Mike Y

I bought and fixed up an older 14' aluminum boat. When I bought the boat it did not come with a title or paperwork and the boat has NO markings on it. I can see one spot near the transom where a rectangular sticker was, but it's missing. I can not even see VIN or S/N's. Anyhow it's a 14', non-deep V boat with a single transom support in the middle. What is the general thought for weight requirements and max HP? The casting deck and wood floor I added, must have added about 75-100lbs making the boat weight about 200lb My fishing buddy is a good 300lbs and I am 170lbs for a total of 670lb and that's without motor, the trolling motor, battery and gear. If I had to guess she would weigh about 900-1000lbs. I think I'm pushing it but don't plan to take it anything other than samller lakes. Just curious on your thoughts on max weight and HP. Thanks!

You have limited options in regards to your battery. One thing to consider is to use a solar panel during the day and limit the use of the motor as much as possible. Solar panels are getting cheap and may really help. Can you row this boat? do you have oars? I am not sure how far or big this lake is, but if you can row a bit then use the trolling motor to work edges, etc. it may last for 2 days. Last, are you close to a car so that you can use jumper cables to re-charge the battery with the car battery? There are several ways to do this including disconnecting your car battery, re-connect your trolling motor and run the car (assuming you can start the car) to charge the battery. Good luck! I am sure you will figure it out.

I am refinishing my 14' row boat by adding decks and a casting platform. I have carpeted the floor and it looks great. I will post pics. I now have to figure out what to do with the sides of the boat - on the inside. Right now it is crappy paint. Should I carpet, paint, add a covering, bed liner or ???? Thanks!