1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

[eric1850]

Hello, I'm a new boat owner and this is my first post here. I bought a 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850 which was owned by my parents since it was brand new. The boat is in really good condition for its age and I know its history and how well it was maintained. It was always kept on a lift during summer and kept away from the elements during winter.

Although it's in good shape, there are still a few things I'd like to fix and add on this boat. My first question would be, is there anything I can do to reinforce the engine cover which is cracked on the starboard side, closer to the stern? This is most likely due from putting weight on the cover while embarking and disembarking the boat. When the jump seats are there this part of the cover doesn't show so I don't mind if the repair is not aesthetically pleasing... It's on its way to completely break by the end of the season and I would like to avoid this.

Also, any recommendations on how to maintain and keep this boat in good condition?

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

Welcome to iBoats!

If the Engine Cover is Fiberglass then, sanding down the crack about 3" all around and laying some CSM glass and light 6oz cloth over the crack should reinforce it nicely. Trying to match the texture could be problematic. You could get close to matching the paint/gelcoat.

 

[eric1850]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

Welcome to iBoats!

It the Engine Cover is Fiberglass then, sanding down the crack about 3" all around and laying some CSM glass and light 6oz cloth over the crack should reinforce it nicely. Trying to match the texture could be problematic. You could get close to matching the paint/gelcoat.

Thanks for the response Woodonglass!

Now the stupid question, how do I know if it's fiberglass?

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

If repair area not visible, could get a piece of that aluminum checkplate from Cdn Tire and cut it to match the shape and lay inside, and drill and rivet the cover to it. Rivets either side of the crack and the aluminum sitting on the floor with the plastic cover might add a fair bit of strength.
I'm guessing that's not fiberglass.

 

[DAN M VAGOS]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

Looks plastic to me and if it is then there is no good way to fix it unless you brace it like howard stated. Looks like a great boat relly nice condition.

 

[captain_ron]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

Nice Bayliner ! Hmm cover looks plastic to me not a real good way to patch it with out cause more stress cracks could use some marine tex on the underside (side facing the motor) and it might strengthen it up a bit

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

Thanks for the response Woodonglass!

Now the stupid question, how do I know if it's fiberglass?

If you sand on it on the inside, if it's glass you'll see fibers, if it's plastic you won't. If it's plastic then the aluminum plate might be a good method. You might also investigate in your area if there's anyone that does plastic welding. If they know what they are doing it can be done successfully.

 

[eric1850]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

I assume using adhesives like PL or 5200 to bond an aluminum plate to the cover is a big no no?

 

[GAMAYBERRY]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

Since it is not easily seen, there is a drilling and plastic welding methodology that will make it almost as solid as new. Basically you drill staggered holes on both sides of the crack, with some holes drilled directly into the crack, and then plastic weld over all of it. Once its dry, sand it all down and paint to match if you want. I have used this on custom sport bikes in the past, and it works wonders! If the placement of drilling doesnt make sense, I can post a picture if you want, just let me know.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

There ya go! ^^^ Plastic Welding. Like I said, if there's someone in your area that's familiar with the process it IS a viable methodology.

 

[GB333]

Re: 1991 Bayliner Capri 1850

It's plastic. We have the same boat only a year older. Yours looks MUCH prettier than ours, though!! You might also see if there is a boat junk yard around where you could pick up another one. Seems like the Bayliner Capri is pretty common. I have know idea where you are but I believe there is a crazy big boat graveyard around Atlanta, GA, for example.