Welding Techniques For Aluminum Boats: 1994 Tracker Edition

Tracker boats have been around since 1978, when they were started by Johnny Morris, and have been welded since around 2002-2003. The 1994 model is likely to be riveted, but it is possible that it has a combination of welds and rivets. Welded aluminium boats are easier to repair than riveted boats, but both types of construction can be prone to leaking. Aluminium boats are a good option for beginners as they are more affordable and durable than fibreglass boats.

Pros and cons of welded vs riveted boats

Aluminum boats are a great choice for those seeking a lightweight, impact-resistant vessel for navigating waterways with obstacles such as snags and drifting logs. While both welded and riveted aluminum boats offer distinct advantages, understanding the pros and cons of each construction method is essential for making an informed decision.

Welded Aluminum Boats:

• Pros: Welded aluminum boats are known for their durability and sturdy construction. The welding process creates strong bonds between aluminum pieces, resulting in a robust and long-lasting boat. Welded boats are less likely to leak compared to their riveted counterparts, making them a preferred choice for those seeking a dry ride. Additionally, welded boats often feature thicker material, which enhances their resistance to cracking and flexing. The use of thicker material also contributes to a smoother ride, as the boat is less affected by waves and rough waters.
• Cons: One of the significant drawbacks of welded boats is the challenge of repairing them. Welding requires specialized skills and equipment, making it more difficult and costly to fix cracks or other damage. Welded boats may also be heavier due to the thicker material used, which can impact fuel efficiency and handling.

Riveted Aluminum Boats:

• Pros: Riveted aluminum boats offer flexibility and ease of repair. The use of rivets allows the boat to absorb impacts and flex without cracking, making it a popular choice for navigating waters with obstacles. Repairs can be made by simply tightening loose rivets or replacing them, a task that many boat owners can do themselves. Riveted boats also tend to be lighter due to thinner material, making them more fuel-efficient and easier to transport.
• Cons: One of the main concerns with riveted boats is the potential for leaks. Over time, rivets may loosen, resulting in water seepage. Additionally, the thin material used in riveted boats may not provide the same level of durability as welded boats, and they can be more susceptible to damage from impacts. While riveted boats are generally less expensive, the cost of repairs and maintenance may offset the initial savings.

When deciding between a welded or riveted aluminum boat, it is essential to consider your specific needs and intended use. If you prioritize durability and a dry ride, a welded boat may be the better option. However, if flexibility and ease of repair are more important, a riveted boat could be the preferable choice. Additionally, factors such as the type of water you'll be navigating, the presence of obstacles, and your budget will also influence your decision.

History of Tracker boats

Tracker Boats was founded in 1978 by Johnny Morris and his father, John A. Morris, with the idea to produce the world's first completely-outfitted fishing boat package. The first boat was a 16-foot boat with a 35-horsepower Johnson motor, a custom Bass Tracker Trailer, a Humminbird Super 60 depth finder, a Minn-Kota 565 foot-controlled trolling motor, and more. The whole package was priced at $2,995.

By 1980, Tracker Boats had expanded their offerings to include three models: the Bass Tracker I, II, and III, in 16- and 17-foot lengths. The boats were designed with fishing in mind, featuring raised casting platforms, marine carpeting, stow-away running lights, fold-down fishing chairs, and more.

The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and performance has remained consistent over the years. Tracker Boats uses industry-leading processes, technology, and materials to craft top-quality boats that will last a lifetime. They are known for their all-welded aluminum construction, which provides impact resistance and corrosion resistance in fresh and saltwater.

Today, Tracker Boats is a part of the White River Marine Group, which also includes brands such as NITRO, MAKO, TAHOE, SUN TRACKER, REGENCY, and ASCEND kayaks. Tracker Boats continues to be a popular choice for anglers and families looking for a dependable, stable, and affordable fishing boat.

Tracker boat construction

Tracker boats are made of aluminum, which is light, strong, easy to weld, and corrosion-resistant in fresh and saltwater. The boats are built with 5052 marine alloy, an alloy of aluminum, magnesium, chromium, and traces of other metals. This alloy is easily formable, corrosion-resistant, and weldable.

