Advice?

[Stevo_fishes]

I'll get some better pics, since I took this one in May, I got rid of the little cushions and ladders, not sure why there's little cushions on a bass boat with a decent deck. My ultimate goal is to make it a local tournament worthy rig in the long run, over the course of a few years. I know most people prefer 21 footers but this one could fit in my garage when I move out and I would definitely consider getting an early 2000's 150 yamaha vmax to boost its looks and speed. I plan on doing small things now such as gauges and lights, windshields and carpet. If yall think it's a good idea I'd probably get the different outboard around college (I'm taking some college classes right now so I'll only be going to 4 year university for 2 years). Anyways, with the prices of boats now, I figured I'd hold on to this one as long as possible. ( a brand new boat of similar size is around 40k). My neighbor and a good family friend both have boats about 10 years older than mine that they take everywhere so I don't think I'm too far behind!

[ElGuapo928]

I’d be inclined to leave the outboard alone. Those old 2 strokes just flat out run, and really aren’t too problematic if you keep up on the maintenance.

 

You’ve got a nice looking rig there, and sounds like you’ve got a pretty good plan for it. Nothing wrong with an “experienced” boat - my Ranger is an ‘89, and I’m not sure I would trade it for a new one.

[Big Hands]

Congrats on the new boat.

 

I'd concentrate on the maintenance items first. The steering cables can go from bad to worse very quickly, so that would be the first thing on my list.

========================

Uncle Big Head here has some suggestions for you, many of which are from experiences I have had or witnessed others having. Sounds like you may already have a fair amount of boating experience, but it looks like you might also be ready to go out on your own soon. If you already know this stuff, just call me 'boomer' and go on with your day. OK, off we go:

 

Create a document that covers your game day routine from start to finish. This includes having a policy and rules for anyone that sets a foot in your boat. They need to know that you are the captain, and they may need to be relied on to do certain things and follow your instructions in an emergency. Have a friendly chat to go over these things before you get on with your day. Never forget to check that the plug is in the correct hole at the back of the boat right before you back the boat into the water. Keep the document loaded onto your phone.

 

There is a LOT of comedy and tragedy that takes place at launch ramp. Don't expect others to know much, or anything at all about how things should be done and every boat and ramp could have something unique about them. Feelings can get hurt in a few seconds and that could ruin the rest of your day, if not far beyond that.

 

Preparation, discipline, composure and grace are your friend and will serve you well at the ramp and in the marina. Somebody else may need a brief hand or assistance too.

 

REMEMBER THIS FOR THE REST OF YOUR BOATING LIFE: It is super easy to get distracted at any point, and that is when your day gets bad in a hurry. 

========================

• I'd repack the wheel bearings, adjust them properly, and get them covered if the caps are missing.
• Replace the impeller in the outboard so you know it's going to be reliable. It's not very difficult to do it yourself if you have any mechanical experience.
• Check out the trailer wiring, plug, lube the jack, give the winch and it's strap a good looking over, and put some grease up in the coupler.
• Make sure the safety chains are going to do their job correctly as currently configured.
• Buy a spare plug and put it in the glove box. Also, a #2 Phillip's screwdriver, a crescent wrench, regular slip joint pliers, a small pair of locking jaw pliers, pliers, a roll of electrical tape, a utility knife, and a small can of WD-40 or other lubricant.
• Buy a spare nut, washer, and pin that fits your trolling motor and your outboard, and make sure you have the tools to remove and replace both the trolling motor prop and the prop on the outboard.
• ALWAYS have a spare key for the boat ignition with you (don't ask how I know that one).
• Make sure your documentation is up to date and kept on board.
• Know the rules for life jackets and personal floatation devices. 
• Make sure your kill switch game is on point. Keep a spare for any parts that are needed for the kill switch system to work properly. That can leave you stranded if you don't. 
• Make sure you know how to avoid flooding your motor, and what to do if it happens so you can recover quickly.
• A battery booster/jumper is an excellent thing to have if your battery ever suddenly won't start your big motor.
• Make sure all of the screws/bolts that hold the seat pedestals are tight. Make sure the screws that hold the seat to the pedestal base are tight. 
• Make sure there are extra fuses in the glove box (at least two of each type). Clean any corrosion off of your battery posts if there is any.
• Always bring one more layer of clothing than you think you'll need.
• Make sure your cleats and dock lines are set up to work well and quickly.
• Depending on the facility you use an set of fenders could be helpful.
• I recommend an anchor that will be effective for the waters you use. I like a section of chain just above the anchor as it acts as a bit of a shock absorber that will help you stay in place when things get ugly.
• I like to have a gallon jug with a built in handle on board. I sometimes use it as a float for an anchor line if I need/want to leave my position briefly so I can avoid having to pull the anchor in if I need to un-snag my line or whatever else comes up. It doubles as an emergency 'container' for those of us with external plumbing fixtures that were raised by savages. Pro Tip: Never drink from any gallon jug on my boat.
• Stow an extra hat and sunglasses in your boat for those times you forget them at home (you will).
• Make sure your fire extinguisher is up to date and correctly mounted. 
• A throwable cushion, a paddle, and a whistle may be required equipment and you could get turned away if you don't have all of your safety equipment.
• Keep a bow and stern light in your tow vehicle or stowed in your boat (it could be required to launch on a foggy day).
• With winter coming on, make sure you can get back into your boat (if you fall overboard) in heavy winter clothes if you'll be boating then. A swim step on the back could save your life.
• Then go after that carpet, and take care of the gel coat. Make sure the bunks on the trailer are sound and well covered.
• Get it all fluffed up and looking good.

