1986 Catalina 25 Owners Manual

The 1986 Catalina 25 is a popular 25-foot sailboat designed for coastal cruising and weekend sailing. This comprehensive owner's manual covers all aspects of boat operation, maintenance, and safety for the Catalina 25 model year 1986. Below are key sections covering specifications, systems, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Specifications and Dimensions 2. Hull and Deck Features 3. Rigging and Sails 4. Interior Layout and Accommodations 5. Mechanical Systems 6. Electrical Systems 7. Plumbing Systems 8. Safety Equipment 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Troubleshooting

Specifications and Dimensions

Key measurements and performance characteristics of the 1986 Catalina 25.

Specification	Measurement
Length Overall	25' 0" (7.62 m)
Waterline Length	21' 0" (6.40 m)
Beam	8' 0" (2.44 m)
Draft (Shoal)	3' 0" (0.91 m)
Draft (Deep)	4' 6" (1.37 m)
Displacement	4,900 lbs (2,223 kg)
Ballast	2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Sail Area	266 sq ft (24.7 sq m)
Mast Height	32' 0" (9.75 m)
Headroom	5' 10" (1.78 m)

Hull and Deck Features

Construction details and deck layout components.

Hull: Hand-laid fiberglass construction with balsa core
Deck: Non-skid fiberglass with molded-in details
Cockpit: Self-bailing with teak trim
Windows: Fixed acrylic with aluminum frames
Through-hulls: Bronze fittings with seacocks

WARNING! Always inspect hull and deck for cracks or damage before sailing. Ensure all through-hull fittings are secure and operational.

Rigging and Sails

Standing and running rigging specifications and sail handling.

Mast: Aluminum deck-stepped spar with internal halyards
Standing Rigging: 1x19 stainless steel wire
Running Rigging: Dacron line standard
Sails: Main and 110% jib standard
Winches: Barient #8 primary winches

CAUTION! Inspect all rigging regularly for wear or corrosion. Replace any compromised components immediately.

Interior Layout and Accommodations

Berths: V-berth forward, two settee berths in main cabin
Galley: Alcohol stove, icebox, sink with manual pump
Head: Portable toilet located forward of main cabin
Storage: Lockers under berths and settees
Table: Fold-down teak table in main cabin
Ventilation: Two opening ports and forward hatch

Mechanical Systems

Engine and steering systems operation and maintenance.

Outboard Motor: Designed for 6-10 hp outboard on stern bracket. Steering: Tiller steering with emergency tiller access. Through-hulls: Bronze seacocks on all underwater fittings.

Engine: Outboard bracket installation, fuel tank storage, starting procedures. Steering: Tiller maintenance, emergency tiller location. Seacocks: Operation and maintenance schedule.

Electrical Systems

12-volt DC electrical system components and operation.

Battery: Group 24 deep cycle battery standard
Panel: 6-circuit DC panel with fuse protection
Lights: Navigation lights, cabin lights, anchor light
Charging: Outboard alternator or shore power charger
Instruments: Optional speed and depth instruments

Tip: Always turn off main battery switch when leaving boat unattended.

Plumbing Systems

Fresh water and marine head systems.

Water Tank: 15-gallon polyethylene tank under port settee
Water System: Manual foot pumps at galley and head
Head: Portable toilet with holding tank
Drains: Cockpit scuppers and bilge pump system
Bilge Pump: Manual and electric options available

WARNING! Never discharge waste in restricted areas. Follow all marine sanitation device regulations.

Safety Equipment

Required and recommended safety gear for coastal sailing.

Maintenance Schedule

Seasonal and annual maintenance tasks.

CAUTION! Always use marine-grade products. Follow manufacturer recommendations for all maintenance procedures.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Boat heels excessively	Over-canvased	Reef main or change to smaller headsail
Water in bilge	Leaking through-hulls or hull damage	Inspect all fittings; check hull for damage
Electrical failure	Battery connection or fuse	Check battery terminals; inspect fuses
Steering stiffness	Rudder binding or tiller issues	Inspect rudder fittings; lubricate as needed
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression	Check fuel supply, spark plug, compression

Emergency: Carry VHF radio and emergency signaling devices.

Support: Catalina Yachts customer service; authorized dealers