Gulf Stream 232 hull changes in 2006

[JJB II]

I'm planning to upgrade to a Gulf Stream this year. I have definitely decided on twin 150 4 strokes as power. Right now I am looking at a 2005 with 900 hours. Comparing to a 2007 that was barely used.
Almost 30k higher for the like new 2007.
Did Grady make substantial quality improvements to the hull in 2006 or are is it just the minor changes with fish box and flush mount electronics?
Any insight would be appreciated.

 

[ElyseM]

pretty sure it was just the liner changes. you can call GW for the specifics.

it is a heavy 23. if you can get the new f200's it would be great. my '02 had the original f200's. other than the weight, they were great. spent most of the time at 3/4 throttle running 2.5 mpg or better. good luck, ron

 

[moklodge]

The changes as I understand:

1. New transom with folding aft seat and jumbo fishbox replacing the former molded aft seat
2. Flush mount electronics panel option
3. Larger cabin entryway door
4. Redesigned cabin entry steps (2 instead of 1)
5. New head location to stbd
6. Single burner butane stove standard (allows 2nd home tax writeoff)
7. Taller windshield

I think that's it other than some cosmetic changes. I think the windshield and aft fishbox are major improvements, as is the larger entryway. Hull did not change.

 

[magicalbill]

Definetly twin 200's is the way to go.

 

[JJB II]

Thanks for the replies. I have read multiple posts saying the Yamaha F150's are the way to go when factoring in the added weight of the 200's, Also read the 150's are understated horsepower and 200's overstated actual horsepower.
I am looking at preowned and its rare to see the 200's.
I guess I could find a deal on an underpowered 232 with a single and repower with twins. Don't they have a different factory bracket configuration on the boats that were rigged with singles. I remenber seeing a model 232S and 232D in the specs. Anybody know the difference? I'll check with Grady on that.

 

[ElyseM]

it's the new f200's that would be great. they are fairly light, close to a 2 stroke.

single and twin bracket is different. stick with twins and repower in the future when needed. good luck, ron

 

[magicalbill]

I have 06 200's and they're great too.

I have read many posted concerns about too much weight with the 200's on a 232.

1.) I have them and weight is not a problem. The scuppers sit about 1/2 way submerged. It doesn't matter. they have drained the deck perfectly for the 7 years I've owned the boat.
The power combo is perfect...1.9-2.1 MPG w/bottom paint. Cruises at 3700-3900 at 30-33 MPH. The engines are not even breathing hard. I can cruise on the hi-end if necessary at 4400-4500 attaining 36-37 MPH all day long, given appropriate sea conditions.

2.) Grady offered the 200's as an option when I purchased the boat new. I figured if Grady would equip the boat with the 200's there wouldn't be any problems.
There haven't been...

I understand if price is a concern and the 150's would fit your budget better. I think the 150's give slightly better fuel economy, but not a whole lot, as they have to work harder to run the same speeds.
I would hate for you to bypass the 200's on the weight issue alone. There is no concern with the weight. It doesn't exist. Especially when you can have the lighter 200's as ElyseM says.
One thing on the new 200's..I have heard that they do not give the torque the older 200's have because of the lighter engine configeration. I can't confirm this.

 

[magicalbill]

I just re-read your reply and saw that pre-owned 200 combos are rare. There is no reason you should narrow your search just for the 200's when the 150's would work fine.
I just wanted to throw in my .02 on the weight debate.