Axis Wakeboard Boat Forum

I've noticed two techniques used when people start their boats. Some people just turn the key and start their boat. Others, turn key part way, let the dash come on and run its check then start the boat.

Does it matter which way you start?

I don't think so, I've done it both ways without thinking. But I always do the blower first!!

I always turn it on first and then crank it. Don't think it matters but it feels right.

I've always turned the key part way for about 5 seconds until the alarm goes away then start. I guess after having a handful of inboards years ago that had fuel pumps that primed I just stick with what I'm used to.

Turn and wait. Let that fuel pump prime.

I've noticed my boat seems to start quicker if I wait.

Depends on how long it has been 'off'. The purpose of the pause is to allow the fuel pump to pressurize the fuel rail so the injectors will work right. If the boat has been sitting for a day or two, the fuel rail can depressurize a tad and it can crank longer while waiting for the fuel to be available. If it has been off for a week or more, it is good to Key-up to run the pump and get the pressure up and eliminate any air in the rail that might have snuck in.

When turning on the key on almost any modern vehicle, the fuel pump is turned on for a few seconds to get the system pressurized then turn off. Anytime the engine is running, the pump is held on. So starting up after a long period of off-ness should include a few cycles of turning the key on for 5 seconds, then turning it back off again (this will get the pressurized fuel into the rail and circulating back into the tank, removing any air bubbles). Then start it.

When restarting during the day's use, none of this is really useful unless there is a fuel pressure leak-down issue, which is unlikely.

Thanks Wayne...good info. Appreciate the response.

Wayne is correct. If I just go from off to crank, it will crank a few seconds then start. If I let it prime over 5-6 seconds then go to start it fires up immediately

The manual and my experience are very clear. Turn key, wait for beep to stop, then start. A 3-5 second delay primes it.