Tracker boats have been constructed with all-welded aluminum construction since around 2002-2003. Before this, they were riveted, which often led to leaking. Welded aluminum boats are more impact-resistant than fiberglass boats, which tend to crack under similar impacts.

The construction of Tracker boats involves cutting parts to a hair's breadth tolerance using computer-controlled plasma cutters, ensuring a perfect fit. The two-piece hull is welded to an aluminum extrusion at the centerline, which strengthens and stiffens the hull. A robotically welded grid supports the hull, which is further reinforced by transverse bulkheads and other aluminum structures. Finally, foam is injected into unused hull cavities for flotation, stiffness, and noise reduction.

Tracker boats are known for their Diamond Coat finish, a multi-layer powder coating that is applied after the hull is cleaned with a multi-stage wash. This finish is said to be three times harder, four times thicker, and lasts up to 20 times longer than liquid paint. The hull is baked at 500 degrees to bond the paint to the aluminum at a molecular level, resulting in a finish similar to that of a new car.

To maintain a welded aluminum Tracker boat, several products can be used, including Boat Clean Plus, Vinyl Guard, Kwik Shine, and VS721. These products offer general cleaning, protection against spills and UV damage, and improved performance and fuel efficiency.

Tracker boat maintenance

Tracker boats have been constructed with all-welded aluminium since around 2003. The aluminium used is 5052 marine alloy, which is corrosion-resistant and easy to weld. This makes it a good choice for marine construction.

Maintenance Tips

• Use a stain remover to clean and restore the finish of your aluminium boat, then follow up with a polish to prolong the shine and protect the finish.
• For light cleaning, use a soap and water mix with a quality brand such as Dawn dish soap. Follow up with a marine wax to prevent future buildup.
• If dish soap doesn't remove the buildup, clean with Simple Green, then follow up with soap and water.
• If stains still remain, use CLR, but try it in a non-visible area first to ensure it won't harm the finish.
• Avoid bleach products and solvents with acetone and toluene when cleaning the gelcoat. Instead, use a gelcoat-friendly cleaner like Star Brite Hull Cleaner.
• Apply a protective wax coating like Meguiar's Pure Wax to slow down the leaching of plasticizers from the hull and deck.
• Open hatches to air out compartments and prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
• Remove wet gear from compartments to prevent mould and mildew growth.
• Use a 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar to remove spotty stains left by water with high mineral content.
• Use a freshwater/hydrogen peroxide mix to remove dried blood.
• Spray cables that touch the dock or ground with ant repellent to prevent ants from marching aboard.
• Hose down the boat inside and out after each trip.
• Always test any new product on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on the whole boat.

Tracker Boat Dealers

Tracker boat dealers can provide comprehensive boat and motor services, including regular maintenance, repairs, repowering, and parts orders and installation.

Tracker boat reviews

Tracker boats have been around since 1978 when Johnny Morris started the company. The boats are made from aluminium, which is light, strong, easy to weld and corrosion-resistant in fresh and saltwater. Aluminium is also impact-resistant, making it a popular choice for boaters in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, where waterways can be treacherous.

Tracker boats are sold as ready-to-fish packages, including the boat, motor, trailer, trolling motor and fishfinder. They are marketed at an affordable price point and are, therefore, a popular choice for first-time buyers.

Reviews of Tracker boats are mixed. Some users have complained about welds cracking, issues with the interior, and problems with storage compartments flooding. However, others have praised the boats' speed, stability, and handling, as well as their affordability.

One reviewer said: "I've never owned a Tracker boat, but from what I hear, they are built solidly as far as the hull goes. But they have issues with the interior and the storage compartments. A lot of the reviews I have seen, particularly on the Targa model, have mentioned that the storage compartments will flood."

Another wrote: "I had two Trackers. An old 1987 Tournament V-17 with a Merc 80hp. Was a wonderful first river-ready rig. Later I had a 1999 Pro Team185 SE with a 75hp. It too was a great rig! Both were riveted hulls and neither leaked. I wouldn’t discount Tracker."

Tracker offers a range of boats, including the Targa V-20 WT, the Pro Team 195 TXW, the Pro Team 175 TXW, and the Pro Guide V-16 WT. The company also provides a limited lifetime hull and structural warranty on its boats.

Frequently asked questions