A lot of this stuff is going to take more labor than money, but it's all important to protect your investment and to make sure your craft is reliable. As you do these things, that is often how you discover other potential issues.

 

For backing up the trailer:

• Put the tailgate down on a truck (unless it will interfere with the mast on the trailer). If you have an SUV, open the window and put the tailgate down, especially when the trailer is empty as you are retrieving the boat after using it.
• Put your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel.
• Small corrections early are much better than larger corrections after it really gets wonky.
• As you are backing up, move your hand (that's at the 6 o'clock position) toward the side you want the trailer to go to.

Boats are notorious for not working at the most inopportune times, but you can greatly reduce those occurrences with regular upkeep.

 

Be safe and have a ball.

[WRB]

All good advice ^^^…

Just add check your trailer tires! over 10 years replace them.

You will Fish about 15 hours to 1 hour on the trolling motor in lieu of the OB so check your batteries, on board charger and plan on your 1st upgrade being the trolling motor. 

Congratulations!

Tom

[Tackleholic]

5 hours ago, Big Hands said:

Congrats on the new boat.

 

I'd concentrate on the maintenance items first. The steering cables can go from bad to worse very quickly, so that would be the first thing on my list.

========================

Uncle Big Head here has some suggestions for you, many of which are from experiences I have had or witnessed others having. Sounds like you may already have a fair amount of boating experience, but it looks like you might also be ready to go out on your own soon. If you already know this stuff, just call me 'boomer' and go on with your day. OK, off we go:

 

Create a document that covers your game day routine from start to finish. This includes having a policy and rules for anyone that sets a foot in your boat. They need to know that you are the captain, and they may need to be relied on to do certain things and follow your instructions in an emergency. Have a friendly chat to go over these things before you get on with your day. Never forget to check that the plug is in the correct hole at the back of the boat right before you back the boat into the water. Keep the document loaded onto your phone.

 

There is a LOT of comedy and tragedy that takes place at launch ramp. Don't expect others to know much, or anything at all about how things should be done and every boat and ramp could have something unique about them. Feelings can get hurt in a few seconds and that could ruin the rest of your day, if not far beyond that.

 

Preparation, discipline, composure and grace are your friend and will serve you well at the ramp and in the marina. Somebody else may need a brief hand or assistance too.

 

REMEMBER THIS FOR THE REST OF YOUR BOATING LIFE: It is super easy to get distracted at any point, and that is when your day gets bad in a hurry. 

