ReelWork

Hey Guys, Been a stranger, I know, but I've been lurking here and there. The kiddos really know how to keep a fella busy. In the last year I retired from the Air Force, graduated college (finally) and am now working as a Civil Servant (GS) for the Air Force. At any rate, the admiral has given me the green light for a new boat - well, I took her for a test ride and that's all it took.. So, I am going to be getting a Blue Wave 2400 Pure Bay but I would like to hear some constructive advice on motor choice. The one I test rode on had a Yamaha 250 VMAX SHO and it was bad to the bone. My concerns with the SHO are the shaft length (20"), low water pickup (overheating) and if the SHO is truly suitable for saltwater use. The new F250 and F300 Saltwater are 25 inch shaft and have a better cooling ability. I've also read some sporadic reports of the SHO's blowing cylinders here and there as well some lower unit issues. No problems with the 4.2 F250 and F300 to date that I have heard. The 2400 Pure Bay has a 25 inch transom and comes with a 10 inch jack plate. MAH HP is 300. With the 250 SHO we were running around 56 WOT on a very rough bay chop and it was smooth.... Thinking the F300 is only about 6% more on cost (about $1400) over the 250 and should net a top end in the low/mid 60's. Just not sure if the 300 would be worth it in performance and hole shot... However, I'm sort of going on the mindset "you've never heard anyone say they wish they didn't have so much power" The guy who took on us on the test ride said the 250 SHO was mounted as low as possible and it still could stand to be lowered a tad more. He liked the motor too, but recommended the Saltwater/Offshore 4.2 liter (F250/300) That said, here are the motors I am considering in this order. 1. Yamaha F250 or F300 Saltwater, 25 inch shaft and both weigh in at 535 lbs - same 4.2 liter block as the SHO (505 lbs), just larger alternator output, "saltwater" rated and obviously the shaft length. Will probably opt for the Command Link PLUS. 2. Yamaha 250 Vmax SHO - 20 inch shaft. Already mentioned my concerns above. The dealer said they are using 2 inch spacers to help get it a littler deeper in the clean water which I questioned about the center of gravity. He said it wasn't an issue. I have to wonder, then why not just put on a 12 inch jack plate or ??? Something just seems off, ya know? I did love the motor though and that's why the F250/300 are at the top of the list. 3. Suzuki DF300, 25 inch shaft with SMIS Electronics bundle. The electronics are not as sweet as the Yammie CL Plus and I'm also wondering how well it will compare to the yammie on performance. Otherwise, have heard nothing but good on the Suzuki DF300. 4. Mercury 250 or 300 Pro XS - Great motor, but thinking the 2 stroke days are numbered on a lot of waterways... Already happening on California... 5. Evinrude E-Tec 250 HO or 300, 25 inch shaft. Been reading about a lot of issues with these. Great on paper, I like the electronics too, but the customer service seems to be lacking too.. Now, I have a good service base for all of the manufacturers I listed so that is not a major concern.. Let's hear it and of course, thanks in advance!

WORD!

Wiley - Like the site and features a lot... You're hitting a home run!

I have a Mustang "Lil Legends" very much like the one pictured above. It was hands down, bar none, the best of the bunch. I believe there was one other one that was perhaps a little better, but it was like twice asa expensive (therefore, not in the "bunch"). Think I paid something like $50-60... Still using it after 3 years and will use it for at least another 4-5 with our little boy. Might need to purchase another one if my kids are in the same "class" and size - I will purchase the identical one without hesitation. My opinion, spend a little extra for one that is not only comfortable, but is rated highly and well made. That is one thing you will notice, the Mustang is well made, has mesh (breathable) inside areas and the flotation is one thick piece - not stacks of pieces that tend to wad up and move around. I also don't have a lick of mildew on it either and that says a lot about the materials - I have cheaper adult PFD's purchased the same time that look 10 years older... USCG Type II - Infant/Child (up to 90 lbs) USCG Type III - Youth (w/no collar 50-90 lbs) Read the reveiws at WM - <Lil Legends Link>

To all the moms - thanks for all that you did and continue to do for us...

And Daddy'O... I am really thinking Caroline and I might make a side excursion to see ya'll this summer. We don't get up to North Dallas/Corinth but 2-3 times/year, but we really do want to pay ya'll a visit (Think Monty Python and the Holy Grail when we leave- "Now go! Or I shall taunt you a seconda time") I hope you've seen that - otherwise the humor is completely lost! Here's the vid on Youtube...

Dan - Likewise. Once we get the family (i.e. Kids) squared away, we are seriously looking to come up and see you guys. Might be a year or two still, but we're talking without kids - leave them with Grandma/Grandpa in Seattle (aka my mom/step-dad)...

I think the bigger question is why is it cracking?? I don't know how it would work in a pool (at depth), but what about hydraulic cement? You can add the same fibers and pliability (silicone?) as regular cement as far as I know...

Trust me Gus, ME TOO! Thanks again for the shirts.. Meghan loves it and Colton... Well, he pukes all over his...

You guys really need to stop thinking about my arse.. Well, 'cept for you FarmerJane... I kinda like the fact you can't get it outta your head (just keep on the down low, alright)! Peace out! Boy...must be late, I'm mighty spry right now.. And it feels good to be back at an *ahem* boating and fishing website.

You're right Manshe... You did say the "Official" and by golly, that makes all the difference in the world... So, we know who the hall monitor is and the "official" official is... I volunteer to be the a-hole... That way all I can do is get bettter! I digress, Those that know me and those that don't - Happy Birthday to you all. Please please please don't feel like you need to post your b-date on the web for all to see. Lord knows, I won't and I won't give a popcorn fart if it's mentioned in some "official" thread.. Sorry for pissing all over your official thread.. I REALLY had to go...

Howdy folks... Spoke to HotSpot today and he gave me insider info. Thanks Steve! Anyways, the family is doing great. Had a little one, Colton Foster mid January and had the bright idea of taking in a Chocolate Lab puppy (coco) a few weeks earlier. Don't know what I was thinking, but she will be a GREAT family dog in the long run. Just have to get through the mayhem.. Meghan is doing very well and turns 3 in July. Time flies.. Caroline is teaching 6th grade. My deepest apologies to all my friends who I have failed to stay in contact with. It's not an indicator, just what it is and you are not forgotten, just been REEL busy... Was gonna post up a pic of the fam, but don't see an option.. Oh well, post number 1 and.... SUBMIT!