Caribbean Reef Runner
I’ve sold my beloved 6m Stessl. It was great and tough boat but not quite right for us as a family/fishing rig. It rode hard in the chop (really hard) and has a very narrow waterline for a 6m boat which made it surprisingly tippy. The ride was improved with some ballast (100kg) in the nose but still rough. After only a few months the misses and family were reluctant to go out in less than perfect weather which rarely happens here and as such it became only my hobby. Whilst I enjoy my boys fishing trips, I’d rather have something we can all want to use on other occasions too (plus it makes planning permission much simpler).
I've ordered a new Caribbean Reef Runner Hull from Mansfield Marine that should be here in a few weeks. I'm buying the boat pretty bare and fitting it out myself where I can. I really enjoy that kind of stuff and can save a fair amount of coin along the way. The Reefrunner is a solid performer that ticked all of the boxes (except the wife thinks its ugly) plus the resale value seems to be unrivalled when compared to boats of similar sizes should we ever need to sell it.
Caribbean is providing the Hull on a 2200kg ATM C Channel Easytow trailer (Manual hydraulic brakes on both axles). Options from the factory are:
· Stainless steel Rocket Launcher
· Side Clears
· Starboard (Drivers side only seat slider)
· Bunk Infill Cushions
· Port side swim platform with swim ladder
· Starboard side swim platform (No ladder)
I’ve got to fit bilge pump/s, washdown pump, duel batteries, isolators, carpets/matting, sounder/GPSetc once it arrives.
I also kept my furuno fishfinder, bait board, pot tipper, esky, remote mounted VHF, fenders, EPIRB, flares, lines and accessories from my last boat to refit to the Reefie. It’s amazing how much all those small items add up to if you replace them but nobody seems to considers their value when buying secondhand.
Once in Perth, I’m going to get a Merc 150 4stroke fitted. The Merc 150 seems to be well received within the marketplace with strong performance, good torque, lightweight, decent reliability reports (though only 4 years old) from the commercial sector and well-priced. It’s nearly 4k cheaper than a Yamaha.
These hulls can take up to 200hp but the 150 still gives the Reefie a WOT of 37 knots which Perth weather rarely lets you achieve anyway. A 21knot cruise will give a fuel consumption of around 0.45ltr per KM according to their testing. 500km range @ 40km/hr. I’m still shopping between dealers at the moment so any recommendations are gratefully received.
I’ve managed to pick up a Simrad NSS12 Evo 2 from the fishwrecked classified that I intend to install as my MFD. I planned to use it as the controls for the engine but there is very little saving between the cost of the vesselview link box and the actual Mercury vessel view 4” gauge so I might as well opt for the gauge and the NSS for extra screen realestate.
I already have a Furuno 628 that I had installed on my last boat that I will probably reinstall again. I just need to pickup a transducer (sold with other boat).
I would like to have the 3D downscan on the simrad but that will probably have to wait on the list with an anchor winch, stereo, autopilot, freshwater bladder & pump, solar, rear shade and camper setup for overnighters with the kids.
This boat needs to be as appealing for the family to spend a day on the river or Rotto/Carnac as it is for heading off the westend or the trips up north.
I’m looking at installing twin bilge pumps (1 small auto & 1 monster ebay manual) and a through hull intake whilst I’ve got some room prior to batteries etc.
What are people’s thoughts on the suction/pick-up fitting for a deckwash… A flush fitting would be cleaner and less risk on the trailer but the scoop fitting will enable it to be used whilst going along/heading home however could interfere with the trailer? I also read that the constant pressure against the suction of the pump when going along can cause premature seal failure. Thoughts?
Either option will be stainless with a stainless ball valve directly mounted.
I've trawled this site many times over for ideas and research but please share any ideas or lessons learnt you may have picked up along the way.
I'll add picture as and when they come...
Ricko19
Posts: 52
Date Joined: 27/05/14
Nice one
Nice one, sounds like a nice rig. The only thing I would add is a toilet fitted from factory rather than a porta potti, keep the missus happy!
Mitch88
Posts: 181
Date Joined: 23/09/14
Sounds like a cracker set up
Sounds like a cracker set up and you have most bases covered.
Can back up Ricko19 on the flush mounted electric toilet, will be a absolute win with the Mrs also.
Can also recommend a flush mounted transom shower, super handy and easy to install and set up to a pump. If possible try to have a water tank built in as it looks untidy having jerry cans of water everywhere.
www.jpwmarine.com.au/products/plumbing-toilets/shower-accessories/transom-shower-kits.aspx
Plenty of LED lighting to under the gunnels,coupla floods off the back,lighting in the cabin. Nothing worse then pulling up at night for a BBQ and trying to cook under phone light.
Never had a problem with the forward facing deckwash pick up mine sits on the transom and never damaged a pump,can't comment on the flush mounted pic up sorry.
Think about battery set up to in regards to how many you can fit for house/start batteries, You dont want to be caught short with dead batteries all the time. Last abrohlos trip I had three batteries , two in parrallel for house and never ran low on power. A second boat we had with us was constantly running his engine up to re charge his batteries.
Hope that helps.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Thanks... Planning 210 a/hr
Thanks... Planning 210 a/hr with a dedicated house and motor battery. I will rotated these every 12months. The house battery will be connected to a 80-120w roof mounted Flexi solar panel that will also charge the starter battery providing the voltage is high enough for the VSR to open. Likewise in reverse from the Altenator.
I've got an 18w led flood already to go in but will assess lighting as I get to use it.
I was thinking that a potti would be better for those extended shallow water stays but maybe I need to give that a bit more thought!
