New Buyer

[brycef]

My wife and I have been looking for a 17-20' bowrider for the past couple weeks. We've found a 92 Thompson 1800 Calae with a 3.0L Merc. I'm afraid this may not be enough HP for a boat that is 2225lbs. Can anyone offer some advice?

 

[cimy3]

Re: New Buyer

It depends upon your use...I have 18' with a 3.0L OMC and suits me just fine (for fishing and cruising)...but if you want to ski and wakeboard it might not.<br /><br />Before you buy, make sure you test drive it.

 

[brycef]

Re: New Buyer

We tested the boat last night and it seemed to plane off quickly. My kids (ages 12 & 14) seem to be more interested in tubing but I know we'll want to use it for skiing as well. For me, fishing and cruising. Thanks for the input

 

[RatFish]

Re: New Buyer

My experience has been that you get a boat with the maximum HP for which it was designed. You won't be sorry. One day you may want to fish, the next, you may want to ski. What happens when 4 or 5 people want to go out and tube or ski? It's always nice to have some power in reserve for when you really need it!<br /><br />Oh yea...<br /><br />I/O's<br />3.0 in a 17'? Probably OK. <br />3.0 in a 18'? Marginal. Prefer 4.3.<br />3.0 in a 19'? Nope. Minimum 4.3, prefer 5.0.<br />3.0 in a 20'? Would not even consider it. Minimum 5.0, prefer 5.7.<br /><br />Outboard's<br />Maximum HP (or close to it) that is on the US Coast Guard certification plate.<br /><br />EFI is better than same size carbureted engine. MPI is better than EFI. EFI/MPI gives better throttle response, HP and mileage over carbureted engines. Good luck.