jstandaert
Recruit
- Joined
- Jan 24, 2012
- Messages
- 1
Re: Opinions on Chaparral 2009 236 SSX, looking to buy this week
I purchased a 2009 236SSX in May 2009 and love the boat. I have all options, plus the 8.1 volvo. I took the same boat with the 5.7 volvo for a test ride and was not really happy with the cruising speed RPM (ran over 3,500).
With the big block, you can cruise at 35 mph at 3,000 RPM (full gear, 4 people and gas), and it really is quick economical (around 7 gph). The boat runs great, rides great, and handles the waves well. Top end with the 8.1 is 68 mph.
The only reason I can think that this boat was still available is that it was blue (mine has the black and red accents). I bought mine in Mary Esther, Florida at a time when dealers were having alot of financial issues. The list on mine was around $80k and it was purchased for under $50k. If you have the matting on the swim platform in black, have the dealer change it for the grey. The black will leave marks in the boat and on the carpeting (the sun and water break it down).
The dup prop (either volvo or mercruiser) is great. Great hole shot, good cruising and great in the turns (you don't have to trim in a speed to turn sharp!).
I have had a few boats and my best advice is that always get the most power available, since this will give you the lowest cruising operating rpm's, and therefore, the best fuel economy. My typical day of cruising will require around $50 in gas (unless I skiing or tubing).
You will love the boat.
I purchased a 2009 236SSX in May 2009 and love the boat. I have all options, plus the 8.1 volvo. I took the same boat with the 5.7 volvo for a test ride and was not really happy with the cruising speed RPM (ran over 3,500).
With the big block, you can cruise at 35 mph at 3,000 RPM (full gear, 4 people and gas), and it really is quick economical (around 7 gph). The boat runs great, rides great, and handles the waves well. Top end with the 8.1 is 68 mph.
The only reason I can think that this boat was still available is that it was blue (mine has the black and red accents). I bought mine in Mary Esther, Florida at a time when dealers were having alot of financial issues. The list on mine was around $80k and it was purchased for under $50k. If you have the matting on the swim platform in black, have the dealer change it for the grey. The black will leave marks in the boat and on the carpeting (the sun and water break it down).
The dup prop (either volvo or mercruiser) is great. Great hole shot, good cruising and great in the turns (you don't have to trim in a speed to turn sharp!).
I have had a few boats and my best advice is that always get the most power available, since this will give you the lowest cruising operating rpm's, and therefore, the best fuel economy. My typical day of cruising will require around $50 in gas (unless I skiing or tubing).
You will love the boat.
