Thinking of a new 2008 185 Sport

MarkD

MarkD

Member
Oct 5, 2006
355
Hudson River
Boat Info
1990 35' Sundancer
Engines
twin 454 inboards
I am looking for a second boat which I can use as a "fun & sun" sort of boat. Meaning cruising the upper Hudson River (in NY State), taking the family for dinner on the water, and of course, some water sports. In preparation for this season I attended a small boat show (yesterday) and was comparing a few new models in the 18-19' range. Surprisingly I found the 2008 Sea Ray 185 Sport to be a better deal than some what I would call "lower end" manufacturers (Stingray & Glastron). Based on the price/features I am now leaning towards this model. Here are a few questions:

1) Is the 3.0 Liter 135HP Merc engine too little power for this boat? (I have 2 young kids & want to tube with them as well as take some adults out for dinner cruises etc. Basically an all purpose boat). The boat I was looking at had the 4.3 btw, but the 3.0 liter is quite a bit less $$. The dealer quoted me $19,995 with the 3.0 (optioned the same as the 4.3).

2) What is the approximate performance with the 3.0 and 4.3 engines? Lets say 1/2 fuel & 2 adults/2 kids aboard.

3) Is there any need for tabs on this boat with either engine combo?

4) How can Sea Ray discount these boats so deeply? The list of the boat I looked at with options was $30,000. The out the door price was $22,300 with the V6, galvanized trailer, bimini, cockpit covers, snap in carpet, DF, stereo, blue hullsides and included freight/prep. Could I be missing something or is the economy SOOOO bad that they are giving these things away just to move some stock?

5) Where are the 185's made? I heard a rumor they might make them in Mexico?????? Just want to confirm/deny that.

Thanks for the help!

Mark
 
Mark,

I'd go with the 220hp 4.3. If your pulling tubers or skiers, you'll want the extra power out of the hole.

You won't necesarily use the extra horses, but they'll be there when you want/need them.

I have an older 22' w/228 hp and IMO is only adequitely powered.

Add water. Enjoy!

Gregg
 
I am looking for a second boat which I can use as a "fun & sun" sort of boat. Meaning cruising the upper Hudson River (in NY State), taking the family for dinner on the water, and of course, some water sports. In preparation for this season I attended a small boat show (yesterday) and was comparing a few new models in the 18-19' range. Surprisingly I found the 2008 Sea Ray 185 Sport to be a better deal than some what I would call "lower end" manufacturers (Stingray & Glastron). Based on the price/features I am now leaning towards this model. Here are a few questions:

When we were doing our searching we were leaning toward a tahoe, stingray, Four Winns, or Sea Ray. I was surpised that I was able to get into a Sea Ray for a little more than what the Tahoe was running. It made the decision alot easier.

1) Is the 3.0 Liter 135HP Merc engine too little power for this boat? (I have 2 young kids & want to tube with them as well as take some adults out for dinner cruises etc. Basically an all purpose boat). The boat I was looking at had the 4.3 btw, but the 3.0 liter is quite a bit less $$. The dealer quoted me $19,995 with the 3.0 (optioned the same as the 4.3).

You may want to do a little searching on this as it has been discussed. I will tell you that we have the 190 Hp 4.3 and have it has all the power that we need. We have never left anyone behind because it was too much weight for the motor. Personally I would want the 4.3 L but again that is pretty obvious but if you are really questioning it you could test both boats. From all the searching I did when I was looking, everyone said never by the standard motor so I did not.

2) What is the approximate performance with the 3.0 and 4.3 engines? Lets say 1/2 fuel & 2 adults/2 kids aboard.

Again I think this has been discussed. I will look to see if I can find specific information.

3) Is there any need for tabs on this boat with either engine combo?

I have never had the need for tabs on our boat.

4) How can Sea Ray discount these boats so deeply? The list of the boat I looked at with options was $30,000. The out the door price was $22,300 with the V6, galvanized trailer, bimini, cockpit covers, snap in carpet, DF, stereo, blue hullsides and included freight/prep. Could I be missing something or is the economy SOOOO bad that they are giving these things away just to move some stock?

I think if you do a search you will find that is about right. I know there was a posting where everyone discussed what they paid for their 185. Personally I think it is a smart marketing plan on Sea Ray's part, if we can get them in on the 185, they will want to stick with Sea Ray as they go up to there 450. Hey I have no problem with it.

http://clubsearay.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4039&highlight=185+Sport


5) Where are the 185's made? I heard a rumor they might make them in Mexico?????? Just want to confirm/deny that.

