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“The mission of Boston Whaler is to
provide consumers with the
safest, highest quality, most durable
boats in the world”
IINFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION IS BASED ON THE LATEST PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AT PRINTING, BOSTON WHALER
®
BOATS, INC. RESERVES THE RIGHT
TO MAKE CHANGES AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE, IN THE COLORS, EQUIPMENT, SPECIFICATIONS, MATERIALS AND PRICES OF ALL MODELS, OR TO DISCONTINUE MODELS.
SHOULD CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS TO THE MODELS BE MADE BOSTON WHALER
®
IS NOT OBLIGATED TO MAKE SIMILAR CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS TO MODELS
SOLD PRIOR TO THE DATE OF SUCH CHANGES. THE FOLLOWING ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF THE BRUNSWICK CORPORATION:
180 DAUNTLESS, BOSTON WHALER
®
. MRP #1808100
Rev E 10/11/05
Boston Whaler founder
Richard T. Fisher demon-
strating one of the fea-
tures that has made Bos-
ton Whaler the “Unsink-
able Legend” in this
1961 LIFE Magazine
Photo.
Richard T. Fisher was
posthumously inducted
into the National Marine
Manufacturer’s Associa-
tion (NMMA) Hall of
Fame on September 26,
1996 for accomplish-
ments made in marine
engineering and con-
struction.
History
In 1958, company founder Richard T. Fisher introduced the first Boston Whaler boat in Braintree,
Massachussetts. It featured two significant innovations: first, its twin sponson hull design produced superior
stability and a remarkably dry ride; second, its unique foam core construction made the boat not only du-
rable, but unsinkable as well.
Fisher took every opportunity to illustrate the unique characteristics of the Boston Whaler. His most famous
demonstration was captured in 1961, by Life Magazine. The series of photographs showed the boat under-
way, the boat being sawed in half and ultimately Fisher motoring away in the remaining half of the boat. And
through the years many other demonstrations have proved the toughness and durability of the Boston Whaler
hull. And though you may never cut your boat in half, this only goes to show one thing, people whose
livelihood and lives depend on boats consistently choose Boston Whaler because of their seaworthiness,
dependablility and the inherent safety of a hull that won’t sink even if severely damaged.
Boston Whalers are built to last. For over 40 years Boston Whaler® has strived to make each model better,
providing you with a safe and fun boating experience. That is the reason we offer a 10 year limited transfer-
able warranty. It is also an excellent reason why you can trust the safety of your family and friends to a
Boston Whaler.
PLEASE KEEP THIS OWNER’S MANUAL PACKET IN A SECURE PLACE, AND BE SURE TO HAND IT OVER
TO THE NEW OWNER IF YOU SELL THE BOAT.
Section 1 - 180 Ventura
Table of Contents
Section 5-Bilge System
Bilge Pump 21
Operation/Maintenance 21
Bilge Diagram 21
Livewell 21
Operation/Maintenance 21
Livewell Diagram 21
Section 6-Propulsion System
Gear shift/Throttle Control 22
Digital Throttle/Shift (DTS) (Optional) 22
Power Trim Operation 22
Steering Information 23
Steering Pull 23
Maintenance 23
Hydraulic Steering, (optional) 24
Operation/Maintenance 24
Filling 24
Propeller Information 25
Propeller Assembly Diagram 25
Section 7-Getting to know your Boston Whaler
Mooring Points 26
Lifting 26
Hull Maintenance 27
Hull Maintenance (Blisters) 27
Bottom Painting 27
Painted Hull Care (Bottom) 28
Vinyl Cushion Care 28
Long Term Storage 28
Engine 29
Fuel System 29
Trailer Storage 29
Electrical System 29
Drainage 29
Canvas Care & Maintenance 29
Trailer, (optional) 30
Trailer Safety 30
Bunk Trailer Terminology 30
Section 8-Anchoring Information
Anchoring Information 31
Lowering 31
Setting 31
Weighing 31
Section 9-Maintenance Log & Notes
Maintenance Log 32
Notes 32
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Section 1-180 Ventura
Introduction 1
Table of Contents 1
Construction Standards 2
Our Hull 2
Servicing your Boston Whaler 2
Hull Identification Number 2
Section 2-General Arrangements
& Specifications
Specifications & Dimensions 3
Standard Features 4
Notable Options 5-6
Standard/Optional Seating 7
Storage 8
Through-hull Fittings 9
Canvas Arrangement 10
Deck Occupancy 11
Label Locations 11
Section 3-Fuel System
Fuel System 12
Fuel Fill 12
Fuel System Diagram 12
Fuel Vent 12
Empty Tank 13
Hoses & Fittings 13
Tank Cleaning 13
Remote Oil System 13
Static Electricity and the Fuel System 14
Section 4-Electrical System
Electrical System 15
Battery Information 15
Battery Maintenance 15
Battery Options 16
Battery Switch, (optional) 16
12 Volt Accessory Receptacle 16
Ignition Shutdown Switch 16
Navigation Lighting 17
Operation 17
Electrical Diagram 18
Breaker Panel Box 19
CE Option w/ Battery Switch 19
Console Switch Panel 20
Multi-System Tachometer 20
Multi-System Speedometer 20
This Owner’s Manual has been written to provide specific information about your boat and it should be read carefully.
