Tracker newbie questions

[Socal Pat]

Hey guys, just got an '04 PT175. There are a few things not really covered in the manual that I could use some help on. On the back of the boat there are 2 holes one is the standard drain hole, and just to its left there is a similar size hole with a blue plastic lining. Is that the intake for the livewell? And is there supposed to be a screen or something over that hole?

Number two. Bilge pump. Where would that bilge water exit with the pump on? I'd like to test it.

Also there is an onboard charger. I plugged it in and both red and green lights are on and have been for a couple days. I thought one of them was supposed to go out when the charge is complete?
Thanks for any insight you can give.

 

[NorthportTroller]

Re: Tracker newbie questions

I have a '99.

The livewell intake on mine doesn't have a screen either. But seems to work fine. I am sure you can add one to it if you wish. Most debris is on the surface of the water, so I guess they think it isn't necassary?

Most bilge outlets are on the rear top of the ransom or the rear top sides of the hull. Fill it with some water and turn it on!

If you have three batteries, depending on the type of charging system, it may be in a trickle charge state, or just happen to be on at the time you look at it. Use a battery/load tester to check the condition and performance of your batteries and charging systems at least once I month. They are inexpensive. As long as the batteries aren't over or undercharging I don't think there is a problem. Usually there is a label on the actual charger itself under the deck. If it is in a tough spot to see, take a picture of it with a digital camera. With the right lighting, you can bring it up on your computer and easily see any instructions that may be on there.

I use a digital camera all the time investigating thing on my boat and motor. It really shows you things you don't normally see.....

 

[Socal Pat]

Re: Tracker newbie questions

Thanks Troller. The camera idea will come in handy with this cramped space under the deck.

 

[NorthportTroller]

Re: Tracker newbie questions

Thanks Troller. The camera idea will come in handy with this cramped space under the deck.

It takes some pratice getting the right focus and light to get the words to show, but it is a really great tool. I use it to document all the numbers and instructions on the boat and even take pics of spark plug numbers and pics of the engine in case I ever need parts, it's easier to have on the comp to compare when shopping.

I had a '89 Force motor that kept choking out on me only when the engine cover was on. It had an exhausty leak somewhere on the motor I tried to find for weeks. Then I inadvertanly took a pic and looked at it on the laptop and it clearly showed the carbon where the leak was but I couldn't see it by eye. Ever since then I have used this method to help troubleshooot and order parts. Even keep records.