1987 Bass Tracker Owners Manual

The 1987 Bass Tracker is a classic fishing boat designed for serious anglers, featuring durable aluminum construction, reliable outboard motor, spacious casting decks, built-in storage compartments, livewell system, and trailer with easy loading features. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Boat Specifications 4. Trailer Operation 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Launching and Retrieving 7. On-Water Operation 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Aluminum hull construction, Outboard motor, Steering console, Casting decks, Livewell system, Storage compartments, Trailer with winch.

Feature	Description
Hull Material	Marine-grade aluminum construction
Outboard Motor	Reliable gasoline-powered engine
Steering System	Mechanical cable steering
Casting Decks	Front and rear elevated platforms
Livewell System	Aerated fish storage with pump
Storage Compartments	Waterproof storage for gear
Trailer	Bunk-style with winch and rollers
Navigation Lights	Bow and stern lighting
Bilge Pump	Automatic water removal system
Fuel System	Integrated fuel tank and lines

Safety Information

Essential safety procedures for operating your Bass Tracker.

Always wear approved personal flotation devices
Check weather conditions before departure
Maintain proper boat balance and weight distribution
Carry required safety equipment (fire extinguisher, sound signals)
Follow navigation rules and speed limits

WARNING! Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs. Ensure all passengers understand safety procedures.

Boat Specifications

Length: 16-18 feet (depending on model)
Beam: 72-84 inches
Weight: 800-1200 lbs (boat only)
Maximum Capacity: 4 persons or 800 lbs
Maximum HP: 40-60 HP (depending on model)
Fuel Capacity: 12-18 gallons
Hull Material: Marine-grade aluminum
Livewell Capacity: 15-25 gallons

Trailer Operation

Proper use and maintenance of your Bass Tracker trailer.

Pre-tow inspection: Check tire pressure, lights, and hitch connection
Loading: Position boat properly on bunks and secure with winch
Securing: Use transom tie-downs and safety chains
Unloading: Back trailer into water until boat floats free

CAUTION! Always disconnect trailer lights before launching to prevent bulb damage.

Controls and Instrumentation

Understanding your boat's control systems and instruments.

Steering Console: Steering wheel, throttle/shift control, ignition switch, trim switch, instrumentation panel.

Instrumentation: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, voltmeter, oil pressure warning. Controls: Throttle for speed control, shift lever for forward/neutral/reverse, trim control for engine angle adjustment.

Launching and Retrieving

Step-by-step procedures for boat launch and retrieval.

Prepare boat at launch site: Remove tie-downs, install drain plug
Back trailer into water until rear bunks are submerged
Release winch strap and push boat off trailer
For retrieval: Position boat on trailer, secure with winch strap
Pull trailer from water and secure boat with tie-downs

Tip: Practice launching and retrieving in uncrowded conditions.

On-Water Operation

Proper operation techniques for optimal performance.

Starting procedure: Check fuel, turn key, allow warm-up
Docking: Approach slowly into wind or current
Planing: Gradually increase throttle to achieve planing
Trim adjustment: Optimize for different water conditions
Anchoring: Use appropriate anchor for bottom conditions
Livewell operation: Turn pump on to circulate water

WARNING! Always be aware of other boat traffic and obey navigation rules.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance procedures to ensure longevity.

After each use: Flush engine, clean boat, check for damage
Monthly: Check battery, inspect trailer bearings
Seasonally: Change engine oil, inspect propeller
Annually: Service steering system, check electrical
As needed: Replace spark plugs, fuel filter, impeller

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage procedures for seasonal or long-term storage.

Winterization: Drain all water, fog engine, stabilize fuel, remove battery. Indoor storage: Clean thoroughly, cover boat, support hull properly. Outdoor storage: Use quality cover, ensure good drainage, protect from elements.

CAUTION! Never store boat with fuel tank completely full - leave room for expansion.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or battery issue	Check fuel level, battery charge, spark plugs
Poor performance	Propeller damage or fouling	Inspect propeller for damage or debris
Steering stiffness	Cable lubrication needed	Lubricate steering cable and connections
Bilge pump not working	Electrical connection or switch	Check fuse, wiring, and float switch
Livewell not filling	Pump or plumbing issue	Check pump operation and water intake

Service: Contact authorized Bass Tracker dealer for major repairs

Parts: Genuine Bass Tracker parts available through dealers