Just wondering if anyone ever put a Verado on a 198? Verado is about 150 pounds heavier than the Opti. Wondering if anyone has tried and if there were any issues.
Just wondering if anyone ever put a Verado on a 198? Verado is about 150 pounds heavier than the Opti. Wondering if anyone has tried and if there were any issues.
Last edited by basspro57; 01-02-2023 at 07:32 AM.
I doubt 150# will affect it too much. However, I think the Verado has a built-in setback of 5 inches. I wish I knew more about the Verado design but if it indeed has this inherent setback and if the design is similar to the built-in setback of the G2, then not only is the propeller moved back 5 inches but also the center of gravity of the engine is moved back the same distance.
When I repowered with my G2, this was an issue. It noticeably had a negative affect on both handling and top end speed when mounted on my original jackplate. If I stood on the transom, water would come over the top of the spashwell (not over the deck, itself.) I think the G2 was close to 100# heavier than my original 225 Venom. I don't recall exactly. It's a bit complicated as there are some other differences in weight distribution due to the design differences in the motors such as an on-motor oil tank on the G2 and the DPS steering.
I ended up having to remove my jackplate to get optimal performance. Handling returned to better than ever... like one would expect of a Champion 201 and top end speed increased dramatically. The jackplate had a 6" setback. With the G2, setback was more like 11.5". Just too much. Now... my 201 is old style Champion skinny with a beam of 86". Your 198 is wider and might handle a weight shift and setback differently. Just something to be aware of... if the Verado truly has a built-in setback.
1994 201 Champ re-powered with a 250 HO G2 E250LHAFA 05438419
There was a 198 for sale with a Verado 225 on it about 1 year ago. Some Bass Cat's ran em as well.
Last edited by basspro57; 01-03-2023 at 09:57 AM.
My buddy has a 05 196 with a Verado 200. Came factory that way. It definitely sits way lower in the back than my 198 with a ProXS. Runs amazing and handles great.
You may be able to offset most of the weight difference with lithium trolling motor batteries.