========================

• I'd repack the wheel bearings, adjust them properly, and get them covered if the caps are missing.
• Replace the impeller in the outboard so you know it's going to be reliable. It's not very difficult to do it yourself if you have any mechanical experience.
• Check out the trailer wiring, plug, lube the jack, give the winch and it's strap a good looking over, and put some grease up in the coupler.
• Make sure the safety chains are going to do their job correctly as currently configured.
• Buy a spare plug and put it in the glove box. Also, a #2 Phillip's screwdriver, a crescent wrench, regular slip joint pliers, a small pair of locking jaw pliers, pliers, a roll of electrical tape, a utility knife, and a small can of WD-40 or other lubricant.
• Buy a spare nut, washer, and pin that fits your trolling motor and your outboard, and make sure you have the tools to remove and replace both the trolling motor prop and the prop on the outboard.
• ALWAYS have a spare key for the boat ignition with you (don't ask how I know that one).
• Make sure your documentation is up to date and kept on board.
• Know the rules for life jackets and personal floatation devices. 
• Make sure your kill switch game is on point. Keep a spare for any parts that are needed for the kill switch system to work properly. That can leave you stranded if you don't. 
• Make sure you know how to avoid flooding your motor, and what to do if it happens so you can recover quickly.
• A battery booster/jumper is an excellent thing to have if your battery ever suddenly won't start your big motor.
• Make sure all of the screws/bolts that hold the seat pedestals are tight. Make sure the screws that hold the seat to the pedestal base are tight. 
• Make sure there are extra fuses in the glove box (at least two of each type). Clean any corrosion off of your battery posts if there is any.
• Always bring one more layer of clothing than you think you'll need.
• Make sure your cleats and dock lines are set up to work well and quickly.
• Depending on the facility you use an set of fenders could be helpful.
• I recommend an anchor that will be effective for the waters you use. I like a section of chain just above the anchor as it acts as a bit of a shock absorber that will help you stay in place when things get ugly.
• I like to have a gallon jug with a built in handle on board. I sometimes use it as a float for an anchor line if I need/want to leave my position briefly so I can avoid having to pull the anchor in if I need to un-snag my line or whatever else comes up. It doubles as an emergency 'container' for those of us with external plumbing fixtures that were raised by savages. Pro Tip: Never drink from any gallon jug on my boat.
• Stow an extra hat and sunglasses in your boat for those times you forget them at home (you will).
• Make sure your fire extinguisher is up to date and correctly mounted. 
• A throwable cushion, a paddle, and a whistle may be required equipment and you could get turned away if you don't have all of your safety equipment.
• Keep a bow and stern light in your tow vehicle or stowed in your boat (it could be required to launch on a foggy day).
• With winter coming on, make sure you can get back into your boat (if you fall overboard) in heavy winter clothes if you'll be boating then. A swim step on the back could save your life.
• Then go after that carpet, and take care of the gel coat. Make sure the bunks on the trailer are sound and well covered.
• Get it all fluffed up and looking good.

A lot of this stuff is going to take more labor than money, but it's all important to protect your investment and to make sure your craft is reliable. As you do these things, that is often how you discover other potential issues.

 

For backing up the trailer:

• Put the tailgate down on a truck (unless it will interfere with the mast on the trailer). If you have an SUV, open the window and put the tailgate down, especially when the trailer is empty as you are retrieving the boat after using it.
• Put your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel.
• Small corrections early are much better than larger corrections after it really gets wonky.
• As you are backing up, move your hand (that's at the 6 o'clock position) toward the side you want the trailer to go to.

Boats are notorious for not working at the most inopportune times, but you can greatly reduce those occurrences with regular upkeep.

 

Be safe and have a ball.

Very thorough advice, but from experience I have one recommendation to add about dropping the tailgate.  Watch out!  When attempting a sharp turn while backing, be very careful your tailgate does make contact with the trailer, especially if you have steps on the front.  New tailgates are expensive.

Just now, Tackleholic said:

Very thorough advice, but from experience I have one recommendation to add about dropping the tailgate.  Watch out!  When attempting a sharp turn while backing, be very careful your tailgate does make contact with the trailer, especially if you have steps on the front.  New tailgates are expensive.

Proofreading my suggestion, I meant to say "be very careful your tailgate does NOT make contact with the trailer".  Sorry for the confusion.

[Stevo_fishes]

19 hours ago, Big Hands said:

Congrats on the new boat.

 

I'd concentrate on the maintenance items first. The steering cables can go from bad to worse very quickly, so that would be the first thing on my list.

========================

Uncle Big Head here has some suggestions for you, many of which are from experiences I have had or witnessed others having. Sounds like you may already have a fair amount of boating experience, but it looks like you might also be ready to go out on your own soon. If you already know this stuff, just call me 'boomer' and go on with your day. OK, off we go:

 

Create a document that covers your game day routine from start to finish. This includes having a policy and rules for anyone that sets a foot in your boat. They need to know that you are the captain, and they may need to be relied on to do certain things and follow your instructions in an emergency. Have a friendly chat to go over these things before you get on with your day. Never forget to check that the plug is in the correct hole at the back of the boat right before you back the boat into the water. Keep the document loaded onto your phone.

 

There is a LOT of comedy and tragedy that takes place at launch ramp. Don't expect others to know much, or anything at all about how things should be done and every boat and ramp could have something unique about them. Feelings can get hurt in a few seconds and that could ruin the rest of your day, if not far beyond that.

 

Preparation, discipline, composure and grace are your friend and will serve you well at the ramp and in the marina. Somebody else may need a brief hand or assistance too.

 

REMEMBER THIS FOR THE REST OF YOUR BOATING LIFE: It is super easy to get distracted at any point, and that is when your day gets bad in a hurry. 

