85 Capri - 85hp Force boggs down during acceleration...

[poulon4747]

**originally posted this in the "bayliner" section but this may be a better section of the forum for my problem**

Hello Everyone... new to the forums here and a little background. I just purchased a 86 Bayliner Capri last weekend. I am little mechanically inclined but not a techie. I also purchased the maintenance and repair manual for the Force and I should be able perform most of the maintenance outlined in the manual.

The boat had sat for about a year but would turn over and idle when I purchased it. Took it out that day and it ran really rough and had a really hard time getting the engine to get up to full power. Kept dying when I would accelerate. The few times I did get the engine up to full power it ran about 20 mph.

I changed out the plugs and it made a huge difference. Starts without any problems and the boat runs about 35-37 mph (from what I have read in other threads this is normal for its top speed) with 2 people in the boat. No problems with acceleration.

However when the boat is loaded with 5 people (2 adults, 3 kids) the boat wants to bogg out during acceleration. I have to pump the throttle to get the engine up to full power and will run about 28-30 mph.

I am curious what I should do next. I am thinking the carbs need some work but I would like to hear from those who a little more experienced than me.

Also on a side note... one of the throttle cables is a little frayed (but still functioning) but plan on replacing that soon... just ordered the parts... not sure if that has any affect on the bogging out problem.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 85 Capri - 85hp Force boggs down during acceleration...

If it leans out and almost dies or does die during full throttle acceleration, then the carbs are running too lean. I view of the fact that you have not run the boat for a while and have had problems with it. NOW would be a good time to remove the carbs, disassemble them and clean them, and reattach the. Then, synchronize the carb opening to the timing. A Clymers or factory manual will tell you the procedure. Put a new diaphragm and gasket in the fuel pump and chec the entire fuel system from tank to carbs for clogs or restrictions. Put a cheap disposable fuel filter inline between the fuel pump and carbs.

When you do set the low speed needles on the carbs, no matter what the manuals tell you, do not set them leaner than 3/4 turn out from lightly seated.

 

[john from md]

Re: 85 Capri - 85hp Force boggs down during acceleration...

You also should consider a set of Smart Tabs trim tabs. They run about $100 but really improve the planing speed, handling and most of all, fuel economy. ( if there is such a thing with a Force engine)

If you are planning to pull tubes or boards, don't get a fin on your engine, get smartabs.

You should also follow the info in the FAQ at the beginning of the forum regarding waking a sleeping engine. It is good info.

Welcome aboard,

John