Gray
Posts: 140
Date Joined: 10/02/11
Hey mate. Congrats on the new
Hey mate. Congrats on the new boat.
As far as the looks go you either like the classic lines or don't. I reckon theyre great
I have a reef runner. Good hull.
Two things I would recommend
Trim tabs (not essential but definitely worth putting on) Gets the nose down a bit more when punching into chop and makes a difference
I have a 150 yamaha. Great motor but I reckon the reef runner would benefit from a few more horses. In good weather its plenty of power but in a big sea it just seems to bog down more than I would like. Not dangerously just takes a bit more on and off the throttle.
If you haven't already done so, get the new hardtop that has the clears section at the top for air flow. The hardtop is awesome when its gnarly but frickin hot up north
Enjoy
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Tabs are on my wish list.
Tabs are on my wish list. They would have made a big difference to my last boat also.
I spent a fair amount of time reviewing my engine options. I have a mate with a late 90's reefie fitted with a Yam 200 that whilst impressive, I couldn't justify the price difference. I also spoke alot with Aquasport and Mansfield whom fit both and the difference between the 2 (fair weather testing) was only 4knots WOT for 38%/$7.5k premium (even against a fishwrecked sponsor special price). I hope the 3ltr displacement and torque should overcome some of the bogging you refer too. Neither party had any merit in sending me down the Merc route as Mansfield have no skin in the game from an engine perspective & Aquasport sell both.
I know there is no such thing as a free lunch, so it will be what it will be but this setup seemed to be the best comprise on price/performance/weight providing Mercurys "black anchor" reliability reputation is Behind them. Only time will tell...
Stevo81
Posts: 1278
Date Joined: 16/04/12
Those merc 150hp 4-strokes
Those merc 150hp 4-strokes are a strong 150 and comparable to the Suzuki & Yamaha I4-200 in performance from what I've read.
All reports so far indicate it's a great motor with heaps of torque and piss easy to service
•••••••• Electrical Contractor NOR ••••••••
holth
Posts: 812
Date Joined: 09/10/06
Check the regs on your
Check the regs on your trailer. You will only be able to license it in WA with those brakes up to 2T
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
2200kg ATM... 1999kg GTM
2200kg ATM... 1999kg GTM registered in WA. (200kg on the ball of the cruiser). That's the deal anyway. It's a bit of a loophole in the system that will give me enough margin with the reefie that is on its 2T limit with basic essentials and a full tank of fuel. Easytow seem to be the only boat trailer manufacture that have cottoned onto it whilst its been fairly common practice in the racecar trailer industry for some time.
holth
Posts: 812
Date Joined: 09/10/06
Good luck with that
Good luck with that loophole. Hope you never need to rely on it.
reprobait
Posts: 42
Date Joined: 14/12/11
agree
you dont get the 200 kg's on the ball.....they weight the entire trailer as one weight. I know from first hand experience having had mine weighted by transport.
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
If weighed on the jockey wheel
That is the ATM, as per the compliance plate. GTM is weighed with the boat connected, ie some weight on the towball, and they normally allow 200kg. So it is not a loophole per se, it is the standard. This is a picture of the plate on my new trailer
below is the explanation of the two ratings
So, the method of weighing will determine what rating you use. Obviously, you just can't pick the highest number you see on the plate and just go with it.
Now on the subject of brakes, the 1,999kg limit , above which you need a breakaway braking system, is based on the GTM. So Darrens trailer is perfectly compliant, of course, as long as he does not exceed the specified weights.
Chinbald
Posts: 317
Date Joined: 21/02/09
Hardtop Ventilation
Recommend hatches in the roof if you don't have the extended hard top. Not cheap but worth weight in gold on a tropical day. I am running a Whitworths pick up tube to my deckwash works fine. Congratulations on buying a new Reefy, Brand spanking new, you wont be disappointed.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
I didn't go the extended
I didn't go the extended hardtop but it might be something I look at doing later down the line if the need warrants it. Might be a DIY project. Roof vents will defiantly be a consideration and unfortunately the 'new hardtop' with skylights is only for the 2300 & 2400. Those hatches are seriously expensive!
just dhu it
Posts: 1081
Date Joined: 14/05/09
Dash power
despite how many batteries you are installing , ensure you run an oversize cable up to your helm for your electronics and radios , theres plenty of questions on the site why my sounder or radio turns off when starting the motor due to volt drop from rear of boat up to dash , bigger cable will prevent this from occuring
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Thanks
With plans for an anchor winch at some point, I will run suitable/oversized sized power to the dash most likely where the switchgear will be mounted. I have a cousin who has offered me up some fat battery cable he picked up from a leftover job.
Nauti Buoy
Posts: 595
Date Joined: 20/04/09
Hatches
get the hatches fitted in the hardtop to allow some breeze in when it is hot.
Baden01
Posts: 67
Date Joined: 11/10/12
Not a fan of the Merc have
Not a fan of the Merc have you checked out the Suzuki"s
Brocky
Stevo81
Posts: 1278
Date Joined: 16/04/12
Bad experience?
Why's that mate? I"ve only heard great things about Mercs 150 4-stroke?
•••••••• Electrical Contractor NOR ••••••••
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
I've PM'd him to as I've yet
I've PM'd him to as I've yet to hear any negitive feedback based on use of the new motor rather than Merc prior reputation with there early 4strokes.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Wireless Kill Switch
Just ordered the MOB+ wireless kill switch kit from the east coast. I'm the kind of guy who only really thinks to put the kill switch on in hairy conditions so I think this will be a worthy investment. After watching how lucky oldmate was in Exmouth on Sunday night and the fact that I have been known to pull puts and fish solo if the deckie lets me down then this should be a solid $300 investment. The system can be bypassed by pressing and holding for 10 seconds if you happen to forget your fob.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4syNjrNQL0
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
It's here...
