Andrew Pace
The Ranger 518VX is a bass boat, typically used for freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, and overnight cruising. It is powered by a 200-horsepower Mercury engine and has a fiberglass modified-vee design. The boat has received mixed reviews, with some praising its performance and features, while others have criticised its rough ride in choppy water. Some owners have also reported issues with the ride/drive, particularly at high speeds, and the boat getting them wet. However, overall, the Ranger 518VX is generally well-regarded for its stability and fishing capabilities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Boat type | Powerboat |
| Manufacturer | Ranger |
| Model | 518, 518VX, 518VX Comanche, 518DVX, 518DVX Comanche, Z518 |
| Year | 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2007 |
| Length | 19'6", 19" |
| Beam | 91 1/2" |
| Engine | 200 HP Mercury EFI, 200 HP Evinrude, 200 HP Optimax, 200 HP Johnson, 200 HP Opti, 200 HP Merc, 200 HP Mercury OptiMax, 200 HP Evinrude E-Tech HO, 200 HP Evinrude |
| Engine type | Outboard |
| Fuel type | Gas |
| Trolling motor | MinnKota Maxxum 80 lb. thrust, Motorguide Tour Edition 82# thrust, Minn Kota Fortrex 80lb thrust, Minn Kota 101 lb. thrust, Minn Kota Fourtrex 80lb thrust |
| Trolling motor position | Recessed foot control |
| Charger | 3-bank built-in, 3 bank onboard |
| Fishfinder/GPS | Lowrance 1240A flasher & LMS 160 GPS on console, Lowrance LMS-522C GPS on bow, Lowrance HDS7 - Gen2, Lowrance HDS997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance LCX28C, Lowrance Mark 5X Pro, 2x Lowrance Flashers, 2x Hummingbird 787c2 Color GPS, Hummingbird 777c2 Color graph, Hummingbird 798 fishfinders with GPS, Lowrance depth finders with GPS, Lowrance HDS8, Lowrance HDS7, Lowrance LMS-522C, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance LCX28C, Lowrance Mark 5X Pro, Lowrance HDS9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance LCX28C, Lowrance Mark 5X Pro, Lowrance HDS9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, Lowrance HDS 997 SI, Lowrance HDS 9, Lowrance HDS-5, 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What You'll Learn
Rough ride at high speeds
The Ranger 518VX is a powerful boat, but some users have reported issues with its performance in rough water at high speeds. One user reported that their 2000 Ranger 518VX with a Merc EFI 200 felt extremely rough at high speeds, especially when encountering wakes from other boats. They noted that the rear end of the boat felt like it "skipped" when making steering adjustments at speeds above 50 mph.
However, other users have offered potential solutions to this issue. One suggestion was to adjust the jack plate settings, as the correct height and position of the jack plate can improve the boat's handling. Another user recommended checking the hydraulic steering for any air pockets, as this could be causing the rear end to skip.
Some users have also attributed the rough ride to the hull design, with one person stating that the 518VX is a "rough riding hull. Period." They claimed that other 19-foot boats from brands like BCB, Champ, Charger, and Triton would provide a smoother ride.
On the other hand, some owners of the Ranger 518VX have disagreed with this assessment, stating that their boats handle rough water just fine. One user even claimed that their 2002 518VX with a similar setup to the original poster's boat rides "really nice [and] smooth." They attributed the difference in experience to the driving style, suggesting that the original poster might need more practice driving in rough water conditions.
Overall, while the Ranger 518VX is a well-loved boat by many of its owners, some users have experienced issues with rough rides at high speeds, particularly when encountering wakes or choppy water. Adjusting the jack plate settings and checking for air pockets in the hydraulic steering are potential solutions to this issue. However, some users have also suggested that the hull design of the 518VX may contribute to a rougher ride compared to other boats in the same class.
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Jack plate height
The jack plate height is important for optimising the performance of a boat. The jack plate is a device that attaches to the transom of a boat and allows the motor to be raised or lowered. The ideal height will depend on several factors, including the size and weight of the boat, the motor horsepower, and the operating conditions.
A jack plate gives you control over your outboard's position, which can improve speed, fuel efficiency, and handling. For example, raising the motor can help reduce turbulence when travelling in shallow waters, while lowering it can provide a better hole shot. The height of the jack plate also affects the distance between the propeller and the hull, which in turn impacts the boat's speed and stability. Raising the jack plate can improve speed and fuel efficiency by reducing drag, but it can also reduce stability and control if raised too high.
When setting the height of a jack plate, it is recommended to consult with a professional to ensure the best configuration for your boat. Adjustments can then be made to fine-tune the settings and optimise performance.
The Ranger 518VX is an 18'8" bass boat, which can be quite bumpy in rough water. The addition of a jack plate can help improve its performance and handling. According to owners of this boat model, a 6" manual jack plate set around 3-4" below the pad seems to be a common recommendation for a smoother ride. However, keep in mind that each boat is unique, and factors such as weight distribution, prop condition, and driver skill can also influence the ride quality.
