'DLV178 For 2008' - Newbie Intro

[TiltNTrim]

Getting ready for 2008. Starting to spec out a DLV178. Have visited one dealer and it looks like a go. Missed out on a couple of used CS's 'cause the timing was bad but I think we're going to go new. First time for a skiff. Going with the 178, T-top with the accessories, front and rear rails, large slick console, 90 HP DFI Honda, hydraulic steering, SS Prop, Venture VAB trailer with disc brakes and power winch.

For now I've picked the ICOM 442, Garmin 545s Chartplotter/Sounder with dual freq. transducer, Shakespeare 5225 XP antenna. (I'm somewhat open to suggestions for the FF/DF/Chartplotter but it has to be a combo unit.

I do have some concerns after reading the threads here: One is water intrusion into the foamed area (I need to feel comfortable that this is not a design flaw). Another is the need for trim tabs or Dolefin. I figure the less holes drilled in the hull, the better. Another is the Ethanol in today's fuel. (I'll be trailering)

I'm sure I'll have a lot of questions. My goal is to complete the purchase as a 'turn-key' with a minimum of issues. I look forward to your help.

thanks,

TNT

[al_e._gator]

With a 178 I hope you don't get a early case of twofootitis. I really don't think hydraulic steering is worth the extra expense with a 90hp motor unless you have a special need for it. I have a 198 with a 90hp that uses cable steering and I have no issues driving it one handed. I would like a 218 but my storage space has limited me to the 198 or smaller. I looked at the 178 but I 'm glad I got the 198 the extra deck was worth it.

[TiltNTrim]

al_e._gator - See y'all in the 'DLV-Series' Forum. Gotta get some sleep. Great site Harry!

TNT

[FLboy3]

TNT it seems like you did your homework when decking out your boat, big console is the way to go, t-top will be awsome, hydraulic steering is what I got on my 2480 dlx with the 140 and wouldn't hesitate to get it on a smaller boat also, power winch is something I'm going to be looking into soon due to my bad back. You've set up a great boat. As far as your concerns about water intrusion, its normally due to human error when installing equipment in the boat. Some are lazy and don't use the 5200 as needed. Bring it up with your dealer. They will be installing everything in your boat except the console and decks

[Willie]

Were have you been eyeballing the new boat at?? Local or out of state???? Willie.... 010

[Shakespeare]

Howdy TnT. If you haven't already, the electronics forum has quite a bit of content about various GPS/Chartplotters and what some of the CSO's use.

Also, ditto on al_e_gator's comments about the hydraulic steering. Unless you got a compelling reason, if it were me, I'd put my money into some other accessories or gear. You could always revisit the hydraulics later. But that's just me. I was fortunate to have found this site prior to my purchase. These guys did a good job of keeping me on an even keel during the purchasing process.

Mike C.