New vs Used R23

[clemsonbobby]

Hi all,

My wife and I are finally taking the plunge on an R23, and we're debating whether to go new vs used, but I'm having trouble determining what - if anything - has changed on it over the years.

I found a great string on here that reviewed the changes over the first couple of model years, which were numerous, but haven't seen anything lately.

Does anyone happen to know if Ranger has updated/upgraded the boat much over the past few years? Specifically, I'm in the Southeast, so things like A/C are critical.

Thanks!!!

 

[SgtAlf]

I have a 2018 R23 with AC. I can only run the AC when anchored running a 2000w generator. I understand the 2022's and 23's have a new battery/inverter setup that allows one to run the AC while underway. Other than that the new v. used are pretty much the same. I have only run the AC for sleeping, or if it's a hot day and I'm doing chores in the cabin at the dock. If your boating is pretty much the same a good used late model is what I'd be looking for.
I run the: https://www.harborfreight.com/2000-watt ... inverter+s
With this power cord: https://www.amazon.com/Parkworld-691968 ... ast_sto_dp

 

[CruisingElvinRay]

We have a 2021 R-23, I believe one of the first with A/C underway. It was basically an extra 90Ah house battery, 2000W pure sine wave inverter, and a soft start A/C system. Was good for about 3 hours of A/C while cruising, based solely on energy capacity. Later, lithium batteries were introduced for more capacity.

At some point in about 2020, they started splitting the head door at the factory, which was a common mod done by owners. Other than that, I’m not aware of major changes (engine systems, electrical, hull, etc…)

We bought new because I wanted to know the entire history of the boat and not have surprises.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[SeaCabin]

First…I am the owner of 2017 model year R23, bought used. It is a NW model with a retro fitted 8,000 btu Dometic A/C unit. I use the ac extensively (on shore power) in Florida and the webasto heater occasionally in Maine. So it is possible to have both. Further, I can run this ac unit off a 1400 watt harbor freight generator, as well as everything else except the microwave. I believe the stock ac has a higher btu rating and cannot vouch if it would work with the 1400 watt genny. In any case I don’t use the genny often, and never while sleeping.

Finally, I have seen nothing in all tugnut threads or otherwise that would indicate there is a R23 model year to avoid.

Good luck in your search!

 

[clemsonbobby]

Thank you, that's all great information! Sounds like used + genny is the way to go. I'm specifically concerned about A/C while on the hook, and it sounds like as long as it has the A/C installed I'm in good shape with that setup.

SeaCabin, I'm impressed that you were able to retrofit an A/C system! Definitely more than I'm up to at this point, so I think I'll stick to the "luxury" editions for now.

 

[SeaCabin]

Clemsonbobby, Just to clarify it was the good folks at Winter Island Yacht yard that did the a/c install, not me!