1987 Ranger Boat Owners Manual

The 1987 Ranger Boat is a premium fishing boat designed for serious anglers, featuring durable fiberglass construction, reliable outboard motor compatibility, spacious casting decks, ample storage compartments, livewell systems, and advanced fishing features. This manual covers safety guidelines, boat features, operation procedures, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting for optimal performance on the water.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Guidelines 3. Boat Components 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Trailering Instructions 7. Launching and Retrieval 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Winter Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Fiberglass hull, casting decks, storage compartments, livewell system, console controls, navigation lights, bilge pump, and outboard motor mount.

Feature	Description
Fiberglass Hull	Durable construction for stability and performance
Casting Decks	Spacious front and rear platforms for fishing
Storage Compartments	Waterproof storage for gear and equipment
Livewell System	Aerated tank for keeping baitfish alive
Console Controls	Steering, throttle, and instrumentation
Navigation Lights	Bow and stern lights for night operation
Bilge Pump	Automatic water removal system
Outboard Motor Mount	Compatible with various outboard engines
Seating	Adjustable fishing seats with pedestals
Rod Storage	Built-in rod holders and storage tubes

Safety Guidelines

Always prioritize safety when operating your Ranger boat.

Wear USCG-approved life jackets at all times while on the water.
Check weather conditions before departure and avoid rough waters.
Maintain proper boat capacity and weight distribution.
Carry required safety equipment: fire extinguisher, sound-producing device, visual distress signals.
File float plan with someone on shore.

WARNING! Alcohol and boating don't mix. Never operate under the influence. Ensure all passengers understand safety procedures.

Boat Components

Familiarize yourself with all boat components for safe operation.

Hull: Fiberglass construction with foam flotation
Deck: Non-slip surface with storage hatches
Console: Steering wheel, throttle control, instrumentation
Livewell: 20-gallon aerated tank with pump timer
Bilge: Automatic pump with manual override
Electrical: 12V battery system with fuse panel

CAUTION! Regularly inspect all components for wear or damage before each use.

Specifications

Length: 17 feet 6 inches
Beam: 84 inches
Weight: 1250 lbs (boat only)
Maximum HP: 150 horsepower
Fuel Capacity: 28 gallons
Livewell Capacity: 20 gallons
Person Capacity: 4 persons or 600 lbs
Construction: Fiberglass with wood reinforcement
Flotation: USCG-approved foam flotation

Controls and Operation

Console features: Steering wheel, throttle/shift control, ignition, instrumentation.

Instrumentation: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, voltmeter, water temperature, oil pressure.

Starting procedure: Ensure safety lanyard is attached, shift to neutral, turn key to start. Running: Monitor gauges, maintain safe speeds, be aware of surroundings. Shutdown: Return to neutral, turn off ignition, secure boat.

Trailering Instructions

Proper trailering ensures safe transport to and from launch sites.

Ensure trailer is properly sized and rated for your Ranger boat.
Distribute weight evenly on trailer bunks.
Secure transom straps and bow eye connection.
Check tire pressure, lights, and bearings before towing.
Use proper safety chains and breakaway system.

Tip: Always perform walk-around inspection before towing.

Launching and Retrieval

Step-by-step procedures for safe boat handling.

Preparation: Remove transom straps, install drain plug, prepare lines.
Launching: Back trailer into water until boat floats free, secure boat at dock.
Retrieval: Position boat centered on trailer, winch securely to bow stop.
Post-launch: Drain bilge, raise engine, secure transom straps.

WARNING! Never stand between boat and trailer during retrieval. Use dock lines to maintain control.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and reliability.

Interval	Maintenance Task
Each Use	Flush engine, check bilge, inspect hull
Monthly	Check battery, clean livewell, inspect steering
100 Hours	Change engine oil, inspect fuel system
Annual	Bottom paint, inspect electrical, service trailer
Storage	Fog engine, stabilize fuel, remove battery

Winter Storage

Proper winterization protects your investment during off-season.

Clean boat thoroughly inside and out
Drain all water from systems and livewell
Fog engine cylinders and fuel system
Remove battery and store on maintainer
Cover boat with breathable cover
Store in dry, protected location

CAUTION! Never store boat with fuel in tanks without stabilizer.

Regulatory Information

USCG Certification: Meets U.S. Coast Guard safety standards. EPA Compliance: Meets emission standards for marine engines. Copyright © 1987 Ranger Boats; all rights reserved. For support, contact Ranger Boats Customer Service at 1-870-453-2222 or visit authorized Ranger dealers.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/Safety lanyard	Check battery connections; ensure safety lanyard is attached; verify fuel supply.
Poor performance	Fuel/Propeller	Check fuel quality; inspect propeller for damage; verify engine height.
Bilge pump not working	Power/Float switch	Check fuse and wiring; test float switch operation; clear debris from pump.
Livewell not filling	Pump/Valves	Verify pump operation; check valves and screens; ensure proper water level.
Steering stiffness	Cables/Lubrication	Inspect steering cables; lubricate connections; check for binding.

Emergency: Carry VHF radio and emergency contact numbers.

Service: Contact authorized Ranger dealer for warranty service.