New here, & new to me 1997 SeaPro 180cc , ADVICE NEEDED

[randy]

Hello im Randy , have a new to me 1997 SeaPro 180cc, in above average condition,family is just waiting to hit the open water, but want to be sure its 100% ready to go,Evinrude 150xp runs 100% but only 1 battery is hooked up? & i believe that is has 2 originally, & any thoughts or comments about boat being Open water ready would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!!! Thank you in advance, Randy,

[Juan]

Welcome to the forum randy and congrats on the Sea Pro. When you say it only has one battery hooked up, are there two batteries? Normally there will be two batteries with one battery connected to the outboard (The start battery) and a second battery (the house battery) that has accessories and electronics connected to it. Usually there's a switch (commonly called a Perko switch) between the batteries and the motor and accessories which allows you to use and charge one, two or both batteries and shut them off so that nothing drains the batteries when not in use.

Since it's running great, I can only assume the fuel is fresh and good... try to avoid any fuel with ethanol in it if at all possible. if you haven't already, get the required safety equipment... anchor, PFD's, flares, fire extinguisher, etc, you might also consider a radio and a Sea Tow or Boat US membership ... then enjoy the ride.

[freezerfiller]

My boat originally came with one battery, but I added a second after a few years just so I wouldn't kill my only battery by playing the stereo, or running my fishfinder too long. I'd add a basic tool kit to Juan's list above. With any boat, it's a good idea to start small and become familiar with the boat before going straight to open water.

[fishkisser99]

My below-average 1996 180cc only has one battery. Perhaps consider adding a Blue Sea Systems Add-A-Battery Kit, negative bus, and fuse block besides a deep-cycle group 27 house battery...that's my plan, anyway....

www.amazon.com/Blue-Sea-Systems-7650-Battery/dp/B000RZNP5K/ref=asc_df_B000RZNP5K/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312844081654&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=6920118227366023773&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9033397&hvtargid=pla-435213380389&psc=1

Have you been out yet? If so, how did it go?

[WaterDog]

I believe he sank!