Adding Power Poles (198 Champion)

[R1Peacock]

I’m the original owner of a 2004 198 Elite and am considering modernizing my boat with the edition of Power Poles. Any other 198 owners out there that can share your story and maybe some pictures of your install. My main concern is pump location and how did you organize your battery compartment since there is limited space. Also whats the impact on hole shot and overall ride?

[R Warner]

Call rich at hydrilla gear. I’ve got a 2007 200 elite. Not sure it’d it’s the exact same bilge layout but I’ve got 4-31’s, oil tank, onboard charger and 2 pp pumps. It’s tight but fits.

[Champ2005]

Space is limited, and that is why I went with 2 Talons (no hydraulic pumps). I also removed my onboard charger (30lbs?), because I don't need it while fishing. If traveling I just carry it in the truck and use it as needed. I also added ReLion lithium batteries. My boat has a great hole shot. For a 198, it goes fast enough for me. Good luck!

[getfished]

+1 on removing the charger. I did that on my 210. That will free up some space. I built a travel box and quick disconnect plugs for mine.

[BRETT]

I have a 2005 - 188 with dual 8' blades, pumps, chargers and batteries all in one compartment, but I have only 3 batteries

[Gunnar]

Here's my 10' Blade install from a couple years ago - Still working well...

http://www.bbcboards.net/showthread....000&highlight=

[R1Peacock]

What about the prop. Should I ultimately decide on Talons do I need to change my prop to account for the increased weight (is there much noticeable difference between the weight of a Talon and Power Poles?). At this point I’m tossed between Power Poles and Talons. I like the idea of not having the extra pumps, etc with Talons. I know this is a Ford vs Chevy type of issue — some love Power Poles and others love Talons. I see good and bad points for both.

[Champ2005]

I never changed my prop, or altered my set up. I use a Bob's Action Jack plate too. I have the 12 foot talons and I believe they are a bit heavier than power poles, but you'd have to look up the exact weights. I know guys with power poles and they love them. Both are nice to have. I love my talons! Go with what makes you happy.

[Scooty06]

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I have more pics if you'd like to see them. What I can tell you is that it's very tight for my rig & I only have a 24v system. I'm going to the 36v (1 battery) Lithium Pros next year so room wont be an issue. The boards you see are pressure treated would to help support the pumps & brackets. Then I had to use 2 large bolts (everything stainless) to hold everything down during the rough stuff. Let me tell you everything is rock solid. I can send you a pic of everything I used. I'm still in the process of cleaning up my wires.

Hope this helps. If you want to talk instead of text just let me know because I'm down to help anyone especially a fellow Champ Owner!