========================

• I'd repack the wheel bearings, adjust them properly, and get them covered if the caps are missing.
• Replace the impeller in the outboard so you know it's going to be reliable. It's not very difficult to do it yourself if you have any mechanical experience.
• Check out the trailer wiring, plug, lube the jack, give the winch and it's strap a good looking over, and put some grease up in the coupler.
• Make sure the safety chains are going to do their job correctly as currently configured.
• Buy a spare plug and put it in the glove box. Also, a #2 Phillip's screwdriver, a crescent wrench, regular slip joint pliers, a small pair of locking jaw pliers, pliers, a roll of electrical tape, a utility knife, and a small can of WD-40 or other lubricant.
• Buy a spare nut, washer, and pin that fits your trolling motor and your outboard, and make sure you have the tools to remove and replace both the trolling motor prop and the prop on the outboard.
• ALWAYS have a spare key for the boat ignition with you (don't ask how I know that one).
• Make sure your documentation is up to date and kept on board.
• Know the rules for life jackets and personal floatation devices. 
• Make sure your kill switch game is on point. Keep a spare for any parts that are needed for the kill switch system to work properly. That can leave you stranded if you don't. 
• Make sure you know how to avoid flooding your motor, and what to do if it happens so you can recover quickly.
• A battery booster/jumper is an excellent thing to have if your battery ever suddenly won't start your big motor.
• Make sure all of the screws/bolts that hold the seat pedestals are tight. Make sure the screws that hold the seat to the pedestal base are tight. 
• Make sure there are extra fuses in the glove box (at least two of each type). Clean any corrosion off of your battery posts if there is any.
• Always bring one more layer of clothing than you think you'll need.
• Make sure your cleats and dock lines are set up to work well and quickly.
• Depending on the facility you use an set of fenders could be helpful.
• I recommend an anchor that will be effective for the waters you use. I like a section of chain just above the anchor as it acts as a bit of a shock absorber that will help you stay in place when things get ugly.
• I like to have a gallon jug with a built in handle on board. I sometimes use it as a float for an anchor line if I need/want to leave my position briefly so I can avoid having to pull the anchor in if I need to un-snag my line or whatever else comes up. It doubles as an emergency 'container' for those of us with external plumbing fixtures that were raised by savages. Pro Tip: Never drink from any gallon jug on my boat.
• Stow an extra hat and sunglasses in your boat for those times you forget them at home (you will).
• Make sure your fire extinguisher is up to date and correctly mounted. 
• A throwable cushion, a paddle, and a whistle may be required equipment and you could get turned away if you don't have all of your safety equipment.
• Keep a bow and stern light in your tow vehicle or stowed in your boat (it could be required to launch on a foggy day).
• With winter coming on, make sure you can get back into your boat (if you fall overboard) in heavy winter clothes if you'll be boating then. A swim step on the back could save your life.
• Then go after that carpet, and take care of the gel coat. Make sure the bunks on the trailer are sound and well covered.
• Get it all fluffed up and looking good.

A lot of this stuff is going to take more labor than money, but it's all important to protect your investment and to make sure your craft is reliable. As you do these things, that is often how you discover other potential issues.

 

For backing up the trailer:

• Put the tailgate down on a truck (unless it will interfere with the mast on the trailer). If you have an SUV, open the window and put the tailgate down, especially when the trailer is empty as you are retrieving the boat after using it.
• Put your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel.
• Small corrections early are much better than larger corrections after it really gets wonky.
• As you are backing up, move your hand (that's at the 6 o'clock position) toward the side you want the trailer to go to.

Boats are notorious for not working at the most inopportune times, but you can greatly reduce those occurrences with regular upkeep.

 

Be safe and have a ball.

Appreciate it! First time out dad put the plug in the livewell drain and rest of the short outing was history. thankfully some guys at the ramp helped and we've successfully taken it out a few times. The guy who owned the boat before me kept up with everything except the carpet and gelcoat which i wetsanded and polished to look like new, so newer tires, up to date registration which was rare in my search experience, and all the legal requirements like the cushion, horn, extinguisher, and lifevests. I recently changed the oil and it didnt look horrible for being older than me. The rack and pinion cable is pretty stiff and after undoing it on the helm side im definitely going to attempt to remove it without taking off the motor. Figured its worth the $150 cable and some sweat to do it myself. Really hoping i dont have to remove the motor haha. Besides that im planning on replacing the impeller and checking out the bearings. Now i just need to find a mechanic that could check the old mariner every year or so just for peace of mind. Ive heard mixed things about cabela's marine services but they wont service anything besides mercurys. They will service the nitro but again, ive heard mixed things about their services. Being 16 and mechanically inclined, im not too enthusiastic on the idea of paying someone good money for something i can do for just the price of the part.