New boat owner

[SoTexGuero]

I'm open for any advise.......I just bought my friend's 1994 Bayliner Capri 2050 LS....family owned since it's birth and mostly used as a "fishing boat" in freshwater only. The engine had been swapped in 2004 for a 5.7L. This is my first boat and since it is a 1994 model, I was wondering if there is anything I should be mindful of? We took it out last weekend, it's exceptionally clean, runs extremely well and fast (I love the design of this boat). Are there any recommendations from past Capri owners?

 

[gcboat]

Re: New boat owner

There's nothing that has to be 'Capri' specific. A boat is pretty much a boat in general terms. As long as you do your scheduled maintenance, keep her clean and shiny then any problems will likely not appear.
The only thing that comes to mind is your engine swap. Couple of things pop up in my ole' brain cells. One would be the added torque and h.p. on the drive ( if the same ) and the second would be your WOT. If you don't reach that specified rpm for that motor you'll likely destroy it long before its time. Especially if you're pulling skiers and tubers where a lot of throttle is concerned.
Yes, they are very nice boats and you are right - the lines are sweet.
Most 5.7 marine units will run between 4800 - 5300 rpm's at WOT. A prop change will be in order if you aren't within those parameters.
Anyhow, enjoy the boat, be safe and get a good feel for her. That extra hp could be very deceiving at speed - especially the handling issues.

 

[SoTexGuero]

Re: New boat owner

Thanks for the info. Apparently the boat (Capri 2050 LS) came originally with a 5.0L, an unfortunate mishap in 2004, force them to replace the engine to the 5.7L. I'm led to believe the shop who replaced the engine probably advised them to upgraded the drivetrain (I'll have to check). I never got the RPMs to 4800 or WOT for that matter. The prop will be the other thing I'll need to check. Is there any easy way to check these things out?

 

[SoTexGuero]

Re: New boat owner

After researching WOT and props...I believe I answered the question myself. I'll have to take the boat out and find the WOT and speed to determine if I have the right prop/pitch. The boat will be use for cruising and pulling ski/boards/tubes so will that be a factor to the most correct prop?

 

[gcboat]

Re: New boat owner

The pitch of your wheel ( prop ) is a pretty critical issue. As boats don't have transmissions the owner needs to find one ( prop ) that will make their engine run at its recommended WOT range. Anything lower - in your case - and you will be straining the motor. Anything faster and you'll see little pieces start to fly off of it.
As a general rule of thumb for every 1 degree or inch of pitch change you will see your RPM's change by 200.
Again, verify your WOT rpm's for that motor and go from there.
We could probably get into cupped wheels, S.S. , aluminum etc. Just stick with what you have and modify your pitch.

 

[SoTexGuero]

Re: New boat owner

Thanks for your time and knowledge. I have alot of research. First, I need to get the boat on the water again to check out the WOT, then I'll go from there. Thanks again!