[coolchange29]

Hi, I am considering a 2001 1903 that has a merc 150 and trim tabs. The question I have is if you can put a kicker motor bracket on with the trim tabs installed? I live next to a very large lake that has a 20hp limit so that is the reason for the kicker motor. Also if have the boat I was wondering your opinion? Thanks

[jm_bullard]

I have a 98 1903, and I have a bracket to mount a kicker on. I don't, however, have smart tabs, so I can't give any advice on that. I also just installed a 150 merc on my boat after getting rid of the 120 Force that was on it. I haven't tried out the new motor yet, though. What kind of numbers do you get with yours? Top speed? RPM range?

[coolchange29]

I actually am just looking at the boat so I can't give you speed numbers etc, sorry. How does the boat handle minus the tabs? I have heard that under power she has a tendency to list slightly to the port side. What other likes and dislikes do you have with the boat? I think I can get a decent deal for it also. It;s 01 and Has a bimini,color gps electric downriggers,trim tabs, full cushions and is powered by a merc 150 2stroke for $10k. Thanks, jeremy

[jm_bullard]

I have only used mine with the Force 120. It handled well, and I have had
no issues with listing. I hope to try out the new motor soon. Seems like every chance I get to take it out, it has been raining, or the weather was so nice that I took my smaller Key West out fishing.

I don't want my first trip with the new motor to be off the coast, at least until I have had a chance to trouble-shoot any issues at the local lake.

My only real issue with the boat is that the fish boxes leak. Any water that gets onto the deck ends up in the fish box. The drain for the fish boxes are up on the sides, about an inch above the bottom, so this water doesn't completely drain. Since the boxes are uninsulated, they won't hold ice, and they can't be used for storage because everything gets wet.

The front deck storage has the same problem. I fixed them by adding a drain at the bottom, and plugging the old drain holes. The fish boxes, however, suffer from a lack of access. Other than these minor issues, I am happy with the boat and its performance. It has plenty of room for 4 adults, and the high sides make it safe for the kids.