rock protection?

[Ellie Mae]

I have a brand new 18' Grizzly Tracker with a Merc 9.9 outboard, won it in a drawing. My question: the river I will be putting in is shallow with many rocks. I've been told to attach a pitchfork to the shaft to protect the prop from hitting the submerged rocks. Has anyone ever heard of this? And how would I attach it without welding it? I got the boat last summer, but couldn't pull it with the Mustang, so had to wait until I got a Jeep. I'm putting the hitch on tonight, and want to be in the water on Saturday. This motor has never been started, and it's been many moons since I've been boating. I'm a bit nervous to say the least!! Would the gas/oil from last year go stale? <br />Any help would be greatly appreciated.<br />~Ellie Mae

 

[Scottj25]

Re: rock protection?

I know that there are prop guards that can be attached to the motor check West Marine for the model that you like and than buy it some where eles for less.<br /><br />As for the Gas don't use it as it may have gone bad and the oil should be good for three years if it was unopen.

 

[crab bait]

Re: rock protection?

you can use heavy wire an twist ty on the fork or use those nylon strap crank up banding straps you can get cheap at hardware stores.. you can find these huge hose clamp type straps at a plumbing supply .. you're gonin' first class redneck all the way !! good luck !!