1988 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer Owner's Manual

The 1988 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer is a 30-foot luxury cruiser featuring twin inboard engines, spacious cabin accommodations, full galley, head compartment, swim platform, and comprehensive marine systems. This owner's manual provides essential information for operation, maintenance, safety procedures, and troubleshooting of your vessel. Below are key sections covering all aspects of boat ownership and operation.

1. Specifications & Dimensions 2. Safety Equipment & Procedures 3. Pre-Launch Checklist 4. Engine Operation 5. Electrical Systems 6. Plumbing & Water Systems 7. Navigation Equipment 8. Cabin Features & Amenities 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Winterization & Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Specifications & Dimensions

Key measurements and technical specifications for the 1988 Sea Ray 300 Sundancer.

Specification	Measurement
Length Overall	30' 0" (9.14 m)
Beam	11' 0" (3.35 m)
Draft	2' 6" (0.76 m)
Weight (Dry)	8,500 lbs (3,856 kg)
Fuel Capacity	200 gallons (757 liters)
Water Capacity	40 gallons (151 liters)
Holding Tank	25 gallons (95 liters)
Sleeping Capacity	6 persons
Bridge Clearance	8' 6" (2.59 m)
Engine Options	Twin 260 HP MerCruiser

Safety Equipment & Procedures

Essential safety information and required equipment for safe boating operations.

Personal Flotation Devices: Ensure one USCG-approved PFD per person onboard.
Fire Extinguishers: Minimum two Type B-I marine extinguishers.
Visual Distress Signals: Approved flares or signals for day/night use.
Sound-Producing Device: Horn or whistle for navigation signals.
Navigation Lights: Verify all lights operational before night operation.
Carbon Monoxide Detector: Check battery and operation regularly.

WARNING! Always file float plan with marina or family member. Check weather conditions before departure.

Pre-Launch Checklist

Comprehensive checklist to complete before each departure.

Check fuel levels and inspect for leaks in fuel system.
Verify bilge pump operation and check for water in bilge.
Test engine oil levels and cooling system.
Inspect steering and throttle controls for smooth operation.
Check battery charge and electrical system function.
Verify navigation equipment and radio operation.
Ensure safety equipment is accessible and in good condition.

CAUTION! Never operate vessel without completing pre-launch checklist. Failure to do so may result in dangerous situations.

Engine Operation

Engine Type: Twin MerCruiser 5.7L V8 inboard engines
Horsepower: 260 HP each
Transmission: Borg-Warner Velvet Drive 1.5:1 reduction
Propellers: 15" x 17" 3-blade bronze
Ignition System: Electronic with waterproof components
Cooling System: Fresh water cooling with heat exchanger
Fuel System: Dual 100-gallon tanks with crossover valve
Oil Capacity: 5 quarts per engine with filter

Electrical Systems

12V DC and 110V AC electrical systems with comprehensive panel controls.

DC System: Two marine batteries with selector switch, battery charger, 12V outlets throughout cabin.

AC System: 30-amp shore power with 50' cord, AC/DC distribution panel, GFCI outlets in galley and head.

Navigation: Compass, depth sounder, VHF radio, optional radar and GPS. Lighting: Interior dome lights, courtesy lights, navigation lights, anchor light. Instruments: Engine gauges (tach, temp, oil, volt), fuel gauge, speedometer.

Plumbing & Water Systems

Fresh water system with pressure pump and marine sanitation device.

Turn water pump switch to ON position for pressurized system.
Fill freshwater tank through deck plate using potable water only.
Operate marine head following proper waste management procedures.
Use shower sump pump for head compartment drainage.

Tip: Always use marine-grade toilet paper to prevent clogs in sanitation system.

Navigation Equipment

Standard and optional navigation equipment for safe passage.

Steering: Hydraulic steering system with destroyer-type wheel.
Compass: Ritchie 4" magnetic compass with built-in correction.
Depth Sounder: Standard Horizon digital depth finder.
VHF Radio: 25-watt marine radio with DSC capability.
Optional Equipment: Radar, GPS chartplotter, autopilot.
Chart Storage: Waterproof chart storage compartment at helm.
Binoculars: Store in dedicated helm compartment.
Navigation Lights: Bow red/green, stern white, anchor light.

WARNING! Always verify navigation equipment operation before leaving dock. Carry paper charts as backup to electronic navigation.

Cabin Features & Amenities

Spacious cabin accommodations with full galley and entertainment systems.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance procedures to preserve vessel condition and value.

CAUTION! Use only marine-grade cleaning products. Avoid automotive products that may damage marine finishes.

Regulatory Information

USCG certification meets applicable safety standards. Manufacturer complies with NMMA certification requirements. Hull identification number located on starboard transom. For support, contact Sea Ray Customer Service or authorized dealers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery/fuel issue	Check battery charge; verify fuel valve open; inspect kill switch.
Overheating engine	Cooling blockage	Check raw water intake; inspect impeller; verify thermostat operation.
Electrical failure	Battery/connection issue	Check battery selector switch; inspect connections; test voltage.
Steering stiffness	Hydraulic fluid/low fluid	Check hydraulic fluid level; bleed system if necessary.
Bilge pump not working	Float switch/wiring	Test float switch operation; check wiring connections; verify fuse.

Emergency: Contact Sea Ray Customer Service at 1-800-SRBOATS for technical assistance.

Dealer Network: Visit www.searay.com for authorized service centers.