2000 Lowe 170 w/ 70hp Johnson

[Lowe170]

Hi. New first time boat owner of a 2000 Lowe 170 with 70 hp Johnson and 12v Evinrude trolling motor that I'd like to find out any "lessons learned" or other pearls of wisdom anyone is willing to share about this (or similar) bass boat. 'Hope to take it out for its maiden voyage under new ownership this next Memorial Day weekend.
It's been kept in a garage for the past eight years by the previous owner and is in great shape. Thanks.

 

[JOEMANSLOWE]

Re: 2000 Lowe 170 w/ 70hp Johnson

I've got a FM-175DC w/ 115-hp Merc Opti.
Not sure if yours is a deep V but if it is, the only thing I would suggest is possibly getting a 24-volt trolling motor. That is the only thing I regret w/ mine. It's fine most of the time but once the wind picks up, the deep V acts like a parachute and does drain the battery MUCH quicker.

 

[Lowe170]

Re: 2000 Lowe 170 w/ 70hp Johnson



Thanks. Although mine is not a deep V hull (see photo), I agree with upgrading to a 24 v tm. Mine is pretty weak in calm waters, I can just imagine the fun I'd have in heavy current/wind. I've enjoyed a couple of outings with the boat already; so far so good!

 

[crablegs]

Re: 2000 Lowe 170 w/ 70hp Johnson

You basically have a jon boat, great for shallow, not so much for waves!

 

[JOEMANSLOWE]

Re: 2000 Lowe 170 w/ 70hp Johnson

You might want to make sure your battery is in good shape (water level & holds a charge). My buddy has a Tracker 190 TX (similar to yours) and his 12-V does a great job (now that he got a new battery). Also try replacing the prop on existing trolling motor (which will eliminate a lot of vibration). These 2 suggestions are MUCH cheaper than the new motor, 2-batteries, and a new 3 bank charger.

 

[Lowe170]

Re: 2000 Lowe 170 w/ 70hp Johnson

Crablegs: I resemble that jon boat remark...
JoeMan: Good call on the battery. I added a second battery (Optima) and a two bank charger, but the new battery is dedicated to cranking the outboard. The older battery (probably a few years old and cheaper brand) is the one driving the tm, and it could well be weak... Time to switch the connections (carefully) to test on next outing. I'll look at the tm prop more closely, too. Thanks again.

 

[JOEMANSLOWE]

Re: 2000 Lowe 170 w/ 70hp Johnson