TN - SERV

Thanks for the help!

Mark
 
Last edited:
The 4.3 Hands down is a better power plant
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I was tempted to leave Todd's posting up due to it does not have phone number contact name etc. Guys we do not allow people to sell boats for free on the board. Jim is in the brokerage business and that is another service he provides for a charge on this board. While both of your postings were innocent, it makes it really hard on the moderators if we allow these to stay up and then tell someone else there posting is not allowed. If you want to help the poster out there is nothing wrong with sending them a pm with what you guys posted but we can't have adds on the board with out going through the correct channels. I hope this is clear and I not picking on your two.
 
$19,995!!! At the Chicago Boat and RV Show they were offering the 3.0L model for $17,100. I think with the economy in the shape its in, deep discounts could be found.

I put Smart Tabs on my 185 and never regretted it. The tabs cut way down on bow rise, and get my boat on plane much quicker and at a lower speed. The big plus was being able to pull my youngest guy in a tube at a slower speed.
 
Wesley,
Thanks for the reply. I really didnt like some of the other competitors like Four Winns & Chapperal. The styling wasnt for me. The Stingray was sharp, especially their interiors. They use high quality vinyl on the seats. The downside was their liberal use of carpeting in ski lockers, under seat bases and in the engine compartment. That is very poor judgement IMO. It is bound to rot and attract moisture, although to a novice looks sweet. Actually, after running the numbers on the Stingray 195LX vs the SR; the SR came out cheaper. In actuality both boats carry 19.5' LOA and about the same beam, so IMO, they are very comparable. I forgot to mention that my best friend works for a dealer who sells Stingray. Even with his discount, it was more money. ($22,500 vs $22,300). The worst part was that the Stingray didnt come with a trailer and had a few less options whereas the SR came in with the fancy colored hullsides, extended swim platform & single axle trailer. Plus it was the upgraded galvanized one. I might also be biased towards SR since I already have one and like it. :)

I am leaning towards the 4.3 btw. I just want to do my due dilligence on the cost of the 3 liter motor and its performance. I am not a skier (yet). My kids are young (9 + 6) and dont ski either. Speed isnt my first concern. But I had learned a lesson from my former jetski days, where the first year I purchased a 750cc motor and the next year i bought another with 1200cc's b/c i wanted more power and thrills. The only issue I am running into is convincing the Mrs. to pop for the extra few bucks. We are trying to set the limit at $20K, but if there is a really good reason to get the SR with a 4.3, then I might be able to twist her arm. Operative word being might.....

As far as marketing hype, you could be right. Move smaller product then they'll consider a bigger boat next time. I might be the exception though since I already have a bigger SR and am moving DOWN!!! LOL..... They dont have to know that though. ;)

Let me know if you find those performance numbers. I would be interested to see the difference in cruise & WOT. The fuel burn isnt a factor since I burn 30GPH with my existing boat now and ANYTHING would be better than that....

Again....thanks!!!!
 
Just saw rktkpaul's post about price. I am sure that's an awesome price. I am just not sure what options that would be included for that money. $19995 included the galvanized trailer, snap in carpet, DF, stereo, colored hullsides, cockpit cover & bimini top, Freight & prep and a few other things I believe.... (having a senior moment). The only option is extended warranty & obviously state tax from what they told me. I would be very interested to know if that price included all the same options as stated above. If so, I am traveling to Chicago!!!! ;)
 
The 4.3l is really great! We test drove the 3.0l and the 4.3l and there really was need to think about it. The 4.3l is definately the way to go. I imagine fuel consumption not be too much of a factor.
 
First Born said:
I was tempted to leave Todd's posting up due to it does not have phone number contact name etc. Guys we do not allow people to sell boats for free on the board. Jim is in the brokerage business and that is another service he provides for a charge on this board. While both of your postings were innocent, it makes it really hard on the moderators if we allow these to stay up and then tell someone else there posting is not allowed. If you want to help the poster out there is nothing wrong with sending them a pm with what you guys posted but we can't have adds on the board with out going through the correct channels. I hope this is clear and I not picking on your two.
Click to expand...

Sorry, I completely forgot about that, my bad.
 
Todd - No worries

MarkD - It looks like Sea Ray has removed the boattest from their site. The info I had posted looks like must have been in the SRO days. When I go to boattest.com they have all Sea Ray's in archive and my subscription has run out and since I do not think they are testing new Sea Ray's I did not renew. I was able to crack in and find out a little for you.

