Pensacola Fishing Forum / General Discussion / Boat Repair - Questions, Answers and Suggestions

is my boat over power

fishinstevez — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 22:01:39 GMT

ok heres the deal ive got a 15.5' 1957 alumacraft "super C" rated for 900 something pounds boat its pretty light about 400- 500 lbs? the tags say its rated for a 60 hp motor so i bought a 1988 50 merc with power trim for it mounted the motor correctly took it out on the bay for a spin on a kinda rough day i guess when i opened it up the bow soots right up i cant see crap so i let back i took it into the local bayou same thing shoots up now i wiegh about 300 pounds the steering wheel is midway on the boat the gas is in the back the battery is at my feet i also had my dad in the front 175lb plus a cooler with ice and a few beers for good measure i played with the trim with no sucess. now that ive got the details heres my questions how can i get on plane better? faster? at all? is my boat over powered are the older motors lighter than the newer ones? should i install trim tabs or one of those foils (ive read alot of goods and bads)should i move the battery up front along with the fuel? or is there just too much motor pushing the boat i guess i should put up some pictures of my boat will do in the morning any advice would be welcomed :usaflag

Crankin up after extended storage

hjorgan — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:19:10 GMT

Yamaha 225 4 stroke 2003 model

Has been on the rack since September

Some gas in the tanks but not full :doh

We want to take her out this weekend.

I'm thinking I'll fill er up with fresh (1.87 per gallon!!!) gas and the recommended amount of stabil.

And give her a shot.

Any other suggestions?

93' Yamaha 70 dies

iwannagofish — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 11:01:54 GMT

I just got my first boat, so I'm at your mercy. One of the problems is, with the prop in the water, when the prop engages while throttling up the motor dies. I can trim it up to where the prop is half out of the water and it engages fine, then I trim down to operate.

My second problem is it seems to run slow. I open the throttle all the way without satisfaction. I don't have anyway to tell how fast I'm going, but I know I should be going at least twice as fast. I have a friend that has a 75 hp that hauls a**. So, I know mine should be close to that. Anyway, any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Old Gel Coat

Hydro Therapy 2 — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 23:24:55 GMT

Whats the best way to work older gel coat that is chaulking to the touch?

fish finder questions

fishinstevez — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 10:26:23 GMT

you guys seem too know your stuff so instead of reading reviews thru bass pro and west marine i figured i would seek your opinions. what is a good fish finder in the $200-300 range i dont need gps i want to see the bottom the fish the temp and be able to read while running ive got a 15.5' aluminum boat with a 50hp merc i would like one that works well in both fresh and salt water backlight is a plus thanks

Tilt Trim problem

FlyLipps — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 13:24:29 GMT

I know there is probably somewhere on this forum where this problem has already been addressed, if so I apologize for the repeat question. Here is my problem:

I have a 1999 Scout 177 with a 1998 Yamaha 90. Recently the tilt trim motor would bog down and barely move the motor in either direction. Until now it won't do anything nor does it make any noise. The batteries are fully charged but still there is nothing, but maybe occasionally the slightest of sounds that last only moments. And now I must confess a truly stupid point, I was not aware of the number of grease fittings that should have had a lot more attention. That being said the motor does seem to move fairly easily in both directions when the "manual screw" is loosened. Would this indicate an actual tilt motor problem? Is this a difficult "self" repair? Or is it best left to the professionals? I am not a stupid man, well other than the grease fitting issue, but I wouldn't attempt to rebuild an entire engine either, if you get what I mean. Any info or help would be greatly appreciated and thanks for your time in advance.

Boat Repair advice

surveyor — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:46:55 GMT

I have an 1989 17' Mckee Craft and I need the trim/tilt motor replaced. Who would you recomend to take it to, I live in N. Pensacola and don't want to drag it too far. Also I need a cover for the boat. Thing is, Its not worth much so I can't spend alot of money. I need this done "asap". I would consider trading Hunting for these services.

Roy 449-7730

new trailer

Chuck's Charters — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 08:32:24 GMT

got a 4 pin connect so no reverse light. I've got a quick t connect to hook up the wire to disengage the trailer brakes in reverse but I don't know which wire to use off the bundle going to one taillight on my 1989 f150. before I start stripping insulation and testing which one it is, I was wondering if anyone knew right off which wire is the reverse light wire.

