New member, there may be alot a work ahead

[eluder82]

Hello, I bought an 82 eluder with a 200hp johnson two weeks ago. The interior was shot but otherwise seemed in good condition. I have already replaced the seat bases and floor in the front. The main floor seems in good condition except under the gas tank. There are some cracks in the gel coat on either side of the motor on the inside corners. I have a transome plate and for the most part it doesn't look like the motor is going to fall off. Although some of the threads on this forum can really scare a person. I work parttime at a small boat/motorsports shop so I know a little about boats.

The other problem is that the boat is rated for 180hp, It wasn't even a though that someone would put a bigger motor on than is suppose to be on there.

My worse case senerio is that motor rips the transome off, the boat sinks, and the insurance wont pay because the motor was bigger that the rating. For right now I plan to change the decals on the motor and maybe try to find someone to trade down later.

I plan to fix as much as possible right now and maybe spend the fall/winter/spring fixing the rear floor and transome.

There are definitely some pros on here and I would be greatfull any input. I haven't learned how to post pics yet but I figure it out soon.

Thanks to the people that started the forum and to those who are alway willing to help with these and future problems.

[Costa]

That 200 on that Eluder is just right. Your Mate is built strong enough to handle that HP as long as you dont go jumping ship wakes. As for the cracks on the inside corners, are they spider cracks (which is pretty normal) or......
You are correct if you get into some type of accident you will pretty much be at fault because you boat is overpowered. Your insurance company will not insure you and if you tell them your boat is overpowered and if you tell them it is a smaller motor than it really is then that is considered fraud and they dont look highly on that either.
I have spoken to several game wardens here in Texas and they have told me they wont issue me or anyone for that matter a citation for an overpowered hull unless "you are driving like a fool, in an unsafe manner, or exceeding a lakes posted speed limit" good luck with your new Eluder and lets see some pics.:)