Congratz on the new boat! I have a 2023 Pro V-16 and am enjoying it. Not sure if you're planning on adding a fish finder up front in the bow. I was just working on it today and found the bow already has power. I pulled the front cover, the one that has the trolling motor power (8 screws) and found a pair of blue wire crimps among the wires. Took my meter to them and sure enough, they had power. Also, I don't like were the trolling motor battery is/was. Moved it to the starboard side and used a LiTime 100ah mini LiFePO4. Much smaller footprint and less than half the weight. Going with the LiFePO4 has doubled the capacity and no need for a second trolling motor battery.
Great review, it helped convince me to order my 2021 Targa V18 Combo last weekend. For those who haven’t checked out Tracker for a while, you will be impressed by their current build practices and overall construction. Pretty hard to beat what you get for this price. Thanks for this review, and am very excited to have mine delivered.
Thanks for posting this review. I too, spent some sleepless nights after dropping near $40k on a new V18 combo, with a few add-ons. I'd heard all the complaints, read all the bad press, and was concerned. Since then, I've found more people that are happy with their Trackers, than there are unhappy people. You also gave me an idea for another mod I will make! Still don't have my boat, but dealer has it finished. Now have to wait for NH winter to go away. Thanks again!
Thank you for sharing. It always amazes me when I see a boat manufacturer or dealer driving around in a boat as if that's what will get us excited. We expect the boat to float and maneuver in the water. What we want to see is the interior of the boat and the options in detail.
I guess everyone's experience is different but I've had my 1996 tracker targa 18 since new in 1996. Never had an issue with the bait itself. All these years later and the only thing I've had to do is put about $3k into the original mercury 115 two stroke but other than that it runs strong. Boat can still do 50 mph with no gear in and we are just out for a cruise. Fully loaded hits 46. Even the trolling motor was original until this past year when I upgraded to a terrova for the spot lock feature but the old motor guide worked just fine. Just wanted the spot lock. I have upgraded the electronics and seats but that was all optional updates I decided to make. The bat itself has had no issues. Even the trailer was great until this past year. The two center beams finally snapped and I had a guy weld new beams in with drain holes. But still, people say tracker trailers are crap, but mine lasted almost 25 years before it needed a repair.
Thank you very much for the video. I just ordered the same boat in white. You seem like a straight shooter and very intelligent with respect to mechanical issues. I'll be doing many of the same upgrades that you did and appreciate all the tips. Thanks again and be safe.
I have the 2012 175 deep v proguide sc. It still has no issues. It is my 7th boat. It is almost the perfect boat. The build quality is amazing, despite what any turds out there are saying. The only draw back is the wooden decks. I'm not a fan of that. However, there are only a select few manufacturers (Ranger being the main one) that use no wood. I have done many upgrades to my boat (who wouldn't make it their own?) And I couldn't be happier with a boat. I highly recommend the Tracker boats. I would absolutely buy again! ... If you have the option, DON'T GET CARPET!!!
I bought my first tracker last week. 2021 v175 at. Iv had 5 other 16 foot plus boats. So far one night in the garage it makes me sick. The port consol I can pick up off the floor and carry it wherever I want, turned the key on and had no power because the main power lead came off the fuse box while towing it home’ when they did the walk through the courtesy light didn’t work so they fixed that but screwed the kick plate under the steering column on so crooked the storage under the steering wheel won’t open. I also stepped on the gunnel while climbing in the boat and thought that it caved the door in because the gunnel pushed in and the door lapped over it and dropped down a inch. This was a ordered boat and was so excited but now I’m honestly nervous to take it out
Fantastic job on the video. I just ordered a 21 pro v-16 SC, arriving in February and this video is a great head's up ahead of time so I can have those upgrades ready to go. Thanks again.
This is a great video thanks alot for the good feedback. I am currently looking at a 2020 V-16 SC or the WT and i really like the WT especially with the front windows. Great Review!
I bought the same exact boat, 2020 model, with the standard 115, 3 years in and I still love it, no problems yet. Can u give me more information on how u installed your LED strips. How did u wire them to a switch?
I was looking at a Lund Pro Guide 1675 because of the price on the Lund website $24,500 ish with a 60 Mercury. I drove to my local dealership just to see it in person $31,500 as is before tax. I asked why so much more? Was told all the setup and dealer prep is left out. If the pricing was more honest I would have written a check and I would be done . Personally, I like the way Tracker sells their products. I got to admit I don’t know if I gave the nerve to buy a Tracker. In certain areas of the country brands pull respect. In my area of Northwestern Wisconsin Lund & Alumacraft are highly regarded along with Yamaha Outboards. ( I’m not bashing Mercury. ) And are easy to sell when it is time to move on. I currently own 2011 20 ft Bennington with a 50hp Yamaha that we will own for many more years. Two Great Products, absolutely zero problems. Not even a loose screw. Never been back to the dealership for anything. We are looking for a 16 to 17 ft boat to take to the hundreds of lakes to fish in our part of Wisconsin. Our Bennington sits in the water at our cabin on open water season. I have a great bunk trailer I just don’t want to tow it all over. I know when we decide to sell it it will hold its value and be easy to sell. This is the best Review Video on any boat Brand I have ever watched. Great Job!!!
