Factory Options

[Cruzerboy]

We have a 29S ordered. The factory list of options and prices is self-explanatory. However, as I read Tugnuts, I see that others have ordered options that don't appear on the list--things like a 120v receptacle in the engine compartment and a galvanic isolator. These seem like reasonable additions and I'm wondering what other options I should consider having installed at the factory. I'd appreciate any suggestions anyone might pass on?? Are there things you wish you had thought of adding back at the start?

 

[knotflying]

Just consider things that when installed later may be difficult to install.

 

[pugtug613]

Talk to your dealer. They can do things after market.

 

[joempo]

I would add access doors/ports to any and all potential storage areas. For instance, several of us have cut an access hole in the vertical wall that separates "the cave" from the galley, below the dining area on the 25's and 27's.
I'm also exploring storage possibilities in the area below the footrest at the "1st Mate's" seat. That would also entail cutting a hole in the vertical wall across from the heater outlet on our R-25.
It seems that no matter the size of the boat, storage is always at a premium.
You might take some time to peruse the photo galleries, particularly those by owners of the 29's and 31's.
Joe

 

[pleeson]

Maybe 12 V cigarette lighter style electrical outlets in areas you may like to add portable sat radio, cell phone charger, portable freezer, etc?

 

[Zundels]

For our R-25 I would have liked to have had more access to the areas where we need to provide service and or fix parts. For example, getting to the stern thruster to repair a broken sheer pin had very limited access in the original design of the R-25 and required a skinny assistant to slip into the tight space. We eventually had the deck below the stern sink cut out to provide access. The factory could have done a much nicer job of providing doors, etc. Consider the list of annual maintenance tasks and ensure you have good access to the get the job done, or look at the list of parts that may need replacing (fuses, impeller, sheer pins, etc.) and see if you have good access.

Also, owners use their Ranger Tugs in different ways (entertaining, fishing, etc.) so consider your use and plan for access (i.e. to down riggers for fishing or food,drink, ice when entertaining.)

Don

 

[baz]

If you have the budget I would suggest you have the factory install a 2nd Chart Plotter display to left of the stock one. There's plenty of room for it and I recall Jeff Messmer saying that was an option. It will serve as a backup as well as allowing you to have two full displays available with each displaying full screen data that is different. With a single chart plotter you have to split the screen to get multiple displays of things.

Auto pilot is a very useful option IMO as well.

I thought Ranger had decided to install GIs as a standard in their models.

If you're thinking about solar panel make sure the boat is pre-wired for that.

Make sure you understand the battery setup and how the batteries are removed/accessed on their sliding tray. I believe they are kind of hidden inside the port side locker area.

Most of the engine accessories are easy to get at. However, make sure Ranger provides you access to the front of the engine via a hatch just inside the cabin door. Without that you will need cameras in the tip of your fingers when wanting to get to that area of the engine.

Hopefully Ranger can provide you with sun screens that fit all those weird shaped cabin ceiling skylights. 😉 Even in the PNW there are sun filled days and the cabin will heat up in a hurry when your docks/anchored etc.

Retractable/folding ladder to provide easier access from the front berth through the overhead hatch and onto the bow decking.

 

[Levitation]

My suspicion is that if you have the money, Jeff Mesmer has the time. Call :mrgreen:

 

[Irish Mist]

Not having actually been on the new 29 this may or may not work, but I would see about having an access door and making like a glove box storage area beside your GPS .. Even a door less cubby hole for all those things you need all the time. Then I would mount an iPad over it for a back up GPS and Nav aid portal for things like Active Captain or weather etc..

 

[bradcarolR29S]

We added the second 7212, the trolling valve, AIS and underwater lights. As we are not big wine drinkers, we are leaving off the wine cooler and turning that area into storage. Also going with a second refrigerator in the cockpit.
Brad and Carol

 

[baz]

Yes... the AIS would be a good option. It's usefulness has been much discussed here and is highly recommended by others. You can get the Receiver-mode or the the Receiver-Transmit-mode type. The Receiver-mode type cost around $300 if I recall.

Search this forum for AIS to find out more. For example see http://www.tugnuts.com/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=5350&hilit=AIS+600

 

[Longbranch Louie]

If its not included get the Garmin Vision Blue chip for your plotter. There is a new chip that covers from Olympia to northern Alaska. Lets you get a lot more out of your chart plotter.
Being a NW boat you probably ordered a propane stove. If the new 29s are wired like the old 29s and 31s, there is a coil of wire on an unused circuit under the stove that is prewired for when an electric stove is ordered. If the unused wiring is there, use that circuit to install a 110 outlet somewhere in the cockpit area or engine compartment. This will give you a way to plug in engine or cockpit heaters, party lights, tools, etc without having to run a cord to the inside cabin. (Factory may not do this but I would have it done later if not).
If you plan on having Sirius radio, plan on an antenna. It is difficult to wire one in later. Garmin (who just acquired Fusion radios) likes you to install their Sirius weather broadcast package but a less costly antenna and module like the ones used in cars is available.
I don't know if the new 29s have the option of transom rails, but if so consider them. You will need to know if you plan to tow a dingy, or if they might interfere with fishing, but as a safety factor they come in very handy boarding and in rough sea conditions. I had to fix my dingy in 6 ft seas once and it was great to have them. With your rear flip seat folks may be out on your transom a lot.

 

[Boatagain]

We added the second 7212, the trolling valve, AIS and underwater lights...Brad and Carol

Underwater lights seem to be very popular these days, I see them at boat shows and in print ads all the time. Pardon my ignorance, but aside from the "cool factor", do they serve any functional purpose? Are they for attracting fish at night? I'm not being sarcastic or trying to be funny, I really do want to learn more about them.

 

[bradcarolR29S]

They will attract fish at night, but that is just for show as far we are concerned. The usefulness for us comes in if we have retrieve one or both of our Irish Water Spaniels at night.
Brad and Carol

 

[Irish Mist]

I got a pair from Hurley and they mount on the trim tabs . They are made to line up with the existing holes on the tabs. I anchor a lot in shallow water and they add a lot of entertainment watching the sea life. They make me more visible at night and when I'm backing into my slip at night they are like back up lights.. I got them for the cool factor but have found them very useful. If you call them at Hurley they will tell you which are best for the waters you boat in.