1986 Chaparral 187 XL Maintenance Manual

The 1986 Chaparral 187 XL is a classic 18-foot bowrider boat featuring a fiberglass hull, comfortable seating for 6-8 passengers, and reliable marine engine performance. This maintenance manual covers essential procedures for engine care, hull maintenance, electrical systems, winterization, and seasonal upkeep to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vessel.

1. Boat Specifications 2. Engine Maintenance 3. Hull & Gelcoat Care 4. Electrical Systems 5. Fuel System 6. Steering & Controls 7. Upholstery & Interior 8. Trailer Maintenance 9. Winter Storage 10. Seasonal Start-up 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Boat Specifications

Key components: Fiberglass hull, marine engine, steering system, electrical panel, fuel system, and upholstered seating.

Feature	Description
Length Overall	18 feet 7 inches
Beam	7 feet 6 inches
Weight	Approx. 2,200 lbs
Fuel Capacity	28 gallons
Maximum Capacity	8 persons or 1,450 lbs
Hull Material	Fiberglass with gelcoat finish
Standard Engine	MerCruiser 140 HP I/O
Steering	Mechanical cable system
Electrical	12V DC system with battery
Upholstery	Marine-grade vinyl

Engine Maintenance

Regular engine maintenance ensures reliable performance and extends engine life.

Oil Change: Change engine oil every 50 hours or annually; use marine-grade SAE 30 oil.
Spark Plugs: Replace every 100 hours; gap to 0.035 inches.
Impeller: Inspect water pump impeller annually; replace every 2 years.
Belts: Check drive belt tension and condition monthly.
Fluid Levels: Check engine coolant, power steering, and trim fluid regularly.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before engine work. Never run engine without water supply to impeller.

Hull & Gelcoat Care

Proper hull maintenance preserves appearance and performance.

Cleaning: Wash with marine soap and fresh water after each use.
Waxing: Apply marine wax every 3 months for UV protection.
Gelcoat Repair: Use marine-grade compounds for scratches and chips.
Bottom Paint: Inspect and touch up anti-fouling paint annually.
Inspection: Check for stress cracks and blisters during haul-out.

CAUTION! Use only marine-grade cleaning products; avoid automotive waxes.

Electrical Systems

Battery: 12V marine deep-cycle; check terminals for corrosion monthly.
Wiring: Inspect for chafing and loose connections annually.
Navigation Lights: Test before each outing; replace bulbs as needed.
Bilge Pump: Test monthly; clean intake screen quarterly.
Fuses: Keep spare fuses onboard; check rating matches circuit.
Battery Switch: Turn to OFF position when not in use.
Charging: Use marine battery charger for extended storage.

Fuel System

Fuel system maintenance prevents engine problems and ensures safety.

Components: Fuel tank, lines, filter, water separator, carburetor.

Maintenance: Replace fuel filter every 100 hours; drain water separator monthly; inspect fuel lines for cracks annually; use fuel stabilizer for storage over 30 days; check fuel tank vent for obstructions.

Steering & Controls

Steering system and control maintenance ensures safe operation.

Steering Cable: Lubricate annually with marine grease.
Control Cables: Check for smooth operation; replace if stiff.
Shift Mechanism: Adjust neutral safety switch as needed.
Throttle: Ensure full range of movement; lubricate linkage.
Steering Wheel: Check for play; tighten mounting nut if loose.

Tip: Test steering and controls before launching boat.

Upholstery & Interior

Marine vinyl requires regular care to prevent deterioration.

Cleaning: Use marine vinyl cleaner after each use.
Protection: Apply UV protectant monthly during season.
Repair: Use marine-grade vinyl repair kit for tears.
Storage: Cover boat when not in use to protect interior.
Carpet: Clean marine carpet regularly; allow to dry completely.
Storage Compartments: Keep dry and ventilated to prevent mildew.

WARNING! Do not use household cleaners; they can damage marine vinyl.

Trailer Maintenance

Proper trailer maintenance ensures safe transport.

Bearings: Repack wheel bearings annually; replace seals. Lights: Test all lights before each trip; check wiring. Tires: Maintain proper inflation; check for dry rot. Winch: Lubricate mechanism; inspect cable for fraying. Brakes: Test surge brakes; adjust as needed.

Winter Storage

Proper winterization prevents freeze damage and prepares boat for storage.

Engine: Fog cylinders; change oil; drain block.
Fuel: Fill tank; add stabilizer; run engine to circulate.
Battery: Remove; store fully charged in cool, dry place.
Interior: Clean thoroughly; leave compartments open.
Cover: Use breathable cover; support to prevent water pooling.

CAUTION! Complete winterization before first freeze.

Seasonal Start-up

Spring commissioning prepares boat for new season.

System	Checklist
Engine	Install battery; check fluids; test start
Fuel	Inspect lines; check for water in fuel
Electrical	Test all circuits; check navigation lights
Steering	Test full range; check for binding
Safety	Verify PFDs, fire extinguisher, flares
Hull	Inspect for damage; check drain plug

Reset: Document all maintenance in log book.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery/fuel issue	Check battery charge; verify fuel flow; inspect spark plugs.
Overheating	Impeller/water flow	Check water pump impeller; clear water intake; inspect thermostat.
Poor performance	Fuel filter/plugged carb	Replace fuel filter; clean carburetor; check compression.
Electrical failure	Corrosion/circuit breakers	Clean battery terminals; reset breakers; check grounds.
Steering stiffness	Cable lubrication	Lubricate steering cable; check for kinks or damage.

Service: Contact authorized Chaparral dealer for complex repairs.