Keep this booklet with the Owner’s Manual in the Owner’s Manual Packet.
The Owner’s Manual Packet has been compiled to help you operate your boat with safety and pleasure. It contains
details of the boat, the equipment supplied or fitted, it’s systems and information on it’s operation and maintenance.
Please familiarize yourself with the boat and it’s operation before using it.
If this is your first boat, or you are changing to a type of boat you are not familiar with, for your own comfort and
safety, please ensure that you obtain handling and operating experience before “assuming command” of your boat.
Your Boston Whaler® dealer or local Yacht Club will be pleased to advise you of marine safety classes and safe
boating classes in your area.
Introduction
1
Section 1 - 180 Ventura
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
2
Hull
Identification
Number
“THE MISSION OF BOSTON WHALER IS TO PROVIDE CONSUMERS WITH THE
SAFEST, HIGHEST QUALITY, MOST DURABLE BOATS IN THE WORLD”.
We are dedicated to creating a superior product providing you with comfort, performance, safety and dependability.
All of our boats comply with the safety standards set by the United States Coast Guard and are designed, engineered
and manufactured in accordance with applicable recommendations and guidelines of the American Boat and Yacht
Council (A.B.Y.C.) and certified by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (N.M.M.A.).
Construction Standards
Hull Identifcation Number
The “Hull Identification Number” is located on the
starboard side of the transom wall.
This is the most important identifying factor and must
be included in all correspondence related to your ves-
sel. Failure to do so will only create delays. Also of
vital importance are the engine serial numbers and
part numbers when writing about or ordering parts
for your engine.
Our Hull
Boston Whaler® hulls are constructed with our pat-
ented Unibond™ construction. This involves shoot-
ing high density foam into a closed mold system.
The foam expands to fill voids in the hull, and when
the finished product is pulled from the mold, the deck
and the hull are chemically bonded to form a solid,
inseparable unit.
2
3
4
When your 180 Ventura needs to be serviced or regu-
lar maintenance is needed, it should be taken to an
authorized Boston Whaler® dealer.
To find a Boston Whaler® dealer in your area call:
1-800-942-5379
Domestic/International
If a problem is not handled to your satisfaction:
Discuss any warranty related problems directly
with the service manager of the dealership or your
sales person. Give the dealership an opportunity
to help the service department resolve the matter
for you.
Servicing your Boston Whaler
Typical H.I.N. Description
1
1 No air voids
2 High density closed cell non-absorbent foam
3 High quality resins and gelcoats
4 Woven glass matting
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
3
18’6”
8’0”
4’9”
12”
7’3”
*
Note: The canvas top shown here
is for reference purposes only.
* *
21’11”
Overall Length 18’6” 5.64 m
Trailerable Length 21’11” 6.70 m
Bridge Clearance 7’3” 2.31 m
Bridge Clearance (no top)4’9” 1.45 m
Beam 8’0” 2.44 m
Draft, (Hull Only) 12” .30 m
Weight (dry, no engine) 2300 lbs. 1043 kg
Swamped Capacity 3800 lbs 1723 kg
Maximum Engine Weight 530 lbs. 240 kg
Maximum Weight, (passengers,
engine(s), gear,** 2600 lbs 1179 kg
Persons 8
Maximum Horsepower 150HP 112 kw
Minimum Horsepower 115 HP 85 kw
Fuel Capacity 60 gal.(U.S.) 227 L
* Waterline
*** Engine Draft,(See Notice)
Specifications & Dimensions
Specified measurements are approximations and are
subject to variance.
