Changes made in R31's

[Lancer11]

Can anybody tell me what changes were made to the Ranger 31 both CB and sedan in 2015? or point me to some where on the web that has a comparison. My budget puts me in the older models, but if the changes made are significantly better then perhaps I need to reconsider. I know in the 29's there was many changes made. It looks like in the newer 31's there is a hard roof over the deck.

Thanks in advance
Lance

 

[JeffreyAC77]

We own a 2105 R-31CB (LE). We have canvas over the cockpit and I know the 2016 has more of a hardtop. I also believe they may have made a change to the electrical panel in 2016. They also mix up the patterned seat coverings over the years as well. Not sure when they went to 340 hp on the engine (we have 300). I am happy to answer any specifics you may want to ask. We love our 2015 (have had it now for 3 years).

 

[Lancer11]

Hi Jeff
Sounds like maybe there was some changes in 2016 then, perhaps the bigger motor and the hard top over the deck.
What kind of real world fuel economy do you get, also top cruise speed and WOT?
Thanks
Lance

 

[Bobby P.]

I can speak to the R31 CB. In 2017 they started making the hardtop over the rear cockpit. This did a couple things... It provided very nice recessed lights that make the seating really great at night, both white and night vision red. Provided space for the solar panel on top. Created a great spot for Kayaks (we've stacked 3), provided more places for rod holders AND, created better space on flybridge for seating for six w/a nice teak table. I think there is a huge difference in flybridge comfort on the 2017s to new boats. All of this has not changed since. Not sure when RT went to the Onan 5kw, EQD genset, but the 2017 and there-after are equipped with them. It's a great genny!

Regarding fuel economy, with clean bottom and bennett trim tab flaps:

21 knots - 15gph
15-17 knots 10-12.5 gph
6 knots - .5 gph (yes, 1/2 gallon per hour). I love that!

I only go 15-17knots or 5-6 knots. Two very sweet spots.

Let me know if you have any other questions.
Best,
Bobby

 

[watson1987]

+1 to everything Boddy said.

I don't know the exact years, but I believe RT progressed through the product evolution for the D4. Using both the D4-270, 300, and more recently the 320 (I don't think there is a 340)

My 2018 still has the 300, it was a few years later that went to the 320, where it still is at. I'm not sure when the 270 was used

 

[Lancer11]

I can speak to the R31 CB. In 2017 they started making the hardtop over the rear cockpit. This did a couple things... It provided very nice recessed lights that make the seating really great at night, both white and night vision red. Provided space for the solar panel on top. Created a great spot for Kayaks (we've stacked 3), provided more places for rod holders AND, created better space on flybridge for seating for six w/a nice teak table. I think there is a huge difference in flybridge comfort on the 2017s to new boats. All of this has not changed since. Not sure when RT went to the Onan 5kw, EQD genset, but the 2017 and there-after are equipped with them. It's a great genny!

Regarding fuel economy, with clean bottom and bennett trim tab flaps:

21 knots - 15gph
15-17 knots 10-12.5 gph
6 knots - .5 gph (yes, 1/2 gallon per hour). I love that!

I only go 15-17knots or 5-6 knots. Two very sweet spots.


Thanks Bobby
All great info

Let me know if you have any other questions.
Best,
Bobby

 

[JeffreyAC77]

Hi Lancer11. We typically cruise around 9-10 knots (conditions permitting) and at that speed burn approx. 10 gal/hour. In ideal conditions our top speed has been 19 -20 mph but I have rarely gone there. I prefer to cruise in the range of 2900 -3000rpm if conditions allow. In my previous response I mistakenly said the newer Volvo D4 is 340 hp (it is actually 320).

 

[Brian John]

I

Regarding fuel economy, with clean bottom and bennett trim tab flaps:

Let me know if you have any other questions.
Best,
Bobby

Are the Bennett trim tabs the stock trim tabs and when are you using them? How are they helping with fuel economy?

 

[Bobby P.]

The trim tabs are stock. I added the drop fins. I always use the trim tabs all the way down when going up on plane. Once at cruising speed I just am keeping an eye on GPH and the MPG. Also use them to level the boat if I am listing one way or another. I’m going at trolling speed, I always raise the trim tabs all the way back up. If you don’t raise them up at slow speed, they create a little drag and slightly weakens performance.