After a couple of weeks delay in the factory, I finally got word that the Reef Runner was finished last week and loaded onto a truck heading West on Monday morning.
The guys at Mansfield have been fantastic to deal with throughout the process. We've made several small changes to the boat and trailer along the way and they've keep in communication the entire time. I only had time to grab a few quick snaps this morning before dropping it off at Aquasport in Midland to get the motor fitted. Because of the delay its turned into a rush to have it ready in time for Easter.
On inspection at handover it became clear that I was going to struggle to mount all of the behind the scenes electronics without drilling multiple hose through the bulk head. Coby showed me a photo of that they had recent done with a 2300 by mounting a piece of carpeted ply to the cabin side of the bulkhead. Once finally home and with the kids in bed at 8pm, I headed off to the green shed to pick up some 12mm marine ply. I'd only thrown some out 6months ago that I'd probably had in the garage for 3 years! Anyway, Mansfield had given me an offcut of Caribbean carpet so I cut, glued, carpeted and mounted using an existing fixing and three new SS machine screws that fitted in an area concealed behind the helm. Job done by 10pm ready to head off to Aquasport at 7am. I'm really happy with the boat in the little time I've had to take it all in. The finish is excellent and attention to details has exceeded my expectations or other experiences. I had been concerned that I would have size envy as I was considering the 2300 at the same time but my fears are gone. It's amazing how much bigger a 6.4m Reed Runner is compared to my previously supposedly 6m Stessl. I've opted to remove the passanger seat icebox to provide maximum fishable deck space but have plans for some other removable seating for family ordinated trips. The trailer looks really good although again I've not spend much time going over it. I'm so pleased Easytow offered a full C channel option ensuring with a bit of preventative maintenance, it'll still be around in 20years time! We did have a drama with one of the rear roller guides not fully tighten, but to Mansfields/Easytows credit they had a solution and plan in place by 9.30am this morning...
pelagicyachts
Posts: 1322
Date Joined: 23/02/11
did they not fit the swim
did they not fit the swim ladder?
interesting trailer - is it bunk at the rear and roller at the front? -
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Swin Ladder
No, Caribbean only offer a 2 step top folding ladder from the factory. We ordered with it not being fitted and Mansfield have upgraded it to a 3 step underneath mount. They are just machining up some poly spacers so I can mount it.
Yes, trailer is full drive on with bunk and keel rollers with two extra rollers at the front. It has the drive on V guides along the length of the trailer with a batwing entry guide at the rear.
pelagicyachts
Posts: 1322
Date Joined: 23/02/11
nice one interesting trailer
nice one
interesting trailer set up - I have only ever seen full bunk or full rollers, I have had full bunk and its terrible unless you can float on or off on a deep ramp so the keel rollers obviously alleviate that problem
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Trailer
Heres a video from easytows' Facebook page of a identically setup bunk, keel & front roller setup on a runabout. It seem to centre nicely. I added the rear guides on mine for solo launches where there isn't a jetty and a current or side wind.
www.facebook.com/Easytowboattrailers/videos/1486366778041362/
timmy k (not verified)
Posts: 16
Date Joined: 01/01/70
sweet rig
what donk did you end up choosing for it?
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Merc 150... By all accounts
Double post
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Merc 150... By all accounts
Merc 150... By all accounts it goes like a 175 and is only slight down at top end on a Yammi 200.
timmy k (not verified)
Posts: 16
Date Joined: 01/01/70
Nice!
was there a big difference in price compared to yammie? or even other brands? i've seen a few mercs on the back of boats more often now so they must be doing something right.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
nearly $4k difference for a
nearly $4k difference for a like for like with the Yammi. (Flush control & smart gauge)
3ltr Merc has a bucket of torque and mercs approach to DIY basic service/maintenance was a winner for me. I could have got a Honda for the same price (current special) but much heavier and older technology plus alloy prop.
Suzuki 140 would have been cheaper but underpowered really being a 2ltr but the jump up to the 150 puts it near the Yammi pricing.
timmy k (not verified)
Posts: 16
Date Joined: 01/01/70
shit thats a big differnce
thats 4 grand worth of sounder and fishing gear you can buy now
Dale
Posts: 7930
Date Joined: 13/09/05
Bloody nice boat Darren, must admit, I'm a fan of the Caribbean also.
"Just because you are a Character, Doesn't mean you have Character."
Mr Wolf
Stevo81
Posts: 1278
Date Joined: 16/04/12
Very nice mate! Must be
Very nice mate! Must be hanging to get her on the water, outboard run in and some fish on that nice new deck
•••••••• Electrical Contractor NOR ••••••••
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
Mate, this thread is better
Mate, this thread is better than watching porn. Love Caribeans and you must be absolutely fanging to get her in the water!
Let me know how the MOB+ goes as I am getting sick of my kill switch lanyard getting tangled around the steering wheel and I'm keen to get a sensor for each of the kid's life jackets.
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
MOB+
Thanks,
Re the MOB+… It didn’t come! They cancelled the order only a few days after I posted about it. Apparently they are reworking the frequency to meet some US standards so the new model won’t be available until May. I might hold off until I hear some reports of the new ones, mind you, I only heard good reviews of the older frequencies so I doubt it was a reliability issue.
richie68
Posts: 165
Date Joined: 07/08/11
Hi Mate, Spoke to you
Hi Mate,
Spoke to you yesterday at the ramp. Hope she went well on her maiden journey. I have a Caribbean Intruder 20ft and it has been an awesome boat. How did the Merc go? and more important , did you catch any fish?
