Engine size needed for skiing in Hurricane Fundeck 17 - 18 foot?

[DJMK]

I enjoy my 17' Sundeck GS with a 90 HP Yamaha 2 stroke for general cruising around our inland lake. When trying to pull an adult skier or wakeboarder, especially with 3 - 4 adults in the boat, the 90 HP just doesn't have the power to get them out of the water without a long drag.

I'm considering either getting a new motor for this boat (max. rating of 135 HP) or selling and buying an 18 foot Sundeck. If I keep the 17 foot, would I need to go with a 135 HP to pull the skiers up?

If I go with an 18 foot, is an inboard or outboard a better way to go, and what size motor would I need to pull these guys with 4 adults in the boat?

 

[Capt Ken]

Re: Engine size needed for skiing in Hurricane Fundeck 17 - 18 foot?

3-4 adults and wanting to snatch skiers up? You need a Ski Nautiqe with a V8

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: Engine size needed for skiing in Hurricane Fundeck 17 - 18 foot?

I've owned the exact boat with a 115HP and I can get a skier up however if you repower it, use 135HP. Because the engine weight is the same, I've known folks to repower to 150HP but it shouldn't be necessary. (They also had 4 adults onboard, each in the 250-300lb range) Not suggesting you'll need anything beyond the 135HP. You shouldn't.

I have a 188 Sundeck Sport. I upgraded from the exact boat you have because I wanted room for 7-8 people on the boat comfortably. Also, I wouldn't suggest if you do, that you drop below the 150HP range, to compensate for bigger boat, more passengers and still the need to ski/tube. I powered mine with a 200HP. I can tube/ski with a boat full (8-9 people)

As for inboard/outboard. You're choice, you're preference. I like OB simply because I work on my own and prefer not to be jammed in an engine compartment for maintenance/repairs.

Cheapest alternative may be selling your 90 and repowering it with a 135.

Good luck and let us know what you decide.