Modified AR240 vs Stock 242x

[CanTex]

Hello Jetboaters.net, happy to make my first post anywhere (I mean anywhere) to this site. I’ve been researching extensively for anyone who may have gone through a similar situation but couldn’t find anything – if anyone has feedback it is greatly appreciated.

Objective:
To purchase a jet boat in the winter 2020 with surfing capabilities – model year 2015 or newer AR 240 or 242X (new or used, used is preference)

Boating Uses:
My wife and I almost exclusively boat on Cedar Creek Lake in North Texas. We primarily use our current boat (Sea Ray Sundeck 200) for evening booze cruises, cove hopping, and general puttin’ around the lake. I want my next boat to have surf capabilities. I do not need competition level wake – already decided that Yamaha will be my next purchase.

Questions:

• It seems more economical to purchase an AR240 and add ballast , Perfect Pass and board racks in lieu of purchasing a 242x model (I understand there are other features of the 242X that increase the selling price, they are not that high on my list of objectives). Has anyone purchased an AR240 instead of 242X with surfing as an objective and regretted going this route?

• In 2018 or 2019 Yamaha changed the nozzle position to make the wake more “surfable”, is there any truth to this claim? I plan to add a wake wedge so I do not see the value in this design modification. Has anyone experienced a significant improvement with the design change while using a Gatlin Wake Wedge?

Summary:

• If surfing is an objective is the best solution to buy a 242X with minor modifications or should I purchase a lower priced AR240 with more modifications and keep a heavier wallet.

Thank-you in advance for taking the time to read and sharing your experiences (apologizes for being wording, figured adding more context about my use would help with feedback).

 

[swatski]

This is a tough question to answer.

The E-series throttles are amazing but the GPS cruise is problematic, and no RideSteady
The X tower/bimini is amazing, the solar panel chargers are questionable though
The X ballast system is pretty bad, with only one intake?
The AR240 tower locking mechanism sucks, but it is by far the best value 24ft Yamaha boat
Non-E throttles are pretty rough but the RideSteady is fantastic, and the cable throttles maybe preferred by some for reliability but that's a matter of personal opinion

Here is a reading list if you are into it:

https://jetboaters.net/search/91972/?q=242x+surf&o=relevance

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[jacoviii]

The '18+ Surfpoint nozzle does move the jet out of the surf pocket but it does it at a cost. Handling in sharp turns and reverse. Also a lower top speed. With SP my top speed was 43mph @ 7500 rpm now with them straight I'm at 48 to 50mph same rpms better MPG. My gps speed O and cruise have been ok. After toying around this past season with a few DIY things the only thing that makes it surf-able would be a wake wedge or the wake booster.

 

[CanTex]

thanks for the responses gents.

@jacoviii - first I have read about Surfpoint affecting performance - noted and will take that into consideration (with further research).

@swatski - you nailed it, this is a tough decision. Based on your input seems the additional variables which do impact my boating requirements are the larger bimini (TX is way too hot in the summer) and the E throttles. Just curious about what you mean by AR tower locking mechanisms suck (they rattle, pain the ass to set???)

Almost seems to make more sense to purchase the X and quit squabbling about how to save a few grand. That was my gut feel - any other opinions are welcome.

 

[Rod5]

As a 242x owner @swatski and others are spot on! That said even with some of the quirks of the x model the benefits and for me the more turn key options that come standard meant less must do mods to make ready for Surfing was very appealing.
Definitely get the extended 5 year warranty for the electronics issues a lot of us have had to deal with.
Also the “Surf Point” toe in of the nozzles can easily be adjusted out in 10 minutes to undo all the trade offs mentioned above.

 

[J-RAD]

I'm a part of the modified AR family. When I purchased my AR240 new I had my dealer install a 3 bag 3 pump ballast system. This consisted of 500lbs under each rear seat and 900 in the ski locker. So a bit more than stock on the 242x. I'm sp glad I made that choice because they knew what they were doing... and as satisfying as it would have been to have done it the @swatski way on my own, it saved me a lot of hassle... and I was not so knowledgeable at the time.

Since that time I have added a 4th "custom transom ballast" bag designed by Gantlin Products to the collection. This bag is essential! No matter the shaper, you need the added weight on the surf side of the swim deck to really make a surfable wave. In fact, you could probably get by with just the transom bag and a decent size bag in the ski locker. The under seat bags are great to fine tuning and building a better wake for wakeboarding. Note: with the transom bag, you will want to have a couple pumps for filling it. It is a big 850lb bag and takes a significant amount of time to fill with a single sumo pump.

The Gantlin Wake Wedge when paired with the appropriate ballast is AMAZING!

The only complaint I feel there is to be had with a Yamaha is that it is a bit cumbersome when it comes to switching sides.

I also added the Hydrophase Ridesteady GPS speed control. You could go with Perfect Pass that JBP sells but the Ridesteady is where I would steer anyone. It's quality and support are incomparable and it has the better interface. The full time engine sync will make it as close to an E-Series as you can get.