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Thanks for coming to say hi
Thanks for coming to say hi mate...
Picked it up on Thursday evening. Worked until 11pm installing the Simrad, VHF and wiring to the switchboard. I must say I was pretty disappointed after paying someone to install a motor and duel batteries to find they didn't bother running power to the switchboard so I had no lights, pump etc... We're not talk small change here and I consider myself lucky I'm more than capable of doing it myself, even if it was it the dark at 10pm at night. Cutting the dash was a mission! That stuff was tough as nails and chewed through 3 jigsaw blades.
Yep, all went well with the test. I've got a couple of trailer adjustments to make but other than that it was happy days. The anchor was catching on the bow roller on launch so that will need adjusting down. I've still got to remount the second rear guide also. The hull was fantastic and chop that would have me cringing in the Stessl just seemed to disappear without a trace.
The motor went really well. I need to get it out on some flat water to test the WOT as I think it may be slightly over propped. It's running an 18" at the min (which was recommended) and I had 37.2knots at WOT but that was at around 5200rpm. The water wasn't really flat enough to fine tune the trim and we had 3 big blokes in there. The manual says its range is 5000-5800 so I'd like WOT to be up towards the 5500/5600rpm. At 4000rpm it was doing 28knots using 0.5l/km. Happy days! It seems slightly louder than my Honda was but that could be the acoustics of the hard top
We got into the salmon action out at mewstones. We gave the boat carpark a wide birth and instead scouted out our own school only 500m away from the masses. 4 other boats joined us and it was great fun. A couple of guys were fishing fly and absolutely smashing it. We got 4 or 5 in the boat and lost just as many... My rear swim platform cost me my first fish, thankfully it was only a salmon not a dhuie!
barracuda
Posts: 217
Date Joined: 01/09/13
price of hull
how much is the hull, as you bought it. nice work putting it all together
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
PM sent
PM sent
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Prop Selection Help
Did some testing on the river today... It turns out that Aquasport would normally install a 14.25 x 17" Mercury Enertia SS prop but they only had a 18" in stock when fitting my boat.
The 150 has a WOT range of 5000-5800rpm. The boat was fairly light with only 125 ltrs of fuel and 3 guys on Friday in light/moderate chop and solo (130kg) today in the river. on Friday i reached 37.2 knots at a WOT of around 5200rpm. The motor was fairly neutrally trimmed and not trimmed out due to the conditions. Today i managed to get just on 5500rpm producing 40.3knots at ideal trim using 0.74ltr per KM. This blew my mind being a 6.4m fiberglass boat with only a 150hp donk! At 4000rpm 28kt using 0.52ltr/km which is very economical.
Aquasport are going to give me a 17" prop to try and do some testing next week. I'm interested to see how the midrange and topped economy compares.
What are peoples experience with WOT on a fairly empty boat vs loaded with say an extra 300kg of people & fuel? My thinking is that dropping to the 17" will give me another 150-200rpm at WOT so i'll be closer to the upper limit when unloaded but probably around 5400-5500 with full tanks and a couple of people onboard?
Have people experienced any problems running a prop closer to the lower end of the WOT range?
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Video
Not working
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
I'd be going for the lower pitch
Those numbers are nice, but, in perfect conditions ideal trim and lightly loaded, you really should be seeing your upper limit. As you are still 300 rpm short of that, I would at least try the 17" and fill the fuel and have something close to a more normal load. If you can't get passengers to participate, use a heap of 20 litre containers of water, 20kg each, and even try moving them around the boat. The human type ballast is easier, though.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Weekend progress between family time, kids sports & swimming!
No boating this weekend... Finished off the deck tread flooring this afternoon. Plenty of time with a 1m steel rule & square this weekend!
During the week i finished mounting the behind the scenes electronic and installed the autopilot. I scored the NSS12 and 3D structure scan from the fishwrecked economy! Still need to mount the 3D transducer. Not really impressed with the 26mm hole that is required to pass the plug through the transom. I'm looking at going through the well instead.
gerrit
Posts: 26
Date Joined: 26/04/10
New Boat
Hi Darren
Congrats with the new boat it looks good happy fishing days coming up.
Stevo81
Posts: 1278
Date Joined: 16/04/12
Coming along nicely mate.
Coming along nicely mate. What trannys you running? Why transom mount instead of thru hull?
•••••••• Electrical Contractor NOR ••••••••
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
No real room in a reef runner
No real room in a reef runner for a decent in/through hull setup. I've only got the 3D structure scan for the Simrad and then need to decide what to do for a finder. I've got a Furuno 628 that I ran on the last boat. The fuel tanks and kill tanks run pretty much the length of the deck apart from a small rear bilge area (+/- 200mm) at the back, but that will be full by the time I add a water pickup with all of the existing hoses and bilge pump etc.
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
Love it. For some reason I
Love it. For some reason I just remembered I need to check my Sat lotto ticket...
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Update
Just dumped photobucket and changed over to imgur for image hosting... Pretty user friendly!
Been ticking away at the projects and emptying the bank account over the past few months. Built a rear canopy frame using 7/8" stainless. I actually had a lot of frustrations with this project as I had a kickass design that I initially went with that would give me full shade without the uprights but unfortunately that could only be mounted under the rear of the hardtop and it was just 50mm too low for comfort.
I ended up with a mark2 version that has rear uprights around the bait table. A compromise but it is now solid as a rock! It worked out quite economical with the fittings coming from ebay/china and tube direct from Stirling Stainless at $6 per metre. Canning motor trimmers did an awesome job for me on the cover/canvas work at very short notice... Highly recommended.
