Engine change

[Bassfisher84]

I have a 1988 Bass Tracker tourment 1800 I have a 150 Black Max Merc on it now and it blew up I found a 1993 175 Merc the boat is only rated for a 150 will it hurt if I put the 175 on it? I am only 19 that is why I asked I just dont want to mess up my boat thanks for any info

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Engine change

It might. Structurally the transom might be designed for the stress of a 150 and might not be able to safely handle the extra horsepower. The weights of the two motors are pretty much the same and an extra 25Hp probably won't mean much on the stress level, althoughth it could be argued that it could be the straw that broke the camel's back.<br /><br />The bigger issue is liability. Boats under 20' have maximum horsepower ratings that by law cannot be exceeded. Once you exceed that limit, you place safety concerns of the rig beyond it's designed capacity. If you were to get into an accident with another boat, you could be held solely responsible, even if you weren't at fault. You also open yourself up to fines from overpowering, and if you ever decided to enter a fishing tournament you would be disqualified (they check things like that).

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Engine change

Bassfisher84 <br /><br />I agree totally with Willy. Probably wouldn't hurt the transom, as they build them for more stress for safty with the max. rated HP. The engines only weigh about 20 pounds different, but the liability issue is a BIG concern. I would keep looking for another 150 or have yours rebuilt. WHAT blew up on your 150? It may not be too bad to rebuild it and have an essentially new motor for what you would spend on another one of unknown origin.

 

[Bassfisher84]

Re: Engine change

Well what I think happened is that I over reved it it put 2 holes in the block on each side of the bottom 2 pistons so i dont think this block can be fixed thanks for the info

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Engine change

bassfisher84:<br /><br />I have that same boat in an FS Model, I like the performance of it like it is and couldnt imagine any more power! You can tickle the thing to 60MPH with the right setup and I think thats fast enough for this boat! You might encounter an issue with tournaments also as you might not be able to overpower your boat in some sanctions! Of course if thats not an issue and you like to live on the edge, (or die) its up to you! You have recieved some good advice, take it, or why did you ask??

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: Engine change

If the 175 powerhead will bolt to the 150 leg, you might have a way around any legalities.<br /><br />Or for that matter if the cowlings interchange.<br /><br />We do that to the 99ci inlines all the time. I know of a certain "90" that does some pretty wild stuff on my buddies ski-boat.<br /><br /> <br /><br />-W

 

[gregmas99]

Re: Engine change

Your covers and block are both interchangable, my 200 merc started its life as a 150 mariner!!!!

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Engine change

Good Advice, guys! There's always a solution to the problem!! And that may be the ticket...

 

[Bassfisher84]

Re: Engine change

Thanks guys I think I will just change covers and drive it easy or till it dont feel safe thanks for everything

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: Engine change

As long as the transom is solid, I doubt the extra 25hp are gonna make a heck of a lot of difference in anything. Have a friend in the rear check transom flex etc though to be sure your transom is solid and sound. <br /><br />Seal well around the bolt areas with 3M 5200 sealant. After a few times out you'll forget you ever had to change motors.<br /><br />-W