Something I'm not sure you've mentioned yet is the stereo. The X is going to be way above the AR to start, but if you want to make it your own the AR is a great platform to start from. I have easy to much money in my system... something to think about.

The bimini on the X is hard to beat. There's been a few who've added to the shade on their AR's. One extended the length of the forward support bars adding about 16-18". I added a shade of the back which I love. https://jetboaters.net/threads/my-awesome-shade.19699/

The locking system on the AR tower had been called into question a few times. The sport screws have worked loose in some instances and @swatski is a survivor of a tower collapse. Mines has been trouble free and screws remained secured despite the need to raise and lower it each outing.

Anyway, in summary. The AR240 is one of the best value 24ft boats on the market. A perfect platform to build from.

As @Rod5 mentioned. The X is more ready to go out of the box. Bit there are a few kinks to work out. @jcyamaharider has his dialed and can fill in some of the blanks regarding the ballast mods he's made.

 

[swatski]

@swatski - you nailed it, this is a tough decision. Based on your input seems the additional variables which do impact my boating requirements are the larger bimini (TX is way too hot in the summer) and the E throttles. Just curious about what you mean by AR tower locking mechanisms suck (they rattle, pain the ass to set???)

The AR240 tower is great for towing, and the bimini is fine, albeit the big X/LSE towers are superb and rock solid, proven over the years, the huge bimini is an asset and we have not heard of a single issue/incident with the under the bimini rope - it all works.

The AR240 tower locking mechanism uses handwheel bolts that are too short and can easily wiggle out, they can also become crossthreaded or partially crossthreaded, and not necessarily by the owner, etc. It's a weak design, to put it charitably.

I will stress however that with care and slight modifications those locking bolts can work fine, and the tower is very stable otherwise, we pull 3 person tubes from it all the time.

--

 

[Cambo]

The 242x aesthetics are what loured me in the Vinyl seems to be upgraded and after the water sports are done lounging on the boat seems to be the thing we do most . The back swim deck seats are very comfortable

 

[B0at1n]

@iamcalled and I are up in the metroplex with an 18 240. I am in the same debate as you right now. I’m looking to upgrade my 190 and debating if I should go x or 240. We have spent a lot of time dialing in the wake on @iamcalled 240.

Personally I have been leaning toward the 240 and spending 3k or less on putting the aftermarket add ons on. It seems the aftermarket stuff works better than the factory just not as well “integrated” and requires install time up front.

One things I haven’t decided is if the 2019 nozzle redesign is worth going with a 19 model over a 15-18.

If anyone locally has a 2019 I could test drive/ride, i would love to compare!

 

[dzeppos]

May want to look at the Limited 242S - (non-E) not sure its worth the additional cost over the AR240 - but you get the beautiful LED lights, shower, and the “good” tower that doesn’t have issues locking, and a slightly nicer interior. Don’t worry about nozzles We surf with stock nozzles (other Than cobra AK and lateral thrusters which you don’t need 2019 OTB newer boats). the Gantman 800 bag in ski locker and transom ganglion custom bag in back - all day long. (With yamaha surfpoint). That’s it. The tsunami pumps fill each bag in about 5-6 minutes. If you are in a rush, by a second pump (149$).

You will love it

 

[iamcalled]

Hello Jetboaters.net, happy to make my first post anywhere (I mean anywhere) to this site. I’ve been researching extensively for anyone who may have gone through a similar situation but couldn’t find anything – if anyone has feedback it is greatly appreciated.

Objective:
To purchase a jet boat in the winter 2020 with surfing capabilities – model year 2015 or newer AR 240 or 242X (new or used, used is preference)

Boating Uses:
My wife and I almost exclusively boat on Cedar Creek Lake in North Texas. We primarily use our current boat (Sea Ray Sundeck 200) for evening booze cruises, cove hopping, and general puttin’ around the lake. I want my next boat to have surf capabilities. I do not need competition level wake – already decided that Yamaha will be my next purchase.

Questions:

• It seems more economical to purchase an AR240 and add ballast , Perfect Pass and board racks in lieu of purchasing a 242x model (I understand there are other features of the 242X that increase the selling price, they are not that high on my list of objectives). Has anyone purchased an AR240 instead of 242X with surfing as an objective and regretted going this route?

• In 2018 or 2019 Yamaha changed the nozzle position to make the wake more “surfable”, is there any truth to this claim? I plan to add a wake wedge so I do not see the value in this design modification. Has anyone experienced a significant improvement with the design change while using a Gatlin Wake Wedge?

Summary:

• If surfing is an objective is the best solution to buy a 242X with minor modifications or should I purchase a lower priced AR240 with more modifications and keep a heavier wallet.

Thank-you in advance for taking the time to read and sharing your experiences (apologizes for being wording, figured adding more context about my use would help with feedback).

