(060053T)

Models: H240 w/ HINs:

HUN24462F203 – HUN24516C404

H260 w/ HINs:

HUNF0027A202 – HUNF0140B404

H270 w/ HINs:

HUNK0162F102 – HUNK0173D304

H27 w/ HINs:

HUN27101G405 – HUN27105J405

H306 w/ HINs:

HUN30465F102 – HUN30568C404

H326 w/ HINs:

HUN32255F102 – HUN32362I304

H33 w/ HINs:

HUN33101I304 – HUN33258J405

H356 w/ HINs:

HUN35101F102 – HUN35421F304

H36 w/ HINs:

HUN36101F304 – HUN36231J405

H38 w/ HINs:

HUNTER MARINE

(Alachua, FL)(060053T)

Models: HUN38101C405 – HUN38145J405

H386 w/ HINs:

HUN38718E102 – HUN38836C405

H410 w/ HINs:

HUN41332K102 – HUN41357H203

H41 w/ HINs:

HUN41101J102 – HUN41218J405

P420 w/ HINs:

HUN42189J102 – HUN42230J304

H426/44 aft cockpit w/ HINs:

HUN4A101G203 – HUN4A155J405

H426/44 deck salon w/ HINs:

HUN40101D203 – HUN4D196J405

P450/456 w/ HINs:

HUN45272J102 – HUN45315I405

P460/466/46 w/ HINs:

HUN46270G203 – HUN46337J405

Units: 1,650

Problem: On ball valves manufactured by

Marine Hardware (with blue handles), ball valve

stem corrodes prematurely making it impossible

to close the valve; possible water leakage

INDMAR PRODUCTS COMPANY, INC.

(Millington, TN)(060086T)

Year: 2005 - 2006

Models: GM 8.1L engine

Units: 998

Problem: Retainer clip for fuel rail damper not

properly heat treated and may fracture;

possibility of fuel leakage; possible fire/

explosion if ignition source present

IMAR GROUP

(Fargo, ND)(06R1393S)

Year: 2006

Models: Gekko Revo 6.7

Units: 24

Problem: Display of capacity information;

various electrical, fuel and ventilation system

noncompliances
12

GEM PRODUCTS, INC.

(Orange Park, FL)

The plastic portion of vented fuel fills (99800, 99820, 99840, 99860 series) manufactured by Gem Products, Inc.

may crack during fueling; possible fuel discharge into bilges; possible fire/explosion if ignition source present.

The letters “PAT. PEND” are visible on the flange of recalled products. The following companies are involved:

CHAPARRAL BOATS, INC.

(Nashville, GA)(060065T)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: SSI: 190, 204, 210, 215, 220, 235, 236, 246, 255, 256, 260, 265, 275, 276, 280, 285

SSX: 236, 256, 276

Signature: 240, 270, 276, 280, 290, 310, 330, 350

Sunesta: 214, 216, 232, 234, 236, 252, 254, 274

Units: 2,869

CHRIS CRAFT BOATS

(Sarasota, FL)(060067T)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: Speedster; Launch 22, 25 & 28; Corsair 25 & 28

Units: 189

KENNER BOATS

(Knoxville, AR)(060081T)

Year: Boats built between 020306 - 090606

Models: Mako 2201CC, 2201CCT, 1801CC, 1901CCV2, M1901CCT, M1901CC, 2101CCV2, 2101CC;

Tahoe 195O, 196O, 215O & 215OCC;

Kenner V2102, V2102T, 2103, 2103T,1800, 1800T, V1902 & V1902T

Units: 654

NAUTIC STAR BOATS

(Amory, MS)(060075T)

Year: 2007

Models: Nautic Bay 1800, 1900, 2110, 220; Offshore 2000; Sportdeck 205DC, 206 I/O, 210DC, 200SC,

210, 230; Tunnel 2110, 2000 OS DC; Sport 210 I/O, 210DC I/O, 230SL I/O

Units: 202

PARKS MANUFACTURING, INC.

(Seminole, OK)(060063T)

Year: 2007

Models: 2200 Pure Bay & 220 V-BAY LC

Units: 84

ROBALO BOATS LLC

(Nashville, GA)(060066T)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: R200, R220, R227, R240, R245, R260, R265, R295, R300, R305

Units: 225

TIDEWATER BOATS

(Irmo, SC)(060080T)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: 18, 19 & 21 Bay; 216 CC

Units: 153
13

KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP.

