Tow Capacity
 

I am in the process of purchasing a 1994 Shabah 202. In the research I have done I found out the boat weighs approximately 2550 pounds and the single axle trailer (Shabah trailer that came with the boat) is most likely around 800-1000, which brings the total weight to around 3500 pounds. As it turns out the vehicle I would use to tow this with has a towing capacity of 3500 pounds. My question is, would it be a huge problem going slightly over the manufacturers towing capacity? I should also mention that I plan to store my boat in a in-and-out service marina. I only plan to tow a couple of times a year when going on vacation to other places than where the boat will be stored.

Re: Tow Capacity
 

If your going to tow any kind of distance i would look at getting something bigger. I bought my 180 and towed it with a Jeep Cherokee 4Liter for a couple of years. Towing cap 3500lbs. I stored it only a couple of miles from and the ramp and had no problem with it. But towing it from the house to the storage lot and a couple of other lakes (70-100 miles) it was a white knuckle event a few times and the hills killed me. I had one very close call and had enough....i bought an F150

Re: Tow Capacity
 

Don't risk your life , someone else's life , or your nice Mariah boat. Get a bigger tow rig.
JMO
Larry

Re: Tow Capacity
 

That 3500lb estimate is only applicable if you dont keep anything else (including fuel) in your boat. You are probably closer to 4000lbs and you are definitely in need of a proper tow vehicle. Pulling it with your existing vehicle wont be overly difficult but stopping it & climbing hills will beat the crap out of her or result in a serious accident sooner or later.