Top speed capri cuddy?

LHUDSON

Seaman
Joined
May 31, 2011
Messages
58
I have a 1984 Bayliner 19.5 foot capri cuddy aq125 4 cylinder volvo penta inboard 270 outdrive.What should be an average top speed(mph) and RPM at top speed?
 

PiratePast40

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Mar 21, 2009
Messages
1,734
Re: Top speed capri cuddy?

The WOT (wide open throttle) from the manual is 4800 RPM. This is the maximum RPM at full throttle. A properly tuned engine with the proper sized propeller should be able to reach WOT. Most don't recommend that you cruise at that rpm for extended periods of time but it is a standard for reference. Your top speed is a function of (mostly) horsepower, weight, hull design, and propeller pitch. I would expect to see 25 to 30 mph from that power engine in that boat but that's just my guess. That's a pretty good sized boat for such a small engine. Yes, it's probably underpowered and manufacturers offer these power combinations as an economical way to get on the water. Look at it this way, with the price of gas, you have more money for getting there and having fun insteading of giving up your money at the pump.

You absolutely must obtain a manual and get familiar with your engine and it's specifics if you're going to do your own work. If you don't have your engine and outdrive manuals, send a PM and I'll send you a link. I know it's frustrating when you first start but you really need to start taking action on the advice you've been given so you can actually do some troubleshooting and have a definate course of action.
 

bshattuck87

Cadet
Joined
Mar 30, 2011
Messages
27
Re: Top speed capri cuddy?

I'm not sure how your aq125 4 cylinder compares to my 3.0 4cylinder, but I have the same boat basically, but an '88 and I hit GPS confirmed speed of 38 mph. However, that's with a 13.5x15 which is not the correct size for the boat. I guess the previous owner got a smaller prop to help with tubing and such. The factory size I do believe is 14x21 which the dealer said should put me back around 45 mph or so. Trim tabs can also help you out a lot.

Brenton
 

NYBo

Admiral
Joined
Oct 23, 2008
Messages
7,107
Re: Top speed capri cuddy?

You should be able to see low to mid 30s with everything working right and a light load.

Brenton: A 14 x 21 is way too much prop. If your dealer told you this was the original prop size, he is very mistaken. You boat came with a 13 3/4 x 15. Maximum recommended RPM is 4600.
 

bshattuck87

Cadet
Joined
Mar 30, 2011
Messages
27
Re: Top speed capri cuddy?

I actually called today and he said the factory prop size was 14x19.

Brenton
 

NYBo

Admiral
Joined
Oct 23, 2008
Messages
7,107
Re: Top speed capri cuddy?

I got my info right from the '88 Capri owner's manual. Caveat emptor.
 

LHUDSON

Seaman
Joined
May 31, 2011
Messages
58
Re: Top speed capri cuddy?

I checked my prop,it is 14R 17MWC.I'm only getting 18 MPH at 3800RPM,with just me in the boat.Will changing the prop make a difference?
 

NYBo

Admiral
Joined
Oct 23, 2008
Messages
7,107
Re: Top speed capri cuddy?

That's probably too much prop. But there may be other problems, like waterlogged foam or the engine not running properly.
 
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