That is a nice one!  Since it's a first big boat for me, I want to stay with something ready to hit the water and focus on keeping it reliable and learning to ski. 

Thanks for thinking of me and I really appreciate you posting any links here.  It is just a matter of time and I'll be posting "SoCal_Dad's new ride"!!

Thanks again!

I had this '97 truck for 3 years.  I LOVED it,...and hated it.  The truck is awesome, comfy, quiet, I had no complaints at all.  But, I only used it for dirt bike trips, home improvement stuff etc and it always needed something.  brakes, belt tensioner, shocks, trans pan leak, valve cover leaks, tires, alignment, always something.  I was not sorry to see it go.  I think the newer the better with these.  Beyond 100,000 miles be prepared to invest some work into it.  Also, I believe '96 and older had worse brakes and trans problems.  '97 and newer are way better.

Tomanyprojectz, I love that story!  That's exactly what we have in mind.  My family doesn't have the stamina to do this all day anyway!  I picture us cruising around an hour, learning to ski for a couple hours, beaching it somewhere for a break and lunch, dragging the kids around on a toy tow, cruising for a while and loading it up.  I would think Pyramid Lake, Silverwood, and Mojave, Mead, or that area a couple of times a year for 3-4 days.  We are not social/party types.  Just play with the boat and quietly enjoy our day.

Aquaholic, I think 21 is too big for us but thanks!!

ka0tyk, that's a sweet boat!  They are really growing on me and I will be watching for the right one. 

Thanks guys!

Continuing to look and learn here!  OK, I REALLY like the Spectra 18 or 19 mini-cruisers.  I need to do some measuring, but with an 18 I can probably fit a jet.  It looks like most have a 460/Berk combo with some Chevys here and there.  Either is OK with me. 

Any idea what these weigh in at?  There is not a lot of info out there.  The Spectras have the classic lines I like, the space, and a nice healthy drive train.  Gotta find the right one.  It will be with me for a long time so no rush. 

Please help educate me, but the Eliminators and Schiadas all look to be in the longer class, 21' ??  Are there other options I should look at in the 18' - 19' size?

Thanks! 

Hi Guys, I've been lurking for a while and have learned a lot!  Thank you!!

I am new to boats, but not new to engines, electrical, carbs, etc.  I have some questions on what setup to start with.  I'm looking for a fun boat for our family of 4 (kids are 11 and 13) to learn to ski and just enjoy.  Probably the biggest constraint on this whole deal is that I want something I can keep in the garage and wall-to-door is exactly 20'6".  20' would be best.  I'm thinking I am basically limited to an 18' boat with a v-drive and a swing away hitch.  How much length does a jet add in general?

I really like the idea of a mini day cruiser with a small block and v-drive.  If it was just for me, I'd like flat bottom or always had a liking for a pickle fork, but is the mini day cruiser better for comfort?  Top speed and performance isn't the goal.

I would love to hear input on this and ideas so I can zero in on what to shop for.  Realistically, this will be used 6-8 times a year and my budget is in the $4000-$5000 range.  Thanks in advance for help and suggestions!!