Also mounted the 3D and TM150 chirp transducer. Still tweaking position but haven't really had the weather of late to do any real fishing/testing. 3D Image of D9 in the Cockburn sound on my first pass after installing the structurescan. Pretty happy at aabout 7 knots. You can clearly see the bridge.
3 Step undermount ladder installed using starboard spacers. Also installed a Lewmar anchor winch on the bow which was a nerve-racking experience. 115mm hole saw demanded measure 5 times, cut once. Gone through plenty of sealant, resin and sikaflex in our hose of late!
Heading to Denham for 10days on Friday! Roll on an pray from some decent weather!
gruntre69
Posts: 533
Date Joined: 15/10/16
Hi Darren,I'm interested to
Hi Darren,
I'm interested to know what prop you went with?
I have the same motor on a Cruisecraft 5.75 outsider. The previous owner did the repower with Hitech marine and they installed a 17P enertia. I have only ever been able to get 5300 max out of it no matter what the conditions or trim. I reckon it's over propped as I too would prefer to be at the upper end of vthe range as per Merc recommendations. I've raised this with Hitech and all I will say on it is you did well using Aquasport.
I don't seem to have any problems with the engine and it is pretty good on fuel however I have the feeling it would be better with a smaller prop. 16 or even a 15 Enertia. Just make sure you take the thermostat housing off on each service, I found the start of corrosion around this oring. I also found corrosion starting in the lower unit mating surfaces when doing the impella at 200 hrs. Impella was perfect but it's the corrosion that needs to be kept in check mostly. My oil drain plug was almost seized too on the same service, I took it out altogether and sorted it out, re-installing with antisieze. This motor is still under warranty with 220 hrs.
I have a spreadsheet I did on the engine numbers if you want to look at it.
Blood nice boat mate! You must be stoked!
What sounder did you end up with. I have gen1 Simrad and a Vesselview 7 on mine installed by Hitech, I'm having problems with that gear too and with a P66 it is not adequate for fishing but more cruising sounder. I'm keeping my options open until this new Axiom pro from Raymarine is released later this year.
Marine trimmer NOR (available for clears, tops, carpet, upholstery, custom equipment covers)
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Over a 2month period,
Over a 2month period, Aquasport lent me a 17" & 18" Enertia props for testing. I did river testing for optimum performance with 225ltr of fuel and 2 adults and surprisingly I maxed out at 5500rpm on both the 17" & 18". The 17" producing 38.4 knots and the 18" 40.3 knots. I too did a spreadsheet of side by side comparisons in 500rpm increments.
I've ended up keeping the 18" for a few reasons, WOT at optimum trim was equal, I'm rarely going to be upwards of 4500rpm in WA conditions, it gave me 0.04ltr/km better fuel economy throughout the majority of the rev range excluding WOT which was equal consumption. Thanks for the heads up re corrosion, I will ensure to do a full check at 100hrs.
Regarding sounder, I'm running the NSSEVO2 with a Chrip TM150 & 3D Structure Scan. Still pretty early days but I'm pretty happy with it so far.
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
Did you end up re-propping?
??
Australiamaid
Posts: 210
Date Joined: 12/11/12
looks very nice
looks like a very nice set up mate ..how are u finding the simrad..?
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
and did you end up getting
and did you end up getting the MOB+?
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Your post prompted me to chase up again...
Nope, they are being released on the market again on the 1st September apparently... Narrower frequency band to comply with some USA maritime regulation.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Simrad is cracking so far.Not
Simrad is cracking so far.
Not really used the sounder much but looking forward to tweaking and fine tuning next week in shark bay. Very impressed with Maps, Autopilot and 3D structurescan results, do need to be going fairly slow with motor trimmed out to get a decent 3D result though. Also added the WIFI unit so I have an old Gen1 Ipad that can be mounded on the baitboard showing the sounder display.
gruntre69
Posts: 533
Date Joined: 15/10/16
Yes, this thread prompted me
Yes, this thread prompted me to have a look at the Mob+ also. There is a mobe in Freo who are importing but that have no stock. They are selling for around $350.
Quite expensive. I'm probably favouring a PLB which I have also take out on my dirt bike.. Amazon selling for US$189 but will need a USA contact or expiditing service to get hold of Amazon stuff.
Marine trimmer NOR (available for clears, tops, carpet, upholstery, custom equipment covers)
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
We could do a multi order to
We could do a multi order to bring down postage
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
gruntre69
Posts: 533
Date Joined: 15/10/16
Jack, I don't think it has
Jack, I don't think it has the MOB function that you are thinking for multiple users at once (your kids). it can only operate with one paired fob at one time, so it only protects the driver and is purely an extention or replacement for the lanyard type kill switch.
Marine trimmer NOR (available for clears, tops, carpet, upholstery, custom equipment covers)
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
Yeah I've since found that
Yeah I've since found that out. I really want it for when I'm solo more than anything
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
gruntre69
Posts: 533
Date Joined: 15/10/16
New thread
Maybe a new thread is a good idea rather than Hijacking Darren's awesome vessel thread. I think you'd get a few takers on a group buy from Amazon. I agree that it is solo missions where this is useful but I still think that a personal locator is better value. If you are heading downwind in a 12 kn wind, even if the engine stops say 20 meters away, you'd most likely not be able to swim as fast as the boat will drift away. If you have a PLB attached to your inflatable jacket or yourself, you are looking much better for a speedy recsue... If money was no object, I would of course have both.
I hate the lanyard kill switch but I do use it when travelling a long distance solo... I have a Sat phone for sale and as soon as it sells I'm buying a PLB..
