Owner's Manual Supplement
215 Express Cruiser
Illustration of the Sea Ray 215 Express Cruiser.
Printed in the U.S.A. August 1996, June 1997. Reprinted December 1999, Revised May 2002 ©Sea Ray Boats, Inc. Sea Ray Boats, Inc. 2600 Sea Ray Blvd., Knoxville, TN 37914. For information call 1-800-SRBOATS. or fax 1-314-213-7878. Internet address: http://www.searay.com
Note: Not all accessories shown in pictures or described herein are standard equipment or even available as options. Options and features are subject to change without notice.
Introduction
This owner's manual supplement has been written to provide additional specific information about your boat. It should be read carefully and kept with the owner's manual in the owner's manual packet.
The owner's manual packet has been compiled to help you operate your craft with safety and pleasure. It contains details of the craft, the equipment supplied or fitted, its systems, and information on its operation and maintenance. Please read the information carefully and familiarize yourself with the craft before using it.
If this is your first craft, or you are changing to a type of craft you are not familiar with, for your own comfort and safety, please ensure that you obtain handling and operating experience before "assuming command" of the craft. Your dealer or yacht club will be pleased to advise you of local sea schools or competent instructors.
Please keep this owner's manual packet in a secure place and hand it over to the new owner when you sell the craft.
This document covers various aspects including: Warranty Information, Construction Standards, Hull Identification Number, Servicing Your Sea Ray, Owner's Manual Packet Contents, General Arrangements, Specifications & Dimensions, Seating Plan Options, Supplemental General Information (including Bilge Pumping System, Propellers, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Engine Cooling System, Electrical Installations, Battery, Ventilation System/Bilge Blower, Steering System, Fire Extinguishing System, Fire Extinguisher Discharge Port), Boat Storage, Anchoring, Life Saving Equipment (PFD), Troubleshooting, Repair and Parts Facilities, Docking/Lifting/Trailering, Dash Layout, Location of Through-Hull Fittings, Key to Electrical Symbols, D.C. Wiring Schematic, and International Homologations.
Warranty Information
Sea Ray's warranty is comprehensive. Find the warranty information card in your owner's manual packet for complete details. If the card is missing, contact your Sea Ray dealer for a replacement.
Construction Standards
Sea Ray's commitment to "Excellence by Design" ensures a superior craft offering comfort, performance, safety, and dependability. All Sea Ray boats comply with United States Coast Guard safety standards and are designed, engineered, and manufactured according to applicable recommendations and guidelines of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
Hull Identification Number (HIN)
The "Hull Identification Number" is located on the starboard side of the transom. It is the most important identifying factor and must be included in all correspondence and orders. Failure to include it can cause delays. Engine serial numbers and part numbers are also vital when writing about or ordering engine parts. Refer to the engine owner's manual for their locations.
HIN Number Location Diagram: Shows the location of the HIN on the transom.
Servicing Your Sea Ray
When your boat requires service beyond regular maintenance, it should be taken to an authorized Sea Ray dealer.
To find a dealer in your area, call: 1-800-SRBOATS. Fax: 1-314-213-7878 (Domestic/International).
If a problem is not handled to your satisfaction:
- Discuss warranty-related problems directly with the dealership's service manager or your salesperson. Allow the dealer an opportunity to resolve the issue.
- If a problem remains unresolved by your dealer, contact Sea Ray Boats at 1-800-SRBOATS for appropriate customer service department information.
