nate579

iTrader: (4)

How big a boat w/ trailer is 6800lbs, the amount that a GX maximum towing cap. I been dreaming of getting a cruiser/cuddy and looking at something in the 21ft to 30ft range. Just want to get the biggest that the vehicle can tow that's if I get one at all, still on the fence. Is this possible or would iI need to aim a little lower in size. I am not looking to max out the weight. Something like this will do.

rainmn

I would aim towards the lower side of that 21 - 30 range. No way you are going to find a 30' cruiser that weighs in under 6800 on a trailer.
As an example, looking at Sea Ray's 2007 lineup, the smallest Sundancer they make (24') has a dry weight of 5600 lbs. Start adding fuel and water, and you'll be up to the limit in no time without even counting the weight of a trailer.

94SC300TX

LOL, for some reason this post reminds me of when we had our Sea Ray transported from Houston to Austin and the Semi slipped into the water. Boat was fine, 18 wheeler went under all the way to the roof and was running when it went under.

Lexiss_sc430

iTrader: (2)

rainmn is about dead on, I have a 21.5 foot open-bow cruiser and dry it weighs 4500 lbs, once we get it loaded with all we need (gas, life jackets, ropes, ect ect) were looking at 5000lbs. I would say a 24 footer would be right around the weight you would want to tow with your rig. Oh and just because the manual says your GX can tow 6800 doesn’t mean that you can’t push it. There was a long discussion regarding these engines abilities on the ih8mud forums, and it can handle a lot more than they say. You just have to take into consideration the driving environment, if you in a mountainous area I wouldn’t suggest pushing the tow limit, If you in a flat area with the occasional hill here and there then you’ll be alright!

RX469

iTrader: (1)

That's some wild pics, 94SC300TX. WOW.

TomGXer

that is a sweet boat.

How do you like Austin?

T.

94SC300TX

Love Austin, came in 96 for college, graduated in 00 but never left!! My wife an I spend our weekends on the boat, usually from Friday night until Sunday 11:30 PM!



This is the view from our dock looking out.

nate579

iTrader: (4)

Thanks guys, I an not going to purchase anything soon but just looking just in case the wife gives me the okay. We are getting the basement remodeled and doing some other things. Used boats in the DC area are relatively cheap and abundant. In DC 10-20 miles either direction and you hit water, fresh or Salt. I want to do some fishing mostly and want something large enough to handle the Chesapeake Bay. But comfortable for the wife and baby. Rock Fish are calling my name.

Man that's a nice boat. You can live on the Washington Channel with that baby and save money on homes and condo. LOL.

rainmn

Sounds like you might want to consider something like a walkaround. Small cruisers are not the best platform for fishing. I have one, and it will be for sale as soon as the shrinkwrap comes off next month. Going to back to a center console w/ outboards.

TomGXer

Lucky! The boat is pimp. Im moving to Austin on the 4th of April....starting to get pretty excited. Is that boat big enough to finance like a home?

T.

94SC300TX

Yes, it can be financed like a home, and the mortgage interest can be deducated from taxes.

I6turbo

iTrader: (1)

True. I have a good bit of experience with this (years ago with domestic trucks). The main thing you have to be cautious of is braking capacity. If you begin to overload the towing rating by much of a margin, be sure that you have good trailer brakes.

Frankly, if I had kids in the vehicle with me, and especially if I were going to be driving in somewhat heavily loaded roads, I'd want to play it safe and be sure I had plenty of truck for the load. But if it were just me, I wouldn't have a problem with going at least 25-50% over the rating if I had good trailer brakes. Just keep your mind on the driving and plan ahead. And be mindful of the automatic tranny -- try not to overheat it by slipping the converter too much under load.

BobsGX

As long as the boat has a built in head and a real cooktop. Sterno stoves will not do.

nate579

iTrader: (4)

Thanks everyone. I will be new to this boating/thing. I have a ford ranger was thinking of getting a bass boat to with it. But I think something that the family can enjoy and get away for the weekend would be better. If it has at least a head and sleeping quarters would be a plus. Depending having it docked or towed from the house. The nearest body of fresh water is about 10 the Potomac (open sewer) river in DC. Cheasapeake is not that far. And boats are on the low end here I can find a 24 footer for under 20k in the area. Will keep informed on my selection when that time comes.