1986 Wellcraft Owners Manual

The 1986 Wellcraft Owners Manual provides comprehensive guidance for operating and maintaining your Wellcraft boat. This manual covers all essential aspects including safety procedures, boat specifications, operation guidelines, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and warranty information for 1986 Wellcraft models. Below are key sections organized for easy reference.

1. Introduction & Safety 2. Boat Specifications 3. Operation Guidelines 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Engine Systems 6. Electrical Systems 7. Hull & Deck Care 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Introduction & Safety

Welcome to Wellcraft boating. This manual contains important safety information and operating instructions for your 1986 Wellcraft boat.

Safety Equipment	Description
Life Jackets	USCG-approved Type I, II, or III for all passengers
Fire Extinguisher	Marine-type USCG-approved
Visual Distress Signals	Flares or other approved signals
Sound Producing Device	Horn or whistle
Navigation Lights	Properly functioning bow and stern lights
Ventilation System	Ensure proper airflow in enclosed spaces

WARNING! Always wear life jackets while underway. Check weather conditions before departure.

Boat Specifications

Model Year: 1986
Hull Material: Fiberglass
Length Overall: Varies by model (18-33 feet)
Beam: 7'6" to 11'6" depending on model
Weight: 2,500 to 12,000 lbs (including engine)
Fuel Capacity: 40 to 300 gallons
Water Capacity: 10 to 60 gallons
Maximum Capacity: 6 to 14 persons depending on model
Recommended Engine: Various MerCruiser stern drives

Operation Guidelines

Proper operation ensures safety and extends boat life.

Pre-departure checklist: Check fuel, oil, bilge, navigation lights, safety equipment.
Starting procedure: Ensure blower runs 4 minutes before starting engine.
Docking: Approach slowly into wind or current; use fenders and lines.
Navigation: Maintain proper lookout; follow navigation rules.
Emergency procedures: Know man overboard and fire procedures.

CAUTION! Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs. Always file float plan.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Interval	Maintenance Tasks
Before each use	Check fuel system, bilge, steering, safety equipment
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil, check drive belt tension
Every 100 hours	Check spark plugs, fuel filter, battery water level
Annually	Winterize, check hull for damage, inspect through-hull fittings
Every 2 years	Replace engine coolant, inspect exhaust system

Engine Systems

1986 Wellcraft boats feature MerCruiser stern drive engines.

Engine specifications: Varies by model (typically 170-330 HP)
Fuel system: Mechanical fuel pump, carbureted
Cooling system: Raw water cooled with heat exchanger
Lubrication: Wet sump system with oil cooler
Ignition system: Breaker point or electronic ignition

WARNING! Always stop engine when refueling. Run blower before starting.

Electrical Systems

12-volt DC system with optional 110V AC shore power.

Battery: 12V marine starting battery
Charging: Engine alternator with voltage regulator
Distribution: Circuit breaker protected panel
Navigation Lights: Bow (red/green) and stern (white)
Instruments: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature
Optional Equipment: Depth sounder, VHF radio, bilge pump

Hull & Deck Care

Proper care maintains appearance and structural integrity.

Cleaning: Use marine-grade cleaners; avoid household detergents
Waxing: Apply marine wax every 3-6 months for UV protection
Gelcoat repair: Address chips and cracks promptly
Teak care: Clean with teak cleaner; oil regularly
Canvas: Clean with mild soap; treat with waterproofing

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage gelcoat.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

System	Winterization Steps
Engine	Fog cylinders, change oil, add antifreeze to cooling system
Fuel System	Fill tank, add stabilizer, run engine to circulate
Water System	Drain completely, add non-toxic antifreeze
Battery	Remove, clean terminals, store fully charged
Hull	Clean, wax, support properly on trailer or stands

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue, safety lanyard	Check battery, fuel level, lanyard switch
Overheating	Blocked water intake, impeller failure	Check intake, replace impeller
Electrical failure	Blown fuse, corroded connections	Check fuses, clean battery terminals
Poor performance	Fouled plugs, dirty fuel filter	Replace plugs, clean fuel system
Steering stiffness	Low hydraulic fluid, cable issues	Check fluid level, lubricate cable

Warranty Information

1986 Wellcraft boats are covered by limited warranties. Hull warranty typically 5 years structural, 1 year cosmetic. Engine warranty provided by MerCruiser. Contact Wellcraft dealer for warranty claims. Keep maintenance records for warranty validation.

Customer Service: Wellcraft Marine, 1651 Whitfield Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34243

Phone: (813) 753-7811