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Steering issues
The Ranger 518VX is a popular model, and there are many available for sale. However, there are some steering issues that have been reported by owners. One owner reports that their boat feels rough at high speeds and is difficult to drive above 45 mph when there is any chop on the water or wakes from other boats. They also report that the rear of the boat feels like it "skips" when they make steering adjustments at high speeds. Bleeding the hydraulic steering and checking for an air pocket might help with this issue, as suggested by another owner.
Another owner reports that their 2001 Ranger 518VX has a full-range hydraulic jack plate and Hot Foot throttle control. They also mention that the boat has two Lowrance depth finders with GPS built-in. This suggests that the steering issues may be related to the hydraulic jack plate or the throttle control.
One owner reports that their 2000 Ranger 518VX has a MinnKota Maxxum 80 lb. thrust trolling motor with recessed foot control. They also mention that the boat has a Lowrance 1240A flasher and LMS 160 GPS on the console, as well as a Lowrance LMS-522C GPS on the bow. This owner does not report any steering issues, but it is worth noting that they have a trolling motor with recessed foot control, which may improve the steering feel.
Overall, it seems that the Ranger 518VX is a good boat, but some owners have reported steering issues that may be related to the hydraulic jack plate, throttle control, or trolling motor. It is always a good idea to have a mechanic inspect any used boat before purchase to identify any potential issues and ensure that the steering and other systems are in good working order.
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Boat setup and weight distribution
When it comes to boat setup, there are several key components and adjustments that can impact the performance of a Ranger 518VX. Firstly, the jack plate, which is used to adjust the height and position of the outboard motor, plays a crucial role in finding the right balance between speed and handling. Adjusting the jack plate can affect the boat's planing ability, top speed, and how well it handles rough water and wakes. For example, in the case of a 2000 Ranger 518VX with a Merc EFI 200, the owner reported that the boat felt extremely rough at high speeds and struggled with choppy water and wakes from other boats. By seeking advice from other owners and dealers, they were able to fine-tune the jack plate settings to improve the ride and performance.
Another critical aspect of boat setup is propeller selection. The choice of propeller can significantly influence the boat's speed, acceleration, and fuel efficiency. Different propellers are designed for various purposes, such as standard aluminium or stainless-steel props for general use, or specific props for better top speed or improved hole shot. Additionally, the condition of the propeller is essential. Dents, dings, or corrosion on the propeller blades can negatively affect performance, and it may be necessary to repair or replace the propeller to restore optimal performance.
Weight distribution is another critical factor in the overall performance and handling of a Ranger 518VX. Ensuring that the weight is evenly distributed can help improve stability, ride quality, and handling. Overloading the boat or uneven weight distribution can cause the boat to list to one side, affecting its performance and handling, especially in rough water conditions. Proper weight distribution becomes even more critical when fishing in a tournament or with a full crew on board, as the additional weight and movement of passengers can significantly impact the boat's performance.
To optimise weight distribution, it is essential to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed across the boat, both from port to starboard and from bow to stern. This may involve strategically placing gear and equipment to balance the weight and ensuring that passengers are seated in a way that maintains the boat's balance. Additionally, trimming the motor up or down can also affect weight distribution and how the boat sits in the water, which can be crucial for getting on plane and achieving better top speeds.
Overall, the Ranger 518VX is a versatile and capable boat, and by paying attention to boat setup and weight distribution, owners can maximise its performance and handling characteristics to suit their specific needs, whether that's for fishing tournaments, recreational cruising, or simply enjoying a day out on the water.
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Ranger 518VX resale value
The Ranger 518VX is a bass boat that was first introduced in 1999 and has been in production ever since, with the newest model released in 2023. It is a popular choice for freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, and overnight cruising. The boat's resale value varies depending on its age, condition, and the specific features included.
When selling a used Ranger 518VX, the asking price can range from $12,400 to $73,893, with an average price of $61,164. The price is influenced by factors such as the engine's horsepower, the presence of a trailer, the quality of the electronics, and the overall condition of the boat.
For example, a 1999 Ranger 518VX with a 200 horsepower engine, a Lowrance LCX28C console, a manual jack plate, and other features was advertised for $15,999. On the other hand, a 2001 Ranger 518VX in "like new" condition, with a 200 HP Mercury EFI motor, a dual-axle trailer, and new batteries, was offered for $21,500.
The Ranger 518VX's resale value also depends on the region and the demand for such boats in the local market. It is always a good idea to check local listings and consult with marine dealers or experts to get a sense of the current market value for this specific model.
Overall, the Ranger 518VX is a sought-after boat, and well-maintained examples can command a good price on the resale market.
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Frequently asked questions
The Ranger 518VX is a bass boat, typically used for freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, and overnight cruising. It has received mixed reviews from owners, with some praising its performance and others criticising its rough ride in high-speed conditions. Ultimately, the decision to purchase this boat depends on your specific needs and budget.
The price of a Ranger 518VX boat varies depending on its age, condition, and the market in which it is being sold. As of 2024, the price ranges from $13,491 to $73,893 for new and used models.
When considering the purchase of a Ranger 518VX, it is important to inspect the overall condition of the boat, engine, and trailer. Check for soft spots on the lids, test the livewell functions and electronics, and inspect the wires under the console. Additionally, pay attention to the hours on the engine, the condition of the carpet and seats, and whether the boat comes with a trailer and a boat cover.
