1989 Bayliner Capri 1500 motor advice please!

[dfuehrer]

Hello everyone,

I have just purchased a 1989 Bayliner Capri 1500 boat, motor and trailer. The boat itself appears to be in pretty good shape. No visible signs of rot or blackend fiberglass in the bildge area. Transom is very solid, does not move when "levering" the lower unit on the motor. A couple of small scratches on the bottom through the gel coat that will need to be sealed before it sees the lake. Interior is fair, very little sun damage, no rips or tears. Trailer is original to the boat.

My question is this. It came with a 35 HP Force motor on it, not original to the boat, of course. I am told that the water impeller went out, and it was run that way, so now the cylinders only have about 1/2 the compression they should have45lbs. I have not tried to start it, but was told that it barely runs. Originally these boats came with 50 HP Force motors on them, right? Should I invest the time/money into getting the 35 repaired, or look for a different motor and cable combo?

Thanks!

Don

 

[NYBo]

Re: 1989 Bayliner Capri 1500 motor advice please!

Welcome to iboats!

Yes, these came with a 50 HP Force; 50 HP is also the maximum rating for the hull. I wouldn't spend a lot of money on the 35; you can find a 50 of a similar vintage fairly cheap. If you get something other than a Force or Chrysler, you will most likely have to replace the throttle control and cables (if your boat has the original US Marine unit).

 

[fishin98]

Re: 1989 Bayliner Capri 1500 motor advice please!

If you are planning on keeping the boat for a while, look around at the various dealers for a good used late 90's to early 2000's 40hp Merc/Mariner,Yamaha,OMC motor. They would be more than adequate for your rig and finding controls would be easy. Unless you are a PURIST,don't waste your time and money on ANY Force motor. If you repower with any of the above mentioned motors, come resale time,you will get a better price for it.

 

[dfuehrer]

Re: 1989 Bayliner Capri 1500 motor advice please!

Thanks for the great advice! I knew that the 35 wasn't large enough to begin with, and I would be replacing it. My Bayliner won't be seeing water this year the way it is, so that gives me lots of time to find the perfect motor!
Don