Something like this
www.whitworths.com.au/main_itemdetail.asp
Marine trimmer NOR (available for clears, tops, carpet, upholstery, custom equipment covers)
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
I've got this one, easily
I've got this one, easily fits in my pocket but I wear it on my jacket when solo www.whitworths.com.au/main_itemdetail.asp
Sorry Daz, last post that isn't to do with your boat aka my dream boat
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Don't worry lads, I’m not
Don't worry lads, I’m not precious with my thread!
I’ve received a couple of request for info about my canopy frame. Most of the fittings came from eBay China. Take 3 weeks to arrive but are approximately $7 each landed. If you search for 7/8 stainless bimini it brings up quite a range. Example: m.ebay.com.au/itm/2PCS-Eye-End-7-8-Bimini-Canopy-Hardware-Fittings-Marine-316-Stainless-Steel-/282282811239
The entire frame is assembled using grub screws and locktight. Now the canvas is on it is really solid. The rear support legs are mounted using a stainless bimini side mount and tube-end fittings.
The roof is mounted using a stainless deck mount and also a tube end fitting. I did originally have the roof mount on the same mount as the rear but there was too much side to side flex. To stiffen up the who thing i packed the deck fitting with stainless washers to get a real tight fit and remove any play.
tmb
Posts: 2
Date Joined: 29/08/17
Canopy and Bimini cover
Hi Daz
Very impressed with your DIY fitout to the reefie. I have a 2008 model with softtop and 150 4 stroke Yammie. Would agree with comments that in heavy sees with too many fat bastards, the boat gets booged down, but no power issues in good conditions.
I have some questions/comments about the bimini/canopy. Our canopy is wearing out but has done well for 10 years use, zippers and edges have frayed. Hardtop is too low and add on cost now would be too much, so will replace the canopy. The clears are still in good shape, but canvas and zippers are not, though we could limp along with a tatty canopy for a while, we will get a new canopy and as I really liked your bimini, look at doing same/similar and hoping to be able to remove/add as required.
Since you are handy enough to do work on the glass, canopy frames etc, why did you not do the cover on the bimini yourself? I am not as handy as yourself, but might attempt the bimini frame as you have done - I assume that using rod holders/baitboard holes are not tight/stable enough, so you attached specific fittings? You used canopy guys to do the work, do they do mobile, or did you take your boat in and what $ did the canvas work cost? I am expecting the canopy will cost a few grand and to specialised so no chance of doing this DIY? Used a canopy guy in 2005 on a previous boat in Wanneroo who did a good job.
Boat is used mostly for cray diving, limited and relatively unsuccessful fishing, some family boating on river, rotto, inshore, nothing up north but possible.
Cheers
Trevor
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Knowing your limitations....
Trevor,
It's all about knowing your limitations and mine certainly stop at a sewing machine. I grew up around cars, boats, bodywork so more than happy to have a go mechanically (but I can't weld for sh*t), but canvas sewing is a black art that I’m not up to and it requires some pretty expensive gear.
I used canning motor trimmers to do the canvas work. The canopy (less frame) was about $1,000 and I paid about the same again to enclose all 3 sides a few months later. They had the boat for 2 days. Once the canvas went on, there is no movement at all. It really is rock solid. I did what I could to make the frame as rigid as possible but the canvas taught the structure really well.
Regarding the motor, with 5 adults and 100ltr if fuel last weekend we managed 37.3kts.
Best of luck!
Darren
tmb
Posts: 2
Date Joined: 29/08/17
Thanks
Hi Darren
Thanks for the reply, as I live north I will use Boat Canopies WA in Wangara, see if we can save the existing clears, and see what they offer in terms of bimini and make the decision later. Thanks also for such comprehensive posting on your boat and its toys, really good perspective on what and how can be done. I really like the reefie, upgraded from a voyager 5.5, nice boat but too small for easier run to Rotto. Looked at Southwinds and Commodore 670 as options. Lack of walkaround on these two sealed the deal for the reefie but also wanted the Caribbean quality and name for use and eventual resale (for when I get the Caribbean 35 - in my dreams).
Good winds
Trevor
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
Thread resurrection
As I said in the post where the bloke was looking at Haines, Cruise Craft, etc--been looking at the Reef Runner from Mansfields. I don't live in Perth and don't get down very often, so I can't really just wander into their yard for a look. Not that they would necessarily have one in stock anyway.
Just a couple of things I am pondering over. I noticed there appear to be transom holes drilled for motor mounting. Do you specify what you are going to fit in your order and they pre-drill before leaving the factor?. Are the holes internally sealed? And the deck--is the standard a fibreglass non-slip, or is it really necessary to install a covering of some kind? I personally dislike carpet, because it stays wet, collects blood, and smells no matter how well you hose it down. I found it needed a really thorough detergent and wet vaccuum at least once a year, even if you were careful with killing in a tub.
I like the underfloor storage which fits up between the seats, but they look too small to kill pelagics in--can you recall if there was an option for a single, larger one, or is there some structural member running below decks which precludes this? And do they drain into the under-deck direct?
Have you looked at fitting a pot tipper and electric capstan? Coaming looks "just " wide enough to accommodate a capstan aft of the recessed rails, do you think it is solid enough? Did you get either of the transom lockers plumbed up as a live well? I notice you didn't take the option of the transom door--exxy?
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Ranmar,You're welcome to
Ranmar, You're welcome to check over mine anytime you’re in Perth providing i'm in town.
Transom Holes - Yes, the holes were predrilled but fully sealed. I "assumed" all motors have the same holes for a certain size. Whilst Mansfield knew i was going to put the Merc on, I don’t believe Caribbean did.
