My first time out with new boat...

Oh, man can I relate to your troubles. I've lost tires a hundred miles from
home, had axles break loose. Lost wheel bearings, had boats not run
right...

It happens. The best thing you can do is be as prepared as you can be to
deal with the unexpected. I recall snapping the shear pin in my trolling
motor on one trip. My partner said, "Uh, Oh!!! That's not good!!!" How
irritating. I keep a spare shear pin in my parts box along with other misc
parts and of course some basic tools. I had it fixed in less than five
minutes and we were fishing again.

Its not dealing with the problem that is usually the most irritating, but
quite often the attitude of your fishing partner. Especially if you have
some confidence in your own ability to deal with problems. I own a
communications contracting company. I deal with unexpected problems for a
living, so I have a lot of confidence in my ability to solve problems with
equipment.

Sounds like you have a good fishing partner who was a solid part of the
solution. Even if you never catch a fish you should value a partner like
that.

Bob La Londe
www.YumaBassMan.com