1997 196 vs 2007 206 Team Wake - yikes...

[Speedseeker]

I drove a 1997 TCS1 GT40 for 14 years; given kids and the need to have guests along we just moved to a 2007 206 Team with the Excaliber 330. First time we skied it, both my wife and i wrecked consistently (and severely) after crossing the 2nd wake bump; coming off the 2nd bump, tip buries in and you launch.... skiing long line at about 32 mph with 0 off.

Going to take it out again soon but does anyone have similar experience? All the Forum discussion states 'tough to tell the difference between a 196 and 206 wake' but let me tell you, i have an aching left side that says otherwise....

Afterward now i wonder, is there any chance this 206 has ballast tanks and they were full?... i thought that was only for the 216/226 .... so i never actually tried to empty them assuming that the ballast tank switches were not hooked up.... does anyone know if the 2007 206 team edition has a ballast tank as standard equipment?

ohhhh how we miss the 'ol 196....

thx

[gride]

I'm not sure, but you can easily check by holding down the button til it's flashing. Go like 15 off. Also, read the manual located on the pn home page.

[NautiqueJeff]

My guess is that you've got a trick tank back there. Pull up the floorboard in your trunk and have a look. I bet it is there and full.

[AirTool]

No factory ballast in 2007.

Run with the trunk empty, gate down, and only 5 gallons of gas.

Might need 1 peep riding in the bow.

[Speedseeker]

Thank you for the replies. I'll certianly pull the floor board in the trunk and see what's in there. Will try to empty the tanks next time we are on the water.
As a new member it's nice to see helpful replies so promptly! Greatly appreciated!

[slob02]

My 2004 has ballast and if I don't turn off the ball valves by the engine, they will sometimes fill on there own. I think this problem may have been solved by 2007 if your boat does have them. I went from a 97 196 to a 2004 206. At 34 and 36 mph, I couldn't really tell the difference, but my wife at 30-32 mph says the bump is a little harder at 15 off. My tower also adds some weight. If there isn't any ballast in the rear, try to keep the trunk as empty as possible. GREAT BOAT THOUGH........congrats!