STAINLESS OR NOT

[JimS123]

I bought a new 18' Caravelle tri hull in 1972 with a 125 Johnson, factory aluminum prop. In 1973 the SST came out and since I dinged the alum almost every time I took the boat out I spent the $185 for the SST as I previously stated. One of my better decisions in life.

Sometime later our work group at the company had a picnic at a park on a lake. I was alone in the boat and it didn't happen immediately, but I got 5 skiers up with that rig, I think I remember the pitch was 17", top speed alone, no water toys, was 39 indicated. No doubt most if not all the skiers were on 2 and at least a couple were light weight folks. Only stayed up for several hundred yards as one and then two fell off.....forgot how to ski....and we terminated the experiment. But I was amazed at pulling that stunt off.

Love the story. THAT's what can't be quantified to justify the expense of SS.

I don't remember what I paid for the SST back in the 1970's. 30+ years after I sold the boat I happened to see it along the side of the road for sale. The upholstery was trashed, the gel faded and chalked and I shed a tear for what was once my pride and joy. But, interestingly enough, the ole' SST still looked good.

My last prop cost about $800. To me it was money well spent.