NOTICE
!
NOTICE
!
Optional equipment and loading of the boat will af-
fect the draft measurements. Follow the recommen-
dations listed on your capacity plate regarding the
maximum amount of weight the boat can safely
carry.
***
Exceeding this weight will affect the bost’s perfor-
mance. DO NOT Exceed the weights listed on the
capacity plate.
NOTICE
!
**
323334
1
2
3
4
5
6
78910111213141516
24
25
26 27
29 31
30
28
18
17
20
19
21
22
23
29 28
35
27 Adjustable pedestal seat with cushions
28 Gear shift/Throttle control
29 Sport style steering wheel
30 Compass
31 Horn, (on deck side)
32 60 Gal. (227 L) polyethelene fuel tank
33 Footrest, Port & Starboard
34 Fire extinguisher pocket, Starboard
35 Aft navigation stern light, (alternate location)*
180 Ventura
Standard Features
1 Bow navigation light
2 Stainless steel bow rail, 2 piece
3 8” cleat bow (2), stern (2), spring (2)
4 Anchor locker w/ drain
5 Heavy duty rub rail
6 Forward seating cushions w/ storage under
7 Drinkholders (2)
8 Walk-thru windshield section
9 Console cooler, 41Qt. (38L)
10 Drinkholders, port console, (2)
11 Aluminum framed windshield
12 Fuel fill
13 Self bailing cockpit
14 Aft drinkholders, (2)
15 Aft rodholders (4)
16 Fold up stern seat
17 Livewell
18 Integrated swim platform
19 Motorwell
20 Motorwell drains (2)
21 135 XL Optimax Engine W/Smartcraft
®
22 Motorwell access hatch
23 Telescoping swim ladder
24 Sterndeck access hatch
25 Aft navigation stern light
26 Step to/from cockpit
* When the anchor roller option is used, the
location of the aft navigation light will be for-
ward of the motorwell.
180 Ventura- Owner’s Manual
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications4
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications 5
Notable Options
3
7
9
2
4
1
8
4
6
1 150 XL Optimax Engine W/Smartcraft
®
2 135 XL DTS Mercury Verado 4-stroke
w/hydraulic tilt steering
3 150 XL DTS Mercury Verado 4-stroke
w/hydraulic tilt steering
4 Red or Blue graphics, striping & logos
5 Stereo Remote
6 Hydraulic tilt steering
7 AM/FM digital stereo with CD & (4)
waterproof speakers
8 Stainless steel bow rail
9 Ski pylon
Note: Boston Whaler reserves the right to discontinue or change
specifications, models, equipment or prices at any time without
incurring obligation.
5
1
6
2
7
3 4
5
1 Trolling motor panel *
2 Fishing seat & base, bow
3 Removable bow light
4 Trolling motor flat * *
5 Under gunwale ski/rod racks, port and starboard
6 Fishing seat & base, aft
7 Gunwale mounted rod holders(2), port & star-
board
* The Battery box for the trolling motor pack-
age is located under starboard hatch on the
sterndeck.
* * The trolling motor option is not compatible
with the standard rails.
Battery box location for
the trolling motor package
Notable Options, Fishing Package
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications
6
The trolling motor outline depicted here is for
reference ONLY.
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications 7
4
(see DANGER-
notice)
180 Ventura
Standard Seating
180 Ventura Optional Seating
1 Bow cushion
2 Forward seating cushions
3 Port & starboard pedestal seats, adjustable
4 Foldup stern seat
5 Bow filler and cushion
6 Aft fishing seat
7 Forward fishing seat
1
7
5
The aft foldaway seat in this view, is shown in the
closed and locked position. While in this position it
can be used as a standing surface for fishing or moor-
ing. Be aware of your footing while standing on this
surface, slipping or falling could result in serious in-
jury or death. Occupation of this area while closed
and the boat is in motion or in rough seas should be
expressly prohibited .
DANGER
!
