Classic Mako 171 Re-Power Suzuki DF115B - New Outboard on my Boat

[@Texasbroski512]

Dude I’ve watched this video probably 20 times i love the 171 it’s my dream boat with that same Suzuki

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@Texasbroski512 Thanks man! It’s always been a great boat for me. I may upgrade soon but I’ll keep this one to give my kids. It’s a great little boat

[@Texasbroski512]

@@ChasingFloridaa I see a few 171 with a Suzuki 151 reliever like yours and one with a mercury 115 repower hopefully a few more months I’ll have the money for one and I’ll be able to ride nice like you

[@LowBrassTnS]

Looks good. I'm also in Miami, 1978 Mako 17 that I just repowered to a Suzuki 90. 95 hours since April 10th. Had a 1999 2 stroke also, sold it before it blew. Fuel efficiency is now doubled. Got 9mpg yesterday, at 2.8 gallons per hour. Boat has had fuel tank replaced twice in its life, and many fiberglass repairs. A true versatile battle wagon. Was in 300ft of water, then came in to the reef and yellow tailed.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Nice man! I would love to see it. Out of curiosity where did you take it to replace the tank? I’m not sure if I will need to but it doesn’t hurt to know.

[@southpaw8040]

@@ChasingFloridaa nice setup! I am restoring an 86' 171. I had a new 36 gallon tank made by Sunshine Marine Tanks in Miami. After being coated in coal tar epoxy, it cost around $500.00

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@southpaw8040 Thanks for the info. I’m going to be giving them a call. Did they take the top off or did you DIY? I’m curious because I’m doing the same next year.

[@Oakleyshooter]

Whats your top speed looking like?

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@Oakleyshooter Alone I'm doing 41 on the GPS. The moment I have a few people on board I'm at 38-39.

[@JackJack-ld5eo]

Great video. I have an older 17' Proline that I absolutely love. It's a 1994 with a 1994 Yamaha 85hp motor. The hull is rock solid and the boat overall is in excellent condition. A bit heavy compared to most 17' boats but great in a chop. I had the boat checked out before pulling the trigger on a new 115 Yamaha. The extra weight was a concern because the new motor is just over a hundred pounds heavier than the 85, but the batteries which are in the compartment next to the motor were moved up under the console so no real weight increase. My only regret is that I didn't do it before Covid, when the cost would have been half what it is today.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Same here man, I did it during COVID… that’s the hand I was dealt. I love prolines I grew up on boats in the keys of that era. Send me a pic if you don’t mind id love to see it🙌🏽

[@AlexGarcia-ew2fv]

Those 17 makes r so awesome n versatile..I remember going to the 10000 islands back in 1980..all the pro fishing guides had those boats..

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Same thing, I remember seeing them everywhere on the up keys in florida bay to flamingo. Drafts shallow and can handle the bay decently. They don’t have a lot of storage space but for two people it’s really all you need. 👍🏽

[@JohnnyB21401]

Chasing Florida………picking up boat tomorrow but it’s cold in Maryland right now. When spring comes I’ll start the projects and send pics. Good to have a network of mako 171 owners to refer to. Thanks

[@ChasingFloridaa]

I agree, it’s good to all stay in touch. Good info on the classic mako forums. Will you work on the boat through the winter?

[@gorillahd9247]

All of the upgrades turned out great. The new upholstery looks sharp. That new motor should give you many years of trouble free fishing.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

I just did the 100 hour service and it’s was so easy to do… way easier than my mercury motor. I’m happy with the way it turned out, it’s a comfortable boat for two people fishing.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

I’m glad you like it! It definitely took me some time.

[@robertmoody2221]

Awesome motor I put one on a 20 ft angler duel console it runs great I actually went from a 150 2 stroke to the 115 and it is nearly as fast as the 150 was no joke

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Nice man! Definitely a great engine

[@rodenstewart8765]

I realize this thread is dated. Not many Mako 17s on here with good detailed info like this. I appreciate the tour of details on your boat. I have a 1973 Mako 17 I'm getting ready to dive into and I have some questions about your console as well as some other things. I have a similar jack plate and will (if it is repairable) be using a 2017 Yamaha 115 SHO on it. Should be fun! You want me to leave questions here or contact you via a different avenue? Thanks!

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Hey man! Send me a message to @floridaarms on IG. I’ll send you my number and we can talk on the phone. Let me know when you do it here in the comment section.

[@rodenstewart8765]

@@ChasingFloridaa IM sent on IG. Thanks!

[@fiserimel]

Only in US. In Asia, specifically in Japan. They still make brand new 2 strokes yamaha..

[@yorlandygonzalez-p6w]

Hi, Very nice video, I just got my son a 1972 and would like to know where i can buy a vented access hatch like the one you have for the trolling batteries. thank you.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@yorlandygonzalez-p6w That’s a good question, there are a few mako website makoboatparts.com and GreatLakesskipper.com. That being said not all the parts are still made. Mako was bought by Bass Pro. The old ones were made in the Miami area but that was long ago and so you may have to have it made. Hope your son enjoys it. Mines will be going to my son as well in the near future.