Do-it-yourself

truklodyte — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 12:53:33 GMT

here is a couple of sites I have found to help repair or even build a boat.

www.diy-boat.com and the other is http://www.svensons.com/boat/

I have been to both the offer a lot of information.As for the svenson site if you are planning to build a boat over the winter that one is for you.A lot of the plans are a one day or a weekend build.Something to think about for the children or the gran children.I appolgize about the second website We shall see if this correction works

motor height ?

bullet175 — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 21:42:02 GMT

At full plane WOT this is where the water level is at the gearcase of my motor. Seems too low to me as the gearcase bolts are in the water at this height as well the cavitation plate is below the waterline.

I still have one bolt hole left on the mount to raise the motor.

2000 yamaha 2 stroke w/ issue

southern approach — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:36:29 GMT

when running the motor at almost full throttle, the engine boggs down and goes to idle speed at around 5000 rpm.you have to stop go to neutral to get it to go again.i have changed fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel check valve on motor and a bunch of other stuff.problem is still there.any ideas.

who makes seat cushions

fishinstevez — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 10:42:27 GMT

new to the area need some cushions made nothing fancy big rectangles moneys tight im in warrington area thanks

rewire

Buckethead — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 17:20:09 GMT

I was wondering if anyone knew what the average cost of rewiring a small boat (17ft CC) would be? Or just a ballpark figure. I'm considering purchasing a boat, but there's some corrosion on some of the electronics... Any help would be much appreciated, thanks.

evinrude 200

floater — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:18:53 GMT

i am having trouble with my carbs when taking off they are acting like they are not getting any gas then the will pick up and take off does anyone here do carb rebuilds if so how much and how long will it take to do them

Hardtop

ross68 — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:50:10 GMT

Does anyone out there know someone that can custom make a fiberglass hardtop, I am looking to replace the cloth t-top with a hardtop.. Any suggestions?

battery questions

Capt. Read Nichols — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 20:20:10 GMT

hey guys i have 3 bat. in my boat they are interstate and i have two for cranking and one for acc. but they are draining in about 12 hours. i have a battery switch even with it off they still drain and the bat. are good. i have checked everything that i know and just wondering if anyone knows or has any ideas let me know

Who do you take your boat to?

tunacrazy — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 19:14:13 GMT

New to the area and need to find a professional certified yamaha repair center. I have visited a few local places, not going to post names, and was not amazed (dirty shop/ junk yard on premisis, average or below average help) . I have a lot invested in my boat and want to make sure that if I am paying $80-$100+ hr I am not getting a semi-qualified $10-15 man while the tech is "overlooking" from the office. I want someone that is personable, honest, detail oriented and able to keep promise times. I know this sounds like a singles ad but I am sick of underpreforming shops. I figured if anywhere this forum would be place to start. Thanks in advance.

Craig

Motor Tilt/trim Position on take off

T140 — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:49:22 GMT

I am the proud owner of my first center console boat, a Key West 1720 Sportsman, with a 90 hp v4 Johnson, power tilt/trim. My question is, what position should motor be when starting out to full plane? I took it out today and once I opened it up with the motor all the way down the nose popped a wheelie, had to stand up to see over the bow. After about 50 yards the boat planed out nicely. Do I have the motor in the wrong position or possibly the wrong prop on the boat. The prop that came on it when I bought it is a 4 blade stainless steel prop. I don't think it is the original type prop for the motor.

Suggestions please.

Fiber glass repair

Bubba — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 19:42:14 GMT

Does any one remember the name of that man that lives over of of Ward Basin road in Milton that does repair work?

Mercruiser Parts

David Ridenour — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 09:55:54 GMT

I have twin 1984 120 Mercruisers in my boat. I need to change the oil,filters,points and plugs. I have a Chalmers manual but it doesn't list too many part numbers. Where can I find the part numbers I need? Any info appreciated.

