On Fri, 1 Feb 2008 09:10:51 -0800 (PST), Mister Jerk
wrote:

On Feb 1, 8:44 am, "jamesgangnc" wrote:
I wouldn't let the car dictate your boat purchase. You should make sure
you're getting the right boat for your purposes. If you have to, pick up a
beater pickup and only use it to tow with.

One of my main issues with boating is the cost, I certainly wouldn't
want to own a third vehicle just to support the hobby. At least not at
this stage. If we fall in love with it we might pick up a better tow
vehicle for our family use.

The seadoos are really different so make sure you're ok with it. Also you
don't mention how many people you expect to typically carry. And if you
think you are more interested in water sports, avoid the outboards.

I have always been skeptical of the jet-boats, and their stability/
turning, but they are the lightest out there.
We will normally have 2 adults and sometimes a child onboard,
occasionally 4 adults and 1 child.
Good tip on the outboards.


"Mister Jerk" wrote in message

...



Thanks all for the information. The escape currently doesn't have the
factory package, it would be aftermarket. I would probably add the
transmission cooler.

I should also add that I will only be towing for short distances. Eg:
different lakes around town, and seaway launches. No going up to the
cottage type of thing.

But true, I don't want to burn out my vehicle, or have the boat pull
it into the water at the launch.

I am starting to think I might be stuck with a seadoo challenger or
similar since they are so light. Not much chance for that 4.3 HFI
Mercruiser.

I had a 15' Whaler I towed behind a Jetta for a couple years. Worked like a
champ. It had a 70 hp Johnson, and would get up and scoot. Four adults was
no problem, although I never tried to pull a skier or tuber thus loaded.

Look at the 17'er suggested by Tom. That arrangement left you with a 20%
safety margin.
--
John H