boat question, need advice

[ethan77]

I currently have a 17 foot boat with a newer 700 hp motor, I have been trying to sell it but with no luck. What I really want is a tiller, I have a side steering right now, and actually this si the first one i have ever had and iam not happy with it, would it be a good idea to trade motors for a tiller model and convert the boat to be setup for a tiller? or is that a waste of money? I am just sick of the side steering, i have had tillers all my life and well.. this was a mistake and now that no one wants to buy it this is my last idea for it or else i am going to trade it in at a big lose... can anyone give me some advice on what to do about my little problem?

[CrappieJohn]

May just be a bad time of year to offer a boat for sale, but I'd leave it as is and try to sell it. Then go buy your tiller model and tiller. Maybe trade for tiller? Regardless, I'd leave it as it is.

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Plastics...making better fishermen without bait! Good Fishing Guys! CrappieTom
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[wall eyell be]

Plenty of buyers would love the seventeen foot console steering boat.
But they may be scared of the seven hundred horsepower motor.

[Esoxmn]

All of the boat shows are coming up, so people should start looking for boats soon. I would hold out it will be easier to sell the closer to open water.

[Kidd]

The real issue with converting from a console to a tiller is the location of your back seat. I helped a buddy convert a 16 ft Lund to a tiller and it worked great. Not to mention it was a whole lot cheaper that selling and buying. If you like the layout of your boat and your back seat location can accept the tiller handle, I would seriously consider converting as opposed to eating the big loss on selling.

[ethan77]

Well I guess my typing suck.... should be a 70hp. and kidd, the back seat location is great... i made a few changes to it last year to make room for 2 gas tanks and 2 batteries.. so the location would be great for a tiller.... one other wuestion for you guys.... I ahve a 70 hp evenrude, can I buy the handle to make it a tiller with all the electrical parts for the choke and tilt and trim? how much do you think we are talking about if I do it that way?

[Fisher Dave]

I have converted a couple larger motors... it has run between $250-$500 on the motors I have done. Some are more complicated than others and take a heck of a lot of work.

As for the boat .. if the layout is good, it wont be hard to convert. Much of the work is often burying the wiring. I would not make an attempt at this unless you are somewhat handy with tools. If motors are not your strong point .. you can always trade in your existing motor on a tiller model. Converting the boat is much easier than converting a motor.. just be sure to leave items that support the hull.. your counsel does not support the hull.