(Santa Ana, CA)(070053T)

Year: 2007-2008

Models: JT1500

Units: 9,763

Problem: Position of throttle lever housing can

change during operation allowing handlebar to

prevent full closure of throttle

KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP.

(Santa Ana, CA)(070038T)

Year: 2007

Models: Ultra 250X (JT1500B7F) w/ HINS:

KAW30002K607-KAW30734A707,

KAW30736A707-KAW30845A707,

KAW30847A707-KAW35244D707,

KAW35246D707-KAW35314D707,

KAW35316D707-KAW35320D707,

KAW35322D707-KAW43165E707,

Ultra LX (JT1500C7F) w/ HINS:

KAW40001K607-KAW41950B707,

KAW41952B707-KAW42802D707,

KAW42804D707-KAW43037E707,

KAW43039E707-KAW43040E707,

KAW43044E707-KAW43075E707,

KAW43077E707-KAW43142E707,

KAW43144E707-KAW43158E707,

KAW43160E707-KAW43162E707,

KAW43164E707-KAW43165E707

Units: 8,919

Problem: Fuel hose may not be properly

connected to fuel injection system fuel rail

causing fuel leakage; possible fire/explosion if

ignition source present

KEVCON CORP.

(Fort Dodge, IA)(050023S)

Year: 1996 – 2004

Models: Stealth 145C, 1237 Jon & 1437 Jon

sold under brand name Misty Harbor

Units: Stealth 145C – 147 boats w/ HINs:

KEIS0118C000 – KEIS0575F405

1237 Jon – 124 boats w/HINs:

KEIE0124K203 – KEIE0628K203

1437 Jon — 141 boats w/HINs:

KEIE0109E697 – KEIE0672G405

Units: 412

Problem: Level Flotation

KODIAK MARINE

(Tualatin, OR)(060085T)

Year: 2005 - 2006

Models: GM 8.1L engine

Units: 57

Problem: Retainer clip for fuel rail damper not

properly heat treated and may fracture;

possibility of fuel leakage; possible fire/

explosion

LARSON BOATS

(Little Falls, MN)(060111T)

Year: 2007

Models: SEi-180 I/O & Escape 204

Units: 115

Problem: Dash fuse panel supply wire is

undersized allowing for greater than three

percent minimum voltage drop to critical

components; possible tripping of the engine

circuit breaker leaving ignition system with no

power

MALIBU BOATS, INC.

(Merced, CA)(060087T)

Year: 2007

Models: Wakesetter 21.5 XTi

Wakesetter 21.5 VLX

Wakesetter 23 LSV

Wakesetter 247 LSV

Wakesetter VTX

Anniversary Response

Anniversary Wakesetter

Sunscape 21.5 LSV

Sunscape 23 LSV

Sunscape 247 LSV

vRide

Response LXi

Units: 353

Problem: Possible fuel leak around mounting

area of in-tank fuel pump; possible fire/

explosion if ignition source present
14

MALLARD MARINE

(Portland, OR)(07V163S)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: Marsh Rat

Units: 178

Problem: Maximum persons and maximum

weight capacities overrated; insufficient

flotation

MASTERCRAFT BOAT COMPANY

(Vonore, TN)(080001T)

Year: 2005 - 2007

Models: Maristar 245 & X-45

Units: 410

Problem: Possible hydraulic steering system

failure; danger of collision

MERCURY MARINE

(Fond du Lac, WI)(080007T)

Year: 2006

Models: 25/30 HP EFI Four Stroke outboards

Units: 22,167

Problem: Possibility upper motor mount

retaining nuts can come loose; loose nuts will

not cause loss of motor or loss of control

MERCURY MARINE

(Fond du Lac, WI)(060090T)

Year: 2005 – 2006

Models: GM 8.1L engine

Units: 11,183

Problem: Retainer clip for fuel rail damper not

properly heat treated and may fracture;

possibility of fuel leakage; possible fire/

explosion if ignition source present

MERCURY MARINE

(Fond du Lac, WI)(050014T)

Models: Bravo X I/II/III Drives w/ serial nos.

0W250000 thru 0W266345

Bravo XR I/III Drives w/ serial nos.

