2000 z250
 

I have been looking at some Z250 's lately. In doing this I have noticed a few things between Z models, some even the same year. One of the things that stood out to me is some have the Bravo I an some have the III. What is the significance in that? Another thing I noticed is some have two control levers and some have one. I don't know if that is because of the Bravo I or III.
Some are listing captain's choice an some are showing silent choice- I thought they were the same.
Silly questions I'm sure. Hoping maybe the z250 guys know somethings one may want to watch out for as well.

Re: 2000 z250
 

I don't know about the other things, but the terms silent choice and captains choice are indeed interchangeable.

Re: 2000 z250
 

If my memory serves me correct the bravo III is a dual prop and bravo II and alpha is single props. also I believe that the Alpha I and B-III are for higher HP engines. The throttle I believe was a order from factory and came standard on some models. I have had both and I like the engine and throttle lever separate. But I also never had a problem with the combo setup. I hope what i say is correct and helps you out. :rolleyes:

Re: 2000 z250
 

Well thanks for the input. I continued to snoop around. Seems like the Bravo III has a little more control, more maneuverable. The thing that was interesting me was the separate drive/throttle setup.

Re: 2000 z250
 

One problem with the duo prop is there is more parts to go bad. I had a Volvo Penta duo prop out drive, never had problem with it but the extra cast was always in the back of my head. You will like the separate trans/throttle levers once you get used to using them.

Yes, silent choice and captains call means the same thing. I don't think the dual lever was an option from the factory was it? I have always wanted the dual lever, but they are ridiculously expensive for some reason....:(


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Re: 2000 z250
 

I believe the Kiekhafer shifters (transmission & throttle) were standard on the Z250's and the Z250LE's, and the Z300's. It's a great feature and once you get the hang of it, it's very fun to drive.

The Bravo 3 is definitely preferable. Maneuverability is the key. I have the Bravo 1 in mine, only because the factory equipped B3 was stolen, and replaced with a B1 prior to me purchasing it. To be honest, the B1 has a bit of "prop walk" which makes it a little challenging to maneuver in tight quarters. When I got the Z280 (with B3), despite the boat weighing 3000 lbs more, I was able to dock it much easier than the Z250. Yes, the B3 is a bit more expensive to replace if anything would go wrong, but if you can find a Z250 with the B3, that's the combo to have. :wink_thumbup:

Re: 2000 z250
 

Well thanks for the input on the two. The one I am looking into is the Bravo I though. I Read some other articles and they all explain the same things you just mentioned. The handling being the big reason to have the III. I have not found a pro/con to the double blade like I was thinking something along the lines of fuel economy or cruising speeds being different.

Re: 2000 z250
 

B1's are the choice for speed. They have less drag and less weight than the B3's. They take longer to plane, but have a higher top speed. The offshore guys prefer them much more than the B3's. They say supposedly B3's are only rated to 55mph, although I don't necessarily believe that claim.

The advantages of the B3 is the true tracking in forward/reverse for maneuverability, better planing, better holeshot, and better mid range cruising efficiency. However, there are some disadvantages to the B3. First and foremost, the cost. If you have to replace the drive, it will run you about $10k+. Secondly, there's an inherent corrosion problem due to the aluminum used in the housing, and the stainless used in the props. But think about these things realistically for a second. How often will you be replacing the entire drive? Buy a sterndrive lock or two, and you'll never have your drive stolen. The corrosion problem is very easily remedied by adding an additional Mercathode module to the system for about $40.

Really, just weigh your options. If top speed is what you're going for, then the B1 should be your choice. If maneuverability and fuel economy is your priority, then look for a B3. :)

Re: 2000 z250
 

Very interesting and useful info. Top speed is not a huge deal. My local lake has a supposed limit of 40 mph, not that I've ever seen it enforced. I do like the idea of better maneuvering. I can recall some situations where my SC21 was difficult to operate in the Marina when the wind picks up.
I do like to travel though an would like to visit other lakes. Having to buy props would get expensive on a BIII I imagine. I appreciate the info.

Re: 2000 z250
 

I have a Bravo 3 on my 250LE and have much more confidence with control of the boat docking and especially loading on a trailer. I typically stay in the sweet spot area of Rpm 2500-3000 and fuel effeciency if my goal. I would definatley go back to a Bravo 3 after owning one myself !.

Re: 2000 z250
 

I was wondering if this cover over the ladder is something one can get for the back of a 2000 Shabah? As it sits the rails are exposed and with a swim platform on back they could be bothersome. Just as an example.
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j1...ps343eceb4.png

Re: 2000 z250
 

I am unaware of any ladder cover and the one I have has a strap with a snap to retain. Your posted picture looks the best way to achieve coverage .

