PT175 questions from possible future owner

[Hydrilla]

I am a former go-fast bass boat guy that currently has a 14' tin bass boat, but I'm looking to upgrade to a tin boat about the size of a PT175. I will be buying used, and was wondering if anyone can tell me when Tracker first went to an all welded boat with this model.

Also, I noticed on the current model, the rod locker goes down the center of the front deck. How many years has it been done this way? I would like to have a rod locker, but I also must to be able to install a recessed trolling motor pedal, which would wipe out the rod locker on this model.

Thanks y'all. Both of these points are critical for me.

 

[Socal Pat]

Re: PT175 questions from possible future owner

Well, I can answer one question. The rod locker is on the side on my '04 pt175. Center bow compartment is for anchor storage (metal lined). Not sure exactly what year they went to the center rod locker though.

 

[Hydrilla]

Re: PT175 questions from possible future owner

Thanks Pat, that helps. I doubt I'll be getting one any newer than yours, probably older. I assume yours is all welded. I was thinking I remember Tracker going to Welded hulls sometime around 2000 or a little bit later, but I can't remember.

 

[UP Fisherman]

Re: PT175 questions from possible future owner

The rod locker is also on the side in my 05. Also has a welded hull. Great boat!

 

[Hydrilla]

Re: PT175 questions from possible future owner

That's also good info about the rod locker, it sounds like the center rod locker is a pretty new change. I understand the reasoning, because with a shorter boat, you could fit a longer locker in the middle than on the side. However, the recessed pedal is such a great option to add, especially for those of us that have had pretty recent spine fusion surgery, or other back problems.

I called Tracker customer service today, and after about a 10-15 minute wait, I talked to a very nice girl who told me the hulls are all welded from 1998 until present. If that is true, that gives me a wide range of model years to pick from.

UP Fisherman, they really do seem like great boats. Awesome width for a boat this size. My first glass bass boat was a 17'9" Javelin from the mid 90s, and I swear the modern PT175 has a lot more deck room than the Javelin did.

The rod locker is also on the side in my 05. Also has a welded hull. Great boat!

 

[UP Fisherman]

Re: PT175 questions from possible future owner

I was hesitant to buy it at first because I was originally looking for a deep v. I am glad I went with this one for the price and condition. You are right, the decks have loads of space. The boat is easy to load and unload. The only improvement I could think of would be next time I will go with a fuel injected outboard. I am spoiled with all of the the other toys I own or have owned in that they have been injected and start with a turn of the key. My 50hp Merc takes a few cranks and sputters before she will move the PT. Best of luck in finding one!