first bass boat (Evinrude outboard)

highclimber770

Recruit
Joined
Feb 5, 2024
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2
just bought my first bass boat, used, on impulse last night. Overall, I think I did good for my first boat. It is definitely a Fixer upper but should be water ready by summer. The factory VIN plate has been distorted, and is now eligible. after reading other threads on here, I found that I can get a VIN number from the tag on top of the engine block. Basically, I just had a couple questions. Where can I find the PDF download for the owner's manual on the Tracker 1600 TF, and manual for my Evinrude XP 100HP outboard. And can someone please verify that I am looking at the correct tag for the VIN number. R8249815
I was also told that you don't want to run these motors dry. I do not live next to a water source. How do I go about tuning and/or working on the motor when not submerged?
IMG_4253.jpeg
 

redneck joe

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 18, 2009
Messages
10,911
garden hose and muffs to run wet.

motors go by serial number not VIN and the boat has HIN (hull id), located on drivers side outside transom.
 

racerone

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 28, 2013
Messages
37,819
Post pictures of the cowling.----Start with a compression test on that crossflow !----Post the values here.----These motors are famous for broken rings.-----Motor is 1988 to 94 vintage.----Most parts are the same every year.
 
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oldboat1

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 3, 2002
Messages
9,612
Clean it up some and see what you have. With the motor in neutral and not running, put on a pair of gloves and try to turn the flywheel clockwise by hand. (Test to see if it's froze up). Listen for metal-on-metal noises.
 

redneck joe

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Mar 18, 2009
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10,911
If the HIN is not legible on the transom, you should have it on your sales paperwork, which i hope you have. Diff states have diff rules.
 

oldboat1

Fleet Admiral
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Apr 3, 2002
Messages
9,612
Don't forget about the hull. An open hull (like a bass boat) will be a rainwater connector. The water will find its way under the floor where it can do all sorts of damage to the foam and the wood structure and add a huge amount of weight. All fixable, when you get to it.
 

redneck joe

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Mar 18, 2009
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10,911
I thank y’all for the advice. And I apologize in advance for improper terminology. I’m learning as I go. 😅
No worries, thats why the forum is here. We all knew nothing at some point.


On the water and possible wood rot one easy thing to do to check the transom for structural integrity is to tilt the motor up and repeatedly push down hard on the motor. There should be zero flex. Also try to tighten the mounting bolt. Should not be able to do that.
 

jimmbo

Supreme Mariner
Joined
May 24, 2004
Messages
13,446
Must have sat outside without the Cowl on it for a year or two
 
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