PossibleNew purchase worried about engine size with skiier

[lsdempsey]

I am looking at purchasing the 185 LS which comes standard with the 3.0 L Volvo Penta engine. My question is how does the boat perform with 5 average size people (150-180lbs) riding and pulling one skiier (same size)? The dealer told me it was powerful enough to handle the passenger weight and skiier. Any thoughts before I purchase?

 

[NHMike]

Re: PossibleNew purchase worried about engine size with skiier

Hi lsdempsey,

I own a 2007 185LX with the Merc 3.0 135hp...similar engine and outdrive, stock aluminum prop, and Smart Tabs. We normally have 2 adults, 3 kids. I've had 4 adults (between 135-220lbs each) and 4 kids (between 70-90 lbs each) in this boat at one time and have had no problems pulling a tube. Closest I can come to a real-life example of what you are asking was last week. We had 4 adults in the boat (all between 135 and 220lbs) and one adult skiing (190lbs). I was able to get him up on one/two skis. What your dealer told you was accurate. I'm sure more power would pull better, but I got what I could reasonably afford and am happy with the results. I would get the same thing if I had to do it over again. Hope this helps.

 

[ib656]

Re: PossibleNew purchase worried about engine size with skiier

i am sure the 3.0 will do the job but one thing i notice when i am looking at boats for sale is that the 3.0 l engine is commonly for sale for a long time.

is it underpowered? i do not think so, but i think most people always want that little more hp so the engine does not seem to be straining.


just my .02 but if you can afford it, go for the bigger motor... you will be happier longer and the boat will have a better resale value down the road.

my last boat was an older 175 hp i/o which was "fine", but when i went to the 190 hp i was reborn!

whatever way you go, best of luck and have fun!

 

[lsdempsey]

Re: PossibleNew purchase worried about engine size with skiier

Thanks for the help. I would like to have the bigger engine, but the 185 is within my budget. I am upgrading from a 1995 Sunbird 15'7'' with an Evinrude 60 horse outboard...so wanted to make sure is was going to be a performance upgrade. I know it will be more spacious.

 

[Plotus]

Re: PossibleNew purchase worried about engine size with skiier

I'v got a 176SS 17.5 with the 3.0, it's quick out of the water once warmed up (about 10 minuates really) but that was with my 280 lb self alone. With 4 people inside, it'll be a bit more sluggish, but they do seem to jump up and plane out of the hole rather quickly.

 

[wutagoalie]

Re: PossibleNew purchase worried about engine size with skiier

I'v got a 176SS 17.5 with the 3.0, it's quick out of the water once warmed up (about 10 minuates really) but that was with my 280 lb self alone. With 4 people inside, it'll be a bit more sluggish, but they do seem to jump up and plane out of the hole rather quickly.

My 3.0L was sluggish pulling a skier also ,until i picked up a second prop that had a higher pitch for water skiing , huge difference , it would shoot a skier out of the water as if the skier had a jet mounted to their arse!

 

[JaseBosto]

Re: PossibleNew purchase worried about engine size with skiier

i've had 6 people onboard pulling a wakeboarder. I have a 3 blade SS prop 19" pitch. No complaints. Great overall engine and runs forever on a tank of gas. Very reliable. Runs a little rough before warmup though.