Is 86 Bayliner Capri worth keeping??

Ok, I'm new to all this, but pretty handy. I "bought" an 86 bayliner capri with escort trailer for $100. Trying to figure out if this boat is worth saving or not. The previous owner, who I know, tells me the engine should be easy to get working again. It does manually turn, but not far enough to try with battery yet. The entire interior needs replaced. This does not scare me one bit.

On the first day, me and a friend tore out the entire interior and cleaned inside and out. The boat did clean up well. I figure the first order of buisness is to get it running, before investing any money into it; however, I have one other big question. This boat has an 85 force ob, but the power trim is missing. I found hydro lines in boat with broken ends and assume someone robbed the whole system. Unit, pump, and wires???? What am I looking at with this problem? If the motor runs, is it worth fixing this problem or get rid of this thing? I figure I could always do ok on the winshield and trailer if I have to sell. Maybe even the engine. But I want to keep it all if its not to huge of a problem. THANKS.

Re: Is 86 Bayliner Capri worth keeping??

Mid eighties Bayliners were notorious for poor quality. Force O/B's are obsolete and may be really hard to get parts for. It could still turn into a good boat, though. If it were me, and I had the time and money to tie up, I'd flip it. If you can get it done before spring, you could make some money on the deal and chalk up a little experience for the boat your going to keep for yourself, when you get one. Good luck with your decision.

Re: Is 86 Bayliner Capri worth keeping??

I jumped in -in allmost your situation. I had the t/t hardware though. It cost me $1K to buy, another $K in parts. Will never be able to sell it to recoup the capital investment, on the same line, I'll never replace the excitement/fun/adventure/satisfaction either. RRitt may be able to help you along your way. Use the search function w/ keywords '86 capri. Lots to discover. PS I'd be interested in your center and side windows should you decide to part it out. PPSS Just noticed my bar and star. Anyone need a cup of coffee?

Re: Is 86 Bayliner Capri worth keeping??

I bought my '85 Capri with a rotten deck and stringers...gutted the hull, cut new marine plywood, glass, bla bla, resealed the sterndrive, bla bla you name it I've done it. I'd say I have around $3000-3500 invested into it.

A new Discovery 19' cuddy is like $26k...aside from the Alpha sterndrive it's like, the same thing. I plan on keeping it a long, long time. I came out $23k ahead and I've taken it hundreds of miles over the Great Lakes already.