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Pretty hard to say just by the series. They make multiple models in that series and each is meant for different things. Get back to us with the specifics

You could do that if you felt it was necessary. I've never had an issue with the plugs though.

I found that out last year when my almost new looking trailer tires popped. Blew two in about a month. Learned my lesson that no matter how good they look, you've got to check the date to be sure.

Being that it's as far gone as it already is, it's not worth a full restoration. It sounds like you're just trying to make it usable. You can find seats online and they have some in camo patterns. As far as making it look better that's where things get tough. I'd suggest cleaning it, sanding it, and then taking a rattle can to it to do your own camo paint job. Don't worry about bumping a stump or two with it either. It's not just going to rip a huge hole in your boat. You wouldn't want to hit one running wide open, it could do damage, but it shouldn't be catastrophic. As for the gas you'll probably want to ditch it. If the motor was running when he put it away I wouldn't risk causing problems in it with bad gas. I'd replace all the fuel lines with new to make sure to keep the old lines from causing problems. I'd be sure to replace the fuel filter while you're at it. Good luck and have fun with the old girl!

For a boat that small, you can make your own with some aluminum and pvc pipe. With those and a cheap set of extra bunks you can drive them on just like any other boat. I made those mods on my Bass Tender when I had it and it worked slick as snot.

Not bad boats at all. Take a look at it, test it out, and see what you think!

What a tank! I wish we could grow them that big up here!

I use them a lot so I'd be guessing about a year and a half to two, maybe longer lol

I only have experience with their upper end casting reels, but from what I've seen, the BPS reels offer a pretty good bang for the buck. They might not be the fanciest, lightest weight, most modern designs, but they are well built and I've been very impressed by them. My only at length experience has been with the PQ and higher with 4 being being from the signature series. My oldest one is going into it's 9th year of service and I've had 0 issues with it and haven't had any issues with the others either. They have proved to be good workhorse reels and I wouldn't hesitate to buy another.

I'm sure you could get them from Minnkota

I like mine Exo well enough. It is a tad loud, and it's got a bit of boat rash despite getting a reel cover every time it goes into storage. The cast control seems to be a bit touchy, but once you get it dialed in it's good to go. I like it well enough to probably buy another one.

Nice work fry! Definitely love that you did a wet test too. I knew mono took on water and when it did would stretch more, but it's interesting to see just how much more it does. Very cool!

It's really up to you. If you feel comfortable using braid and you don't think it hinders you then why switch? If you feel that you are missing out then give it a shot and find out if it's right for you.

I'd probably see if the guy with the pro 16 would fix the trim before the sale, or try to use it as a bargaining chip. With all boats though, a huge amount of the value is determined by condition. It's hard to say what's the better buy without seeing them because everyone seems to have a different opinion of "good condition".

Give it a go! There's no reason to not join because of your boat. Besides, weeknight leagues are pretty laid back (at least in my experience) so there's really no need to worry about your boat.

I've also never had issues with the palomar knot and I use it for braid, mono, and fluoro. For that reason it still remains my top choice and go to knot.

I use the sticker that came with it or a rubberband

They'er Lowrance's basic entry level units. Here's a link to the product manual http://www.lowrance.com/Root/Lowrance-Documents/X52_%20X59DF_0151-211_111904.pdf

I'd say pull it out and have a look. Most are only connected to the livewell hoses with hose clamps. If you can get it out it might be easier to see what you're working with and figure out what the hold up is. My dad swapped out one of his last year in his Ranger and didn't have any issues with getting it out.

Although that one is small, it doesn't look overly unhealthy. As they get bigger it usually gets more distinct. This is an extreme example of what a stunted one will look like.

I haven't put one on a 175. It's hard to say with the pics provided. First one looks like the best option, but you'd need a 2D transducer to put in the hull or mount elsewhere for depth when running at speed. That's where we put my dad's on his 519 and it works well, but it really depends on the actual hull itself. I've got a Sport R70 and couldn't mount my Lowrance SS tranducer there because it didn't hang down far enough to clear the cupped section on my setback. Picture 2 will also work, but same as location 1 you're mounting it where it's out of the water while running so you'd need a 2d trans in addition. Pic 3 is a definite no. There's not enough room there as you can see even the bracket itself is hanging below the hull. It would read, but it's far less than ideal. If you get a better shot from the back and from the side straight underneath it'd be easier to help you out.

Easiest way would be if you have access to a dock overnight. You can leave it there while you get to work and then give the paint enough time to dry. I know at some of the boat shows I've seen them sitting on some old tires. Given that your hull weight is only about 800 lbs you might even consider taking everything out that you can and giving a few strong friends a call.

Congrats on the new ride!

What is your size limit elsewhere? There are a few lakes around me that have different size limits used to help increase population. The worst part about doing that on such a small lake is that it can cause stunting. If you look at the fish you catch there, do they have what looks like oversized heads in comparison to their body? If they do this is usually a pretty clear sign of it.

It really depends on how much you like the boat and how long you plan to keep it. If it's in good shape and you plan to keep it for a long time then it's a viable option. If you can see yourself getting something different in a few years, then personally I wouldn't. You spend 8-10k on a newer motor but you will NEVER get that back out of it. Your boat will be worth a little more with a newer motor, but nowhere even close to what you put in it. When it all comes down to it, it's really whatever option you feel works best for you and your financial situation.