2
3
6
1
2
9
5
3
4
6
7
8
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications
8
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
180 Ventura Storage
1 41 Qt.(38 L) cooler
2 Cooler access lid
3 Lockable console storage
4 Port bow storage, under cushion
5 Starboard bow storage, under cushion
6 Bow anchor locker w/ drain, under cushion
7 Aft ski storage
8 Ski/rod racks, port & starboard
9 Fire extinguisher pocket
Optional equipment and loading of the boat
will affect the draft measurements. Follow the
recommendations listed on your capacity
plate regarding the maximum amount of
weight the boat can safely carry.
NOTICE
!
R
2
3
PORT
1
4
5
6
7
68
4
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
1 Anchor Locker Drain
2 Livewell Intake
3 Cooler Drain
4 Deck Drain
5 Bilge Pump Outlet
6 Motorwell Drain
7 Livewell Drain
8 Garboard Drain
STARBOARD
180 Ventura Through-Hull Fittings
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications 9
The deck drain provides self-bailing capabilities while the
boat is static in the water and no passengers on board.
This feature prevents the accumulation of water in the
cockpit. the drain must be in place when underway.
NOTICE
!
Depending on the type of boat you have, you may
have underwater fittings that need drain plugs.
Garboard drain plugs and fishbox drain plugs need
to be in place before the boat goes into the water.
Any fitting that will be underwater needs to be
plugged or the seacock needs to be closed
NOTICE
!
Through hull fittings should be checked for proper
seal annually. When the boat is in the water the un-
derwater fittings can be checked for dripping. It is
recommended that the underwater fittings be re-
moved, cleaned and resealed every other year.
NOTICE
!
If the through hull fittings need to be replaced, it is
recommended that an authorized Boston Whaler ®
dealer perform this type of repair. Through hull fit-
tings that are improperly installed can cause pre-
mature hull failure and may void the Boston
Whaler® limited warranty.
NOTICE
!
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
6
5
DANGER
!
Gasoline engines produce CARBON
MONOXIDE.Prolonged exposure can cause
serious injury or death. To reduce CARBON
MONOXIDE accumulation, increase air
movement by opening windows or adjusting
the canvas to allow for more air circulation
1 Aft drop curtain, (red or blue)
2 Side curtains, port & starboard, (red or blue)
3 Forward visor with roll-up walk thru
4 Forward tensioning strap, port & starboard
5 Canvas top, (can be locked as shown or layed
flat on the gunwales).
180 Ventura Canvas Arrangement
The Sun-Top can be trailered with the canvas
boot on, or the frame can be lowered to the
gunwales.
NEVER TRAILER THE CANVAS TOP IN THE
OPEN POSITION.
NOTICE
!
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
10
180 Ventura Canvas Arrangement
1 Aft cockpit cover, (red or blue)
2 Bow cockpit cover, (red or blue)
3 Canvas sun-top, (red or blue)
4 Stainless steel main support
5 Support hinge
6 Locking pin
7 Stainless steel aft support
See detail
“A”
See detail
“B”
Detail “A”
Detail “B”
1
2
3
4
5
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Section 2 - General Arrangement & Specifications 11
Accomodation deck:
This area of the boat is inside the
cockpit and includes helm seating.
Movement in this area should be
done with extreme caution while the boat is under-
way. A sudden shift in boat direction can cause a loss
of balance and lead to injury or death.
Working deck:
This area is intended for occupation
ONLY while mooring, anchoring,
loading/unloading or when the boat
is at rest. NEVER operate the en-
gine while loading or unloading swimmers/divers
from the swim platform/ladder.
Be aware of your footing while the boat is underway,
slipping or falling could result in serious injury or death,
especially if the boat is in motion or in rough seas. Keep
the accomodation deck clean, so if movement is
neccessary it will be free of obstruction.
DANGER
!
Gelcoat surfaces are slippery when wet. Use ex-
treme caution when walking on wet surfaces. Use
care when waxing to ensure that walkways are not
made dangerously slippery.
WARNING
!
Deck Occupancy
Never occupy the working decks while the boat is
underway.
WARNING
!
1811367
1811368
1795087
PROP 65 HANG TAG
LABEL, DANGER CO TRANSOM
LABEL, WARNING CO HELM
1811978
1
2
4
3
5
6
1 5/8” fuel vent, (integrated into the fuel fill
cap)
2 1-1/2” fuel fill (port side gunwale)
3 60 Gal.(227.1 L) polyethylene fuel tank.
4 Ground wire to forward buss bar
5 Fuel supply line to engine.
6 3 Gal. (11.4 L) Remote oil system tank,(opt.)
