This may seem an odd question, but I have been thinking that I would like to import a 280 SS to Australia, and I am just not sure whether to look for a single or twin engine set up. I am restricted by weight in that I cannot import anything above 4.5t total weight including trailer (and I am looking for a boat with a good trailer). So, I am looking for no later model, I think, than 2004 (I think the weight goes up after that). I am also a bit restricted by price since the exchange rate is not good at the moment. Also, by my calculation I cannot import a boat with an arch, since it is too high for my present shed and I would have to build another shed.
But the real question is single or twin engine? Twin looks like it would be better for manoeuvrability and reliability, but single looks to me like it would be easier to tow (500kg less) and much easier to service the engine. How does one change spark plugs, for example, on the two facing banks of the V8s in a twin engine set up? Looks like it would be difficult. And even getting to the outside banks does not look all that easy. The two engines seem (from pictures at least - I cannot see a 280 SS in real life here - none advertised for sale) to fill pretty well most of the available space. So how do you do it?
I would probably normally use a boat shop to do the maintenance, but even so, there may be times when I would want to do some of my own.
I like my 1997 271 Fastech with single 454 Magnum (though I have been thinking of repowering it and/or replacing the Bravo 1 with a Bravo 3 for better hole shot), but the 280SS seems to have a lot better layout for what we use a boat for. I like the steps up to the front deck, anchor locker, double helm seat, enclosed head, larger double bed, fridge shower. So, would really like to try to get a 280 SS to Australia, but perhaps the biggest question I have is whether I should import a twin or a single engine boat.
I have also had no success so far emailing sellers, even if they are dealers. They don't seem to reply. I guess I might have to try ringing them directly.
But the real question is single or twin engine? Twin looks like it would be better for manoeuvrability and reliability, but single looks to me like it would be easier to tow (500kg less) and much easier to service the engine. How does one change spark plugs, for example, on the two facing banks of the V8s in a twin engine set up? Looks like it would be difficult. And even getting to the outside banks does not look all that easy. The two engines seem (from pictures at least - I cannot see a 280 SS in real life here - none advertised for sale) to fill pretty well most of the available space. So how do you do it?
I would probably normally use a boat shop to do the maintenance, but even so, there may be times when I would want to do some of my own.
I like my 1997 271 Fastech with single 454 Magnum (though I have been thinking of repowering it and/or replacing the Bravo 1 with a Bravo 3 for better hole shot), but the 280SS seems to have a lot better layout for what we use a boat for. I like the steps up to the front deck, anchor locker, double helm seat, enclosed head, larger double bed, fridge shower. So, would really like to try to get a 280 SS to Australia, but perhaps the biggest question I have is whether I should import a twin or a single engine boat.
I have also had no success so far emailing sellers, even if they are dealers. They don't seem to reply. I guess I might have to try ringing them directly.