Owner's Manual Packet Contents
The owner's manual packet contains various documents to assist you. The packet includes:
- Sea Ray Owner's Manual
- Sea Ray Owner's Manual Supplement
- Sea Ray Specification Sheet
- Sea Ray Parts Manual
- Engine Operator's Manual
- Original Equipment Manuals
- Owner's Packet Insert
These documents cover a wide range of topics including Accident Reporting, Alarms, Anchoring, Battery, Bilge Layout, Bilge Blower, Bilge Pump, Canvas, Capacity Plate, Carbon Monoxide, Certifications, Cleaning, Cockpit, Communication Equipment, Compass, Console, Construction Standards, Controls, Decals, Depth Finder, Dimensions, Drains (Through Hull Fittings), Education, Electrical System, Electrolysis, Emergency Engine Shutdown, Emergency Procedures, Engine, Environmental Considerations, Equipment (Recommended, Required, Standard, Optional), Fire, Fire Suppression Equipment, Flame Arrestor, Flooding/Swamping, Fuel System, Gauges, Gear Shift, Graphics, Head System, Homologations (International), Hotlines, Identification Numbers, Ignition, Ignition Protection, Impaired Operation, Instrument Use & Operation, Layout, Lifesaving Equipment, Lifting, Lightning Protection, Lights, Load Capacity, Maintenance, Maneuvering, Monitors, Nautical Terms, Navigation, Operation, Optional Systems, Personal Flotation Devices (PFD's), Power Capacity, Powertrain, Propeller, Propulsion, Registration, Safety, Seating, Seaworthiness Inspection, Service Schedule, Spare Parts, Specifications, Stability, Start-In-Gear Protection, Steering, Symbols, Switches, Tank Capacities, Throttle, Through-Hull Fittings, Trim Tabs, Troubleshooting, Upholstery, Ventilation, Warning Labels, and Warranty.
General Arrangement & Dimensions
Profile Diagram: Shows the profile of the 215 Express Cruiser with key dimensions indicated.
215 EC SPECIFICATIONS:
- Overall Length: 21' 6" (6.55 m)
- Beam: 8' 6" (2.59 m)
- Draft (Stern Drive Down): 33" (84 cm)
- Draft (Stern Drive Up): 16" (41 cm)
- Dry Weight (lbs.): 3,700 (1,678 kg)
- Fuel Capacity (Gallons): 50 (189.3 liters)
- Usable Fuel (Gallons): 47.5 (179.8 liters)
- Water Capacity (Gallons): 8 (30.3 liters)
- Dead Rise: 18°
HEIGHT DIMENSIONS:
- Waterline To Top Of Windshield: 5' 0" (1.52 m)
- Keel To Top Of Windshield: 6' 8" (2.03 m)
Seating Plan Diagram: A top-down view illustrating the seating arrangement for the 215 Express Cruiser, including helm seats, aft bench seat, upholstered V-berth cushions, and marine grade carpet.
Note: Specification measurements and locations are approximations and subject to variance.
Supplemental General Information
Bilge Pumping System
The 215 EC is equipped with an automatic bilge pump system. Refer to the Owner's Manual and Owner's Packet for instructions and warranty information.
Typical Bilge Pump Installation Diagram: Illustrates a bilge pump connected to a float switch, wired to the battery and dash switch, with a discharge hose leading to a through-hull fitting.
Propellers
Your Sea Ray boat is equipped with a propeller optimized for general use. Changing to a lower pitch propeller can improve acceleration and load-pulling ability, potentially at the cost of top speed. Conversely, a higher pitch propeller may achieve higher top speed with a light load but can reduce acceleration and power. Consult your Sea Ray dealer for specific recommendations. Never use a propeller that allows the engine to operate above the recommended RPM.
Fuel System
The 215 EC features a gasoline fuel system. A detailed drawing is available in the Parts Manual. Fueling instructions and precautions are provided in the Owner's Manual.
Propulsion System
The 215 EC utilizes a stern drive propulsion system, also known as an inboard-outboard engine. The engine is mounted within the hull, typically secured to aft stringers and covered by an engine box. The drive unit, or lower unit, is attached to the hull/transom and pivots for steering. Refer to the Owner's Manual and Engine Owner's Manual for operating instructions and warranty information.
Stern Drive Engine Diagram: Depicts the engine mounted inside the hull and the drive unit extending below the hull.
Exhaust System
The exhaust system is an integral part of the propulsion system. Refer to the Engine Owner's Manual for instructions and warranty information.
Engine Cooling System
The engine cooling system is an integral part of the propulsion system. Refer to the Engine Owner's Manual for instructions and warranty information.
Electrical Installations
This supplement includes electrical schematics for technical reference. Sea Ray advises against attempting DIY electrical system work; consult an authorized Sea Ray dealer. Sea Ray reserves the right to update electrical systems without prior notice to consumers.