The 180 Ventura is equipped with a
gasoline fuel system. Please take time
to read and understand all the fuel re-
lated information and warnings in the
engine owner’s packet.
Fuel Fill
The 180 Ventura fuel fill is located in the port side of
the gunwale, it is marked “GAS”, and is opened by
use of a special key that is included with the owner’s
manual packet.
Follow the engine manufacturer’s recommendation
for the types of fuel and oil to use.
180 Ventura fuel system diagram
Section 3 - Fuel System12
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
The 180 Ventura has a fuel vent that is integrated
into the fuel fill assembly. The fuel tank vent serves
as a pressure/vacuum release.
Fuel Vent
Fuel fill
& vent
Fuel System
CAUTION
!
Leaking fuel is a fire and explosion hazard, inspect the
system regularly. Examine fuel tanks and exposed lines
for leaks and corrosion.
DANGER
!
Check for leaks in tubing, connections and hoses. Cor-
rect the cause of the leaks and ventilate the area to
insure that no fumes remain, prior to energizing any
electrical equipment and/or starting the engines.
CAUTION
!
Use of improper gasolines can damage your engine se-
riously. Engine damage resulting from use of improper
gasoline is considered misuse of engine and will void
the warranty. Follow engine manufacturer’s recommen-
dations regarding the types of fuel and oil to use.
CAUTION
!
Oil and fuel spills can be dangerous and can subject
offenders to severe penalties
NOTICE
!
Remove portable tanks from boat and fill from shore.
When fueling is complete, secure tanks to deck with
straps provided.
DANGER
!
Static electricity can ignite gasoline vapors causing
serious injury/death and/or destruction of property.
NOTICE
!
Fuel tanks should never be filled to capacity, allow 2%
for expansion.
GENERAL
FUEL,
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Section 3 - Fuel System
13
EMPTY TANK:
A fuel tank with levels less than 1/4 full can cause
problems by stalling an engine due to fuel starvation
or by allowing sediment and dirt to enter the fuel
supply lines. Keeping the tank filled will reduce the
chance of this occurance; since the residue will most
likely settle to the bottom of the tank. Monitor the
fuel level often to prevent this from happening.
HOSES AND FITTINGS:
Hoses and fittings should be inspected at least every
100 hours. Check the hoses for cracks, abrasions and
deterioration and the strong smell of fuel prior to
starting the engine(s). If the hoses or fittings are dam-
aged or worn, replace them with only marine grade
replacement parts. Your authorized Boston Whaler®
dealer will have all the parts information you will
need.
TANK CLEANING:
Excessive water and sediment may force you to con-
sider having the tank professionally cleaned. If you
are frequently changing fuel filter/water separators
and notice a loss in power, consult a professional
tank cleaning contractor regarding this procedure and
proper disposal of residue and water.
Remote Oil System*
The 180 Ventura is equipped with a remote oil sys-
tem. This system consists of a single 3- Gal.(11.3L)
reservoir tank and hoses which contain and meter
lubricating oil to the engine.
The tank has an external fill located at the motorwell
area. Access to the tank can be reached through the
motorwell access hatch. When recapping the fill
make sure that it is secure to prevent spills and to
prevent the intrusion of water into the system. Your
remote oil tank is secured by a nylon strap and quick
release clip. Little maintenance is required for the
remote oil system, aside from checking the hoses for
abrasions and cracks and hose clamps for proper
tightness. The tank should not be exposed to ultra-
violet light, rain or seawater for extended periods of
time.
Remote Oil Tank Location
(sterndeck has been removed for clarity)
Oil fill
from deck
Oil supply
to engine
3-Gal. (11.3 L)
Remote oil tank
* This system is not present if the boat is equipped
with the Verado 4-stroke engine option.
Section 3 - Fuel System
14
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
There is a danger that static electricity can ignite gaso-
line vapors that have not been ventilated outside an
enclosed area. Use extreme caution when fueling
your boat from a source outside the regular venues,
(e.g. marinas, fuel service stations.)
Your boat has safety features that can be circum-
vented by not adhering to standard fueling practices.
Your boats bonding system protects it from creating
and discharging static electricity.
Your boat must be in contact with the water or a land
based grounding system. Here are some helpful sug-
gestions to keep you safe from static electricity while
refueling your boat.
