Need opinion on 1991 Bayliner/Force combo

[Marc]

I'm looking at a 1991 Bayliner 1800 Capri bowrider with a 90 hp Force engine. Any opinions on this combo, especially the Force engine? What should I look for when I test the boat on the water? What is the reliability of this motor in general? This will be my first boat and I don't want to get stuck with a lemon...<br /><br />Thanks, Marc.

 

[JeffSlade]

Re: Need opinion on 1991 Bayliner/Force combo

Marc, read the many posts regarding Force and Bayliner. You will learn a bunch. I own a 96 Bayliner/Force and am happy with it. Force is no longer made and can be hard to find parts for. As I said, read on, welcome to the board and good luck.

 

[Scottj25]

Re: Need opinion on 1991 Bayliner/Force combo

I also own a Bayline/Force combo, 1984. This is also my first boat, I think you'll have a good time with this boat if it has been takn care of. As for parts I think you motor was made my Merc. so parts for the time being should not be a problem. And remember take care of your boat and your boat will take care of you. And remember Bayliner makes a good boat and anyone who says different just don't know better.

 

[sony2001]

Re: Need opinion on 1991 Bayliner/Force combo

Marc you must check the compression. The cylinders must be between 150-165 psi. Personally I don't like bowriders.<br /><br />------------------

 

[12Footer]

Re: Need opinion on 1991 Bayliner/Force combo

Sony is right,Marc. A compession test should be considered standard practice when buying a used motor. You allways take a chance with used marine equipment. For that matter, you take one when you buy a new one too.<br />I own a Bayliner Capri with a 50HP on it. It's a good (not great) boat. It's heavier than need be. Takes allmost 1 minute to reach plane.<br />But the price was right,and I'm very happy with it,considering my investment.<br />Force motors require more preventive maintainance than others, as they are essentialy a 1977 Chrysler design. The season-end ritual of cleaning the carbon out of it,should not be avoided.<br />My 50HP has had 2 hubs spin out in the prop,but never since I've had it (I bought it from my Father, who was a 90year-old hot rod).

 

[ODDD1]

Re: Need opinion on 1991 Bayliner/Force combo

Marc, you must absolutely go for a test ride on the water...at the very least to watch the launch/retrieve drill...the motor MUST start at the flick of a key,hot or cold....NEVER stall when shifting into gear....and idle as long as you need it to without acting up....any less than this and the motor needs attention.....make sure the engine achieves wide open throttle RPM's...in your case 5000 to 5500....other than those numbers and either the motor is sick or it has the wrong prop.....DONT GLOSS OVER THESE THINGS, THEY WILL COST YOU LATER!