1986 Four Winns 170 Horizon Manual

The 1986 Four Winns 170 Horizon is a 17-foot bowrider pleasure boat featuring a fiberglass hull, comfortable seating for 6-8 passengers, built-in storage compartments, swim platform, and various power options including OMC and MerCruiser stern drive engines. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Pre-Launch Checklist 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Operation Procedures 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Winterization 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Regulatory Compliance 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Fiberglass hull with bowrider design, stern drive power, helm station, seating, and storage compartments.

Feature	Description
Hull Material	Fiberglass reinforced plastic
Overall Length	17 feet
Beam	7 feet
Maximum Capacity	8 persons or 1400 lbs
Fuel Capacity	20 gallons
Seating	Bow seating for 3, helm seats, rear bench
Storage	Bow storage, side compartments, under-seat storage
Swim Platform	Integrated fiberglass platform with ladder
Power Options	OMC 120/140 HP, MerCruiser 120/140 HP
Instrumentation	Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature

Safety Information

Essential safety procedures and equipment requirements.

Always wear USCG-approved life jackets while underway.
Check weather conditions before departure.
Maintain proper lookout at all times.
Carry required safety equipment: fire extinguisher, visual distress signals, sound-producing device.
File float plan with responsible party.

WARNING! Carbon monoxide poisoning hazard - ensure proper ventilation when engine running. Never block engine exhaust outlets.

Pre-Launch Checklist

Complete these checks before every launch.

Check fuel level and look for leaks in fuel system.
Verify bilge is dry and bilge pump operational.
Inspect hull for damage or stress cracks.
Check engine oil level and condition.
Test steering system for smooth operation.
Verify navigation lights operational.
Ensure drain plug is properly installed.
Check battery charge and connections.

CAUTION! Failure to complete pre-launch checks may result in equipment failure or unsafe conditions.

Specifications

Length Overall: 17'0"
Beam: 7'0"
Weight (approx): 1850 lbs (with standard engine)
Maximum HP: 140 HP
Fuel Capacity: 20 gallons
Maximum Capacity: 8 persons or 1400 lbs
Hull Type: Deep-V with lifting strakes
Deadrise: 18 degrees
Construction: Hand-laid fiberglass with wood stringers
Standard Engine: OMC 120 HP stern drive

Controls and Instrumentation

Helm station layout and control functions.

Helm Controls: Steering wheel, throttle/shift control, ignition switch, trim switch, horn button.

Instrument Panel: Tachometer (0-6000 RPM), speedometer (0-60 MPH), fuel gauge, engine temperature gauge, oil pressure warning light, battery charge indicator, trim indicator.

Electrical Panel: Navigation lights switch, bilge pump switch, blower switch, accessory switch, circuit breakers.

Operation Procedures

Starting, running, and stopping procedures.

Starting: Turn blower on for 4 minutes, check for fuel fumes, shift to neutral, turn key to start.
Warm-up: Allow engine to warm up at idle for 2-3 minutes.
Departure: Shift smoothly into forward, advance throttle gradually.
Running: Monitor instruments regularly, maintain safe speed for conditions.
Stopping: Shift to neutral, allow to idle briefly, turn key to off.
Docking: Approach slowly into wind/current, use fenders for protection.

Tip: Always shift through neutral position when changing between forward and reverse.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance requirements for optimal performance.

Interval	Maintenance Task
Each Use	Flush engine with fresh water, check for leaks
50 Hours	Change engine oil and filter
100 Hours	Inspect and grease steering system
Annual	Change gear lube, inspect bellows, check alignment
100 Hours	Inspect propeller and replace if damaged
Each Season	Check and torque engine mounting bolts
50 Hours	Clean fuel filter/water separator
Annual	Inspect and test all safety equipment

Winterization

Procedures for cold weather storage.

Add fuel stabilizer to full fuel tank.
Change engine oil and filter.
Fog engine cylinders through spark plug holes.
Drain engine block and manifolds.
Remove battery and store on maintainer.
Clean and wax hull.
Cover boat with breathable cover.
Store in dry, protected location.

WARNING! Failure to properly winterize may result in freeze damage to engine and systems.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage procedures to preserve boat condition.

Store on trailer with proper support. Use bow support to prevent hull deformation. Cover with breathable fabric cover. Ensure good ventilation to prevent mildew. Store in dry, covered location if possible. Remove all valuables and electronics.

CAUTION! Do not use plastic tarps that trap moisture - use only breathable marine covers.

Regulatory Compliance

US Coast Guard certification meets applicable safety standards. EPA emissions compliance for marine engines. Manufacturer's warranty: 1-year limited warranty on hull and deck, engine warranty per engine manufacturer. For support, contact Four Winns Customer Service or authorized dealers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue, safety lanyard	Check battery charge, verify fuel supply, ensure safety lanyard connected
Overheating	Blocked water intake, impeller failure	Check for debris in intake, inspect water pump impeller
Poor performance	Fouled spark plugs, dirty fuel filter	Replace spark plugs, clean/replace fuel filter
Steering stiffness	Low hydraulic fluid, cable binding	Check hydraulic reservoir, lubricate steering cable
Electrical failure	Blown fuse, corroded connections	Check fuses, clean battery terminals and connections

Service: Contact authorized Four Winns dealer for engine and drive system repairs.

Parts: Use only genuine Four Winns replacement parts for optimal performance.