• NEVER fuel your boat in unsafe conditions such
as: suspended on a sling or in a situation that in-
creases the liklihood of static discharge.
• NEVER use homemade containers to fill your fuel
tanks.
• Fuel carried on-board outside of a fixed fuel sys-
tem should be stored in an approved container or
in a portable tank such as provided for outboard
engines and be stowed safely outside of the engine
or living compartment(s).
• Shut down the engine(s), motors and fans prior to
taking on fuel. Any ignition sources should be ex-
tinguished before filling the fuel tank(s).
Static Electricity and the Fuel System
•Close all ports, windows, doors and hatches.
• Fueling should never be done at night except in
well-lighted areas.
• Always keep the fuel nozzle in contact with the
fuel fill plate or the edge of the fuel tank opening
throughout the filling process.
• Allow areas where gasoline vapors could collect
to be ventilated before starting the engine(s).
• Wipe any spillage completely and dispose of rags
or waste on shore.
• Secure the fill cap tightly.
• Fuel tanks should never be filled to capacity. al-
low 2% for expansion.
• Portable tanks should only be filled while on the
ground; never on-board the boat.
Electrical System
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
CAUTION
!
Never reset a breaker without first determining and
correcting the cause of the trip. Should a circuit re-
peatedly trip, have a qualified electrician determine
and correct the cause.
• Never use an open flame in the battery storage area.
• Avoid striking sparks near the battery
• A battery will explode if a flame or spark ignitesthe
free hydrogen given off during charging.
• The battery should always be disconnected before
doing any work or maintenance on the electrical sys-
tem.
CAUTION
!
If equipped with a battery switch, you will need to stop
the engine before moving the switch to the “OFF” po-
sition.
CAUTION
!
Batteries contain sulfuric acid which is dangerous and
can cause serious injury.AVOID contact with skin, eyes
and clothing. If contact occurs, immediately flush the
affected area with large quantities of water and call
for medical assistance
DANGER
!
Always store the battery in the the battery box. Use
the straps and clamp to keep the box secure while
underway.
NOTICE
!
Battery Information
Your 180 Ventura is equipped with
an electrical system that provides
power for the following:
• Engine ignition
• Engine tilt trim system
• Helm switch panel & helm instrument panel
• Lighting/Navigation system
• Livewell system
• Add-on accessories and electronics
Section 4 - Electrical System
15
The system consists of the following components:
• Battery
• Battery switch, (Optional)
• Main circuit breaker
• Helm switch panel & helm instrument panel
• Ignition panel
• Breaker Panel Box
The battery box is located under the aft starboard
sterndeck hatch. Your battery should always be en-
closed in the covered battery box provided with your
boat. The box will contain any spilled acid, as well
as protect the battery terminals from damage or
inadvertant shorting from coming in contact with
metal objects. The battery box should always be se-
cured in place by using the straps and clamps pro-
vided, the straps will ensure that while underway the
battery will not move around, causing damage to
components stored in the same area.
Battery Maintenance
The most life shortening experience for the battery
is to be drained to zero charge before recharging.
When a battery discharges, the active material on both
positive and negative plates converts to lead sulfate,
causing the plates to become more alike in an elec-
trical charge. The electricity conducting battery acid
becomes weaker and the voltage drops. As the bat-
tery remains discharged, the process continues until
recharging the battery becomes impossible. If the
battery does become run down be sure to recharge it
as soon as possible. Over charging the battery can be
just as detrimental to its life as running it down too
far.
Battery Box
Release Strap
Tie-down
strap
BATTERY
-
+
Ignition Shutdown Switch
The 180 Ventura is equipped with an ignition shut-
down safety switch. It is located on the forward lower
section of the gear shift/throttle control.
The ignition shut down safety switch incorporates a
shut-off switch, switch clip, lanyard and lanyard clip,
which is clipped to the operator. If an emergency
arises where the engine must be shut down, a pull on
the cord to release the clip from the shut-off will shut
down the engine.
This switch is designed to shut the engine off when
the operator of the boat leaves the control station,
either accidentally by falling into the boat, or by be-
ing ejected overboard. This would most likely occur
as a result of poor operating practices.
12 Volt Accessory Receptacle
Your 180 Ventura is equipped with a 12 volt acces-
sory receptacle located on the instrument panel. It is
a DC (cigarette lighter) style receptacle to be used
with any 12 volt accessories using this type of plug.
