[kgoo]

Now that Chris has helped me solve my snap in carpet issue (thanks Chris), I have a question related to purchasing a trailer for my "new" 1999 20' shabah.

First, what is the weight of the boat? The broker told me 2500#, but I noticed that an 18' Mariah in 2000 was 2500#. Anyone know the actual weight?

I have my eye on a EZ Loader trailer 17 - 20 3100# max capacity. The dealer told me that he thought it would be fine for the boat, but he was not 100% sure because he doesn't sell Mariahs. Any thoughts about the trailer?

Thanks very much

[mikeyt]

hmmm.....the brochure says 2500 lbs but i'm sure thats a little low for your boat. I think by the time you fill the gas tank and fill the boat with some 'accessories' you will be pushing that 3000 - 3100 lb mark pretty closely. I would probably consider something in the 3500 - 4000 lb area but lets see what the others have to say?

[ShabahZ280]

True, brochure weight is 2500lbs. And that doesn't sound correct to me at all. They almost always weigh the boats with the smallest engine package available. Which it lists as the 4.3L V6, which is coupled to an Alpha One drive. If you're looking at a V8 with a Bravo drive, I'd add about another 250-300lbs in engine and drive weight. So that's pushing you somewhat close to the mark, then add 50 gallons of gas, at 6.15lbs per gallon. Figure that's around 310lbs, plus batteries, water toys, coast guard equipment, coolers, ice, drinks, etc... It all adds up. Much better to have more weight capacity on the trailer than less. And it'd most likely be better to step up to the next size trailer, as the true length of the boat is 20'2". That 17-20 is probably meant to handle from about 16'8-19'6.

Just FYI, the 2000 model 202 Shabah is listed in the brochure at 2975lbs. This seems like a more realistic weight for the boat unloaded.

[kgoo]

Thanks for your input Mikey and Chris, although it has left me depressed because the trailer is a really really good deal! Of course, better safe than sorry. Back to the drawing board!

Kirsten