My '89 175

[CTsalt12]

I figured I'd post some pictures since I've been on this forum asking you all questions for long enough.  On my 6th year with the boat now and loving it.  Caught a lot of fish and had some great times on this vessel.  It's been very seaworthy and functional for me.  I don't think you can find an 18 foot boat that rides better and has more storage, personally. 

The only modifications really include speakers, fishfinder/GPS, new deck hatch in floor behind the console,  the wood around the console, new fuel tank, and some rod holders.  This year I will be tackling a trolling motor, and hope to repower in the next few years.  It's hard to justify because the repower will likely cost 4 x what the boat is worth.

[CTsalt12]

Here is my trolling motor setup in case this would be helpful for anyone.  Batteries are in the foremost deck hatch.  They rest on a simple T wedge I built, lined up longways against the back of that storage area.  Will upload pics of that too.

[boatnamesue]

It's hard to justify because the repower will likely cost 4 x what the boat is worth.

Not uncommon for the cost of a new outboard, especially those >115hp to be more than what the hull is worth.  Have you considered buying used?   Depending on your location, low hour well maintained 4 strokes aren't hard to come by.  And if you can find a 2 stroke that has been well maintained it will cost even less.   

[CTsalt12]

I have definitely considered used.  I don't want anything less than about a 2008 though.  It's amazing how much outboards have changed and honestly the thought of a modern engine on my rig makes me giddy.  The price point for engines around 2008 used seems to be roughly 5k.  I'm seeing new Merc 4S's for 8kish.  Even saw a deal for one brand new with controls for about 9 recently.  The price difference doesn't seem worth it at that point.