I realize we’re 3hrs from you but you’re welcome to come spend a day on my 240 to see what we’ve got for a wave (pic attached)

 

[BigAbe75]

@iamcalled and I are up in the metroplex with an 18 240. I am in the same debate as you right now. I’m looking to upgrade my 190 and debating if I should go x or 240. We have spent a lot of time dialing in the wake on @iamcalled 240.

Personally I have been leaning toward the 240 and spending 3k or less on putting the aftermarket add ons on. It seems the aftermarket stuff works better than the factory just not as well “integrated” and requires install time up front.

One things I haven’t decided is if the 2019 nozzle redesign is worth going with a 19 model over a 15-18.

If anyone locally has a 2019 I could test drive/ride, i would love to compare!

JBP Lateral Thrusters in my opinion provide better lateral thrust than the new nozzles. The new nozzles are better than the old ones, but not that much... in my opinion.

 

[CanTex]

Thanks for all the support guys - I live in Spring TX, but boat on cedar creek lake (wife & I are fortunate to have a lake house there).

@dzeppos - the limited is a beautiful boat for sure, my lake neighbor has a 2016. It didn't make my short list as the features which increase the selling price are not that high on my priority list (shower, LED's, etc).

@iamcalled - where are you boating these days? The picture above looks like Richland Chambers or Lewisville.

Alot of good input from the group and I'm still going back and forth between modified AR or X. This truly is a difficult decision for me - hence why I started this thread in September so why buying seasons comes around I'll have my decision made!!!

 

[rkim808]

Aloha @CanTex I went through this at the end of last year. I couldn’t go new and had to go used, searched for a 24’ Yammy 2015 and up all over the country. Then trying to find a great deal on one, off season beginning of winter is the best time IMO. Boating season is done and people r selling there boats at better pricing. After 3-4 months of searching I was able to find a AR240 with upgrades. She was setup for surfing(4 bags total 2200lbs ballast, Gatlin Wakewedge, Monster Tower swivel racks). Upgraded Stereo(2 - JL amps, upgraded Polks in stock locations, WetSounds REV8 on tower w/swivel mounts, 2 - 10’ subs in box, RGB LED’s all speakers/cup holders). And a IPD boat wrap. I was able to purchase it at a price cheaper than the 242x for sale at the time. So for me anyway going with a used AR240 with upgrades was the way to go. I do wish I had the giant Bimini of the 242x?. What ever model 24’ Yammy u decide to go with, both u and ur family will be happy for sure. Building great memories, that’s what it’s all about.??

 

[B0at1n]

@CanTex we are boating on Lewisville lake.

 

[jocolo21]

I would go with the 242se and just add the surf stuff

 

[jcyamaharider]

I purchased my X because I didn't want to do the ballast and speed control to this boat like I did my last boat. It wasn't hard I just didn't want to spend the time and work.

The X speed control for water sports is more then adequate, it also has launch control which is better then both ride steady and perfect pass.

I added 2 extra thru hull fittings, one for the port bag. This is the bag that was at the end of the line and would get starved for water and wouldn't fill.
The other was for my quick detach rear transom bag fill port. I nice advantage to have and I can wash down the rear deck.

The E throttles are amazing and are not to be under rated.

I have had relatively few issues with my boat and fixed all of the little quirks that needed fixed with these boats.

 

[mattimus]

I purchased my X because I didn't want to do the ballast and speed control to this boat like I did my last boat. It wasn't hard I just didn't want to spend the time and work.

The X speed control for water sports is more then adequate, it also has launch control which is better then both ride steady and perfect pass.

I added 2 extra thru hull fittings, one for the port bag. This is the bag that was at the end of the line and would get starved for water and wouldn't fill.
The other was for my quick detach rear transom bag fill port. I nice advantage to have and I can wash down the rear deck.

The E throttles are amazing and are not to be under rated.

I have had relatively few issues with my boat and fixed all of the little quirks that needed fixed with these boats.

do you happen to have a thread on upgrading the ballast system to work better? sounds like a great mod.

 

[jcyamaharider]

do you happen to have a thread on upgrading the ballast system to work better? sounds like a great mod.

https://jetboaters.net/threads/fixing-the-242x-ballast-system.22792/

 

[iamcalled]

Thanks for all the support guys - I live in Spring TX, but boat on cedar creek lake (wife & I are fortunate to have a lake house there).

@dzeppos - the limited is a beautiful boat for sure, my lake neighbor has a 2016. It didn't make my short list as the features which increase the selling price are not that high on my priority list (shower, LED's, etc).

@iamcalled - where are you boating these days? The picture above looks like Richland Chambers or Lewisville.

Alot of good input from the group and I'm still going back and forth between modified AR or X. This truly is a difficult decision for me - hence why I started this thread in September so why buying seasons comes around I'll have my decision made!!!

CanTex, yes we're on Lewisville. Come join us whenever!