It's the Law: Required Equipment

Ventilation Systems

The purpose of ventilation systems is to avoid explosions by removing flammable gases. Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce the chance of a life-threatening explosion.

• All gasoline-powered vessels, constructed in a way that would entrap fumes, must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove the fumes.
• If your vessel is equipped with a power ventilation system, turn it on for at least four minutes after fueling and before starting your engine.
• If your vessel is not equipped with a power ventilation system (for example, a personal watercraft), open the engine compartment and sniff for gasoline fumes before starting the engine.

Backfire Flame Arrestors   (BAR 9.4)

• Backfire flame arrestors are designed to prevent the ignition of gasoline vapors in case the engine backfires.
• All powerboats (except outboards) that are fueled with gasoline must have an approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor.
• Backfire flame arrestors must be:
  • In good and serviceable condition and ...
  • U.S. Coast Guard–approved (must comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards).
• Periodically clean the flame arrestor and check for damage.

Mufflers   (66-12-10 NMSA 1978)

Vessel operators may not hear sound signals or voices if the engine is not adequately muffled.

• All vessel engines must be equipped with an effective muffling device, which may include (but is not limited to) mufflers, exhaust restricters, and water-injected exhaust headers.
• The use of cutouts or non-muffled headers is prohibited, except for motorboats that are competing in an approved regatta or boat race.