Repowering, what should I upgrade?

[B1gGr33n]

So I bought a 2010 E-Tec 25hp to replace my worn out '77 30hp. I have a laundry list of things I'd like to upgrade while I'm at it, but I'd like some input on what should be priority.

The E-Tec is a manual start, which is fine for now but in the next year or two I'll be installing a battery hookup kit to make use of the alternator.

I'd like to get a tachometer for the motor, but I'm not sure it's an absolute necessity right away.

Should I run a water seperator? I'm running a standard 6 gallon portable tank with an inline filter right now.

Is there something else that I should take note of? Appreciate any and all input!

Thanks!

 

[Silvertip]

Nothing you list is an absolute "must have". But as with any boat, a tachometer is, in my view, a good tool because without one you have no idea if the engine is operating at its recommended WOT rpm. Assuming the engine is in proper tune, the prop is what determines how fast the engine runs. You don't want to lug the engine (overpropped) or over-rev it (under-propped). Next on my list would be the battery addition so you can power accessories without the worry of running out of power. A water separating fuel filter is not a huge concern on a 6 gallon tank since the tank would be used and refilled fairly often so water collection is negligible. If you are a fisherperson then the usual locator/gps may be of help. If the boat doesn't have NAV lights you need them if you run at night.

 

[B1gGr33n]

Thanks for the info! I have a fish locator/gps and nav lights, as well as trolling motors front and rear, and 3 batteries (2 front, 1 rear). The boat is a 16' Starcraft SF16 from '76 that I'm lovingly restoring.

 

[steelespike]

The Alternsator is rated for 56 amps with 15 dedicated. So thats a pretty good output but it still would take about 3 hours to recover an hours trolling time.
And thats if your charging a single battery. By the away you should recharge the discharged batteries as soon as possible and leave a maintainer on them.
Especially if it sits a lot.

 

[fishin98]

Looks like you have a nice set up.....A fuel water separator/filter is a must, I've have one on my last two boats and now installing one on my Alumacraft Lunker redo.
Next would be a ACR, MinnKota makes a nice one, I've had ACR's on my prior 2 boats and NEVER ran out of battery power. With the MinnKota ACR you do not need the Perko battery switch....Just my 2cts.

 

[B1gGr33n]

What's an ACR?

 

[fishin98]

What's an ACR?

Automatic Charging Relay ...The unit hooks to your start battery, then one set of leads run to your 2nd battery, when your starting battery reaches full charge, the relay opens up to charge your 2nd battery automatically. The relay also prevents your starting battery from taking power from your second battery, also your 2nd battery from taking power from your start battery. If and when I upgrade to a electric start motor, I will install the MinnKota unit on my boat.