[@dennisludwig5542]

Those Suzuki 115s are so quiet at idle as well I forget mine is on sometimes

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Same man, if had to check if it on before I pull the trolling motor from the water…

[@zeiwow0]

How shallow does this boat draft? Im down in the keys and need to be able to get in 12-18inches of water.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

I get in 12 inches pretty easy trimmed up, jack plate all the way up. 18 is no issue at all.

[@JohnnyB21401]

Chasing Florida ……..great video. I just bought a the same boat today mine is a 2004 171 that was re powered in 2019 with a Suzuki 115. I’m looking to replace the console seat completely and the seat in front of console like you did. Did you reupholster those yourself or replace them altogether. Your boat looks great…….you’re making me spend money.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Thanks man!! I had them replaced. After some time the cushion on the inside losses it’s firmness. I used a thicker cushion like the ones that are used on the SeaVee’s the same goes for the vinyl used for the upholstering. I’d love to see how it’s comes out! Send me pics… It’s great to see these old hulls come back to life, they don’t make them like they used to. You can send me pics at IG @chasingflorida.

[@bxbmbr766]

New subscriber love the content

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Thanks!!

[@williamhartman9]

Hey man ,love the motor. I just bought a 98 mako 171 . Is it a good boat ? It is super clean and looks new. Just wondering if it’s good quality. Thanks

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Thanks man! It’s been a solid boat for me. Strong hull and very capable for its size. The older hulls were made much better than the current models.

[@jeffreybrewer8446]

Good Vid on your balanced decision to re power. I am faced with exact same issue on my 2003 19' SeaPro - boat is very sound. Fining it difficult to find box motors, looking for 140-150. Curious what was cost motor and install?

[@ChasingFloridaa]

That’s great man, if the hull is sound go for it. The motor was 12,500 rigging was 2k and the install 2k. All in it was 16,500. Paid extra for the jack plate and tabs about about 2k. Hope that helps! 👊🏼

[@jeffreybrewer8446]

@@ChasingFloridaa Awesome gives me an idea of ballpark - thanks again for sharing!

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@jeffreybrewer8446 No problem, at the time I was looking around there were no engines expect for the one I found in Miami and the other all the way New Smyrna… that has improved now some what.

[@clintconrnette4233]

I just watched your re power video. Very nice. I’m considering re powering my 1988 Mako 17’ and add a Jack plate and trolling motor. How shallow can you fish with your Jack plate? Thank you

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Hey man thanks for watching! Well I’ve been in 1 foot of water jacked all the way up and haven’t hit bottom. It trimmed up as far as I can go when it’s that skinning. Most of the time on idle. I don’t do it offer because the trolling motor does the job. It does help to have her trimmed and jacked up in the shallows it helps the trolling motor track.

[@brandonmurphy4657]

Nice engine the 140 is the same weight and more power tho

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Yes, I was looking for one at the time I was shopping. I never found one, the shop where I re-powered is offering me trade when they get one. I’m going to do it.

[@SpearingWithSlurpey]

big price difference

[@brandonmurphy4657]

@@SpearingWithSlurpey 140 11.5 k$ installed

[@SpearingWithSlurpey]

@@brandonmurphy4657 so the 115 goes for $9300 vs 140 $11.5 installed? still a heavy difference in my opinion. 90hp is perfect enough but really 1-2 people 115 is great for 4 people but the 171 mako really is only a 2 person boat any 16-17 ft boat is only comfortably a 2 person ride all day in reality. 140 just seems overkill. What situations does the max hp for that transom benefit really. Unless you have a lot of extra weight for every trip. Could use the extra few thousands for other upgrades or pocket savings. All my opinion of course. I currently have a 1988 171 with a 2001 90 Honda looking into just maybe a 115 or a newer 90. If you got the cash sure max it out though just seems not as important.

[@brandonmurphy4657]

@@SpearingWithSlurpey for the same weight I'd go with the 140 ...

[@martinmicallef4847]

Nice setup and Updates ! May I ask what model number or info is the Atlas Jack Plate?

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Thanks! It’s the six inch model, I’ll look in the build information at home and get back to you.

[@zeberoni9637]

Hows the weight? Do your scuppers drain?

[@ChasingFloridaa]

She’s a little heavier at the bow due to the trolling motor and batteries. I added the jack plate which offset the motor 6 inches back. She floats as she would and yea it drains well. I have the pin pong style scuppers.

[@Dan_the_fisherman]

How long is your trolling motor shaft? I’m looking at one of these boats and I already have a 54” Minn Kota Ulterra. Wondering if that will work or if I’ll have to upgrade.. Thanks

[@ChasingFloridaa]

54” will work, for bigger rollers I would use a 60”. I have a 72” because the inlets I typically fish sometime would cause a 60 to come out the water.

