Rich Turcotte (e-mail)

My suggestion is visit your local library and try to find older boating magazines on file. Do a complete search for issues from the mid-1980s and look for articles or advertisements to get a picture of the boat and graphics. Some libraries have these back issues on microfilm. You can easily print a copy, take it to a computer graphics specialist and have the stripes and logo reproduced in self-adhesive coloured vinyl.

BOATING IN BEAN TOWN
I was at a boat show in Boston recently and among the many great models on display was a 185 Sea-Doo Utopia. This model was impressive except for its jet power. I currently own a Boston Whaler but the Utopia seemed like a nice lake boat. I also have shallow water around my dock, which would certainly accommodate the Utopia’s 12-inch draft. What is your opinion with the use of jet boats on lakes? Do you have specific information on the engines offered in this boat?

G. Daniels
e-mail

I don’t have any experience with this unit. However, I can give you some information on similar jet-powered models.

The main advantage with jet boats is their shallow draft and the fact that they are less affected by changes in the amount of weight carried in the boat, such as extra passengers or when towing a water skier. You can stop the forward motion of the boat at a high speed (usually within its own length) by throwing the throttle in reverse since there are no gears. Remember, however, this should be used very cautiously and practiced beforehand as the movement can be dangerous. Although in an emergency, it might be a life saver.

The disadvantages of a jet boat are they are less fuel efficient than propeller-driven units and have a slower top speed for the amount of horsepower. Further, their slow speed handling is not as precise (especially in reverse) and if the lake you boat on is weedy, the jet unit may get clogged. (Page Top)

PRIORITY IS POWER
I am thinking of purchasing a 2000 22-foot Celebrity cuddy cabin on a four-wheel trailer. It’s powered by a 150 hp 2.7 L, five-cylinder, turbo diesel MerCruiser stern drive with a four-bladed prop.

I am aware the company is no longer in business and it’s difficult to obtain parts. This bothers me, but since the engine is the most important component of the boat. I would be grateful for any information about the performance with the 150 hp diesel engine. Can it pull waterskiers? This boat is being sold by a dealer in England. He apparently has the owner’s manual.

T. Hughes
e-mail

The engine is the main concern and engine parts for MerCruiser engines are readily available. A diesel engine produces lower horsepower than a gas engine. I always suggest a consumer insist on a water demonstration before buying. You will know right away if it’s fast enough for the type of water skiing you want to do.

If you intend to work on the engine yourself, order the factory service manual from a MerCruiser dealer. It has a lot more useful information than the owner’s manual.

Got a question, a problem, or do you need some service info? Drop me a line c/o Power Boating Canada or fax me at 1-613-236-0700. You can also reach me at stephen.horsfall@ sympatico.ca. You will get a personal reply by mail or fax, if requested. (Page Top)