Hey Mr. Garage. I just purchased my own Tracker V175 combo. Excited about it. I am curious how you make your versatrack connectors and also how you ran and hooked up your LED lights. I would love to do those also. Couldn't find a video of you showing how you did that.
Nice review. We bought a 2019 V16 Pro Guide last year...Been very happy with it except for the two piece front platform that has been an issue. Apparently they “Staple “ the two pieces together and the factory stapled the wrong side...Also , just found the powder coat peeling at one of the weld points. And the Speedometer is stuck at 35MPH. I asked the dealer to just send me a new Speedometer and I would swap out myself , but they said it has to be done by a dealer , which is almost two hours away. They did fix the front deck, but the carpet is creased where the two pieces match up...I’m not a carpenter, but there was no reason the front deck could not be cut from a 4x8 sheet of marine ply..At the end of the day, I probably could have purchased a competitors boat for double the price, so, I’m very happy with it otherwise. Waiting to hear back about the powder coat.
Mr. Garage I have a hard time believing that they are all like that. Have to do some more digging..Dealer (Basspro) says they are, but I’ll find out, and if they aren’t , they can replace it with a single platform.
Mr. Garage That’s what I thought. Actually, looking for a number to call the factory now ! I was also in the Sea Blue site looking for that charging package you have and couldn’t find a “package “. Did you put that in yourself and if so , do you have a link to the complete package?
AWESOME DETAIL!!!!!! May I ask where you got the voltage meter that gives voltage of trolling battery and starting battery? Also, I see you have a blue on off button...I can wire the meter but how did you wire in the power on button for the meter?
Right here. amzn.to/3u7aO44 The blue switch I had is just a normally open momentary button as I did not want the display on all the time. Been a long time but I believe I just wired it to the ground so that when pressed, the meter would power on.
How much of the blowing out was being caused by the 3 blade Black Max prop itself? I have that prop on a Lowe 175 FS and it blows out when cornering. Will changing to a 4 blade Spitfire in a lower pitch be enough to help, or is it necessary to also mount trim tabs? Thanks for posting the video. I'm thinking about getting a Tracker deep V., and your review gives me confidence in that boat.
The majority of it. 4 blade was very, very different. Can still experience blowout but man... night and day difference. Pitch of the prop depends on the RPM you reach now. Are you able to hit max RPM easily? If so, go up in pitch. If you cannot reach max RPM, go down in pitch. If it takes a little bit to hit max RPM / top speed, you are likely just right and stick with your current pitch.
Do you have a light tint on your windshield? I have the same boat but my windshield doesn't have a tint like yours seems to at 11:29. Is so what did you go with? Also, on your starboard side smart tab, did you have to modify the swim platform to mount the strut or did it fit just under the swim platform?
Oh lordy... ! Big list.. - Nauticus Smart Tabs - CMC Jack Plate - Talon - Battery upgrades + blueseasystems charging setup - i-pilot conversion - kippawaw 853 prop trollling motor - 17p spitfire X7 on the outboard - Gator guard / keel shield - 10' Bimini - Custom versatrack mounts - Cannon pole holders - Front and rear LED lights - Interior RGB LED lights - LED upgraded to anchor and nav light - Baystar hydraulic steering - Simrad GO9 with AI ducer - Custom wheels on the trailer - Spare tire added - Surge brakes on trailer - Tinted glass Prob some stuff I forgot.
I'm about to buy a used 2019 Black V-165 WT ( sad with carpet) here in Texas & want All Your Upgrades Even Down to the Stainless Steel Fish Holders.... Your Boat Is A BEAST.... I'm Searching All Your Upgrades & Where To Buy... I Won't Minnd Waxing My Sexy Black Boat & Scrubbing!!! LOL... Thanks for Your Response & Love The Video!!! (My Company Builds PCMs for Mercury)
@@chriswilliams210 Hey Christopher, appreciate the comments on my boat! I could sell most anything I own and not care too much.. but my boat is MY BOAT! Love it. Always brings a smile every time I walk into the shop and see it. Look forward to each day we make it on the water.
Nice video. Can you do some diy videos on how you installed some of those upgrades. Particularly the lights and hydraulic system? Also how did you get your wife to not notice how much you spent? Currently my #1 problem
Wish I was into doing the DIY vids back then. So many things I could have done over the years HAH! No plans to dismantle though as everything has been done. Maybe next boat.
Beautiful boat. How deep is your garage in order to store this? does the tongue of the trailer fold in? Also how wide should a garage be to store? TIA fantastic video!
How stable is this boat at rest? I’ve heard it takes waves and chop really well but is it really solidly stable when you’re casting or walking around the boat? Deep v hulls in some boats cause them to rock back and forth at rest and that’s what’s keeping me from buying it yet.
Very stable. I do not think I have been in a deep V hull that rocked bad like that. I mean... waves are waves and if they hit broadside then you roll with them. But nothing crazy.
Could you please give an exact measurement of length with trailer tongue folded and motor down and turned. I'd be interested to know how close to 21 feet the spec sheet gives as storage length. By the way that was a well executed and informative video. Happy fishing.
I just bought one and love it, took it out for the first time yesterday. Storage length with collapsible hitch is 19' 7". My garage has a extended side (4 foot) so i park it with the engine in the corner and my wifes car still has plenty room to park. If you have a standard garage it will fit but it you wont get a car in there. My depth is 19' 3" and my door is 82". I think the boat is 80" tall on the trailer.
