Your thoughts on the new Outboard models

[TugSully]

Seems like Ranger has ventured into a new arena, the outboard as opposed to inboard.
While reception to the OB configuration seems to be very good. I was wondering what "traditional" tug owners think of the new OB configuration? Nice addition to the line up? Too much of a break from tradition? Whatever? Other? Traitors? Cool? About time? "Oh you have one of those".......... 😀


Just curious. Full disclosure....I bought one R27 OB

TJsMate

 

[ixlr8]

Seems like Ranger has ventured into a new arena, the outboard as opposed to inboard.
While reception to the OB configuration seems to be very good. I was wondering what "traditional" tug owners think of the new OB configuration? Nice addition to the line up? Too much of a break from tradition? Whatever? Other? Traitors? Cool? About time? "Oh you have one of those".......... 😀


Just curious. Full disclosure....I bought one R27 OB

TJsMate

If you go back and read posts from the last 8-10 months there are lots of comments about them new fangled outboard models. They don't look like tugs, they don't have a proper diesel engine, they don't get good fuel economy, they don't have good range, gas is dangerous to have on board, no good place to put a dinghy.
As one that has a 27OB on order, the only valid complaint I have is, no good place to put a dinghy. For ME, there are so many positives to the OB that I will find someway to deal with the dinghy issue.

 

[dclagett]

Boats are a very personal choice. They all are a compromise, one never gets everything they want and so much depends on how and where you intend to use the boat. I don’t think you will go wrong purchasing any boat from Fluid Motion and it will give you years of excellent service.

If I was going for an outboard boat I would want twin outboards. I had the opportunity to operate on multiple occasions a Grady White 28 with twin outboards and joy stick control. Maneuvering in tight spaces was excellent and it took all the fun out of docking. If you are purchasing new maybe Fluid Motion will do a little mod for you.

Good luck with the new boat

 

[captstu]

Consider parts and service in your decision. Even the new complicated outboards are better than a Diesel inboards. My Yanmar is an orphan engine so parts are chancy. Even before the orphanage, Yanmar will only sell parts thru your local dealer. Helps keep up the price.

Outboards have extensive service and a competitive parts market. Last time my sailboats 5 year old outboard died, they fork lifted a new one in place for about $4k. What does it cost when a block fails on a Diesel?


Stuart Bell
Ranger 25: Shearwater
(561) 352-1796