Re: 2000 z250
 

I haven't ever seen one for the Z250. My Z280's got one, and I've seen them on many others, but I think the Z250's never offered that, they just had the molded "hump" in the middle.

Re: 2000 z250
 

After giving it a lot of thought I decided to go with it. I did a substantial amount of research into this particular Mariah. With the help of ShabahZ250 a lot of questions were answered. First off, the boat I was looking at is not a "Z". That was nice to know because there is a big difference in book value. I did happen to find multiple lists of things the "Z" came with and what the standard 250s came with. The one I brought home has a fair amount of goodies that continue to surprise me. It is also extremely clean and well maintained. The previous owner clearly cared for this boat. There is a big difference in how a machine looks when kept clean treated well as opposed to a machine that was abused and half-ass cleaned prior to selling. My brother and I went over it closely and could not find any hairline cracks in the fiberglass to the exterior. Just one area in the cockpit has a small amount. The trailer even has new tires. All things that made the 1700 mile round trip worthwhile.
In the photo you will see the power house that towed the vessel home! Actually, this Mariah is a lot bigger than I anticipated. Heavier too. I should have made arrangements to use a buddies diesel. My '99 managed to tug along about 60-70mph most the trip. Hills killed it down to 35, especially Raton pass. A week or two before I called a lot of places for rental use but few allowed towing and those that did want it rented for 4 days minimum at a rate higher than my fuel cost in my f150. Pretty sure my fuel was under 500$ round trip getting about 8-9 mpg. Not terrible if you think about the fact I usually get 12-13.
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j1...ps91d8c935.jpg

Re: 2000 z250
 

The 2000 Mariah LE 250 has a 7.4L with a bravo 3 and control is a single lever and works fine for me. It's simple and easily to operate at any speed. I am not saying it's the best setup it works fine for the average boater like me and I am thrilled with my Mariah which was built 90 miles west of were I live.They are recognized as quality built boats that will stand the test of time !.

Re: 2000 z250
 

Congrats Motoxxx43!! Lookin' good!! :wink_thumbup:

Re: 2000 z250
 

Hey, this makes me feel more "normal" for just finishing my 2200 mile round trip to pick up my new Jubilee! Got home last night from SC. I'll post a quick pic in a new thread.

Re: 2000 z250
 

Oh yeah, driving to pick up a new toy is something Im use to. Some of my friends at work think it is kinda crazy to travel so far to pick up a "boat" or a "motorcycle". As if I could just find something similar closer... Not the case. Classic car guys know what I mean. I have been all over picking up machines. All part of the adventure!!
I sold a sport bike this summer to a guy who lived 3 hours away. He wanted me to deliver. Then he tried "halfway". Needless to say he ended up coming to pick it up- on 4th of July!! Pretty sure he bought it to resale it for more. Oh well, I had my fun on it.

Re: 2000 z250
 

So I took it out today. I just had to. It was a sunny 60* and there was no wind. I had just changed the fluids and had to see how the boat cruised. Started her up and the exhaust note sounded pretty good. Not loud but not quite. Got her out on the open water for a cruise which was very smooth. Felt strong throughout the entire RPM range. We noticed the Stereo only works with the key "on" meaning the actual hours on the motor is not 300 because the hour meter keeps running with motor off. Ill have to wire it correctly when I put in an updated head unit. With a half tank of fuel she got on plan just as fast as my SC21 which was very surprising. I dont plan on using this boat for wakeboarding or tubing much, if at all. The gear ratio is 1.5 and prop is a 19p Mirage plus. That set the WOT at 4600 RPM which is the upper end of the 7.4 limit. GPS speed indicated 46. Think Im going to go to a 21p or something around that. The motor got it to speed so effortlessly and felt like it wanted more "bite" in the water. Plus the RPM at WOT could come down a bit.
After going through the boat yesterday really good we found an abundance of goodies. Windshield wipers, defrost, full instrumentation, power seats, enough lights throughout to signal extraterrestrials, rope lighting in the cuddy, super plush vinyl(?) in the cuddy, a bimini that is about 3 feet over head and prob 8 feet long and literally brand new, microwave, and power inverter. There are probably things Im missing but I think that covers the gist of it. So far pretty proud of her.
I have plans for some things prior to the season starting like fixing the skeg and some minor interior things.

Re: 2000 z250
 

Well, I will like to put my two cents in. I am proud owner of a 1999 250 Shabah. Yes, that is correct it is not a Z model. I believe they did not build alot of 250 Shabah in 1999. My 250 is heavily loaded. It has the dual electric captain chairs which drops to become a leaning post. Also, it has a windshield wiper, microwave, and 7.4L magnum with the brave I. I have a dive platform with a flat cover where the ladder used to be. I attached a photo of the ladder cover.
Attachment 4352