Great review. Really appreciate it. I just purchased a used 2018 V-165 WT. Only 11 hours on the motor. I am doing quite a few of these mods - just finished installing the Blue Sea batterylink system. One question I have is what is the button you use to momentarily read the battery voltages? I cannot find a single momentary switch like that that will actuate two circuits (dual pole single throw?). Any info on the switch you use would be greatly appreciated.
From memory, connect both positive wires to the voltage display. Place the momentary on the single ground line so you can use a standard spst momentary
Fix the link and yes, he #60's. Link will give the exact PN. The boat did track better while trolling slow. Back end does not drift as much but top speed is reduced trolling, not that it really matters much.
I use this unit - manages charging perfectly being shore power, start battery isolation on water and accessory battery on water. www.bluesea.com/products/7655/Mini_Add-A-Battery_Plus_Kit_-_65A_%5BNorth_America%5D
Love your video. I want to put a Talon on my Targa V-19. I have a kicker one side then my swim deck / ladder on the other. This makes it difficult. I could probably cut the swim deck down and keep the ladder. How often do you use your Talon? I assume you have spot lock too? TIA!
I do not think that would fit unless the platform was totally removed and ladder... they are pretty large. I used the heck out of it - one of the best features IMO.
Great review, thanks for doing it. How shallow can you realistically fish in this boat and actually get back out and on plane? On paper it looks like it could be a decent bay boat if you need it to be but the pitchforks come out when I suggest it.
I never care what others think so let them waive their pitchforks at your much fatter wallet. With how low the outboard hangs... not a shallow boat when loaded down. Cannot quote it as I never measured. A guess and I would think safe at 28-30"
Thanks for the review. I have a 2020 165wt with the 115. I currently am running a 3 blade black max 17 pitch which tops out at about 5400 rpm. I really want to go to a 4 blade stainless spitfire also but for the price I want to make sure I get the right one the first time. Any issue with yours at all hitting the rev limiter?
Most v165's were spec'ed with a 17p but actually came with a 19p. Did you verify by the part number on the prop? Max of 5400 sounds more like a 19p or high altitude use. Also good to check that the throttle cable is adjusted properly for WOT, mine did not open fully. Cant recall exactly but only opened like 85% ish
Phoenix. Would fish canyon, Roosevelt, pleasant, Bartlett, saguaro... list goes on and on. This boat went to a new owner as wife and I had a life change and thought we would be moving cross country. That all fell through so I am starting to look again. I was set on a new tracker but they dorked out the windshield! Glass shape looks like @ss now to me. IMO anyways. Will see what happens.
Hello, Yes we had a 10' vortex bimini on the boat. Was just not installed in this photo. The 10 x 96 was a bit long so we had to make custom support straps for it when traveling or it would sit on the outboard.
Depends on load. Best days and light load I see close to 45. Loaded down around 40. Best though is just a solid on plane cruise around 3500-4000rpm. Glass smooth.
Mr. Garage I have struggled from the get go to get 40 out of mine, like you I was propped with the 19 black Max, went to 17 three blade was better and now ha 4 blade aluminum prop that I love, I also have the smart tabs, do you think stainless prop would do better, now I have a lot of weight added also, ulterra up front, it 20lbs heavier than stock motor, plus 2 group 31 batteries for it, keeped original 28 for fish finder, i catfish so lot of rod holders and rod rack across the back, top speed is 36-37
@@skipstewart9399 I think they're better because they don't flex. I have always ran a High 5 prop. Love mine. Not sure if that comes in your size motor but I think stainless is always the way to go. Due to the high elevation in CO, I always use a 17P. If you're lower than a mile high, then use a 19P. Great video by the way. I love these. I am close to buying a Tracker Deep V and these always help.
Mr. Garage. I’ve watched several videos on the front battery compartment and it looks like it would be almost impossible to get two in? Think it could be done in that small compartment or would you have to move them both back to that center floor storage compartment?
@@joeroetman7047 compartment door is small, but the compartment area is big. You can also access it from the floor hold. There is no divider wall between them.
Going from a 3 blade to a 4 in the same pitch generally drops some top end, few MPH but grip on the water especially when turning results in a huge drop in prop blowout. benefits far outweigh a few mph. I would never consider a 3 blade on a big deep V again.
On the V165WT with standard 115, the 19p is an excellent prop as I had one in X7 / 19p at one time. You will only see around 5300 -5400ish RPM trimmed out with motor raised properly but you will see the most top end from it over the 17p. So if your goal is every MPH, go 19P.
Adding altitude plays a factor too. I am only around 2000ft and lower. If I was say at 4-5K feet, the 19p would be too much of a dog not enough power to spin it. Higher altitudes, I would go for the 17p.
You mentioned’ adding “ Ipilot to your existing PowerDrive. I couldn’t find any info online regarding that as an add in option to my PowerDrive 55 ? Can you tell me where you found the add on ?
