Recently inherited a 1988 Tracker TX-17

Joined
Jan 4, 2005
Messages
7
I recently inherited a 1988 Tracker TX-17 with a 60 hp Merc. Boat was used for 4.5 seasons (midwest), hit a log and knocked off the lower unit. Been in storage (covered inside no heat) ever since (11-12 years). Inspected the boat/trailer with a knowledgeable friend. Needs thorough cleaning. Lines, hoses, etc looks great. Does not show its age, nor any signs of pest damage. Checked out continuity on basic circuits and that checked out. Very little wear and tear. Took off engine cover and was able to turn fly wheel by hand. Having mechanic go over everything with a fine tooth comb, replacing the lower unit. Would appreciate any advice (yeah, where to start). Going to use it for fishing, pleasure, pulling the kids on a tube. <br /><br />Any reccomendations on props? <br /><br />Any reccomendations on hydrofoil/prop combos. <br /><br />I am planning on buying two props, and also a 5 hp motor. Don't want to get stuck out on the lake with a broken motor and one paddle.<br /><br />Was also thinking of wiring my two batteries in parallel so both could be recharged while running. Is that smart? I don't know how much load a trolling motor puts on a battery. I don't want to drain both down.
 

JasonB

Lieutenant
Joined
Feb 10, 2003
Messages
1,455
Re: Recently inherited a 1988 Tracker TX-17

My Dad has the same boat with a 70hp Merc. My advice is be careful with weight. The boat is rated for the 70, but with the 70, 12 gallons fuel, and two batteries in the back, the boat sits low. I'm about 230 and with him on the front deck and me on the back, it doesn't take much chop to get the carpet wet. Instead of the 5hp, get a good electric trolling motor and batteries. He also use a doel-fin on his with good results. To charge the batteries the way you want will require more hardware I beieve, like a switch. I have a 42lb 12volt on my 16' boat and can troll on/off all day with power to spare.
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: Recently inherited a 1988 Tracker TX-17

Duplicate post. See Non-repair.
 
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