Deck - The deck is non slip fibreglass as standard. I went for the deck tread to soften it under foot, help keep it clean as i find the non slip surface attracts dirt to stick to it but mostly protect it from impact damage/chips etc from craypots, dropping pliers etc.
Kill Tanks - Underfloor storage is one piece tank with a divider creating 2 lockers. I'm pretty sure you could get it made as one if ordering new from the factory but the divider is there for floor support more than anything so you'll probably need some kind of support there. They both drain directly to the bilge but are individually sealed from each other. Mine are 700mm long and 990mm on the diagonal. We've had a 1.2m fish in there without any issues (although i didn't have to fillet it with a curve) but for larger catches i have a large madfish bag kept under the front bunk (Not needed it yet)
Pot tipper - I will be fitting a pot tipper within the next few weeks ready for crazy town in the sound. I had planned on a winch but i wouldn't fit in the gunnels. I would use one of the removable type frames. There are plenty of photos on Gumtree of these fitted to Reef Runners. 3 separate places have all quoted me $300 for the fabrication. No issue with the gunnels strength, but room is the issue. Mine will be going midship.
Livewell - No, i still have a deckwash to install and i will setup a live well drain in one of them, but just run the hose through occasionally to freshen up the water. I've never fished with livies yet. mostly gets used for bait defrosting.
Door - Wasn't an option when i built mine. Mansfield built that themselves especially for the boat show 2017. I'm not a massive fan of it. I would rather have the extra locker and back rest for the rear seat. I did install a 3step ladder mounted under the swim platform. Much better for climbing out.
On the show boat they also installed larger swim platforms which are fine for a family ski boat, but I’m sure they would get in the way when fishing. I've lost too fish early on to the standard sized ones before I learnt to keep them away at all costs.
I also didn't bother with the esky seat on the passenger side either. I didn't like how it pushed up the passenger front seat and decided i would rather have the flexible deck space. I intend to fit some flexible seating for family river trips.
We also use a small madfish bag as a esky for food and drink. Greater flexibility and we can take it with us on the beach/camping.
Gonad Man
Posts: 51
Date Joined: 21/11/13
Transon door / Large Swim Platforms
IMO are a great addition to the reefie. It was my boat that was in the boat show. Haven't had a problem at all with the larger swim platforms getting in the way when fishing and they make getting in / out of the water a hell of a lot easier and definitely give a move stable feeling when there's a bit of chop around. Same goes with the transom door, I found on my last reefie that I didn't really use the back seats or locker so opted to have the door fitted on one side and a live bait tank on the other with the seat / backrest in front. One of the best moves I made with the boat, access so much easier through the door without having to step over the hull. A lot easier getting XL fish on board also without having to lift them over the side.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Congrats... It’s certainly a
Congrats... It’s certainly a nice boat.
I would have opted for the raised screen if it was an option when I built mine but at 182cm the height is not a issue for me, just my regular deckie. Really nice flooring! I guess its all about fitting it out for how you use it. Our boat needs to be as much of a family cruiser with 6 onboard as a fishing weapon. If I was a diver I could see the benefit, but i’m too chicken to dive in metro waters
. What was to cost of the door and large platforms upgrade? Do you have trim tabs fitted?
Was it you who was having trouble with the transom mount transducer on FB? If so, Did you get it resolved?
Gonad Man
Posts: 51
Date Joined: 21/11/13
Raised screen sure makes a big difference with all round
visibility and saves you from ever having to crouch down at the helm. Mind you its pretty easy to stay seated with the ride that the reefies give. I think the trans door is usually upward of 2k and the larger swim platforms about 1k. Would not have gone with either if not for a heavily reduced price offered as part of inclusions for the boat show boat. I don't have trim tabs fitted as don't really find them necessary, I'm happy with how it rides in most conditions and don't really find it ever leans excessively so saved the $ on them for other options.
Finally got the TM260 sorted enough to read well up to about 23knts. Raised it slightly and changed the angle a few times and now pretty happy with it.
Also use mine as a family cruiser / ski boat but 80% of the time its somewhere between 40-100km out bottom bashing.
Like the led light you changed out the helm light with. Can you flick me through the ebay details so I can order one the same?
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/1
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/12V-2-2W-Marine-Boat-Transom-LED-Light-Anchor-Stern-Navigation-Lamp-White/172855109605
I’m only really interested in trim tabs to get the nose down into chop a bit more when the chop is tightly packed/peaky. No real side to side roll issues. I found a foil was also effective at doing this but has downsides when being in a following sea.
Or I could just slow down
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
Thanks for the reply
There is a picture of an Anchormax like mine installed on the coaming behind the helm position on a 2300 on their website, so I guess the 2300 has wider coamings than the Reefie.
backlash
Posts: 335
Date Joined: 12/10/10
Seating
G'day - beaut boat !
who did the seating that attach to the side pockets /
how much did it cost if it's okay to ask ?
cancel that - just found out later in the thread :)
Thanks
Dave
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
Got into Preview mode, couldn't get out
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
The drains are to the main
The drains are to the main bilge under the deck, I tend to have 10-20ltrs of water in there keeping everything wet and clean just from deckwash. When i pull the boat out I drain the bilge, reinstall the drain plug and then wash down with fresh water. I let it fill up with fresh water and the remove the drain plug once more for the trip home. Those are the seats mansifield have made. I've seen them in person in a second-hand reefrunner they had for sale and will get some, but @ $600 for one or $1000 for two it wasn’t a cheap option. Might see what Canning Motor Trimmers can come up with.
Shik
Posts: 31
Date Joined: 30/03/13
Hi Ranmar where is that
Hi Ranmar where is that image with the seating from?
