How to determine max size outboard for Bayliner

[Somerowl]

Good day all,
I've recently purchased a 1996 Bayliner Capri 16'. It currently has a 50HP Force hanging off the transom and I wanted to find out what the max size I could hang off the back of this boat safely? Also, How to determine the options I have for Prop configuration on the existing 50 to get as much top end as I can for towing potential.

 

[Bayou Dave]

There should be a capacity plate near the helm. Either below the steering wheel or some place close.

 

[Sea Rider]

Before playing with props, need to make a wot run you alone lightly loaded and check max achieved wot rpm, for skiing idealy revving towards the max rpm range for that engine, check factory specs. Once there probably won't need a largeer OB if with that current 50 combo performs nicely.

Happy Boating

 

[Scott Danforth]

Google search says 90. Also says boat was sold with either a 70hp or 90hp

 

[Somerowl]

Thanks DRS4164, I'll look to see what the plate suggests
Good information and direction regarding the Prop Sea Rider, that is definitely best case scenario. Scott, Yep, that's what I saw as well, but I only saw the 90, thanks for the input, much appreciated all. Now I have a good reason to take her out and give her a run! Thanks much!!
Nick

 

[Sea Rider]

Max HP transom rated say 70-90 HP is for max passenger capacity according to boat builder, with how many boaters do you plan boating with and which type of boating activity is yours ? if boating say with half of the max stated passenger capacity no need a larger OB, a prop maximization is the way to go for. A 50 for skiing with just driver and spotter if needed should work perfect if happen to dial a prop that makes OB run to it fullest max rpm, good hole shot with good top speed. Post achieved max wot rpm as suggested..

Happy Boating

 

[ondarvr]

A 50 is marginal at best, and would not be good for even a novice skier for long, and that's only a small person. Fiddling with the prop may make it slightly better for pulling a skier, but would reduce top speed. Go with a bigger motor and you'll get the best of both worlds, and a much more enjoyable experience on the water.

 

[Somerowl]

Thanks ondarvr and all, what the Coast Guard sticker shows next to the wheel is 4 persons and 600lbs of people, max weight including gear is 1000#, and it references a 50HP motor as Max, but the beast came from the factory with a 90. So, should I go and get it re-certified? Is that even possible? Not sure what I can do or should do at this point. Its an NMMA sticker. Thanks y'all.
Nick

 

[ondarvr]

If your version says 50 max, then you're kind of in a bind, that's all you can put on it in many locations, and those boats weren't built to handle much more.

 

[Somerowl]

Wow, ok, didn't know they even came with 50's. Thanks! I think I'll send the information to bayliner for some factory input. Couldn't hurt! Thanks a bunch

 

[Somerowl]

Is there someplace I can get with a Bayliner Expert or what would be my next step to validate the max load and engine I can use as far as the factory is concerned? Also, if they do determine that there is a higher capacity than what is currently showing on my Coast Guard sticker, how do I get that changed?
Thanks y'all.
Nick

 

[Somerowl]

Got an email from Bayliner (super fast response for a 20 year old boat!). The boat came out of the factory with a 50 period. Bummer, prop time!! I'll go WOT and see what we get for speed at that point.

More to come!!