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Hi,

So my wife and I just bought our first boat, the 1998 18ft Ventura with the 135 optimax (500 hours). I was wondering if this boat typically has a bilge pump in it (I bought it and winterized without checking, great first move). I plan on keeping the boat on the water in tidal waters during the summer. Is there anything I should consider? I do plan on having the bottom re-painted in the spring. Is there any other information we should know about the boat, look forward to hearing all the Whaler experts opinions!

Thanks all

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Well good news is I now know it has the pump. My next question is where can I get a good canvas for this bad boy? The boat came with the Bimini top only so I would like the sides, back, and front cover for the bow. Can’t wait for six more months to use it!

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Hi, make sure that you change the gear case lube before freezing temps are around. As for a good cover, Mills in NY can supply one just be sure that you tell them a mooring cover and not a cover for trailer kept, fastens differently. Also make sure that the gas in the boat tank and engine have Stabil in it to help preserve the gas for that long a period of time.

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Absolutely, yea having the engine winterized right now and boat shrink wrapped before I bring it back home...hopefully learn how to take care of that myself next year.

Does anyone have experience with the 135 optimax? I believe mine is original with the boat so a 1998. Read some mixed reviews for the engine. When we fired it up it didn’t seem to smoke very much, is that normal with this engine? I did not have it surveyed (I went around and checked for soft spots and blisters etc as I have been around boats a long time) and we did not sea trial as it was about 35 degrees but it was offered by the seller. Everything sounded great and looked kept up and it was a risk I was comfortable with for under 10k. Just looking for some thoughts on the engine? Thanks again!