engine on 230/236 - Excalibur v ZR-6

[MorganMac]

Seriously considering a 230/236 and would like opinions on the Excalibur v ZR-6.

My local delaer only orders Excalibur engines. They install a 'power prop' standard. My usual boating locations are not at altitude, but I do visit lakes in the 3k elevation range.

This will be a family boat used for beginner/intermediate wakeboarding/wakesurfing.

Any thoughts or considerations are very much appreciated.

[BSBell]

RE: engine on 230/236 - Excalibur v ZR-6

Nautique wouldn't put the Excal in the 230 if they didn't feel it was sufficient enough to power it, BUT most guys on here with a 230 do have the ZR-6.

For 2009 it's horsepower is being boosted up to 410hp, not sure on the torque numbers though....

[Laptom]

RE: engine on 230/236 - Excalibur v ZR-6

I know somebody with a 230 with 343hp Excalibur... He says it's good enough for him, he uses the power prop though. I don't think the boat pulls multiple barefooters, but for wakeboarding/surfing and skying it would be sufficient.

[zapada]

RE: engine on 230/236 - Excalibur v ZR-6

Differences are fairly subtle. I've been in the 220 with both. Very little difference and that was at altitude (7000ft +). I've heard some say that the ZR-6 is a little heavier and doesn't have the relative increase in torque. The 230 is a big boat though. A lot would depend on what you expect to do. You'd have to ask yourself if the price difference is worth it too. No doubt the XC is sufficient, but perhaps loaded up with 15 people, sacs, etc the ZR-6 may offer a little more umph!

As far as altitude, the prop has a much more significant affect than the differences between the ZR-6 and the XC. One note, the ZR-6 is way easy to maintain, winterize, etc. but that shouldn't matter in the decision...just as an aside is all.

[NautiqueJeff]

RE: engine on 230/236 - Excalibur v ZR-6

I have owned a 236 and a 230. Both have had the ZR6, and I have been very happy with both. I'll continue to order them with the ZR6 in the future.

[zapada]

RE: engine on 230/236 - Excalibur v ZR-6

I've got to correct my earlier post. I just spent the day out in an 08 226 with the ZR6. Loved it. Motor was Super! Strong! Responsive! Quick! Great! I had it loaded up with lots of people, ballast and everything. I must say that I was very impressed.