1990 Searay 180 w/ 3.0L Inboard

[grover738]

Any thoughts on the above boat? I found one at an auction, thinking of bidding. Looking to run around the lake with my 2, 4, and 6 year old boys, do some tubing & skiing. Anyone have an idea on top speed? How hard to pull out a slalom skiier with a few adults in the boat? Things to look for?

Thanks!

 

[ShaneCarroll]

Re: 1990 Searay 180 w/ 3.0L Inboard

I have a 92, and I believe the top speed is a little less than 35. Is the engine a 3.0L or 3.0LX? The 3.0L is 115hp and the LX is 140 I believe. It's a great boat, I have loads of fun on mine.

 

[grover738]

Re: 1990 Searay 180 w/ 3.0L Inboard

No wonder I've seen 115 in some places and 140 in others, thanks for that info, Shane. I sent you a PM with the auction info, which includes a pic of the engine - can you tell if it's a 140 or a 115 by the picture? I know it will be great for cruising, just a bit concerned about pulling a skiier with more than 1-2 adults in the boat.

 

[ShaneCarroll]

Re: 1990 Searay 180 w/ 3.0L Inboard

Well, you shouldn't have that much of a problem pulling a skier. I have pulled a tube behind mine with no issue, and that has a lot of drag. While it may not go fast, it seems like no matter real light or real heavy load, the speed stays consistent. Even in a chop.

 

[gixxerjim]

Re: 1990 Searay 180 w/ 3.0L Inboard

My '88 180BR says "130HP" somewhere on the engine. With 21P gets 40mph, 19P gets 36mph. Fun boat, use the 19P or even 17P for skiing with passengers and you should be okay.