Serial numbers are 6892106 and 6892123. Thanks

mer- crusiers

J.Sharit — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 20:16:44 GMT

Any help on parts and also anyone who knows about or works on them. Have 140 twins just looking for a sorce for future reference thanks jim

Needing Some Advice on a Bad Foot

GatorBait — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:53:50 GMT

I have a 1981, 25 horse Evenrude. I keep a pretty good eye on it and it has been a damn good running engine that has never given me any trouble till now. I just noticed some silver gear oil leaking out a tiny hole on the foot. I hauled it up the road to the nearest boat doc. He says he can pull it all apart and if everything is still ok he can reseal it and will cost about $325.00. He says he has some replacement parts if is not ok but didn't go into detail on price if we had to go that route. Does anyone have any advice to give me here on this. The man seems very trustworthy so I hate to act like i'm double checking him here, but $325.00 at the least makes me want to go in the motor repair business. I typicaly do all my vehicle repairs myself so if there is anything I could do myself to save some moo lah just let me know. Any advice will help. Thanks, Jason

GPS recommendations

wirebiter — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 20:43:51 GMT

I have a Furuno 667 fishfinder (the microwave size one), and a Garmin 128C GPS on my 20' Trophy. I am wanting to upgrade, but lord help me there are a million choices. Which ones do you guys suggest, Raymarine, Garmin, Furuno, etc, etc. I am wanting something that I don't have to strain to see, but I also don't want to spend a fortune. Does anyone have a Raymarine A60? Is it any good, bad, alright? I found a great deal on one but I don't know anyone with Raymarine. Thanks for the help guys.

2004 21' Polar...big problem

polar21 — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:48:24 GMT

Need some advice on how to handle this:

The boat is a 2004 21' Polar. While washing the boat the other day I noticed that the deck and hull are beginning to become separated at the front of the boat (where the rub rail is). It appears that the top cap has actually dropped 1/2 in since this first started. I have no idea when this problem started but we purchased the boat new. So now my list of questions.

Who do I contact first about this problem? Do I need to contact the dealer (down in S. Florida who I believe no longer carries the line)? Do I contact the manufacturer (they closed down there plant in Alabama and now they are in Illinios)? Or, do I contact our insurance company and let them deal with it?

Any help and feedback will be much appreciated.

Tks,

Trailer repairs

rickfire — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:43:44 GMT

I need some recommendations for some work on my trailer. I need the brakes checked and the lights repaired. Recommendations with phones numbers would be greatly appreciated

Starting problems-Merc 200

Reel Of Fortune — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 15:17:49 GMT

I've just replaced a old battery that i thought was the problem but it wasn't. I've charged the old battery and cleaned the battery contacts before installing the new battery,checked all fuses, pumped the ball and still nothing no crank just a short thud sound. I can hear a clicking noise coming from the starter while turning the key. Any help will be well appreciated! :bowdown

5.7 merc alpha 1

beerman850 — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 08:30:18 GMT

I have an 82 Sea Ray 260 with a 5.7 mercruiser alpha 1 i/o. I took it out yesterday and after I got up on plane running about 4000 rpm it started slowing down it slowed to about 3000rpm then stuttered for a while with the throttle in the wide open position. When I pulled it back to idle it died and was hard to restart. The previous owner installed an edlebrock 650 4 barrel carb which I know nothing about, he also converted the distributor from the points system to electronic. I don't know if I have an ignition problem or a fuel problem. Any Suggestions??

Thanks, Dan.

fishfinder

Sniper Spear-It — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 20:46:00 GMT

looking for a new ff but wanted to get you guys help in purchasing a really good unit at hopefully a good price?

please give me youre guide as to which units you would rely on in every situation

thank you

SSI Jeff

Wheel Autopilot

craasch210 — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 14:22:51 GMT

Ok, just a basic question here. I have a 34 boat that weighs approx 12000 lbs. Twin chrysler 318 inboards. I have read a lot about diferent types of autopilots and understand that they are quite expensive. Some of them cost more than what I paid for my boat.

But I really dont need anything fancy. I really just want something that will hold a basic heading in smooth seas for a few minutes at a time. Something that will allow me to work with gear, ect when I'm at the helm. I've read about "wheel" pilots that are pretty cheap, but have mainly seen them on sail boats.

What is the most basic system that I can put on this boat? Is it possible to do for around $1000 or am I dreaming?

I just want it to hold a basic heading, doesnt even have to be exact. Just want something that will give me a general heading and keep the boat stable (veering off course when weight shifts).

Any ideas?

Thanks,

Chris

Cracked Cowling

aslon — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:35:26 GMT

I have a 115 Optimax on my boat. The engine cowl that covers the motor is slightly cracked due to a jet ski running into my motor while on the river (long story). I would like to know if this is something that can be repaired, i.e. fiberglass, paint, etc. If so does anyone have any recommendations on a good shop that can perform this service for a reasonable price? If this is not a repairable item, does anyone have an idea where I can locate another engine cowl. The motor is a 2004 model if that helps. Thanks in advance!