[@kevinstewart9060]

Nice boat, Clean and set up correctly. I like that has everything you need and nothing you don’t.

[@andrewcash3855]

What year is this 171? Thanks

[@ChasingFloridaa]

It’s a 2003 spilt center counsel

[@dgff34]

The Garmin depth finder you have what model is yours?

[@ChasingFloridaa]

I have the factory one that comes with the 94sv it’s the gt21 but the gt51 works also but it’s $400 more.

[@williamhartman9]

I’m wanting to reposed mine , it’s like yours. Do you really think I’ll regret using a 90 ? 16.5 k is alot of money .

[@ChasingFloridaa]

A lot of these boats came from the factory with a 90 and they run just fine. If the 90 is running as it should ,I wouldn’t repower it. I only went through this whole process because my 115 two stroke was basically destroyed. Now having said all that a new motor on a boat changes everything about it. 4 strokes are SO much quieter than 2 stokes it’s hard to even compare them.

[@williamhartman9]

Mine has a 115 merc 4 stroke, it runs fine but it’s a 2000 and I heard you say yours was 19 rears old and it blew . I’m just thinking mine must be getting close to retirement 😫😅

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@williamhartman9 I hear you man… I never worried about it until I had to. Kept me sane 🤣

[@williamhartman9]

You said it brother! thanks a lot for the response.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@williamhartman9 Your welcome!! Glad to help 🙏🏽

[@bxbmbr766]

I recently saw a boat that only needed a repowered is it worth it?

[@ChasingFloridaa]

It really depends if the hull is in good shape. Also the rest of the important parts that in my opinion are also important such as the fuel tank. If the hull is solid it’s definitely worth it! Make sure it really needs a re-power… my engine blew I didn’t do it just to do it. What I mean is check the engine and if it’s not worth fixing then go down the re-power road. All things considered prices of boats are staring to stabilize if you are looking to buy. Hope that helps.

[@JohnnyB21401]

Chasing florida ……..I’m having trouble finding a console and helm seat cover. Any ideas? Mine is a 2004 171

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Yeah I know what you mean. I had mine custom made. Outboard, cc and helm seat. Where are you out of?

[@JohnnyB21401]

Maryland

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@JohnnyB21401 Best bet is to find some one who makes full covers and re-upholsters… they can make small covers like those easily. Classic mako forums have good advice also. Some use to be available at greatlakesskipper.com that was a long time ago. Hope that helps.

[@robertzahurak2819]

Hey, First off, what year is yours because my 2007 mako 171 does not have the console that opens like yours. Mine may or may not have a bad gas tank and i am looking to get the old one out but removing the console seems tricky, i do not see any bolts holding down my console so not sure how to remove it. Also, do you know the dimensions of the tank that your removed. was it belly shaped or flatbottom? Thanks, Rob

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Hey man thanks for asking. Mines is 2003 split top, that allowed me to fit a 26 gallon aux white plastic tank in to hold me over. The main tank is a 39 gallon flat tank. The one I have made is a 50 gallon v shaped. The screws are inside the perimeter of the counsel on mine. The silicone has to come off on some other models to gain access. The dimensions are not know to me yet as I have yet to do it. I’m starting next week and I will share the process. Hope that helps 👍🏽

[@robertzahurak2819]

@@ChasingFloridaa Thanks alot that helps alot. I think i am going to rip mine out next week as well. I will keep you updated as well..... My console has no screws showing at all on the inside or outeside, only a bead of silicone all the way around both in and out, does that mean it is only glued/sealed in and there are not screws at all?

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@robertzahurak2819 No problem man! Remove a section of the silicone bead and check if the screws are below. Some of the models have them that way. It varies from year to year. Definitely keep me posted, love to see what it looks like.

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Also consider doing a pressure test, it can be done in such a way that the tester may know if it’s a bad hose or the tank. It’s what I did and unfortunately it was the tank for me. That’s the best first step you can do. Any reputable marine shop can run that test for you.

[@robertzahurak2819]

@@ChasingFloridaa I liefted the console and cut out the area below the console, removing that tank is still not gonna be easy so gonna do another pressure test now that i can visually see more than half the tank......do you know how the fuel compartment area is drained, theres a wall across the middle (at the back of the tank) that creates this compartment but i dont see a drainage pipe through it.....is there a drain on the bottom in the middle of the compartment that drains into the bilge? Thanks for all your help its much appreciated.

[@Oakleyshooter]

Repowers and makes a video but doesn't say his top speed....

[@ChasingFloridaa]

Sorry man it does 38 fully gassed and kitted, loaded with 3 people on board. On empty and solo ride I’ve done 42mph.

[@Oakleyshooter]

@@ChasingFloridaa Thank you!

[@ChasingFloridaa]

@@Oakleyshooter No Problem 👊🏼

[@josefastboats5874]

@@ChasingFloridaa Hey bud, can I ask you what prop your running to achieve those numbers ?? Thanks