0W240000 thru 0W240652

Units: 2,655

Problem: Shift link bar may become

disengaged from shift lever resulting in loss of

shift control; possibility of collision

MERCURY MARINE

(Fond du Lac, WI)(060097T)

Year: 2006

Models: 25/30 EFI 4-Stroke outboards

w/ serial nos.: 0R125005-0R145228

Units: 2,430

Problem: Throttle may not return to neutral

after running at elevated rpms resulting in loss

of shift control; possibility of collision

MERIDIAN YACHTS

(Everett, WA)(050024T)

Year: 2005

Models: 341, 368, 381, 408, 411, 459, 490

Units: 53

Problem: Stainless rudder bearings seize on

rudder shaft; possibility of collision

MINN KOTA MOTORS

(Racine, WI) (070030T)

Year: 2006

Models: Maxxum 101 (36V)

Units: 1,233

Problem: 48 circuit boards in the 1,233 36-volt

Maxxum 101 motors produced between 7/11/06

and 11/9/06 have failed. Of these, 48 resulted in

the non-primary propulsion electric trolling

motor ceasing to operate. In two isolated

instances the circuit board failure resulted in the

trolling motor overheating to the point of

combustion

PANTHER AIRBOAT CORP.

(Cocoa, FL)(060095T)

Models: Airboats equipped with GM 8.1L

engine

Units: 50

Problem: Retainer clip for fuel rail damper not

properly heat treated and may fracture;

possibility of fuel leakage; possible fire/

explosion if ignition source present
15

RANGER BOATS

(Flippin, AR)(080014T)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: Z19, Z20, Z21, Z21I, Z22, Z520,

198VX, 519VX, 520VX

Units: 1,216

Problem: Possible fuel leakage at fuel selector

valve fitting; possible fire/explosion if ignition

source present

RANGER BOATS

(Flippin, AR)(060102T)

Year: 2006 - 2007

Models: 175VS, 178VS, 180 RE, 185 VSI,

188 IN, 188VS, 190 RE , 195’V,

1750R, 1760’,1850 R, 1860VS,

2000’, 618VS, 619VS, 519VX,

Z19’0

Units: 273

Problem: Main battery cable routed incorrectly

and could interfere with outboard engine

flywheel on boats rigged with Bombardier 115,

150, 175 or 200 HP engines; possible short

circuit; possible fire/explosion if fuel or vapor

source present

REGAL MARINE INDUSTRIES

(Orlando, FL)(06R1557S)

Year: 2007

Models: Regal 2700

Units: 60

Problem: Continuously energized ungrounded

terminals on battery switch not protected from

accidental short circuiting; all-round navigation

light obstructed by bimini top

SEA BOSS BOATS

(Newberry, SC)(050029T)

Year: 2003 – 2004

Models: 180CC w/ HINs:

GHQCW001A303-GHQCW298E404

190CC w/ HINs:

GHQJR001A303-GHQJR210E404

210CC w/ HINs:

GHQTT001L202-GHQTT174E404

210WA w/ HINs:

GHQKL001L203-GHQKL121E404

SEA BOSS BOATS

(Newberry, SC)(050029T)

Year: 2003 – 2004

Models: 235CCF w/ HINs:

GHQJR001G304-GHQJD024C404

235WAF w/ HINs:

GHQLF001G304-GHQLF017C404

19 BAY w/ HINs:

GHQ FC001A304-GHQFC060H304

19 BAY w/ HINs:

GHQFN001G304-GHQFN054E404

21 BAY w/ HINs:

GHQKB001G304-GHQKB085E404

Units: 1,054

Problem: ABS thru-hull fitting manufactured

by T-H Marine Supplies reacts with PVC hose

causing fitting to fail; possibility of sinking

SEA PRO BOATS

(Newberry, SC)(050067S)

Year: 1999 – 2006

Models: S195FS w/ HINs:

PIOFS101K899 – PIOFS713F506

S195FS w/ HINs:

PIOFS001G506 – PIOFS022J506

Units: 620

Problem: Level Flotation

SEA RAY BOATS

(Knoxville, TN)(060110T)

Year: 2007

Models: 2150 & 270 SLX

Units: 313

Problem: AC & DC Electrical Systems do not

have common ground as required by ABYC

E-11. If a short occurs in the shore power

system, possibility of stray current into the water

around the boat

STARCRAFT MARINE

(Topeka, IN)(07R2031S)

Year: 2007

Models: Starstep 200

Units: 34

Problem: Insufficiently sized openings in

natural ventilation system
16

SUNSATION PERFORMANCE BOATS

(Algonac, MI)(06R1738S)

Year: 2007

Models: 32-foot inboard

Units: 102

Problem: Missing manually reset, trip-free

circuit breaker or fuse on some ungrounded

current carrying conductors

TOHATSU AMERICA CORP.