Midwest FPV thanks ordered it directly from Minn Kota a month and a half ago. Amazing !! Love it. Would never own another boat without it. I thought I would have a hard time getting used to not having a foot pedal. Not a problem at all. Took me about 20 minutes to do the upgrade. Piece of cake
Midwest FPV I believe with the Targa, it will. But don’t quote me on it. I think the only unit that doesn’t have the capability of having the foot pedal is the Powerdrive that I have , which is a 2019
Nice review. I've been on the fence about trackers for a while but the price point can't be beat. One question. While looking at a new one recently, I noticed that if you put any weight at all on the swim ladder the entire transom skin deflected. Salesman just shrugged. Does your transom deflect when boarding?
@@MR_Garage Looks like you created a Tracker boat thread!! Just took mine out and your dead on about everything in this review. A couple of questions. How long do troll before having to recharge? Also I could not get my right side livewell to work. Any tricks?
@@jeremycornelius8345 Hello, Appreciated! Glad others love the boat as much as I do. I am running a 100AH AGM battery, just a single. Total time depends on conditions. The more wind, the less battery life. If I want to troll faster, less battery life. So really hard to pin down a total runtime but it is quite a while. If I start getting low, I just start the outboard and free-rev it to around 1500rpm. This makes my charger send power to the trolling battery and will re-charge it on the water. My outboard becomes a portable generator at that point. On your livewell... you mean front or back well? And... water will not pump in or?
It is. However, it is very small for ocean going and single outboard. May be a bigger freshwater craft but ocean is a different world! With this, I would be totally OK going out on decent days with it as long as you carry a marine radio and transponder.
Mr. Garage is it a pain in the ass to do the upgrade ? From what I can tell , it looks pretty plug and play ? And will I lose my foot pedal or will foot pedal override the Ipilot ?
The V165 is a slightly shorter and lighter version of the v175. Share really nothing with the much smaller v16. They only made them for a few years. Covid hit and they consolidated the line - dropped the v165 model.
Thanks for that! I just bought a 2024 Pro-V 16, and as a first time boat owner, I have a huge learning curve ahead.
Congratz on the new boat! I have a 2023 Pro V-16 and am enjoying it. Not sure if you're planning on adding a fish finder up front in the bow. I was just working on it today and found the bow already has power. I pulled the front cover, the one that has the trolling motor power (8 screws) and found a pair of blue wire crimps among the wires. Took my meter to them and sure enough, they had power. Also, I don't like were the trolling motor battery is/was. Moved it to the starboard side and used a LiTime 100ah mini LiFePO4. Much smaller footprint and less than half the weight. Going with the LiFePO4 has doubled the capacity and no need for a second trolling motor battery.
dude, everybody should do a review like you...outstanding...
I appreciate that!
Great review, it helped convince me to order my 2021 Targa V18 Combo last weekend. For those who haven’t checked out Tracker for a while, you will be impressed by their current build practices and overall construction. Pretty hard to beat what you get for this price. Thanks for this review, and am very excited to have mine delivered.
Thanks for posting this review. I too, spent some sleepless nights after dropping near $40k on a new V18 combo, with a few add-ons. I'd heard all the complaints, read all the bad press, and was concerned. Since then, I've found more people that are happy with their Trackers, than there are unhappy people. You also gave me an idea for another mod I will make! Still don't have my boat, but dealer has it finished. Now have to wait for NH winter to go away. Thanks again!
You will love it - Let us know how it goes with the new ride!
How do you like your boat so far
Feeling much better. Thanks for the review. I purchased a Pro Guide 175WT yesterday withe the 115 ProXS. Can't wait to get it in the water
Have you received your boat
Thank you for sharing. It always amazes me when I see a boat manufacturer or dealer driving around in a boat as if that's what will get us excited. We expect the boat to float and maneuver in the water. What we want to see is the interior of the boat and the options in detail.
I guess everyone's experience is different but I've had my 1996 tracker targa 18 since new in 1996. Never had an issue with the bait itself. All these years later and the only thing I've had to do is put about $3k into the original mercury 115 two stroke but other than that it runs strong. Boat can still do 50 mph with no gear in and we are just out for a cruise. Fully loaded hits 46. Even the trolling motor was original until this past year when I upgraded to a terrova for the spot lock feature but the old motor guide worked just fine. Just wanted the spot lock. I have upgraded the electronics and seats but that was all optional updates I decided to make. The bat itself has had no issues. Even the trailer was great until this past year. The two center beams finally snapped and I had a guy weld new beams in with drain holes. But still, people say tracker trailers are crap, but mine lasted almost 25 years before it needed a repair.
Indeed - I would buy another anyday without worry.
Great review and nice boat! I'm in the contemplating stages of a V175 currently and this answered a lot of my questions, thank you!
Very welcome!
Thank you very much for the video. I just ordered the same boat in white. You seem like a straight shooter and very intelligent with respect to mechanical issues. I'll be doing many of the same upgrades that you did and appreciate all the tips.
Thanks again and be safe.
I have the 2012 175 deep v proguide sc. It still has no issues. It is my 7th boat. It is almost the perfect boat. The build quality is amazing, despite what any turds out there are saying. The only draw back is the wooden decks. I'm not a fan of that. However, there are only a select few manufacturers (Ranger being the main one) that use no wood. I have done many upgrades to my boat (who wouldn't make it their own?) And I couldn't be happier with a boat. I highly recommend the Tracker boats. I would absolutely buy again!
... If you have the option, DON'T GET CARPET!!!
