www.iFourWinns.com

I just bought a H260 and can't figure out how to open the engine compartment. I've seen a few posts referring to the helm for an optional electric lift switch but most of the switchs on the dash just say "Accessory" Does anyone know if there is any trick to opening the engine cover and what all of the accessory switches do on the dash??? This is my first boat and the owner's manual doesn't spell anything out.

I would refer to your owners manual if you have one. It should be in there somewhere. If you don't have one I'm sure somebody will chine in.

Cheers,
Troy

should be a pull cord or something perhaps tucked inbetween the engine access lid and the seat cushion??

_________________

It might help to know what year the boat is. And I have to ask... you didn't open it prior to purchase?

_________________


Mike
2005 Four Winns 230/240
VP 5.7GXi/DP
1998 F-150 XLT
Boat Pic

It's a 2007 and was a long distance purchase. I paid to have a 3rd party boat survey completed so there weren't any suprises. I thought the owner's manual would be a little more informative.

Ah. In general, if the boat is well optioned, there's a good chance it has the electric lifts. Otherwise, remove the small center section of the rear U seating (the back and seat come out separately). There should be a lifting ring under the seat. Note, that cover is heavy.

_________________


Mike
2005 Four Winns 230/240
VP 5.7GXi/DP
1998 F-150 XLT
Boat Pic

There is a ring and latch but very difficult to lift using the ring--was hoping someone would tell me there is an electric switch somewhere. Otherwise, are there hydrolics to aid in opening? maybe they are not working properly. Thanks for helping me out.

No problem. Lifting it with the ring requires a strong back, but if it's super hard to lift, it may be an indication that you have the electric lifts and you're pulling against them also. Have you tried all the switches at the helm? I'm not certain if the boats without electric lifts have gas lifts to help, but something tells me they don't.

I have the electric lifts and raised the cover by the ring once. ONCE. Dang nearly put me in the hospital.

_________________


Mike
2005 Four Winns 230/240
VP 5.7GXi/DP
1998 F-150 XLT
Boat Pic

Also, if you have the dual battery option, is the battery switch set to 1 or 2? Try all the helm switches on EACH battery.

Beyond that, my best recommendation would be to call Four Winns tomorrow morning, give them your HIN, and ask them what options the boat had when it left the factory. Maybe they can even send you a copy of the build paperwork.

_________________


Mike
2005 Four Winns 230/240
VP 5.7GXi/DP
1998 F-150 XLT
Boat Pic

Was this new? Or used? If it was new then the dealer should have taken you through all of the boat's systems. If it's used then you probably want to look into having either the dealer or a qualified local captain take you through it all.

There's a LOT to learn. Bits and pieces learned here is probably not the best way to approach it.

And have you taken an in-class boat safety course yet? If not then get to one. They're WELL worth the time, even when you think you already know enough.

_________________
-Bill Kearney, 2005 348 Vista