Searider

C2 RIBS · 18 March 2011, 18:51

Can those who know these boats give some opinions on this safety boat,. I have used smaller ones on safety but this has tube fuel containers, any opinions please
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Avon-Sea-Rider...item230f278a6c

walruz · 19 March 2011, 17:08

Looks like a superbly well set up 5.4 to me. I have never used bladder tanks but also never heard negative about them. 1 thing they will help with is a more even distribution of weight.

Only negative to me is that twin 40's is a little under powered - a single 90 is a better option in my view.

Ian

Nos4r2 · 19 March 2011, 19:13

I've been using bladders for 4 years now.The only issue with bladder tanks is if you don't empty them, they weep slightly (staining on outside etc) eventually.

The plus sides-being able to submerge them completely without drawing water in,plus the extra space they create-outweigh that by a lot in my opinion.

You'd have to make your mind up as to whether the price is ok, but it won't be particularly slow with 2x40hp 4 strokes. PeterR had a 5.4 with the same engines and his boat was no slouch-I clocked it at past 30 knots.

C2 RIBS · 19 March 2011, 21:09

Cheers for these inputs and pm's. Not sure about the rig yet but some good options for training with twins also as well as safety. The bladder tubes are an unknown quantity to me and the price is... not sure?

Nos4r2 · 19 March 2011, 22:07

Quote:

Originally Posted by C2 RIBS

Cheers for these inputs and pm's. Not sure about the rig yet but some good options for training with twins also as well as safety. The bladder tubes are an unknown quantity to me and the price is... not sure?

Bear in mind I don't use those particular brand of bladders-mine are the Avon ones.

They are a bugger to get filled up at a petrol station though-payat pump will be your friend if you're going to try it

av.surfer · 20 March 2011, 07:10

Just a bit of info on the boat, it was Loughor Inshore Lifeboat untill last year when it was sold off as they bought a new 5.85 Ribcraft replacement. The boat is sound as discribed has seen the bottom a few times so is marked/scratched on the hull, tubes are in good nic last time i used it no leaks and has been stored in a lifeboat station for 10 years, it'll do 32 knots with 3 on board and the boat heavy with all the guff needed for a lifeboat so i guess empty it and you may get a bit more out of her. Engines were serviced as recomended by Yamaha.
I think it's over priced at £10k it is an oldish boat and seen a bit of action. But has still got a fair bit of life in her! drop me a PM if i can give any more info.

Matt