I bought my first tracker last week. 2021 v175 at. Iv had 5 other 16 foot plus boats. So far one night in the garage it makes me sick. The port consol I can pick up off the floor and carry it wherever I want, turned the key on and had no power because the main power lead came off the fuse box while towing it home’ when they did the walk through the courtesy light didn’t work so they fixed that but screwed the kick plate under the steering column on so crooked the storage under the steering wheel won’t open. I also stepped on the gunnel while climbing in the boat and thought that it caved the door in because the gunnel pushed in and the door lapped over it and dropped down a inch. This was a ordered boat and was so excited but now I’m honestly nervous to take it out
Wow, fantastic review, thanks for taking the time to put it all together.
Wanted to say thanks for the tip on removing the rod guide from the floor locker. That and some socks, it works great now.
I have a ProGuide V16 Big Tiller that My Son and I are fishing the great Lakes....great price and no problems
I love my 2012 tracker super guide v16. Obviously it ain’t no champion but it gets me on the water and catching fish👍🏻
We use trim tabs on our air boat and they help a lot
Fantastic job on the video. I just ordered a 21 pro v-16 SC, arriving in February and this video is a great head's up ahead of time so I can have those upgrades ready to go. Thanks again.
Right on Todd! Enjoy!
Thanks for the review! Love to see how you ran the wires for it.
This is a great video thanks alot for the good feedback. I am currently looking at a 2020 V-16 SC or the WT and i really like the WT especially with the front windows. Great Review!
I'm looking at a 2021. Nice
Did you make a video for the install of the various lighting?
Awesome setup.
Hey. That bimini top looks amazing. Would you mind sharing a link to it.thank you so much.
Here is the exact bimini I used. I have used vortex on 3 boats now - top notch for a great price! ebay.us/kaSvd1
Great review just bought the pro guide v175 going to do some of the same mods you show hope my experience is the same as yours
Keep us posted!
Ordered mine with a 75 Merc instead of the 60.
I bought the same exact boat, 2020 model, with the standard 115, 3 years in and I still love it, no problems yet. Can u give me more information on how u installed your LED strips. How did u wire them to a switch?
Just 12v power under the console wired to a switch. Was super easy. There is a blue sea systems distro block down there.
Badass bro 👍
i agree with you on the price of the boat. a same size lund is almost 40k.
I was looking at a Lund Pro Guide 1675 because of the price on the Lund website $24,500 ish with a 60 Mercury.
I drove to my local dealership just to see it in person $31,500 as is before tax. I asked why so much more? Was told all the setup and dealer prep is left out. If the pricing was more honest I would have written a check and I would be done .
Personally, I like the way Tracker sells their products. I got to admit I don’t know if I gave the nerve to buy a Tracker. In certain areas of the country brands pull respect. In my area of Northwestern Wisconsin Lund & Alumacraft are highly regarded along with Yamaha Outboards. ( I’m not bashing Mercury. ) And are easy to sell when it is time to move on.
I currently own 2011 20 ft Bennington with a 50hp Yamaha that we will own for many more years. Two Great Products, absolutely zero problems. Not even a loose screw. Never been back to the dealership for anything. We are looking for a 16 to 17 ft boat to take to the hundreds of lakes to fish in our part of Wisconsin. Our Bennington sits in the water at our cabin on open water season. I have a great bunk trailer I just don’t want to tow it all over. I know when we decide to sell it it will hold its value and be easy to sell.
This is the best Review Video on any boat Brand I have ever watched. Great Job!!!
Hey Mr. Garage. I just purchased my own Tracker V175 combo. Excited about it. I am curious how you make your versatrack connectors and also how you ran and hooked up your LED lights. I would love to do those also. Couldn't find a video of you showing how you did that.
Nice review. We bought a 2019 V16 Pro Guide last year...Been very happy with it except for the two piece front platform that has been an issue. Apparently they “Staple “ the two pieces together and the factory stapled the wrong side...Also , just found the powder coat peeling at one of the weld points. And the Speedometer is stuck at 35MPH. I asked the dealer to just send me a new Speedometer and I would swap out myself , but they said it has to be done by a dealer , which is almost two hours away. They did fix the front deck, but the carpet is creased where the two pieces match up...I’m not a carpenter, but there was no reason the front deck could not be cut from a 4x8 sheet of marine ply..At the end of the day, I probably could have purchased a competitors boat for double the price, so, I’m very happy with it otherwise. Waiting to hear back about the powder coat.
Eek, sounds like a pain. Have not seen the two piece deck on the v16 yet. Will have to check it out next time I am at basspro.
Mr. Garage I have a hard time believing that they are all like that. Have to do some more digging..Dealer (Basspro) says they are, but I’ll find out, and if they aren’t , they can replace it with a single platform.
I can say, none of the current v165+ sized hulls have a two piece deck that I have seen. So this is an odd one on the v16.
Mr. Garage That’s what I thought. Actually, looking for a number to call the factory now ! I was also in the Sea Blue site looking for that charging package you have and couldn’t find a “package “. Did you put that in yourself and if so , do you have a link to the complete package?
www.bluesea.com/products/7655/Mini_Add-A-Battery_Plus_Kit_-_65A_%5BNorth_America%5D
Some components like wiring and noco 120v port is separate.
Great review! Ordered the smart tabs!!
Let me know how it goes!
Hey. Do you still have the boat. Would you mind doing another update on the boat. Thank you
I wish I did. I miss the heck out of that boat.