(Farmers Branch, TX)(080023T)

Year: 2002 - 2007

Models: 70HP & 90HP TLDI

Units: 1,644

Problem: Possible abrasion of high pressure

fuel filter may result in fuel leakage; possible

fire/explosion if ignition source present

TRACKER MARINE GROUP

(Springfield, MO)(080002S)

Year: 2007 - 2008

Models: Tahoe 215I w/ HINs:

BUJ40307A707 - BUJ41378D707

BUJ41898D708 - BUJ43563I708

Tahoe 216I w/ HINs:

BUJ40308A707 - BUJ41381D707

BUJ41901D708 - BUJ43534I708

Units 726

Problem: Adapter harness failure; possibility

of engine start without input from key switch

TRACKER MARINE GROUP

(Springfield, MO)(080002S)

Year: 2007 - 2008

Models: Tundra 18 & Tundra 20

Units 81

Problem: Insufficient flotation

U.S. MARINE

(Everett, WA)(070033T)

Year: 2004 – 2008

Models: 185BR w/HINs:

BBBC19CSJ304 – BBB91CSG708

Units: 2,270

Problem: Seat base pedestal improperly

installed

VOLVO PENTA OF THE AMERICAS INC.

(Chesapeake, VA)(070027T)

Year: 2004 – 2007

Models: 12 volt CT600 & CT900 bow

thrusters

12 volt SP600 & SP900 stern

 thrusters

Units: 233

Problem: 12 V CT600/CT900 bow thrusters &

12 V SP600 & SP900 stern thrusters (QL label)

overheat during operation due to deviations

from installation instructions; one incident

resulted in an electrical fire

VOLVO PENTA OF THE AMERICAS, INC.

(Chesapeake, VA)(070045T)

Year: 2005 - 2006

Models: 3.0L, 4.3L & 5.0L gasoline engines

Units: 7,630

Problem: Holley carburetor corrosion may

result in fuel leakage; possible fire/explosion if

ignition source present

VOLVO PENTA OF THE AMERICAS, INC.

(Chesapeake, VA)(060084T)

Year: 2005 - 2006

Models: GM 8.1L engine

Units: 1,749

Problem: Retainer clip for fuel rail damper not

properly heat treated and may fracture;

possibility of fuel leakage; possible fire/

explosion if ignition source present

WEBER AUTOMOTIVE

(Markdorf, Germany)(070052S)

Year: 2006 - 2008

Models: Williams Performance Tenders

Turbojets sold by Novurania (101)

and Sugar Sand Sting (25)

Units: 126

Problem: Fuel system quick connect fitting
17

does not comply with 33 CFR 183.590

WESTERBEKE CORPORATION

(Taunton, MA)(050026S)

Year: 2003 - 2005

Models: Generators – 5.0 BCG, 5.0 BCGA,

7.0 BCGC, 7.0 BCGD, 8.0 BEG,

10.0 BEG, 12.5 BEG, 15.0 BEG,

20.0 BEG, 20.0 BEGA, 25.0 BEG, &

25.0 BEGA

Units: 2,166

Problem: “On” toggle switch fails ignition

protection test; possible fire/explosion if fuel or

vapor source present

YAMAHA MOTOR CORPORATION

(Cypress, CA)(080019T)

Year: 2007 - 2008

Models: AR210, SR210, & SX210 (FRT1100)

AR230 HO, SR230 HO & SX230 HO

(SXT1100) Sport Boats

Units: 3,954

Problem: Fuel tank filler hose may not be

installed correctly; possible fuel leakage and

possible fire/explosion if ignition source present

YAMAHA MOTOR CORPORATION

(Cypress, CA)(080020T)

Year: 2007 - 2008

Models: AR230 HO, SR230 HO &

SX230 HO (SXT1100) Sport Boats

Units: 2,716

Problem: One or more bolts may have fallen

into air box near throttle body; possible

inte3rference with throttle linkage

YAMAHA MOTOR CORPORATION

(Cypress, CA)(080017T)

Models: 2005 - 2008 XV1100 WaveRunner

2003 - 2008 GP1300 WaveRunner

Units: 64,634

Problem: Outer throttle cable could corrode

and become cracked or kinked; possibility

throttle movement impairment or failure to

return to idle position; danger of collision

YAMAHA MOTOR CORPORATION

(Cypress, CA)(070002T)

Year: 2005

Models: 90TLR Outboard motors

Units: 300

Problem: Possibility of oil pump mounting

bolts to be loose; throttle link rod might catch

on loose bolts causing throttle valve to stick in

open position; possible loss of control and

danger of collision

BFA MARINE DIV.

ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL

(Issy Les Moulineaux France)(070031T)

Year: 1997 – 2006

Models: Atlantic w/ five digit serial nos.

10001 – 50180 (1997 – 2006)

Pacific w/ five digit serial nos.

10001 – 50180 (1997 – 2006)

Baltic w/ five digit serial nos.

10001 – 50180 (1997 – 2002)

XM Offshore w/ five digit serial nos.

10001 – 50180 (1997 – 2001)

Any 2002 – 2006 leisure life raft

w/12-character HIN beginning with

XDC

Units: 7,500 worldwide (500 USA)

Problem: Dysfunctional overpressure valve; in

the event both overpressurization valves of the

two independent compartments happen to fail,

the life raft will not function as a lifesaving

device, but will sink. See http://www.bfamarine.com/work/us/
18

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DISTRIBUTION -SDL No. 147

a b c d e f g h i j k l mn op q r s t u vwx y z

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The Boating Safety Circular is published by the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety. Questions or comments

concerning the material found in this circular may be addressed to: Commandant (CG-54223), U.S. Coast Guard, 2100

Second Street SW, Washington, DC 20593-0001.

This is the last time the Boating Safety Circular will be printed in

hard copy and mailed to subscribers. All future issues will be

web-based and posted to the Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety

website (see above).
19

SWITLIK PARACHUTE COMPANY 

1325 East State Street Trenton, N.J. 08609 

Phone: (609)-587-3300 Fax: (609)-586-6647 

 E-Mail: info@switlik.com Web Site: www.switlik.com

Sub: SAFETY ALERT and RECALL 

Ref: Service Information Bulletin No. SIB-08144 

We have had reports recently from two Life Raft Service Stations of Switlik Life Raft inflation 

valves failing to operate properly and discharge the gas from the CO2 cylinder into the life raft. 

These malfunctions occurred during performance of annual service and standard 5-year 

operational and inflation testing. 

Inspection of these valves indicated clear signs of changes in the consistency of the lubricant 

and a degradation of the piston O-ring material. This resulted in the O-rings adhering to the 

pistons and valve bodies, causing the inflation valves to malfunction. 

 

We are implementing a corrective action that mandates replacement of the inflation valve with 

a valve that does not utilize this O-ring material and lubricant combination. While the instances 

and percentages of improper inflation system operation are relatively small, this issue directly 

affects whether or not a life raft will properly inflate in case of an emergency. We feel that this 

valve replacement should occur at your earliest practical opportunity.

To facilitate the inflation valve Service Bulletin in the safest and most expeditious manner for 

you, we will be replacing, at no charge to you, the existing S-2630 inflation valve/s on your life 

raft. (You are responsible for complying with any normal recommended service procedures and 

transportation of the Life Raft to and from the service facility.) 

YOUR SAFETY is of the utmost importance to us! Please contact Switlik Parachute Company 

at (609) 587-3300 or go to our web site, (www.switlik.com), for a listing of our Service Stations to 

schedule the servicing of your life raft and replacement of the inflation valve. We regret this 

occurrence and the inconvenience it causes you. Although the probability that your life raft will 

not work as designed is small, we are addressing this issue by erring on the side of safety. 

We thank you for your patience while we work to make your time on the water safer. 

PARACHUTE COMPANY 

Established 1920 

IF YOU ARE THE OWNER OF A MARINE LIFE RAFT MANUFACTURED BY 

SWITLIK PARACHUTE COMPANY, 

IT MAY HAVE A POTENTIAL PROBLEM WITH THE INFLATION SYSTEM.

THIS IS NOT OBVIOUS AND COULD CAUSE FALSE RELIANCE ON A LIFE RAFT 

THAT, IF NEEDED, MAY NOT INFLATE AND FUNCTION AS A LIFE SAVING DEVICE.