1988 Starcraft SFM 160 with 60HP Evinrude Motor Owners Manual

The 1988 Starcraft SFM 160 is a 16-foot aluminum fishing boat paired with a 60HP Evinrude outboard motor. This combination offers reliable performance for freshwater fishing and recreational boating. The boat features durable aluminum construction, foam flotation, bench seating, and storage compartments. The Evinrude 60HP motor provides dependable power with electric start, power trim/tilt, and reliable two-stroke operation. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Engine Operation 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 16-foot aluminum hull, 60HP Evinrude outboard motor, steering console, bench seats, storage compartments, navigation lights, bilge pump.

Feature	Description
Hull Material	Marine-grade aluminum construction
Length	16 feet
Motor	60HP Evinrude outboard
Seating Capacity	4 persons or 800 lbs maximum
Flotation	Foam flotation for safety
Steering	Mechanical steering system
Fuel Tank	12-gallon portable fuel tank
Storage	Under-seat storage compartments
Navigation Lights	Bow and stern lights
Bilge Pump	Manual/automatic bilge pump

Installation & Setup

Proper setup ensures safe and reliable operation.

Trailer setup: Ensure proper weight distribution and secure tie-downs.
Motor installation: Mount motor on transom, secure mounting bolts.
Fuel system: Connect fuel line to motor, prime fuel system.
Battery connection: Connect battery cables to motor and accessories.
Steering connection: Attach steering cable to motor.

WARNING! Boat is heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Ensure all connections are secure before launching.

First-Time Operation

Follow these steps for initial launch and operation.

Pre-launch inspection: Check hull, motor, fuel, and safety equipment.
Launch procedure: Back trailer into water, float boat off trailer.
Motor start: Prime fuel system, set choke, turn key to start.
Break-in period: Follow motor break-in procedure for first 10 hours.
Operation: Start at slow speeds, gradually increase throttle.

CAUTION! Always wear life jackets. Check weather conditions before boating.

Specifications

Boat Length: 16 feet
Beam: 72 inches
Weight: 650 lbs (boat only)
Maximum HP: 60HP
Maximum Capacity: 4 persons or 800 lbs
Hull Material: Marine-grade aluminum
Motor: 60HP Evinrude outboard
Fuel System: 12-gallon portable tank
Ignition: Electric start
Gearcase Ratio: 2.0:1
Full Throttle RPM: 4500-5500 RPM

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Console Controls: Ignition switch, throttle/shift control, steering wheel, trim/tilt switch, choke, emergency stop switch.

Motor Features: Electric start, power trim/tilt, temperature warning, oil injection system, water pump cooling.

Operation Procedures: Pre-start checklist, starting procedure, shifting (forward/neutral/reverse), throttle control, trim adjustment, stopping procedure.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and reliability.

Interval	Maintenance Task
Each Use	Check fuel, oil, battery, hull for damage
20 Hours	Check spark plugs, gearcase oil
50 Hours	Change gearcase oil, fuel filter
100 Hours	Water pump impeller, thermostat
Annual	Full service, corrosion inspection, anode replacement
Storage	Fogging oil, fuel stabilization, battery maintenance

Engine Operation

Proper engine operation ensures optimal performance.

Pre-start: Check fuel, oil, battery, cooling water intake.
Starting: Set neutral, attach safety lanyard, prime fuel, turn key.
Warm-up: Allow engine to warm up at idle for 2-3 minutes.
Operation: Gradually increase throttle, monitor gauges.
Shifting: Always shift at idle speed, pause in neutral.
Stopping: Return to idle, turn key off, disconnect battery if storing.

WARNING! Never operate without water flow. Monitor temperature gauge.

Safety Features

Emergency stop switch: Attach lanyard to operator. Overheat protection: Automatic RPM reduction. Low oil warning: Audible alarm and warning light. Navigation lights: Required for night operation. Flotation: Foam flotation provides buoyancy.

Care & Storage

Proper care extends the life of your boat and motor.

Cleaning: Rinse with fresh water after each use.
Hull care: Inspect for damage, repair scratches promptly.
Motor care: Flush cooling system, lubricate fittings.
Winter storage: Fog engine, stabilize fuel, remove battery.
Trailer maintenance: Check tires, bearings, lights.

CAUTION! Store in dry location. Protect from freezing temperatures.

Regulatory Information

US Coast Guard certified. Meets NMMA certification standards. Evinrude and Starcraft are registered trademarks. Always comply with local boating laws and regulations. Required safety equipment: Life jackets, fire extinguisher, sound-producing device, navigation lights. For support, contact Evinrude Customer Service or your local Starcraft dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or battery issue	Check fuel supply, spark plugs, battery charge
Overheating	Water pump or thermostat	Check water flow, replace impeller if needed
Poor performance	Fuel system or propeller	Check fuel filter, inspect propeller for damage
Electrical issues	Battery or connections	Check battery voltage, clean connections
Vibration	Propeller or alignment	Inspect propeller, check motor alignment

Service: Contact authorized Evinrude dealer for engine service. Starcraft dealer for hull repairs.

Emergency: Always carry communication device and emergency equipment.