@@MR_Garage really informative video. Wish you had an update.
AWESOME DETAIL!!!!!! May I ask where you got the voltage meter that gives voltage of trolling battery and starting battery? Also, I see you have a blue on off button...I can wire the meter but how did you wire in the power on button for the meter?
Right here. amzn.to/3u7aO44 The blue switch I had is just a normally open momentary button as I did not want the display on all the time. Been a long time but I believe I just wired it to the ground so that when pressed, the meter would power on.
How much of the blowing out was being caused by the 3 blade Black Max prop itself? I have that prop on a Lowe 175 FS and it blows out when cornering. Will changing to a 4 blade Spitfire in a lower pitch be enough to help, or is it necessary to also mount trim tabs? Thanks for posting the video. I'm thinking about getting a Tracker deep V., and your review gives me confidence in that boat.
The majority of it. 4 blade was very, very different. Can still experience blowout but man... night and day difference. Pitch of the prop depends on the RPM you reach now. Are you able to hit max RPM easily? If so, go up in pitch. If you cannot reach max RPM, go down in pitch. If it takes a little bit to hit max RPM / top speed, you are likely just right and stick with your current pitch.
Sweet boat . Where did you order the Bimini top from, and can you fit three batteries total on the boat ?
Bimini is a 10' vortex, ordered it online. You could do 3 batteries, would have to go more in the center locker area.
Do you have a light tint on your windshield? I have the same boat but my windshield doesn't have a tint like yours seems to at 11:29. Is so what did you go with? Also, on your starboard side smart tab, did you have to modify the swim platform to mount the strut or did it fit just under the swim platform?
Hello,
Indeed! Windshield was tinted. Hard to recall back then but I think it was around 13%. I did not need to modify the swim platform from memory.
Thank you!
Great Video Thanks ☺️
Can you list all your upgrades eventhough I don't mind watching your video over & over again. Great Review and Add On's!!!! You Forgot The Tint...
Oh lordy... ! Big list..
- Nauticus Smart Tabs
- CMC Jack Plate
- Talon
- Battery upgrades + blueseasystems charging setup
- i-pilot conversion
- kippawaw 853 prop trollling motor
- 17p spitfire X7 on the outboard
- Gator guard / keel shield
- 10' Bimini
- Custom versatrack mounts
- Cannon pole holders
- Front and rear LED lights
- Interior RGB LED lights
- LED upgraded to anchor and nav light
- Baystar hydraulic steering
- Simrad GO9 with AI ducer
- Custom wheels on the trailer
- Spare tire added
- Surge brakes on trailer
- Tinted glass
Prob some stuff I forgot.
I'm about to buy a used 2019 Black V-165 WT ( sad with carpet) here in Texas & want All Your Upgrades Even Down to the Stainless Steel Fish Holders.... Your Boat Is A BEAST.... I'm Searching All Your Upgrades & Where To Buy... I Won't Minnd Waxing My Sexy Black Boat & Scrubbing!!! LOL... Thanks for Your Response & Love The Video!!! (My Company Builds PCMs for Mercury)
@@chriswilliams210 Hey Christopher, appreciate the comments on my boat! I could sell most anything I own and not care too much.. but my boat is MY BOAT! Love it. Always brings a smile every time I walk into the shop and see it. Look forward to each day we make it on the water.
Do you have a ski tow pylon and if so where did you get it? Does it have to be from tracker or can any pylon work?
My Tracker 2019 18.5 all aluminum boat has a loud beeping warning that suddenly goes off then I stop and it stops. No idea what it do you know?
Beauty job!
Nice video. Can you do some diy videos on how you installed some of those upgrades. Particularly the lights and hydraulic system? Also how did you get your wife to not notice how much you spent? Currently my #1 problem
Wish I was into doing the DIY vids back then. So many things I could have done over the years HAH! No plans to dismantle though as everything has been done. Maybe next boat.
Mix some plain vinegar and water and it will take all the water spots right off. Better than spending 20 bucks on boat cleaner...
Beautiful boat. How deep is your garage in order to store this? does the tongue of the trailer fold in? Also how wide should a garage be to store? TIA fantastic video!
How do
You like the single pole? I’ve been thinking about getting one
How stable is this boat at rest? I’ve heard it takes waves and chop really well but is it really solidly stable when you’re casting or walking around the boat? Deep v hulls in some boats cause them to rock back and forth at rest and that’s what’s keeping me from buying it yet.
Very stable. I do not think I have been in a deep V hull that rocked bad like that. I mean... waves are waves and if they hit broadside then you roll with them. But nothing crazy.
You've heard wrong. I've fished all hulls in all different weather and id rather be on a Deep V or any mod v over a flatter hull anyday
If you don’t mind what we’re the payments for it just wanting to know before I start looking
Could you please give an exact measurement of length with trailer tongue folded and motor down and turned. I'd be interested to know how close to 21 feet the spec sheet gives as storage length. By the way that was a well executed and informative video. Happy fishing.
Can't, I run a jack plate. I can say, my garage bring 20', this boat would not have fit in a 21' garage. Luckily I have a tandem garage and it fits.
