New ranger RT198 P

[Phoenix#1]

So I just came across a good deal in a nearly new ranger. I’m new to tin boats but have had many Fiberglas models. It has a 150 merc four stroke and a hydraulic jackplate. 23 tempest. What speeds will I see? Also it has the vynl deck which I don’t really like. Do they make a rubber option that would overlay on the vynl at least up front around the casing seat for some padding? Last question is it possible to put a keel guard on this boat ? Thanks again

[basshole51]

you could always add "sea-deck" to your boat where you want it.....I have never seen a keel guard on an aluminum and not sure why you would need one either

[King_Fish]

So I just came across a good deal in a nearly new ranger. I’m new to tin boats but have had many Fiberglas models. It has a 150 merc four stroke and a hydraulic jackplate. 23 tempest. What speeds will I see? Also it has the vynl deck which I don’t really like. Do they make a rubber option that would overlay on the vynl at least up front around the casing seat for some padding? Last question is it possible to put a keel guard on this boat ? Thanks again

I can hit 60-61 in mine, 57-59 is nominal full loaded, w/ the G2. My Dealer advised against the keel-guard based on the geometry of the hull and the potential for not getting a good seal, which means water ingression, eventual non-sticking, peeling and a mess with the painted hull and stuff. That was his opinion anyway which I followed until I am convinced otherwise.

I can attest to the 198 being a wonderful fishing platform, and accommodates 2 tourney loaded guys (or girls) wonderfully. If top speed is a concern, then you should consider a hull that will accommodate a 200, perhaps the Xpress...

[javjoe]

I always had a keel guard on my glass boats and thought i needed on on the 198 also.

After a season on the boat it's not needed! The finish on these boats are pretty durable.

[Bill Reynolds]

I really like the changes Ranger made to the 2019 RT198. Enlarging the rear storage compartments and allowing 2 power poles.
The Merc 150 four stroke has been out for several years and I have not heard of any problems. I think you will like it.

[Phoenix#1]

Thanks guys. Anything for padded deck options

[Casslaw]

Congrats on your new rig! I haven’t heard a real complaint about that Ranger, she’s a beast! Fishes great and is fast for a tin. Sea Dek has just about every boat in their system and can make you padded areas for whatever area of the boat you want. Their products are used in saltwater a lot so freshwater is a breeze for that product.

[jtracc]

The 2019 198 looks sharp. Looks like ranger trying to stay up there with vexus. Like that grey they have on ranger site and the dual axle trailer looks sharp. I just don't understand why they don't add lift assists to the other 2 storage lids on front deck.

[Ranger-Dave]

Keelguard on mine for two years..
No issues with it not sticking.

[magnet]

Easiest and probably cheapest way to pad the front is buy a large sheet of SeaDek and cut it to fit. The local SeaDek guy wanted $500 minimum to do half of the front of my RT188. I can do it for about $150 myself.

[lukethedog]

my wife and I have installed Seadek on our boat in various places. Cut a template , then the seadek. We have noticed that once the backing is peeked the seadek will draw up about 1/8 of an inch.

[71oldbassbassman]

Thinking of adding jackplate & powerpoles to my 198p . Does the added weight affect the handling or top end performance?