1988 Bayliner Capri Cuddy Owners Manual

The 1988 Bayliner Capri Cuddy is a versatile family boat featuring a cuddy cabin for overnight stays, reliable marine engines, comprehensive instrumentation, and durable fiberglass construction. This manual covers safety procedures, boat features, operation guidelines, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and storage recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vessel.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Boat Specifications 4. Controls and Instrumentation 5. Operation Guidelines 6. Engine Maintenance 7. Hull and Deck Care 8. Electrical System 9. Trailering and Storage 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cuddy cabin with sleeping accommodations, marine engine options, comprehensive instrumentation, fiberglass hull construction, and ample storage compartments.

Feature	Description
Cuddy Cabin	Enclosed forward cabin with V-berth seating and storage
Engine Options	Various marine engine configurations available
Instrument Panel	Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge
Hull Construction	Durable fiberglass with foam flotation
Steering System	Mechanical or hydraulic steering options
Fuel System	Built-in fuel tank with gauge and venting
Electrical System	12-volt DC system with battery and switch panel
Storage Compartments	Multiple storage areas throughout the boat
Swim Platform	Integrated swim platform with ladder
Navigation Lights	Bow and stern lighting for night operation

Safety Information

Essential safety procedures and equipment requirements for safe boating operation.

Life Jackets: Ensure one USCG-approved life jacket per person on board.
Fire Extinguisher: Keep marine-rated fire extinguisher accessible.
Navigation Rules: Understand and follow local waterway regulations.
Weather Awareness: Check weather conditions before departure.
Float Plan: File float plan with someone ashore.

WARNING! Always wear engine cut-off switch lanyard. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs. Ensure proper ventilation in enclosed spaces.

Boat Specifications

Length Overall: 19 feet 6 inches
Beam: 7 feet 6 inches
Weight: Approximately 2,400 lbs (with engine)
Fuel Capacity: 28 gallons
Maximum Capacity: 6 persons or 900 lbs
Hull Material: Fiberglass with foam flotation
Engine Options: Various Force and Mercury outboards
Maximum Horsepower: 125 HP
Draft: 18 inches (engine down)

Controls and Instrumentation

Main control station includes steering wheel, throttle/shift controls, and comprehensive instrumentation.

Control Panel: Ignition switch, choke, trim/tilt switch, bilge pump switch, navigation light switch.

Instrumentation: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure warning light, voltmeter. Safety Equipment: Horn, navigation lights, bilge pump, fire extinguisher holder. Storage: Glove compartment, under-seat storage, cuddy cabin storage.

Operation Guidelines

Proper procedures for launching, operating, and retrieving your Bayliner Capri.

Pre-Launch Check: Verify drain plug installed, safety equipment on board.
Engine Start: Ensure ventilation, turn key while advancing choke if cold.
Departure: Check clear area, shift to forward gradually.
Operation: Maintain safe speed for conditions, watch for obstacles.
Docking: Approach slowly into wind/current, use fenders.
Retrieval: Flush engine if used in salt water, remove drain plug.

Tip: Allow engine to warm up before advancing throttle. Avoid sudden maneuvers at high speed.

Engine Maintenance

Regular maintenance schedule for optimal engine performance and longevity.

Daily: Check engine oil level, inspect fuel system for leaks.
Weekly: Check propeller for damage, inspect cooling system.
Monthly: Change engine oil, inspect spark plugs, check battery.
Seasonally: Winterize if storing, change gear case lube.
Annually: Full tune-up, inspect fuel lines, check steering system.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before servicing electrical components. Use marine-grade parts and lubricants only.

Hull and Deck Care

Proper cleaning and maintenance procedures for fiberglass surfaces.

Cleaning: Use marine-grade boat soap and soft brush. Rinse thoroughly after salt water use. Waxing: Apply marine wax every 3-6 months for UV protection. Inspection: Regularly check for gelcoat cracks, stress points. Repair: Use marine-grade epoxy for minor fiberglass repairs.

Electrical System

12-volt DC electrical system maintenance and troubleshooting.

Battery: Keep terminals clean and tight, check water level in lead-acid batteries. Wiring: Inspect for corrosion, ensure proper grounding. Fuses: Carry spare fuses of correct amperage. Lights: Test navigation lights before each use. Bilge Pump: Test regularly, clean intake screen.

Trailering and Storage

Proper procedures for trailering and seasonal storage.

Trailering: Secure transom straps, check tire pressure, test lights.
Launching: Submerge trailer sufficiently for easy float-off.
Retrieval: Center boat on trailer, secure bow eye strap.
Storage: Clean thoroughly, cover properly, support hull correctly.
Winterization: Fog engine, stabilize fuel, remove battery.

CAUTION! Never exceed trailer weight capacity. Ensure proper tongue weight (10-15% of total).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery charge, verify fuel flow, inspect spark plugs.
Overheating	Water pump, thermostat	Check water intake, inspect impeller, verify thermostat operation.
Poor performance	Fuel filter, propeller	Replace fuel filter, inspect propeller for damage.
Electrical failure	Battery, connections	Check battery voltage, clean terminals, inspect fuses.
Steering stiffness	Cable, lubrication	Lubricate steering cable, check for binding.

Service: Contact authorized Bayliner dealer for major repairs. Keep records of all maintenance.

Support: Bayliner Customer Service for additional assistance and parts information.