I just bought one and love it, took it out for the first time yesterday. Storage length with collapsible hitch is 19' 7". My garage has a extended side (4 foot) so i park it with the engine in the corner and my wifes car still has plenty room to park. If you have a standard garage it will fit but it you wont get a car in there. My depth is 19' 3" and my door is 82". I think the boat is 80" tall on the trailer.
Great review. Really appreciate it. I just purchased a used 2018 V-165 WT. Only 11 hours on the motor. I am doing quite a few of these mods - just finished installing the Blue Sea batterylink system. One question I have is what is the button you use to momentarily read the battery voltages? I cannot find a single momentary switch like that that will actuate two circuits (dual pole single throw?). Any info on the switch you use would be greatly appreciated.
From memory, connect both positive wires to the voltage display. Place the momentary on the single ground line so you can use a standard spst momentary
Question about your trim tabs as the link won’t work for me, are you using the 60# and do they affect trolling at low speeds at all?
Fix the link and yes, he #60's. Link will give the exact PN. The boat did track better while trolling slow. Back end does not drift as much but top speed is reduced trolling, not that it really matters much.
We have a lot of the same mods. What is the battery charger you are using?
I use this unit - manages charging perfectly being shore power, start battery isolation on water and accessory battery on water. www.bluesea.com/products/7655/Mini_Add-A-Battery_Plus_Kit_-_65A_%5BNorth_America%5D
Love your video. I want to put a Talon on my Targa V-19. I have a kicker one side then my swim deck / ladder on the other. This makes it difficult. I could probably cut the swim deck down and keep the ladder. How often do you use your Talon? I assume you have spot lock too? TIA!
I do not think that would fit unless the platform was totally removed and ladder... they are pretty large. I used the heck out of it - one of the best features IMO.
Great review, thanks for doing it.
How shallow can you realistically fish in this boat and actually get back out and on plane? On paper it looks like it could be a decent bay boat if you need it to be but the pitchforks come out when I suggest it.
I never care what others think so let them waive their pitchforks at your much fatter wallet. With how low the outboard hangs... not a shallow boat when loaded down. Cannot quote it as I never measured. A guess and I would think safe at 28-30"
@@MR_Garage Thanks for the reply. That is about what I was thinking but good to hear it from someone who actually owns the boat.
What's the total length from back of motor to the tongue of trailer while folded?
How long is your garage? How long is the boat and trailer? I need something that can fit in my garage?
You need about 21' bare minimum to back straight in, 22' recommended.
Excellent review ... I was curious for garage fitting reasons how long is this boat with the motor... ?
It was a bit less than 21' with motor trimmed down and tongue folded. Longer than what Tracker lists I can say that.
Thanks for the review. I have a 2020 165wt with the 115. I currently am running a 3 blade black max 17 pitch which tops out at about 5400 rpm. I really want to go to a 4 blade stainless spitfire also but for the price I want to make sure I get the right one the first time. Any issue with yours at all hitting the rev limiter?
Most v165's were spec'ed with a 17p but actually came with a 19p. Did you verify by the part number on the prop? Max of 5400 sounds more like a 19p or high altitude use. Also good to check that the throttle cable is adjusted properly for WOT, mine did not open fully. Cant recall exactly but only opened like 85% ish
@@MR_Garage Mine did come with the 19p If i recall was just running over 5k with it. I switched it to the 17p. I am at about 4500ft.
Where in ARIZONA are you located..just wondering what lakes you fish .🤔
Phoenix. Would fish canyon, Roosevelt, pleasant, Bartlett, saguaro... list goes on and on. This boat went to a new owner as wife and I had a life change and thought we would be moving cross country. That all fell through so I am starting to look again. I was set on a new tracker but they dorked out the windshield! Glass shape looks like @ss now to me. IMO anyways. Will see what happens.
Any chance you put a bimini top on this boat since your post and have recommendations?
Hello, Yes we had a 10' vortex bimini on the boat. Was just not installed in this photo. The 10 x 96 was a bit long so we had to make custom support straps for it when traveling or it would sit on the outboard.
Great video, I have same year and model , love it, was wondering what your top speed is?
Depends on load. Best days and light load I see close to 45. Loaded down around 40. Best though is just a solid on plane cruise around 3500-4000rpm. Glass smooth.
Mr. Garage I have struggled from the get go to get 40 out of mine, like you I was propped with the 19 black Max, went to 17 three blade was better and now ha 4 blade aluminum prop that I love, I also have the smart tabs, do you think stainless prop would do better, now I have a lot of weight added also, ulterra up front, it 20lbs heavier than stock motor, plus 2 group 31 batteries for it, keeped original 28 for fish finder, i catfish so lot of rod holders and rod rack across the back, top speed is 36-37
I guess if I didn’t have all that weight I probably could get over 40 with the 4 blade
Do you think a stainless is better
@@skipstewart9399 I think they're better because they don't flex. I have always ran a High 5 prop. Love mine. Not sure if that comes in your size motor but I think stainless is always the way to go. Due to the high elevation in CO, I always use a 17P. If you're lower than a mile high, then use a 19P. Great video by the way. I love these. I am close to buying a Tracker Deep V and these always help.
Nice boat, is there anyway to expand the storage for the front trolling motor battery to use two 12v batteries for a 24v system?
Yeah, plenty of room.
Mr. Garage. I’ve watched several videos on the front battery compartment and it looks like it would be almost impossible to get two in? Think it could be done in that small compartment or would you have to move them both back to that center floor storage compartment?
