Looking for my first ski boat

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
52,641
Why do you prefer the 2 stroke over the 4 stroke?
The power output per displacement is higher, the motor is 1/2 as complex as a 4-stroke,, the 2 stroke is seriously lighter than an equivalent powered 4-stroke and they pretty much last forever with minimal maintenance.

And best of all, everyone wants 4-strokes, so the market is skewed where 4-stroke used prices are inflated and you can get great running 2-strokes for a reasonable price.

No one ever created a sticker or T-shirt that says "I love the smell of 4-strokes"

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Texasmark

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 20, 2005
Messages
14,997
A stern drive is not usually a good choice or a ski boat. They are 1100 pounds or so, causing the boat to put out a larger wake.

An OB will be less than half that weight, have plenty of power and produce a smaller wake. Anyone who cuts across the wake on skis will appreciate the smaller wake.
So will property owners with water front property. Wonder if any law suits have been issued to "wake boat" owners/operators for tearing up folks boats, piers, docks, and water front bulkheads!!!!!!
 

infx708

Cadet
Joined
Jul 28, 2008
Messages
22
Ok, so I've found a 2007 Caravelle 217 LS with the Mercruiser 5.0 MPI and a 2004 Chaparral 204 SSI with the same engine. Looks like both boats weigh about the same. The Caravelle is much cleaner and has carpet but the Chaparral closer by about 8 hours.
 
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