1986 Catalina 30 Owners Manual

The 1986 Catalina 30 is a popular cruising sailboat known for its comfortable interior, reliable performance, and sturdy construction. This 30-foot sailboat features a spacious cockpit, well-appointed cabin with sleeping accommodations for 6, galley with sink and stove, head compartment, and ample storage. Below are key sections covering specifications, systems, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Specifications

Key measurements and construction details of the Catalina 30.

SpecificationMeasurement
Length Overall29' 11"
Waterline Length25' 0"
Beam10' 10"
Draft5' 3" (standard keel)
Displacement10,200 lbs
Ballast4,000 lbs
Sail Area446 sq ft
Headroom6' 2"
Fuel Capacity18 gallons
Water Capacity42 gallons

Hull & Deck Features

Construction details and deck layout components.

  1. Hull: Hand-laid fiberglass with balsa core construction
  2. Deck: Fiberglass with non-skid pattern
  3. Cockpit: Self-bailing with teak seating
  4. Winches: Two primary winches, one halyard winch
  5. Lifelines: Stainless steel with gates port and starboard

WARNING! Always wear proper safety gear when on deck. Secure all hatches in rough weather.

Rigging & Sails

Mast, rigging, and sail information for proper sailing operation.

  1. Mast: Deck-stepped aluminum mast with internal halyards
  2. Standing Rigging: 1x19 stainless steel wire
  3. Running Rigging: Dacron lines for sheets and halyards
  4. Main Sail: Standard 177 sq ft with two reef points
  5. Genoa: 130% roller furling headsail

CAUTION! Inspect rigging regularly for wear. Replace any frayed lines immediately.

Interior Layout

Engine & Mechanical Systems

Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine specifications and maintenance.

Engine: Universal Atomic 4, 30 HP, freshwater cooled

Transmission: Hurth 2:1 reduction gear. Propeller: Two-blade fixed. Steering: Cable and quadrant system. Throttle and shift controls at helm.

Electrical Systems

12-volt DC and optional 110-volt AC systems.

  1. Batteries: Two 12V deep cycle batteries (house and starting)
  2. Charging: Engine alternator, optional shore power charger
  3. Distribution: Main panel with circuit breakers
  4. Navigation Lights: Bow, stern, and steaming lights

Tip: Turn off main switch when leaving boat for extended periods.

Plumbing & Water Systems

Fresh water, waste, and through-hull systems.

  1. Water Tanks: Two polyethylene tanks (21 gallons each)
  2. Water Pressure: Manual pump or optional electric pump
  3. Head System: Manual marine toilet with Y-valve
  4. Through-hulls: Bronze seacocks on all underwater fittings
  5. Bilge: Manual and electric bilge pumps

WARNING! Exercise seacocks regularly to prevent freezing. Check hose clamps annually.

Safety Equipment

Required and recommended safety gear for coastal cruising.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance tasks to keep your Catalina 30 in top condition.

CAUTION! Use proper marine-grade products only. Follow manufacturer recommendations for all maintenance.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or batteryCheck fuel valve, spark plugs, battery charge
Bilge pump not workingFloat switch or wiringTest float switch operation; check wiring connections
Head won't flushBlockage or joker valveClear blockage; replace joker valve if needed
Steering feels stiffCable tension or lubricationAdjust cable tension; lubricate steering system
Water in bilgeLeaking through-hulls or hullInspect all through-hulls; check hull for damage

Service: Contact Catalina Yachts for technical support or authorized service centers.

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