@@joeroetman7047 compartment door is small, but the compartment area is big. You can also access it from the floor hold. There is no divider wall between them.
Mr. Garage Thank you! Very knowledgeable and good review.
I have the same boat, but with a regular 115 mercury, did you lose top speed with the 4 blade prop vs the 3 blade prop. Thanks
Going from a 3 blade to a 4 in the same pitch generally drops some top end, few MPH but grip on the water especially when turning results in a huge drop in prop blowout. benefits far outweigh a few mph. I would never consider a 3 blade on a big deep V again.
On the V165WT with standard 115, the 19p is an excellent prop as I had one in X7 / 19p at one time. You will only see around 5300 -5400ish RPM trimmed out with motor raised properly but you will see the most top end from it over the 17p. So if your goal is every MPH, go 19P.
Adding altitude plays a factor too. I am only around 2000ft and lower. If I was say at 4-5K feet, the 19p would be too much of a dog not enough power to spin it. Higher altitudes, I would go for the 17p.
Great video! Do you have a link or name for those exact lights and the brackets they mount to on the versa track thanks.
Hello, I made the brackets. The lights I will list ASAP in the video description
@@MR_Garage thank you!
Added!
Hi, man
What is the length of your garage? My garage from back wall to garage is 18’6” do you think it will fit?
It will not fit backing straight in. Outboard will hit the wall with tongue folded.
How did you secure the floor lighting?? That looks great
I put the led strips on aluminum L channel and then used screws to secure the L channel.
You mentioned’ adding “ Ipilot to your existing PowerDrive. I couldn’t find any info online regarding that as an add in option to my PowerDrive 55 ? Can you tell me where you found the add on ?
www.trollingmotors.net/blogs/selection/i-pilot-upgrade-kit-compatibility
Midwest FPV thanks ordered it directly from Minn Kota a month and a half ago. Amazing !! Love it. Would never own another boat without it. I thought I would have a hard time getting used to not having a foot pedal. Not a problem at all. Took me about 20 minutes to do the upgrade. Piece of cake
Gary Gazman wow good news! I’m going to be buying it for my new targa v18. I was wondering about the foot pedal if it would still work or not.
Midwest FPV I believe with the Targa, it will. But don’t quote me on it. I think the only unit that doesn’t have the capability of having the foot pedal is the Powerdrive that I have , which is a 2019
Did you get the 60# or 80# actuators on the Smart Tabs?
Hello, I have a link in the video description of the exact ones I use, along with a lot of other links!
Nice review. I've been on the fence about trackers for a while but the price point can't be beat. One question. While looking at a new one recently, I noticed that if you put any weight at all on the swim ladder the entire transom skin deflected. Salesman just shrugged. Does your transom deflect when boarding?
I have never seen noticed any flex
Do you have a standard garage? Mine is 19' 3" im wondering if it will fit. Also great review
The only way my V165 fits is that I have a tandem garage. Unless you went sideways, you would need about 21'
@@MR_Garage Looks like you created a Tracker boat thread!! Just took mine out and your dead on about everything in this review. A couple of questions. How long do troll before having to recharge? Also I could not get my right side livewell to work. Any tricks?
@@jeremycornelius8345 Hello, Appreciated! Glad others love the boat as much as I do. I am running a 100AH AGM battery, just a single. Total time depends on conditions. The more wind, the less battery life. If I want to troll faster, less battery life. So really hard to pin down a total runtime but it is quite a while. If I start getting low, I just start the outboard and free-rev it to around 1500rpm. This makes my charger send power to the trolling battery and will re-charge it on the water. My outboard becomes a portable generator at that point. On your livewell... you mean front or back well? And... water will not pump in or?
bro, she's moving nicely across the water, what engine do you have?
In that video, it was the standard 115hp mercury 2.1L. I have the pro-xs 115hp now. Virtually same speed on this hull. Looks way cooler though :)
where did you get your charging system from looks like it works good
It is a blueseasystems mini add a battery kit.
www.bluesea.com/products/7655/Mini_Add-A-Battery_Plus_Kit_-_65A_%5BNorth_America%5D
Thanks will look into it
Is this boat ocean friendly???
It is. However, it is very small for ocean going and single outboard. May be a bigger freshwater craft but ocean is a different world! With this, I would be totally OK going out on decent days with it as long as you carry a marine radio and transponder.
Nevermind. Just found it....About $450 sound right ?
Sounds about right. Is yours a V2 or, is it just labeled "powerdrive"? What year boat?
Boat is a 2019. Just says PowerDrive
Mr. Garage is it a pain in the ass to do the upgrade ? From what I can tell , it looks pretty plug and play ? And will I lose my foot pedal or will foot pedal override the Ipilot ?
Looks more like the 17wt then the 16wt🤔😲
The V165 is a slightly shorter and lighter version of the v175. Share really nothing with the much smaller v16. They only made them for a few years. Covid hit and they consolidated the line - dropped the v165 model.
By the way great review...
When using spot lock with your talon will drain your battery faster because the trolling motor will fight the talon.
It can it some situations, set the talon first, then spot lock and I have never had an issue. Never a dead battery either.
Very trick boat
Thanks!
Jack plate is such a waste of money on any motor under 225. imo