Battery
Consult the owner's manual for battery disconnect and maintenance procedures. For battery replacement, refer to the engine operation and maintenance manual for the recommended battery type. Sea Ray-recommended batteries are available through your dealer.
CAUTION: Always disconnect battery cables before performing any work on the engine's electrical system or alternator wiring to prevent arcing or damage. While the engine is running, do not loosen or detach battery terminal clamps or turn off the battery switch(es), as this can damage the alternator and other electronic units.
DANGER: Never use an open flame in the battery storage area. Avoid striking sparks near the battery. A battery can explode if a flame or spark ignites the free hydrogen gas released during charging.
Ventilation System / Bilge Blower
Sea Ray Sport Boats are equipped with an electric bilge blower designed to remove fumes from the engine compartment and provide ventilation through deck vents. This system should be used before starting the engine and when operating at low speeds. The bilge blower is typically located inside the port side of the transom, with its switch on the dash. Refer to the Owner's Manual and Owner's Packet for operating instructions and safety precautions.
Typical Bilge Blower Installation Diagram: Shows the bilge blower, hose, and vents, with wiring connections to the battery and dash switch.
Steering System
The 215 EC is equipped with a power steering system. Refer to the Engine Owner's Manual in the Owner's Packet for instructions and warranty information.
Fire Extinguishing System
The 215 EC may be offered with an automatic fire extinguishing system. If your boat is not equipped with this option, you must carry an approved fire extinguisher. Refer to the Owner's Manual and Owner's Packet for instructions and safety precautions.
Fire Extinguisher Discharge Port
Your sport boat is equipped with a fire extinguisher discharge port on the motor box. In the event of a fire, the access plate on the engine compartment can be removed to allow the operator to discharge a fire extinguisher into the engine compartment without opening it, which could feed oxygen to the fire and cause flashback. Do not open the engine compartment immediately.
Boat Storage
WET STORAGE PROCEDURES: Special care is needed for boats moored in salt or fresh water, as marine growth can affect appearance and performance. Prevention methods include:
- Periodically haul the boat out of the water and scrub the bottom with a bristle brush and a soap solution.
- Paint the hull below the waterline with a good grade of antifouling paint. Do not paint engine drive surfaces.
Note: Consult EPA regulations regarding bottom paint application. Consult your marine paint dealer for proper application methods.
SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS: Be conscious of your boat's security. Always remove the key from the ignition, store your boat in a secure place, lock the trailer, and if possible, chain your trailer to a fixed object. Remove and stow any removable electronic gear (fishfinders, LORAN, etc.) and personal gear (fishing poles, skis, etc.) normally left aboard your boat.
Anchoring
To anchor, bring the bow into the wind or current and put the engine in neutral. When the vessel comes to a stop, lower, do not throw, the anchor over the bow. The anchor line should be 5 to 7 times the depth of water.
Anchoring Arrangement
The 215 EC is equipped with an anchor storage hatch with an anchor storage cradle inside. Stow the anchor in the cradle when not in use. Before using the anchor, ensure the anchor line is secured to the boat's bow eye or bow cleat.
Anchoring Diagram (fig. 10.1): Shows the anchor storage hatch, cradle, bow eye, and cleats.
Life Saving Equipment (Personal Flotation Device - PFD)
STORAGE: The 215 EC offers storage for PFDs in the floor storage compartments.
OPERATION: Wear PFDs according to manufacturer recommendations. See the pamphlet "Federal Requirements And Safety Tips For Recreational Boats" in the owner's packet or obtain one from your dealer.
MAINTENANCE: Rinse with fresh water and let dry thoroughly. Do not store in a damp compartment to avoid mildew.
Troubleshooting
List of Reference Manuals and Drawings:
- PERFORMANCE: Refer to the owner's manual.
- ENGINE: Refer to the owner's manual and/or the engine manual.
- ELECTRICAL: Refer to the electrical section of the owner's manual and electrical schematics in this owner's manual supplement. Only a qualified marine electrical technician may service the boat's electrical system.
Repair and Parts Facilities
To find a Sea Ray dealer in your area, call Sea Ray Customer Service: 1-800-SRBOATS. FAX: 1-314-213-7878.
To find repair and parts facilities for equipment installed on your boat, refer to the original equipment manuals (OEMs) found in the owner's manual packet.