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
From Mansfields website
mansfieldmarine.com.au/mansfieldmarine/boats-for-sale/new/power-boats/caribbean-2300/208697/ Things have been really quiet at work, spent a lot of time on the net
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Last day of the season... Bag out - Rotto breakfast by 9am!
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
Did you end up installing
Did you end up installing your MOB+ Daz? I have the new model coming from the USA hopefully arriving mid week.
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Nope, Not yet!
I will probably order one from the US soon... I've just landed a house reno project to funds and time are (and will remain) poor for the immediate future.
I did get a call from a Perth vendor stating they were in stock now but at $360+++. How many fobs did you order?
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
Just the one that's included
Just the one that's included as it was the last one in the guy's store and he didn't have fobs. I'll just buy extra ones locally as I require them as it's only the difference of $20 and Fell Marine don't post to Australia through Amazon so I need to also pay Shipito to on send it.
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
Jackfrost80
Posts: 8141
Date Joined: 07/05/12
Just finished installing mine
Just finished installing mine then. Pretty simple installation but the only issue is that it flashes a pretty bright green every few seconds when it's connected which may be an issue at night as I've installed it in the dash next to my gauges. Won't be too hard to fit a cover if need be if it's an issue though.
Officially off the Pies bandwagon
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Pot tipper
Fitted the pot tipper this evening. I've had all the gear for a while but wanted to be 100% on position before pointing the holesaw at the fibreglass!
The tipper is the fishwise unit that I had installed on my prior boat. The rod holders are installed with stainless M6 countersunk machine screws with large stainless washers and plenty of Sikaflex. The combings are 15mm solid fibreglass and pretty solid. The tipper and bait board have the same leg spacing so i can have the bait board over on one side if needed or for cooking a BBQ etc.
I also upgraded the deck light to an LED unit from ebay... 75% more light for less amps using the exact same housing.
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
Tidy.
Looks like you have a trip on the tipper to stop it smacking over if the weight on the rope is angled too far forward or aft? Good idea, and necessary for safety if your roller is above the pivot point. And a full width roller as well, makes it a lot easier to get it up the last little bit and pivot over without loading the capstan to stalling by choking down the bridle.
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Sleeping
Started to play around with sleeping arrangements last night... We are planning on our first overnighter soon at Parker Point.
I had intended to get the kids some of the ARB junior swags but after testing last night, it looks like full-size ones might even be the go... Pleased I decided to drop the inbuilt ice box for the extra deck space/flexibility. I can sleep on the deck in my swag now leaving the Mrs and kids in the cabin.
Going to get Canning Motor Trimmers to finish of the full camper to match rear shade also. Will be nice to have some flexibility to close in some/all of the walls for shade and to keep mozzies away. Also want to get a flyscreen made up to go across the front hatch so we can sleep in the cabin with the hatch open.
Would appreciate any feedback anyone has from spend overnight trips on a trailer boat with kids! I really want this to work...
Rob H
Posts: 5795
Date Joined: 18/01/12
kids on board...
Go back thru all my Abrolhos ones
A difficulty that always pops up is wet decks, takes time to dry and as the sun goes down takes longer and longer, kids sleepier and sleepier
I have a small TV to plug the hard drive in so they can watch a movie or the days gopro shit etc
Keeps them out of your hair in the cabin to nod off while you enjoy the quiet evening having a tipple
In the cabin I just made up squab covers out of old sheets so they only need to throw a doona or one sleeping bag over them all, takes up no room compared to swags etc
Pull the covers off every couple of trips to wash
Give a man a mask, and he'll show you his true face...
The older you get the more you realize that no one has a f++king clue what they're doing.
Everyone's just winging it.
J Mann
Posts: 47
Date Joined: 02/09/15
Overnighting
Nice rig Darren! I was very close to getting a Reef Runner and have been watching your post with interest. I ended up getting a 2nd hand Cruisecraft Outsider 595 which is a similar size etc. We overnight at Rotto with 5 & 7 year old. I sleep on the deck and it works well with the kids and wife in the cabin.
Reckon your boat will do it easily, especially with all the fruit you have on it. We prefer to get a beach mooring pen or jetty pen wherever possible as you avoid issues with the anchor dragging overnight. Sleep easier when you know you aren't going anywhere and aren't banging into anyone.
Also make a list of what to take and refine it over time. 6m boat can get very small if you take everything you might need.
Happy days!!
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Nothing original here but
Nothing original here but added a dimmable touch LED Blue/White LED cabin light to the hardtop and a double stainless drinks holder to the dash. These are identical to those offered by a dealer here but i source the items from Amazon/ebay directly at a fraction of the cost. Lighting should never be a problem again now!
Darren253
Posts: 570
Date Joined: 23/07/16
Through Hull
Zipped on my man suit this afternoon and set to work on installing the through hull scoop for the deck wash/live well after inspiration from the other thread regarding a flexible freshwater tank. For anyone that has owned or played with a Reef Runner you will know that there is 1/5th of f*ck all room in the bilge to play with. It's a job i've been holding back for a while now but have had all the stuff for months...
I rocked the boat back 200mm on the keel rollers to give me some room, which was surprisingly easy. Drilled a pilot hole from the inside using a 3mm drill followed by a hole saw from the underside. Bevelled the edges using some 80grit, clean it up with acetone and gave it a solid coat of resin to seal it and dry overnight.
ranmar850
Posts: 2702
Date Joined: 12/08/12
Terrifying.
I hate putting points of potential failure in a hull. On the subject of holes in the hull, I don't think I could see a drain bung for the deck area in your earlier pics? Just the under deck drain. Don't they have provision to drain out the drop-down area at the very rear against the transom, like most sealed decks?