Considering a Mariah - Looking for Feedback from owners

bpdcpa · 08-13-2021, 11:57 AM

Hello,

I am looking at a 2008 SC21 open-bow (not sure the exact model #) with a 4.3 Mercruiser.

I took the boat on a water test with one other person. I am by no means very knowlegeable about boats, but to me, the "top end" speed was unimpressive. It seemed like the motor was laboring quite a bit for the speed we were going.

The shop dude who went with me said that changing props might help. I think it has a 21" prop on it currently. I was also researching last evening and found a number of blogs suggesting the use of trim tabs.

I am looking to pull a kneeboard, wakeboard, tube and possibly a skiier with a pretty loaded (with people) boat.

My questions are:

1) Will this boat fit my needs?
2) How much could I expect a new prop and/or trim tabs help?

Thank you in advance!

***Hudson River Steve*** · 08-13-2021, 03:36 PM

For what you want to do with it, a 21 ft boat with a 4.3l is under powered. You are going to want a 5.7l or better to ski with a bunch on people and stuff (coolers) [emoji3]. I prefer the newer LS engines like the 6.0 or 6.6l. They are lighter and more powerful. Happy shopping.

Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk

bpdcpa · 08-13-2021, 03:56 PM

Thanks Steve. That is the feedback I was looking for. I did get the sense the 4.3 wasn't enough engine for the boat.

Unfortunately this is such a seller's market right now, and this boat, which was in great shape, I could get for about 30% less than the NADA average retail. Most of the boats I am pricing from private sellers seem to be at NADA average retail.

Of course, it wouldn't be a great decision to buy a boat because of the price relative to others if it doesn't fit the bill.

Thanks again.