First boat advice

[marcham]

What's the van? What's it's hitch and tow rating? Most vans tow very well on the highway due to the long wheel base. Where they struggle is pulling out a boat at the ramp when it's slippery, due to having a lightly loaded rear end (2 wd). Often 100-200lbs of sand bags solves that problem.

 

[Livefreeordrive]

@Livefreeordrive Sounds like a good plan. Towing is not a big deal. Hell I forgot it is back there and I drive an Expedition. You may want to go look at copart and join, which you can buy a lot of things. Perhaps something that needs some work you can get on the very cheap, since you are handy, and fix it up. Maybe get parts from another.

Wrecked, Used & Salvage Yamaha boat for Auction at Copart Auto Auctions

That's also a good idea. I'm definitely open to newer boats with mechanical issues to get a better deal.
Thanks for tip with copart

 

[Livefreeordrive]

What's the van? What's it's hitch and tow rating? Most vans tow very well on the highway due to the long wheel base. Where they struggle is pulling out a boat at the ramp when it's slippery, due to having a lightly loaded rear end (2 wd). Often 100-200lbs of sand bags solves that problem.

It's a 3/4 ton dodge camper van with the extended rear end.
We weight 7400lbs, I don't think I'll need any sand bags. But launching is definitely my biggest concern.

 

[tdonoughue]

Yes, I don't think I could recommend a non-4wd vehicle for launch and retrieval. I know there are many who do it. But if you get those rear wheels on a rear-wheel-drive vehicle down to that algae... You can spin all you want and you will only watch your vehicle sink into the drink (unless you hit the brakes, but that doesn't get you back up without help).

Just my 2 cents.

 

[NewGuy]

Hi everyone, I'm currently in Florida and will be heading back home to Ontario Canada and I want to purchase our first boat on the way back up. Prices are much cheaper as well as the variety of used boats down here. I'm thinking about buying in the Ohio area to avoid the long tow from Florida and the potential salt water damage.

If anyone has tips on importing to Canada, I would appreciate it.

Were looking at a late 90s, single engine model but open to any brand that will fit those two stipulations.

What are the top choices as far as brand and models for single engine jet boats under 17ft?

I will be using it out on lake st Clair and up the Detroit River. I'd like to add trim tabs for the chop but can't find much info about what models have aftermarket tabs available. Do all tabs have to be modified to fit these little jet boats?

Thanks in advance for your time and I look forward to learning the ins and outs of jet boat life. Cheers.

It might just be easier to import you guys to the U.S.?

 

[OCMD]

You'll be beat up in this boat where you intend to boat, but on a lake and with some mechanical skill? Here is a rocket ship for you, which you know was cared for as a member of this forum is selling. Keep in mind it is a 2 stroke and tempermental, but nothing you won't be able to handle I suspect. Too bad it is in Florida.

https://jetboaters.net/threads/1997-exciter-in-fl-6-500-00.30934/

 

[Livefreeordrive]

It might just be easier to import you guys to the U.S.?

Ha, I wish. I'd be moving to Hawaii on day one.

 

[Livefreeordrive]

Yes, I don't think I could recommend a non-4wd vehicle for launch and retrieval. I know there are many who do it. But if you get those rear wheels on a rear-wheel-drive vehicle down to that algae... You can spin all you want and you will only watch your vehicle sink into the drink (unless you hit the brakes, but that doesn't get you back up without help).

Just my 2 cents.

Yeah that's scary. Definitely something to think about.

 

[kgower]

Yes, I don't think I could recommend a non-4wd vehicle for launch and retrieval. I know there are many who do it. But if you get those rear wheels on a rear-wheel-drive vehicle down to that algae... You can spin all you want and you will only watch your vehicle sink into the drink (unless you hit the brakes, but that doesn't get you back up without help).

Just my 2 cents.

Agreed, AWD or 4X4 only.