1986 Chaparral 170 Owners Manual

The 1986 Chaparral 170 is a classic 17-foot bowrider boat featuring fiberglass construction, comfortable seating for 6-8 passengers, reliable outboard or stern drive power options, comprehensive instrumentation, and versatile recreational capabilities. This manual covers safety procedures, operational guidelines, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting for optimal performance and longevity.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Fiberglass hull with bowrider design, helm station with comprehensive gauges, comfortable upholstered seating, storage compartments, and reliable marine power system.

Safety Information

Essential safety procedures and equipment requirements for safe boating operation.

1. Always wear USCG-approved personal flotation devices.
2. Check weather conditions before departure.
3. Maintain proper lookout and navigation lights.
4. Carry required safety equipment: fire extinguisher, sound signaling device, visual distress signals.
5. File float plan with responsible party.

WARNING! Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous. Always operate at safe speeds for conditions.

Installation & Setup

Proper setup procedures for trailer launching and systems preparation.

1. Trailer setup: Ensure proper weight distribution and secure tie-downs.
2. Launch procedure: Check drain plug, disconnect trailer lights, back into water gradually.
3. Pre-launch checks: Verify bilge pump operation, engine oil level, fuel level.
4. Battery connections: Ensure clean, tight connections with proper polarity.
5. Safety equipment: Verify all required equipment is onboard and accessible.

CAUTION! Always use proper launching ramp etiquette and secure boat properly before leaving dock.

Specifications

• Length: 17 feet
• Beam: 7 feet 2 inches
• Weight: Approximately 1,850 lbs (with engine)
• Fuel Capacity: 20 gallons
• Maximum Capacity: 8 persons or 1,400 lbs
• Maximum HP: 140 HP
• Hull Type: Modified V-hull
• Construction: Hand-laid fiberglass
• Upholstery: Marine-grade vinyl with foam padding
• Standard Features: Bow rails, ski tow eye, navigation lights, bilge pump

Controls and Instrumentation

Comprehensive guide to helm controls, gauges, and operational systems.

Helm Station: Steering wheel, throttle/shift controls, ignition switch, trim controls.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure warning, voltmeter, hour meter (if equipped).

Switches: Bilge pump, navigation lights, blower, horn, accessory switches.

Safety Equipment: Fire extinguisher mount, PFD storage, emergency cutoff switch.

Operating Procedures

Standard operating procedures for starting, running, and securing the vessel.

1. Pre-start checklist: Verify bilge is dry, engine compartment ventilated, safety equipment onboard.
2. Starting procedure: Turn blower on for 4 minutes, check neutral, turn key to start.
3. Warm-up: Allow engine to warm up at idle for 2-3 minutes.
4. Departure: Check surroundings, release dock lines, proceed slowly from dock.
5. Running: Maintain proper trim angle, monitor gauges, observe wake regulations.
6. Docking: Approach slowly into wind/current, use fenders, secure lines properly.
7. Shutdown: Return to neutral, turn off engine, secure boat, install cockpit cover.

Tip: Always check weather forecast and have a return plan before departing.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance procedures to ensure reliability and longevity.

1. After each use: Flush engine if in salt water, rinse boat, check for damage.
2. Weekly: Check battery water level, inspect hull for damage, test bilge pump.
3. Monthly: Check steering system, inspect fuel lines, test safety equipment.
4. 50 hours: Change engine oil and filter, check spark plugs, inspect propeller.
5. 100 hours: Change gear lube, inspect bellows, check alignment.
6. Annual: Winterize if in freezing climate, compound and wax hull, inspect upholstery.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical maintenance. Use only marine-grade replacement parts.

Storage & Winterization

Proper procedures for seasonal storage and cold weather protection.

For winter storage: Drain all water from engine and systems, fog cylinders, change oil and filter, add fuel stabilizer, remove battery for charging, cover with proper boat cover, store in dry location.

CAUTION! Failure to properly winterize can cause freeze damage to engine block and cooling systems.

Troubleshooting

Emergency Procedures: Know location of emergency cutoff switch, fire extinguisher, and distress signaling equipment.

Warranty Information

Chaparral Boats provides limited warranty coverage for the 1986 model year. Hull structure warranty: 5 years from purchase date. Components and systems: 1 year limited warranty. Warranty registration must be completed within 30 days of purchase. For warranty claims, contact authorized Chaparral dealer with proof of purchase and maintenance records.