The 185 Sport with 4.3L:
[FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Test Results [/FONT]
b-m-pattern-arrow.jpg
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]RPM [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]MPH[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] Knots[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] Total GPH [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]MPG[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] NMPG[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] Range[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] NM Range [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]dBa[/FONT][/FONT]

[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]700 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]3.6[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.1[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] .5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 7.2[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 6.26[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 168[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 147[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 70[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]1000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]5.4[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.7[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 1.1[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.91[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.27[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 115[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 100[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 74[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]1500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]7.5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 6.5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.4[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.10[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.70[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 73[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 63[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 75[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]2000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]10.5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 9.1[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.63[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.28[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 61[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 53[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 77[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]2500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]22.8[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 19.8[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.7[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.85[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.22[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 114[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 99[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 81[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]3000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]30.9[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 26.8[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 6.4[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.86[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.22[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 114[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 99[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 81[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]3500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]36.4[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 31.7[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 8.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.55[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.96[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 106[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 93[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 84[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]4000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]42.6[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 37.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 11.8[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.63[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.15[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 85[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 74[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 89[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]4500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]49.1[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 42.7[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 15.3[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.21[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.79[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 75[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 65[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 88[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]4700 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]50.5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 43.9[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 15.6[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.24[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.81[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 76[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 66[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 90[/FONT] Speeds measured with Stalker ProSports radar gun. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscan digital fuel-flow meter on gas inboards, sterndrives, and outboards, TechMate electronic scan tool on gas EFI inboards, Caterpillar digital fuel-flow meter on diesel engines, or permanently installed fuel-monitoring equipment. Range is based on 90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter on A scale. 68 dbA is the level of normal conversation.
[FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Performance Chart [/FONT]
b-m-pattern-arrow.jpg
searay185sport4.3L-chart.jpg
[FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Test Conditions [/FONT]
b-m-pattern-arrow.jpg
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Test Power : [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]1 x 190-hp MerCruiser 4.3 L [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]0 to 30:[/FONT][/FONT] [FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]6.5 sec.[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Transmission: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Alpha 1[/FONT][/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Ratio:[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.0 : 1[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Props:[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 21''[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Load: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]2 persons, 1/3 fuel, no water, min. gear[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Climate: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]89 deg., 58% humid.; wind: 3 mph; seas: light chop[/FONT]

Test results of the 2006 185 w/ 3.0 L

[FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Test Results [/FONT]
b-m-pattern-arrow.jpg
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]RPM [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]MPH[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] Knots[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] Total GPH [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]MPG[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] NMPG[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] Range[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] NM Range [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]dBa[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]800 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]3.9[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.3[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] .3[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 15.4[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 13.39[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 360[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 313[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 68[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]1000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]4.6[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] .6[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 7.67[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 6.67[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 179[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 156[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 70[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]1500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]6.6[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 5.7[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 1.3[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 5.04[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.38[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 118[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 103[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 70[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]2000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]8.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 6.9[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.4[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.38[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.94[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 79[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 69[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 78[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]2500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]12.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 10.4[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.43[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.98[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 80[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 70[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 81[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]3000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]20.8[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 18.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.2[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.94[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.30[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 116[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 101[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 82[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]3500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]26.6[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 23.1[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 5.8[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.62[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.02[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 108[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 94[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 84[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]4000 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]31.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 27.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 7.7[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 4.05[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.52[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 95[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 82[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 87[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]4500 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]36.5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 31.7[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 10.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.65[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.17[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 85[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 74[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 90[/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]4750 [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]39.0[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 33.9[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 12.5[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 3.13[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.72[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 73[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 64[/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 92[/FONT] Speeds measured with Stalker ProSports radar gun. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscan digital fuel-flow meter on gas inboards, sterndrives, and outboards, TechMate electronic scan tool on gas EFI inboards, Caterpillar digital fuel-flow meter on diesel engines, or permanently installed fuel-monitoring equipment. Range is based on 90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter on A scale. 68 dbA is the level of normal conversation.
[FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Performance Chart [/FONT]
b-m-pattern-arrow.jpg
searay185sport3L-chart.jpg
[FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Test Conditions [/FONT]
b-m-pattern-arrow.jpg
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Test Power : [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]1 x 135-hp MerCruiser 3L[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]0 to 30:[/FONT][/FONT] [FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]6.5 sec.[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Transmission: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Alpha 1[/FONT][/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Ratio:[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 2.0 :1[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Props:[/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif] 14 1/2 x 19 Alum[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Load: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]2 persons, 1/3 fuel, no water, min. gear[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]Climate: [/FONT][/FONT][FONT=Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif]89 deg., 58% humid.; wind: 3 mph; seas: light chop[/FONT]

Hope that helps!!!

