Recent content by dcdude

I just found out about a Grady that was in an accident on the road maybe around 2016. Maybe turtled on the trailer. T-top twisted beyond repair, needed a new windshield and the engine cover needed refinishing. T-top holes were allegedly filled correctly, so now it needs a new grab rail and a...

2014 209 Fisherman. Thanks!

Looking to add a Bimini to an existing boat. Does anybody know if the Bimini mounts are through-bolted (backing plates etc) at the factory before final assembly? Or is there phenolic / Whalerboard under the gunwales that can be tapped for screws? If it's the latter, I'd love to see a lamination...

If you subtract about 300 pounds of test crew, all versions seem to be about 4,000 pounds wet. Add about 750 for a tandem axle trailer, looks like the 205 just barely makes it under a 5,000 weight rating. But not much margin, and I would want brakes on both axles.

That sounds like a very nice boat that should sell for much more than my $30K target budget.

@Capt Tom I think you're on to something! That's why I asked for help. The Robalo R180 and Key West 189FS would definitely work, and maybe even fit in a garage. But I came here to understand Grady options.

I was considering that or a transom rig with a shower curtain clipped between two rods (in holders). Hopefully a 5 gallon bucket will fit in the passenger console or one of the lockers or wells?

@Parthery: SUPER helpful! I, too am 6’3” and standing at the helm at least some of the time is a must, so I guess the 205 is out. I’ll keep my eyes open for top mounted throttles. That seems rare on a DC boat. I can’t recall any models like that?

@Sdfish Thanks for the data. Leaving plenty of stopping distance is a given! I expect that the Adventure is the heaviest configuration of the 20' models. My trip to the ramp is about 23 miles and mostly flat freeway. What I'm starting to plan for as the package approaches my max weight is to...

Here's a pretty sweet deal on a 209 Escape, but the console looks to be better suited for life jackets than humans: https://www.boattrader.com/listing/2006-grady-white-209-escape-103693879/

Thanks for all of the thoughtful replies, gents. I especially appreciate how JAdams1's was very specific to my situation. I'm not too into the Adventure overnighter concept, so I'll broaden my search to include 209 Fisherman and 209 Escape and Tournament 205. I expect that all of these have at...

My tow vehicle is a 4Runner with a 5,000# tow rating. I intend to have wife and daughter on board often, so I really like the idea of having a porta potty in the center console. Is there a Grady center or dual console with space for a head that weighs less than 5,000# on the trailer? Thanks...