horsepower for skiing

[joyjoy]

Hello. We are new to boating so I hope someone can help. We will be buying a 24 foot three log pontoon this summer. I was wondering what horsepower motor you would suggest for family boating/waterskiing. I would hate to buy a motor without enough power. Most of the boat dealers have told me 140 HP should be enough. Is this accurate? The boat max. HP is 175.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: horsepower for skiing

I'd go no lower than a 150, with a 175 not out of the question.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: horsepower for skiing

I think a V-6 135 Merc would be adequate, or an F150 Yamaha. A 4-cylinder 2-stroke would prove too small for skiing. Remember with that third toon, drag increases by about half. Toons aren't generally good skiboats. That requires a lot more horsepower than just cruising and thus you'll burn more fuel. The higher the demand on skiing, the closer you'll want to get to the max. No matter what motor you get, I doubt you'll be cutting walls with a slalom.

 

[llfish]

Re: horsepower for skiing

How many skiers and how much do they will play a part in determing the size of motor.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: horsepower for skiing

That and the set up. You may well indeed end up with 2 props. That'll be easier on the motor anyway. And where youre pulling from makes a big difference.<br /><br />I've seen a 17' ski boat with a V6 that had trouble pulling 1 skier. I had a 20' Can Am with a V4 that could easily pop 2 out on slolom skis. Or pull 2 tubes easily.

 

[joyjoy]

Re: horsepower for skiing

Thanks to all. Your input is appreciated.