Ok that did not work go here for the 185 w/ 4.3L

http://www.boattest.com/oem/test-results.aspx?ID=967&lp_id=&from_gi=yes

and here for the 185 w/ 3.0 L

http://www.boattest.com/oem/test-results.aspx?ID=968&lp_id=&from_gi=yes

Hopefully that will work

Wesley
 
Last edited:
MarkD said:
I am leaning towards the 4.3 btw.
Click to expand...

Stop leaning and take the leap. IMO, the 4.3 is a good match for the 185. The 3.0 is adequate for the 180s, but you're going to want/need the larger motor in a 19 foot boat.
 
Thanks everyone, especially Wesley. The performance #'s are compelling. Same RPM (3000) and a 10MPH difference. You really have to wind up the 3.0 to get the same speed numbers. I will keep everyone abreast of what prices I negotiate when the time comes.
 
not sure if it's relevant here, but my first boat was a regal sebring 190 ('88). the boat was equipped with the short-lived merc 3.7L 4 cylinder (yes 4 cylinder) and an alpha 1. this is the engine with no alternator but one of those outboard motor type battery charger thingies. anyway, that engine made 165hp and it couldnt get out of its own way with more than three adults onboard. i think the boat dry was 2600lbs. i constantly wished for more HP. tabs are nice for keeping the boat trim due to improper weight distribution (ie: fatty on the stbd and you're too embarassed to ask him to move to port!) i'd get tabs or aftermarket them and i'd go for the extra HP.

boat4sale.jpg
 
Jeez Ron, I forgot you had the Regal... I just remember your green Crown Line.... You're right though, the 4.3 is a way better engine for the weight of the boat. You know me, I always carry "stuff" and lots of it.... i need some extra power to haul around my fat 210 lb. butt anyway!!! LOL. I guess that means I can carry around a few extra cans of Coors light and still stay on plane. :)
 
you probably should go with the larger engine. we had a 1983 galaxy 17' bowrider with a 4 cylinder volvo 120hp IO. it ran fine with 4 people on board cruising over 30 and topping out around mid 30s. but pulling skiiers out of the hole was hard. 160-200hp would have been nice.....you do not need trim tabs on a bowrider under 20 feet - drive trim and moving people around to balance loads is the safest way to go.
 
Got the '08 205, and the first thing I did was add the highest HP engine available. Any boat I will ever buy will have the largest engine available as a rule. Always worth the extra few $ imo.

Tell the wife the 3.0 was discontinued?:grin:
 
I have a 2004 185 Sport, 4.3L 190hp, Alpha 1, my previos boat was a 1987 17' SeaRay with the 3.0L, that boat with light load would run by boat speedo,45mph at wot, my current 185 with light load has run 50 mph gps. Fuel consumption between the two boats is not that much different. I boat in the sound, St Catherines on the ICW, it can get rough, I installed a set of Smart Tabs on it and have not regretted it, speed increased, plane as slow as 15mph gps, get on plane quicker, I save at least a gallon of fuel on my standard run from home to the sound and back, boat handles the rough water much better, I have run 49 mph gps at wot, with me and wife, neither of which is small, with the Smart Tabs and full load, bimini up catching wind. You do want the 4.3L in that boat whether it is the 190 or 220, 220 if you can get it, but the 190 is good.
 
First post here. I highly recommend the 4.3L. I bought a 2000 185 w/ 3.0L Alpha 1 (135hp) lightly used for our first boat to test the waters as it were. While I loved the boat, I always lamented over the lack of power and wished I had found a 4.3L. While tubing really wasn't a big deal (the boat handled even 2 tubes just fine), single-skiing was a pain. I would have to hold my breath for about 10 seconds while on a single ski before the boat would get to plane and pop me up. I was able to work with it, but it made teaching others very difficult.

We upgraded end of last season to an '04 220 Select w/ 5.0L and Bravo 3 and absolutely love it. Single skiing is no longer an issue and wakeboarding behind a tower is a world apart.

Bottom line: Get the 4.3L -- if price is an issue, you might consider a slightly used model.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Forum statistics

Threads
113,238
Messages
1,429,076
Members
61,119
Latest member
KenBoat
Back
Top