Livewell System - Bennington Pontoon Owner's Manual

While reading the information below, please refer to the diagram the Shift & Throttle Control.
Please keep in mind that this information may not apply specifi cally to your control. Read the Shift
& Throttle Control manual enclosed with in owner's packet or contact the engine manufacturer
specifi c to your controls.
Forward & Reverse:
To shift into forward and reverse, rotate the control lever downward about 35 degrees to the F side
and R side, respectively. When the control lever is further rotated downward, the throttle opens.
Free Accelerator:
Set the control lever to neutral and while pushing the free accelerator button, rotate the control lever.
The throttle can be opened without shifting into gear. The free accelerator button is impossible to use
unless the control lever is in neutral. Use caution while using this device.
Power Trim & Tilt Switch:
The power trim and tilt switch is attached to the control lever grip and is operated by using your
thumb. Pushing the switch UP trims and tilts the engine up. Pushing the switch DOWN trims and
tilts the engine down. While the trim and tilt switch is being used, your dash "trim gauge" should in-
dicate the change in the angle of the propeller to the hull. As you push UP or DOWN on the switch
the gauge will move to refl ect this change.
Note that not every Bennington is equipped with a "Trim Gauge". Please contact your dealer before
installing this feature to your boat.
Some helpful Shift & Throttle operating tips:
When shifting between forward and reverse, always pause in neutral for a few seconds before revers-
ing propeller rotation to prevent damage to the engine and drive.
When maneuvering at low speeds, you can reverse the throttle to control or brake boat travel.
Gradually increase boat speed when moving in reverse. High speed acceleration in reverse can cre-
ate a wake that can cause water to fl ood the stern area of the boat.
Refer to your shift & throttle control owner's manual for additional information.

Livewell System:

An aerated livewell is standard on select Bennington models. The livewell provides an environment
where your catch or bait can be kept alive. It will be important for you to keep your livewell clean
and clear of debris for proper operation. Use only fresh water when cleaning the livewell. Note that
any residual amounts of soap, detergents, or bilge cleaners can kill fi sh inside of the livewell. Keep
pump and hoses clear of any buildup. Please note below two typical Bennington livewells. Your
livewell may be different depending on your model of boat.
Please contact your dealer before adding a livewell to your boat.
Spray Bar
Typical Bennington II Livewell Stand Pipe/Overfl ow Tube
Livewell Operation:
It is important to be aware of water and air temperatures to determine when and how often you
should aerate the livewell. You can turn the livewell pump on and off manually. The livewell pump
is wired to an accessory switch located on the driver's helm. The pump will run continuously when
the switch in on.
The pump draws water in through a fi tting below the waterline of the boat and pumps this water into
the livewell tank. The water is then sprayed into the livewell tank through the spray bar. The spray
bar can be adjusted to control the volume of water fl owing into the livewell tank. Oxygen content
increases as incoming water hits the surface of the water already in the livewell tank. This added
oxygen helps to keep your catch alive.
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