new boat owner

[herndon_greg]

Hey everyone!

I purchased my first ski boat last week and am really getting in to this! I have some questions and have been searching the threads here on iboats and getting a lot of info. I have a 1998 Maxum 1900XR. It is in really good condition and I have already taken it out 3 times. For the attachment points for the ski bridal, is it on the port and starboard side of the the transom at the aft end? I have 2 "U" shaped attachment points on either side of the boat and was unsure if this was the attachment point or not. If anyone has any info or tips to offer me please feel free to give me all the knowledge you have. I look forward to exploring this site and learning a lot more. Thanks in advance to all that reply.

Greg

 

[tmh]

Re: new boat owner

Those U bolts are mostly used to tie down to a trailer. I think they could be used to attach the bridle to, but many say no and it's not ideal anyways.

Does your boat have an outboard or sterndrive engine?

 

[herndon_greg]

Re: new boat owner

I have an outboard 120 Force. I want to make sure this is what is needed or do I need to purchase something else for the boat. I really don't want a ski post

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: new boat owner

They work fine except a skier tends to pull the boat to that side a bit. There are harnesses that attach to both and a floating pulley wanders back and forth to keep pressure on the boat even. Helpful hint, avoid Reverse anytime a ski rope is out. click me

 

[Texasmark]

Re: new boat owner

We never had a ski bar. Either tied to one transom "eye" or used the bridle Willy mentioned. A small boat (<= 15', 50 hp) with a flat bottom will get tugged on when the skier makes a run....not unbearable, but the driver has to be constantly on the wheel to maintain course. The bridle helps smooth that out. Running a 17' with a 100+ engine or so is usually stable.

Most ski ropes of today are polyethylene which floats as does the connect point on the bridle.
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Safety is of the utmost importance.....props make real nasty slices in human flesh. Don't ever forget that. I'd suggest you prowl around here and pick up some tips on skiing safety. I know it has been discussed numerous times and there is a lot of great info to be had. Also read up on life preservers for children. Get one with a crotch strap if you can and use the strap. Could save a life.

Good luck,

Mark

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: new boat owner

Those u-bolts are through bolted and have a backing plate,plenty strong for a skier,especially with the bridle..

 

[herndon_greg]

Re: new boat owner

Thanks everyone, I have purchased the bridle and that is what I am planning on using. Just wanted to make sure it was ok to attach to the "U" bolts. I dry fitted it and it looks like it will work. Thanks again and I am really enjoying this website.

Greg