The receptacle is made of corrosion resistant marine
grade materials and has a moisture proof cap. There
is a 10 amp breaker button located on the breaker
panel on the interior port side of the console. Be sure
to use accessories that do not exceed the rated
capacity of the circuit, (10 amps) or the breaker
will trip.
Ignition
Shut-down
Switch
Ignition
Shut-down
Switch
Plate
Lanyard
Ignition
Shut-down
Switch Clip,
(attaches to
switch)
Ignition
Shut-down
Switch Clip,
(attaches to driver
at belt loop, etc.)
Wear your lanyard at all times while operating the boat. It
is for emergency stopping only. Do not use it to shut off
the engine during normal operation. The lanyard should
be long enough to prevent inadvertent activation.
CAUTION
!
This switch only works when properly used.The decision of
whether to use an ignition safety switch or not rests with you,
the owner/operator.
Gear shift/
Throttle
control unit
16
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Battery Switch (optional)
The 180 Ventura has the option of using a battery
switch. The switch; located aft starboard under the
sterndeck hatch opposite the livewell, allows you to
control the delivery of DC power from the battery(ies)
to the engine as well as allowing the alternator to
charge the battery(ies). Your battery selector switch
has two settings, “ON” and “OFF”, “ON” gives you
power from the number one (1) battery only. “OFF”
you have no power to the engine. Remember to turn
the battery selector switch to “ON” before you at-
tempt to start your engine.
Note: The auto bilge pump cannot be turned off with
the battery selector switch.
Battery
Selector
Switch
Battery maintenance should include:
• Inspect the battery and charging system be-
fore each use for loose connections or wiring.
• Coat the terminals with dielectric grease.
• Keep the battery safe and dry.
• Remove the battery from the boat during
cold weather or long term storage.
Battery Options
The 180 Ventura can be equipped with the wiring
and connections for one (1) optional battery, with
power being routed to a trolling motor panel located
in the bow of the boat. The spare battery is located
under the starboard hatch on the sterndeck.
Check with the trolling motor manufacturer’s rec-
ommendation on breaker size. If a larger breaker is
needed the wire size should accomodate such a
change.
Please have an authorized Boston Whaler® dealer
install the trolling motor panel to ensure safety and
reliability.
Section 4 - Electrical System
Section 4 - Electrical System
180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
Your 180 Ventura comes equipped with navigation
lighting for your safety. Regulations state that all boats
no matter the size must display navigation lights.
OPERATION:
Control of the navigation lighting is a switch on the
instrument panel that is marked “NAV/ANC”. The
switch has 3 positions to operate the Navigation/
Anchor lighting, (see Fig 1).
Red, Green and White navigation lights are the most
common colors used in modern navigation. Red
lights are used on the port side of the boat, green is
used on the starboard.
Navigation Lighting
While underway the aft pole light may be obscured
by the angle of the hull or by having the canvas top in
the open position
NOTICE
!
17
The 360° white light is located in the stern of the
boat. This light can be seen from any direction. The
180 Ventura has a removable pole light. When not in
use it can be stowed under the aft foldaway seat on
two clips located on the aft bulkhead. The lights let
other vessels know the approximate size of your boat
and the direction your boat is traveling, depending
on which lights they can see, they also show other
boaters your location while at anchor.
The lights must be displayed at night or in low vis-
ibility conditions. It is the responsibility of the owner/
operator to ensure that the navigation lights are in
good working order and that the proper lighting is
shown
“Off”
“Navigation
Lights”
“Anchor
Lights”
(Fig 1.)
112° Port
Navigation
Light
112° Starboard
Navigation
Light
360° white (stern) light
“NAV/ANC”
switch on panel
Section 4 - Electrical System
This owner’s manual contains schematics for your boat. These electrical schematics were
generated by technicians in our Engineering Department and are for reference and to be used
by service technicians. Boston Whaler® does not recommend that you attempt to work on
the electrical system yourself, instead we suggest that you take it to an authorized Boston
Whaler® dealer for electrical service. Boston Whaler® reserves the right to change or up-
date the electrical system on any model at any time without notice to the consumer and is not obligated to
make any updates to units built prior to the changes.
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180 Ventura - Owner’s Manual
180 V180 V
180 V180 V
180 V
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Electrical SchematicElectrical Schematic
Electrical SchematicElectrical Schematic
Electrical Schematic
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