is it worth it?

[bearriver]

I have a 1999 18ft. proV with a 2001 merc optimax 150. I am considering trading the motor in to max out the boat with a 175. Is it worth the extra $? Is there going to be that much of a difference in performance? My fishing buddy gets to the "honey holes" before me and I don't like it!

[Valv]

If you want to beat him get a larger boatd with larger motor 225hp and up, otherwise 25hp more will give you approx 3mph/6mph more, that's it.

Get a new E-Tec 250 and you will be there first....

[Tully]

Why not save a bunch of money and just get up a half hour earlier? Sounds simple but I am sure there are lots of us that would love to have your boat just the way it is.

Tully

[CatManLee]

I know this is a little different size wise, but I upgraded motors on my Alummacraft Classic 16 last year from a 40hp to a 70hp. With the 40hp, I ran 27mph (GPS). With the 70hp, It would do 39mph (GPS). So with the 30hp increase I gained about 11-12mph. I think it was worth it, but again I didn't have to spend much to upgrade mine.

I don't know what your top speed is now, but I have a buddy who has a pro-v 18 with a 175 Merc on it, and his will do a little over 53mph with a high five prop. SO this might give you an idea of where your boat might run for speed with a 175. Also, just so you know, his boat could be a few mph faster if he proped it different.

[Dave1]

Yes its worth it.

An outboard should last 30 years. You will enjoy it more, and always be happy with max HP, and you will soon forget about the cost. Also makes it easier to sell if you ever decide to.