1988 85 force

[smac1484]

have a 85 force on a 17.5 ft. bayliner fish/ski..whats the biggest force engine i could put on this boat? Is a 1994 150 force to big & is it a good engine ? Thanks !

 

[pnwboat]

Re: 1988 85 force

There should be a plaque on your boat that tells you the maximum horsepower that can be mounted on your boat. The biggest problem is the strength of your transom. It has to be designed to handle the weight of the motor. If you exceed this, there's a chance that you may seriously damage, or worse case scenario, rip the transom right off the boat.

 

[NYBo]

Re: 1988 85 force

If your boat has the same hull as the bowriders and cuddies, the limit is 85 HP. But the bowriders and cuddies have 16' 10" length, so if yours is truly 17' 6", it may take more HP. But I doubt it would be as high as 150; maybe 125. If you don't have the capacity placard, try posting your question in the Bayliner section. Someone there may have the same boat. Bayliner may be able to tell you the info, but won't be able to supply a replacement placard for a boat that old (I tried).

EDIT: From the title of your post, I assumed your boat is an '88. Is that correct?

 

[further]

Re: 1988 85 force

I had (since sold) a 1990 bayliner 18' which measured 17'6" and the placard read 125HP max. but had a 90HP on it.

 

[sho3boater]

Re: 1988 85 force

My 16' OB Bayliner is rated at 90hp, but at these sizes you run into coast guard ratings. Often you have to go to 17-18' to fit a 150 at most just because of the size. But, this 16 has a 3/4" transom (the wood) under the well. Any other boat I've seen that will handle more than 90hp has a 1.5" thick transom. It should have a weight capacity plate near the driver or passenger usually that tells. Otherwise call bayliner and ask.

Far as the motor, they are an old design so they are simple and take more gas maybe....more noise/etc. But they are cheaper too so its up to you.

 

[smac1484]

Re: 1988 85 force

yes it is a 1988 bayliner...where would this plaque be located ?

 

[jason32038]

Re: 1988 85 force

Sit in the passenger seat next to the driver seat and look to the left. It should be there somewhere.

 

[jddens]

Re: 1988 85 force

I have the same boat.......plaque says 90HP max.......

 

[thimsllib]

Re: 1988 85 force

I have a 17' Capri open bow and the plaque is located on the side of the dash where you walk through to the bow. Port side. Mine is rated for 85HP.

 

[smac1484]

Re: 1988 85 force

ok thanks guys