Docking / Lifting / Trailering
CLEATS: Cleats must not be used for lifting the boat. They are intended for mooring use only.
BOW AND STERN EYES: The bow eye should be used to haul the boat onto a trailer. The stern eyes should be used as tie-down points for trailering the boat. The bow and stern eyes may be used for short-term lifting of the boat, such as for service. Long-term lifting with the bow and stern eyes may cause stress on the fiberglass and gel coat.
For long-term storage, use flat, wide belt-type slings and spreaders long enough to keep pressure from gunwales. Do not place slings where they may lift on underwater fittings. Refer to Owner's Manual.
Bow Eye & Cleats Diagram (fig. 11.1): Shows the bow eye, bow cleats, and winch line.
Stern Eyes and Cleats Diagram (fig. 11.2): Shows the stern eyes and cleats on the transom.
Dash Layout
Dash Layout Diagram (Fig. 12.1): An illustration of the main instrument panel displaying gauges for Fuel, Oil Pressure, Tachometer, Speedometer, Water Temperature, Voltmeter, Trim Gauge, and switches for Ignition, Bilge Blower, Horn, Bilge Pump, Nav Lights, Anchor Lights, Water System, and accessory outlets.
Dash Layout Diagram (Fig. 12.2): A view of the helm area showing optional equipment such as a Compass and Depth Finder, the Gauge & Switch Panel, Stereo, 12 Volt Receptacle, and optional Trim Tab Switches.
Location of Through-Hull Fittings
Starboard Side Diagram (fig. 13.1): Shows the starboard side of the hull with fittings including the International Optional Fuel Tank Enclosure Vent, Bilge Pump Discharge, Optional Depth Finder Transducer, and Rope Locker Drain.
Port Side Diagram (fig. 13.2): Shows the port side of the hull with fittings including the International Optional Fuel Tank Enclosure Vent, Optional Pump-Out Head Vent, Sink/Cooler Drain, Rope Locker Drain, and the Garboard Drain Plug (on the transom).
Key to Electrical Symbols
This section provides a key to understanding the electrical symbols used in the wiring diagrams. It includes symbols for various components like lights, gauges, switches, pumps, motors, and connectors, along with a color-coded wire legend and wire gauge standards.
Wire Color Legend: Includes colors such as RED, BLACK, BLUE, LIGHT BLUE, BROWN, GRAY, TAN, PINK, ORANGE, VIOLET, WHITE, YELLOW, GREEN, and their combinations with tracers (e.g., BRN/ORN - BROWN W/ORANGE TRACER).
Connector Information: Details on connector sizes and types, including insulated butt splices, quick connects, ring connectors, and snap plugs.
Wire Gauge Standards: Notes on American Wire Gauge (AWG) standards and connector size determination.
D.C. Wiring Schematic
This section provides detailed DC wiring schematics for the boat's electrical system. The diagrams illustrate the connections between the engine harness, fuse panel, various components (speedometer, oil pressure, trim, water temp, tachometer, fuel, depth, ignition, halon, wiper, depth sounder, nav lights, bilge blower, bilge pump, horn, water pump), battery, and stereo.
D.C. Wiring Schematic (Page 15): Shows the main dashboard instruments and their connections to the engine harness and fuse panel, including color-coded wires and gauge sizes.
D.C. Wiring Schematic (Page 16): Details the power trim system, engine harness connections, trim tab harness, battery switch, and various accessory circuits like cabin lights, bilge pump, and stereo, with notes on wire length and sheathing for the power trim pump.
International Homologations
This vessel and its systems have been constructed in accordance with standards and specifications in effect at the time of manufacture as published by the various regulatory authorities listed below:
- Ministere De La Mer - France
- Registro Italiano Navale - Italy
- Det Norske Veritas - Norway
- Securite des Nauires - Canada
- J.C.I. (Japan Craft Inspection) - Japan
- N.K.K. (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai) - Japan
- B.S.I. (British Standards Institute) - England
- Ministerio Obras Publicas Y Transporters - Spain
- EC Directive - European Community
Further information may be obtained from Sea Ray Customer Service: 1-800-SRBOATS.