2005 Tr196 Re-power or Move On

[Caddis001]

The Optimax 150 on my 196 lost #6 so I sit trying to decide if I should re-power with a new x brand 200HP 4stroke or move on from this hull. I enjoy the hull as a fishing platform but I've found it lacking with the 150hp. I know it's a personal decision whether or not to drop 17k on new motor on 16 model year old hull as I know I would never get the $ back out if I were to try to sell it. Has any had a similar situation and, if so, did you go back with a new Mercury or change brands? I've gotten quotes on Mercury (17k) and I'm working on a quote for a Suzuki 200SS. The boat is in good condition and similar new is a tad more than 17k. Any advice our thoughts are appreciated.

THX

[jbh3]

If you're happy with the hull, re-powering with a Merc 200 Pro XS V8 should put a big smile on your face.

[bassfisher444]

You can find a good used or rebuilt 200 opti and put on there for half the cost of a new 4 stroke. My buddy had a 06 TR196 with a 200 Opti on it and it would do 72 mph gps.

[leethefishking]

That’s a great hull. Wouldn’t even think twice about repowering.

[21xTriton05]

Repower. You won't find a hull that performs better!

[SPOTREMOVER2]

THAT HULL IS VERY SOUGHT AFTER, YOU SHOULD KEEP AND REPOWER WITH 200HP, MAYBE, CARPET/SEATS IF NEEDED.
YOU WILL FALL IN LOVE AGAIN!

[Jason Hale]

If you decide not to repower please let me know. I have a friend looking for a 196 now. I love mine and if it we me, I’d repower.

[Caddis001]

Thanks folks! I really appreciate the feedback!

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[Jigman78]

I personally think putting a new motor with warranty on a older in good shape hull is the way to go. I restored a 97 tr21 w/ a 2019 225 pro xs new carpet, a ultrex and have now approximately 30k in the boat. I do not regret doing it at all. And she is a pretty quick old boat. My vote is if the hull is in good shape. Repower is the way to go.

[Jumping Jimmy]

I just went through this with my 2004 Stratos. I purchased a new leftover Optimax 200 ProXS and had it installed. I replaced the carpet and added a recessed pedal tray for the TM. I also had my bucket seats reupholstered and the boat finish sanded and polished. My boat looks like new and runs like new. I just could not bring myself to spend $50K on a new boat of equal size.

[riverrat29]

If you like the boat and plan to keep it and upgrade here and there I would repower. That is a really fun hull.