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I have been out of the picture for a while and looking to upgrade my current boat- 1986 Springbok resorter with a 15 HP Johnson.- no problem towing or launching.

I bought a Ford 2007 3.0 litre 2 wheel drive Ranger Sports Edition with class III hitch.
Looking a buying a Princecraft or Legend Boat ( to last me until I'm put into the ground)

What limit of boat model. size HP for both should I be looking to buying? I 'm concerned as I know that a 2 wheel drive limits things ( particularly with boat launch). ie can I handle a 17 footer with a over 100 HP

Thanks..Looking for next year

some if it depends on the places you launch. I think you'd want to stay in that 16'-17' foot range. When you go bigger you really need a full size truck and 4 wheel capability. Engine? A 50-70 is plenty powerful. The evinrude E-tec's are lighter than any 4 stroke w/ the same great gas mileage and quiet,quiet, quiet.

Economical and comfortable for launching, fishing, and towing.

Of course when you can move up to an 18'-20' you'll love it on the water and the extra cost will not be such a big deal.

Good luck!

Hi Devy,
I used to have a 4x2 ranger and it wouldn't take much to get in big trouble at the launch, and that was with a 14' with a 9.9hp. Avoid ANY gravel, ice, or larger than average inclines at launches. I would think that you'd be okay at the major launches around Ottawa, but I wouldn't venture into any back lakes in QC. Good luck with the shopping.

Yannick

Hi Devy,
I bought a Pricecraft 178 with a 115 Optimax then towed it for the first two seasons using a Ford Windstar without a single problem. I towed over 30,000km all over eastern ontario with a few trips to Simcoe and Lake Erie and always managed to find a good concrete ramp. It also towed well even fully loaded with fishing, camping gear and fuel. Last fall I had the opportunity to buy a full size 4x4 and still haven't used the 4wd in a boat ramp. Make sure you get a boat you will be happy with.

I pulled a 16.5 Princecraft, 75hp 4stroke with a 4cyl, 5spd, GMC Canyon. Definitely under powered, but no real issues. Never had any trouble on hard or gravel launches. The only issue was oncoming traffic always thinking my brights were on.

thanks for everyones input" I was looking towards the Princecraft boats. Have all winter to think out which model.
Speed not really an issue for me but rather gas economy and stability in the water. My 14 footer is limited to roughness of water and how far away I can travel. full windshield as well. Just wanted to make sure that my truck can pull the boat safely. ( states that max weight towing as around 2400 lbs). I guess a braking system would have to be installed for braking the trailer.

devy wrote: Just wanted to make sure that my truck can pull the boat safely. ( states that max weight towing as around 2400 lbs). I guess a braking system would have to be installed for braking the trailer.

Just remember to read the fine print around that rating of 2400 lbs. Things like how much weight is in the truck when that rating applies - I'm guessing one driver at 150lbs and nothing else in the vehicle. Also check if you have the factory towing package on your truck, usually these things include more than a tow hitch and wiring and without the extras (like upsized tranny cooler, power steering cooler, rad, beefier suspension components) you'll often find that the towing rating is a lot lower...

The vehicle will still tow the larger load but you are risking major component failure from the excessive load and stress. Let's just say there's a good reason why I traded my Honda Odyssey in on a Dodge Durango and certainly it didn't involve improved handling and fuel economy...

Lowe FM 175S/Evinrude Etec 115

Hello Devy,
I do not know your price range on a boat but you may want to contact Bobber, he is trying to sell his boat. Princecraft, looks good. If nothing else he can tell you about towing a boat that size. The ad for the boat can be seen in the classified section here. I bought a 18' Lund with a 115 hsp Merc this year and after 27 years of a 15', 25hsp tiller I have really enjoyed the new big boat experience. I bought a 2006 Silverado 2 wheel and have had no trouble towing or at the ramps. It used to tow a 19' Ranger before I got it.
Good luck with what ever you choose.

Tim

I have....

18 Foot Legend with 115hp 4 stroke (I love my boat)

2004 Santa Fe 2.7 L with front wheel drive

I am screwed if I go to natural launches but have no problems at concrete or paved launches

I put brakes on the trailer....it's a must...best $800 I ever spent and went with hydraulic over electric.

I will be looking into upgraded the rear suspension and I did a transmission oil change at 75 KM instead of the recommended 100 KM

The Santa Fe tows like a charm, even up hill

Did I mention I love my boat

I am looking at purchasing a boat in the 16'-17' range. I was looking for feed back if I should go with fiberglass or aluminum and what make. It would be used on smaller lakes mostly with the odd time on Quinte.
Thanks,

skeeter67 wrote:I am looking at purchasing a boat in the 16'-17' range. I was looking for feed back if I should go with fiberglass or aluminum and what make. It would be used on smaller lakes mostly with the odd time on Quinte.
Thanks,

This looks like a sweet ride:


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