Re: Which Trophy to buy?
Thanks for the compliment TisPHO. As you saw, this is my first season with my 2052. With over 50 hours on her I've had virtually no problems. The hull is solid, there's no spider cracks in the gel coat and the wiring is fine. The wiring is as good if not better than a lot of mid tier boats. They use tinned wire which is color coded. The ends are crimped on but not shrink wrapped. I don't consider that a problem since a lot of top tier boats aren't shrink wrapped either. I will over time replace a lot of the ends and shrink wrap them. It's not that it's required it's just something that I will want to do. <br /><br />I just installed two additional rod holders in the coaming caps (as if the four weren't enough) and had to drill 2 1/2" holes for them. I was supprised that the caps were over one inch thick. They consisted of 3/4" plywood encased in fiberglass and no skid vinylester gel coat. If the caps are built that solid you can imagine how well built the rest of the hull is. <br /><br />As far as the motor, yes I'd recommend FWC if you're going to use it in salt water as it will extend the life of the motor, exhaust manifolds and risers. Plus the motor will run at 180 degrees as designed which is much better for it. If you're going to slip the boat in salt water then I'd recommend you go with the model 2002 and O/B. If you're trailering then the 2052 will be fine. Even with the FWC I flush it each use to make sure the heat exchanger is clean/clear. <br /><br />One tip is if you purchase it with a 4.3L carb model then pay the extra for the remote oil filter. It does not come that way standard on the carb model...only on the MPI model. It will make servicing it so much easier. Likewise, if you want or will want the extended hard top then purchase it as an option with the purchase of the boat because it's much cheaper. After having the hard top I will never have another boat withou one. It allows the breeze through, keeps you out of the sun and gives you places to mount things. It comes with the rocket launcher, electronics cabinet, spreader light and overhead helm lights. <br /><br />The Pro package is another recommended option. It gives you the trim tabs (Lenco), raw water wash down, both wipers and is well worth the money. <br /><br />The boat handles well in 2 - 3 foot slop (especially due to the 19 degree dead rise and her dry weight of 3600 lbs with the 3.0L motor and no hard top). I cruise at 30 mph at 3600 rpm with the admiral and I and fully loaded with a full tank (85 gals). I added an aluminum 4 blade prop (14.5 x 18 x 4) for more low end control and she gets on plane faster and stays on plane as low as 2800 rpm. The hard top does make it a little different handling in a cross wind when approaching the dock but that is overcome with practice.<br /><br />If you need any further info don't hesitate ot ask.
