www.iFourWinns.com

For as long as we've had our Seadoo RXP we've towed it behind our 328 at every speed imaginable. We simply put a 'tube' line on one cleat and go. First it runs in the center of the wake and once we get past about 25 mph it rides in the curl. In rough water, high or low speeds we've never had a problem and can pretty much forget about it. Even though the Seadoo weighs close to 900 Lbs you can barely tell you're pulling something. I'm sure I lose a couple mph but don't really care.

We now want to buy a 17-20' runabout to bring along with us every where we go and yes, I want to tow it behind. I've been considering only outboard powered boats since they are usually about 500 Lbs lighter than an I/O and I want NO additional maintenance/winterization work to do. I've been looking at the Glastron GT180, Checkmate 2000BRX, and Ebbtibe 188SE (not considering the FW OB due to 130 HP limit) and these weigh 1900, 1800, and 2200 Lbs respectively. I can tilt the OB completely out of the water to tow but I'm wondering if this is a pipe dream. If I can't do this, I might as well consider some of the other larger I/O's.

For reference, I have towed the Seadoo and another Yamaha Waverunner without too much challenge. Started to feel the drag. Do you think this is a) legal (in TN) and b) not too hard on the 328 or runabout? I hate the thought of spending $30-40K only to find out this wasn't a good idea. I seriously doubt I can arrange for a dealer to let me 'try' doing this before buying a boat.

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2014 Vista V435
2011 Glastron GT180
2013 Sea Doo RXT-260

I have never heard or seen this done. What comes to mind is weight!! Also "to buy a 17-20' runabout" should be about 1,800 to 2,500lbs, yes?? That a lot of stress on the cleats!!!!!! What happens when its time to slow down!!! If you slow down TOO fast, thats a lot of boat to hit you in the stern!!!