Thinking of re-powering

[88capri]

I have a Force 85 hp on a 1988 Bayliner 1700. I'd like to up my HP and get away from the Force before it costs me. I would appreciate thoughts and opinions....experiences? Anything I should look out for? How much is too much HP?

 

[pnwboat]

Re: Thinking of re-powering

Anything that involves a boat is going to cost you. B.O.A.T. = Break Out Another Thousand. LOL! Just kidding....I don't know, but I've found that if you can work on the motor yourself, owning a Force motor is one of the cheapest ways of enjoying the water. As far as upping the horsepower, it all depends on what your transom/hull is rated for. You should have a label somewhere on your boat that shows maximum weight and horsepower. Generally, more horsepower means a bigger boat. I'm thinking that 85 HP is probably the maximum for a 17 foot Bayliner.

 

[Jiggz]

Re: Thinking of re-powering

How much to up the HP? The rule of thumb is $100 for every HP on new motors. Of course, it is a little different with used one depending on age and looks!

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Thinking of re-powering

The problem if you change brands, you'll need to change everything.
The shifter,the cables,wiring harness,tach and possibly the steering?
If you can find a 120/125 up to a 92 in good shape it will be a direct swap.
Then it gets fun when you start to drill holes and fill the old.
You'll need a template for drilling the holes.
Replace with a bigger Force and remove the sticker??
Just make sure the shaft length is the same.
OR get a different boat

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Thinking of re-powering

Unless the 85 is giving you trouble now, it is a bad idea to change brands: You will need to change control systems and wiring, people expect a Force on a Bayliner, and you will NOT recover the expense of buying a different engine when or if you go to sell. Bayliner has a bad reputation, in my opinion undeserved but nonetheless----

If, on the other hand, you really need more horsepower, like for skiing, then a larger Force--IF the hull is rated for it-- would be the more logical solution.

OH! BTW: Too much horsepower is never enough! LOL

 

[Jiggz]

Re: Thinking of re-powering

"OH! BTW: Too much horsepower is never enough! LOL"

Which only goes to say HP is more addictive than cigarettes! LOL