Looking at 06 or 08 188VS. Both 150HP, E-Tec on one, Merc Optimax on the other. Rest of the accessories are similar. Not familiar with the Merc, have an E-tec on current rig.
Thoughts on the motor, layout, performance ? Thank you.
Looking at 06 or 08 188VS. Both 150HP, E-Tec on one, Merc Optimax on the other. Rest of the accessories are similar. Not familiar with the Merc, have an E-tec on current rig.
Thoughts on the motor, layout, performance ? Thank you.
I had a 2008 188VX with 150 E-Tec. I don’t believe there is a significant difference in quality/value/performance between the Optimax of that era and the E-Tec. Both 2-stroke engines are fairly simple to work on, so service shouldn’t be a major issue either. Typically a 56-58 mph rig at full go. E-Tec usually a bit more economical on fuel. For the size, this hull fishes very well with the trolling motor down. It does not ride as smoothly or as dry as a 19 or 20 foot rig, and the storage is not as large, but it’s a quite capable, tournament-ready hull on waters that are not too large or rough.
I had a 05 188VS for 15 years w/ 175 Omax. In 2015 I put a new Pro XS on it. I've had several over the years and it was one of my favorites. It's rated for a 175 and could have took a 200 (in my opinion). I would choose the Merc. But I would also try to find one with a 175. Most people when looking for a boat don't want them under powered. But if you're happy with it is all that matters. Good luck!
Ranger.jpg
Have a good one and thank God for it!
With it being harder to find dealers to service Etec if needed, I would choose the Merc powered boat.
Chad Phillips
BassBoatElectronics.com
Ultra Marine Service - Mercury Outboard sales and service
1-800-931-9926
1230 Topside Rd. Louisville, TN 37777
Showroom & Office Hours M-F 8a-5p
I got a 2010 188vx with 175 opti and for me it is great probably needs a 175 in my opinion.
2010 Ranger 188vx
175 Mercury Optimax
Couldn’t give me an E-tech. Maybe a good engine but if you need to resale it’s crap. I’ll take the merc anyway.
I had a 2006 and loved the set up. I would get the Mercury.
Awesome boat. Very stable, and can handle bigger water. I had one for years. I'd get the optimax.
I've had an '06 with a 175 Optimax for 7 years now. Its the only bass boat I've owned so I don't have a lot to compare to, but its been a great boat.
I have a 2006 with the 150 Merc. I love the boat. It only does 52 with the 150 but that's fine for me for what I use it for. It handles big water better than it should for it's length. Tackle storage is excellent. Rod storage is fair. It is a good design and very well-built.
I agree with the others on the E Tec, I had one on my 520 . . .
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