1987 Sea Ray Sundancer 250 Owners Manual

The 1987 Sea Ray Sundancer 250 is a 25-foot luxury cruiser featuring a deep-V hull design, spacious cabin accommodations, and reliable marine propulsion systems. This comprehensive manual covers safety procedures, boat specifications, operating instructions, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and storage guidelines to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vessel.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Boat Specifications 4. Operating Instructions 5. Engine Systems 6. Electrical Systems 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Deep-V hull design, fiberglass construction, marine propulsion system, cabin accommodations, helm station, and comprehensive marine electronics.

Feature	Description
Hull Design	Deep-V hull for superior handling and stability
Length Overall	25 feet with integrated swim platform	Beam	8 feet 6 inches maximum width
Weight	Approximately 5,200 lbs dry weight
Fuel Capacity	100 gallons
Water Capacity	20 gallons
Sleeping Capacity	4-6 persons
Head	Marine toilet with holding tank
Galley	Basic kitchenette with sink and storage
Helm Station	Complete instrumentation and controls

Safety Information

Essential safety procedures and equipment requirements for safe boating operation.

Personal Flotation Devices: Ensure adequate PFDs for all passengers
Fire Extinguishers: Maintain Coast Guard approved extinguishers
Navigation Lights: Verify proper operation before night operation
Ventilation: Run blower for 4 minutes before engine start
Weather Awareness: Monitor marine forecasts before departure

WARNING! Always wear engine cut-off switch lanyard. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs.

Boat Specifications

Length Overall: 25'0"
Beam: 8'6"
Draft: 2'8"
Weight: 5,200 lbs (dry)
Fuel Capacity: 100 gallons
Water Capacity: 20 gallons
Holding Tank: 20 gallons
Maximum Capacity: 10 persons or 1,500 lbs
Recommended Power: Single 260-330 HP stern drive

Operating Instructions

Pre-launch checklist and operational procedures for safe boating.

Pre-Departure: Check fuel, oil, bilge, and safety equipment
Starting Procedure: Turn key to ON, wait for alarm, then start
Docking: Approach slowly at 45-degree angle
Anchoring: Use appropriate scope ratio for depth
Emergency Procedures: Know man overboard and fire procedures

CAUTION! Always check weather conditions and file float plan with responsible party.

Engine Systems

Standard power options and engine maintenance requirements.

Component	Specification
Engine Options	MerCruiser 260-330 HP
Drive System	Alpha One Stern Drive
Oil Capacity	5 quarts with filter
Cooling System	Fresh water cooling standard
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Ignition System	Electronic Thunderbolt V

Electrical Systems

12-volt DC and optional 110-volt AC electrical systems.

Battery System: Dual marine starting batteries with switch
Charging: 55-amp alternator with voltage regulator
Distribution: Waterproof marine circuit breakers
Lighting: Navigation, cabin, and courtesy lights
Instruments: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, trim

Tip: Always turn battery switch to OFF when boat not in use.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Daily: Check engine oil, coolant levels, bilge
Weekly: Inspect belts, hoses, electrical connections
Monthly: Test safety equipment, clean filters
Annually: Winterize, hull inspection, engine service
50 Hours: Change engine oil and filter
100 Hours: Inspect drive unit, change gear lube

WARNING! Use only marine-grade parts and lubricants. Freshwater flush after saltwater use.

Storage & Winterization

Proper procedures for seasonal storage and winterization.

Fuel System: Add stabilizer and fill tank
Engine: Fog cylinders, change oil, drain block
Water Systems: Drain and add antifreeze
Batteries: Remove and store on maintainer
Exterior: Clean and wax hull, cover properly

CAUTION! Never use automotive antifreeze in marine engines.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery charge, fuel level, kill switch
Overheating	Impeller, thermostat	Check water intake, impeller, thermostat
Electrical failure	Corrosion, breaker	Check connections, reset breakers
Poor performance	Fouled plugs, fuel	Check spark plugs, fuel quality
Bilge pump failure	Float switch, power	Test switch, check wiring and fuse

Emergency: Carry VHF radio and emergency signaling devices.

Service: Contact authorized Sea Ray dealer for major repairs.

Warranty Information

Sea Ray provides limited warranty coverage for hull and components. Original owner receives 1-year comprehensive warranty and 5-year structural hull warranty. Maintain proper maintenance records and use authorized dealers for warranty service. Contact Sea Ray Customer Service for specific warranty claims and coverage details.