Water pump replacement

holdfast2 — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:00:18 GMT

Need to know the secret to dropping the lower unit to access the water pump.

The shift linkage is what I'm in the dark about. "HELP"

repair of GPS

old school — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 11:25:05 GMT

I have a Garman unit that has GPS, radar, and DF all in one. The GPS and rasar are not working. I am sure it has to do with the cables behind the unit. It is on a Glaicer Bay that is in the storage area under the bridge to Perdido Key. Is there anyone that can go there and repait it? The boat is there, but I am in Atlanta. If you can do this reply to the post, or call me 678-64...

Bill

Fiberglass repair for newbies

oldflathead — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 08:08:25 GMT

I do not intend to take business from the several very qualified fiberglass repair folks on the forum. I have had several folks express an interest in learning how to doit. I said when I get a rountuit, so maybe next Saturday.

I have a damaged Flying Scot from Grand Lagoon Yacht Club that I am repairing some Ivan holes for free, (I am a member and physically challenged, so I cannot do other volunteer work). I have been doing fiberglass repair since 1962, but that does not mean I know it all, but I have practiced a lot. I will be demonstrating "my way", using West Marine products, including West Systems Epoxy.

I will be doing this in my backyard behind my shop starting about 0900. If you want to come, call me 572-1225 or PM for my address, etc. Any of you repair folks want to participate, you are welcome. I will supply some Yuenglings for you.

Tom

Autopilots....

Danno — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 07:28:37 GMT

I have a Key West 2300, lately we seem to be running farther and farther out to fish the deeper waters. I have been reading about and considering adding an autopilot to my boat. The prices seem to be getting better and the designers are now looking at making them for smaller boats.

Definitely want one I can program for different troll patterns, looking for the most for the dollar. My electronic are Lowrance and they are network ready. Recommendations?

boat jacks or supports.

J.Sharit — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 19:29:35 GMT

Does anyone know if you can rent some boat stands for like trailer work or bottom repairs etc. 24ft boat about 4500 lbs. help me out here guys.

Aluminum deck extension

Triple Threat — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 18:33:03 GMT

Any suggestions of someone or company in the Pensacola / Orange Beach area that can bend and weld aluminun. I have a MV 2072 Seaark and I want to extend the length of the front deck by aprox 32". I have the 3/16" aluminum tread plate for the deck but I would also need the tubing for the framework under the deck extension.

Leaf Springs

fishitall — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 10:11:07 GMT

Who has the best deal on leaf springs? Need some medium weight springs for one of my trailers, trailer and boat on jack stands now. What should i expect to spend on two?

Power Tilt and Trim

BJW — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:29:41 GMT

It looks like the power tilt and trim on my boat has worn out. (1993 Evinrude 175) It has been a little slow for some time now. The electric motor on the unit runs fine and it has fluid, but it will not raise the motor in the tilt position without assistance. It seems to work O.K. in the trim mode, and will tilt some, but seems to run out of power when trying to raise the motor in tilt mode when the angle gets to the point that it is putting some real strain on the hydraulics. The electric motor runs, it just will not lift the motor. If I hold the up switch and lift on the lower unit it will lift some, but not all the way, not enough to get it to the trailering position.

Can these units be rebuilt? Can you do it yourself? Where would I get a kit to rebuild it? Could I take it to any shop that deals with hydraulics and have it rebuilt? I am way up here in Tennessee and there is not the competition for boat parts and repair here and they want an arm and two legs for everything. (When I bought a VRO pump I got it thru Posner for over $100 less than the dealer here wanted and the local guy swore that it was impossible to buy it for what Posner charged.) I would like to be able to take the unit off and have it rebuilt and re-install it myself. If this possible?

Slick 50 and Sea Foam

opus68 — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 08:25:02 GMT

I use royal purple synthetic in my Mercruiser I/O. Can anyone tell me if they think Slick50 would be beneficial to add?
Also, any advocates of Sea Foam fuel additive?

Thanks

Furuno 585 w/ Airmar B-164

X-Shark — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:35:19 GMT

This is good example of why I recommend Furuno.

[img]http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff242/captfred/furuno585screenshots0013.jpg[/img]