TAKING THE 188 FOR A TEST RIDE

[NY Trooper]

So, come Monday I am making the 4 hour drive to take the 188 CX/200 Evinrude H.O. for a test drive. I have gotten some pictures and information from the marina. Here are a couple of questions.

1) This rig has a Lowrance 510-C mounted into the dash. The pictures are difficult to tell exactly what I am getting into if I decide that I don't want that unit (which I know I don't already) in the boat. If I opt to remove it, I assume I am left to replace with a gps capable unit that fits the existing hole. Anyone else replaced the stock unit and what were your choices in doing so? I probably wouldn't be opposed to the newer HD versions of Lowrance but again I think I would be limited to what would fit into the dash. Or does Champion proivde a plate to cover the hole?

2) The boat has a MinnKota Max Pro 80 lb. 24 v. on the bow. Never had or heard much about this TM. Anything good or bad to inform me on this unit?

Looking forward to the test drive and taking some pictures of the boat outside. Difficult to tell exactly what the color is as it is currently indoors under fluorescent lights. I will post a picture or two of the boat when I get back.

[Lea]

Regarding the Trolling motor, that is a good one. I have the MK 74 and it is plenty for my 198 and the waters I fish. You should be just fine with the 80!!

I don't know the 510. I am running a 332C which I like very much. Someone who knows that unit, or comparable ones, will be along. I do know C&O had some plates to put in the hole if someone wanted to remove a unit, but you would have to check with them. Your dealer should be able to help you with this, also...

[Skip]

I have a MinnKota 74 on my 188 and it is plenty for the 188. As for the 510-C, if you are buying from a dealer they can change that unit out for you. If not are you need to bring it home Monday there should be some place near you that can replace it for you. I think you are going to really like the boat.

[bassin butch]

Why not take the 510C out and transfer it to the bow?

Also a HDS 5 will fit right into the vacant hole!

PS: its all about the boat (CX models) not the gadgets, that allows for owners to do self customization.

Butch

[sport188]

Be sure and post after the ride............ and don't forget more pics.

[BRETT]

The only thing I absolutely HATE about MK is how high they sit in the stow position....

[Lea]

I've had both MG and MK. No issues with either.

I believe the MK 80 has the"Lift Assist" feature. I had it added to my 74 and it is a real back saver!!!!

[Bassin Bob71]

I have the Max Pro 80 with lift assist on my 198 and so far like it very much. Still like the MG foot pedal better but I'm getting used to the MK. It has all kinds of power and is pretty easy on the battery. I would think the HDS 5 would be a direct replacement for the 510.

I know you'll love this boat after one test drive

[champ188]

On my 188 i had a 74 minnkota, it was good for my boat in lakes but i found that on the mississippi river here i needed more at the end of the day. the 188 is a great boat, it fishes like a 20 footer in my mind but also small enough to fit in those tight places. you will love the boat. its awesome.

[NY Trooper]

<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by bassin butch &raquo;</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">Why not take the 510C out and transfer it to the bow?

Also a HDS 5 will fit right into the vacant hole!

PS: its all about the boat (CX models) not the gadgets, that allows for owners to do self customization.

Butch</td></tr></table>

There is already a bow mounted unit. I like the Navionics and the GPS unit at the helm that I have with my HB 788 right now. The question is if it will fit the existing hole and wheter or not the internal GPS will acquire from within the console. If not, I would mount it on a Ram and have to find something to cover the cutout if I decide on taking this ride.

Again this all putting the cart before the horse. I haven't even seen this boat in person yet or layed hands on it.

[iron banks]

80# maxxum is the right trolling motor. Take a few turns at 60 mph and hang on, the boat will not slide at all

[bassin butch]

I'm betting the Bird will need to be mounted on a Ram mount, and a block off plate will be in order.

If you dont want the 510 I may be willing to make you an offer.

Butch

[champ223]

you can just leave the 510 in there if you have to put the bird on a ram and you can use both of them or if you have to take out the 510 you can make a nice cover from plexiglass. you paint the back of it black.

[Lea]

<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by bassin butch &raquo;</td></tr><tr><td class="quote">I'm betting the Bird will need to be mounted on a Ram mount, and a block off plate will be in order.

If you dont want the 510 I may be willing to make you an offer.

Butch</td></tr></table>

Why are you betting that?

[bassin butch]

Lea Champion recesses the lowrance locator in the dash by cutting the opening to handle the specific unit.

A 510 lowrance will not require the same size cut out as a bird.

Wella hence the bet.

Butch

[Lea]

Gotya..