Launching Challenger 1800 with Rhino

[phatcat]

I am trying to figure out if I might be able to launch a Challenger 1800 with a Yamaha Rhino. The Rhino is only rated for 1400 Lbs Towing Capacity and the boat weighs about 1850....so I know it's heavier than rated but I have a very powerful Rhino (with Turbocharger) so I'm not worried about the power but more the weight.....in other words will they both just slide into the water and keep going?

Any experience out there on anything similar.

I could certainly handle a Speedster with the Rhino but was looking for a little bit bigger boat.

Any help and experience would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers!

 

[Dr Honda]

It has nothing to do with power... it has to do with it weight.

If the ramp isn't steep, and you aren't pulling it too far... you should be fine.

Remember... you only have a rubber belt as a transmission and clutch. if you try to pull a lot of weight up a steep hill... you will burn up your belt.

 

[RFoster130]

Yeah i would be more concerned with the type of ramp. if its not too steep and you have good traction, i dont see a problem. However, if its steep and slick with moss, then I'm guessing both go for a ride.

 

[phatcat]

Thanks for the info.......I have gone through the same issues in my head. Guess I won't know what kind of traction I will have until I try

The good news is that I have only about .2 of a mile to the launch ramp but traction and pulling it out of the water as well as pulling it up about 60' elevation change are my biggest concerns after that it's pretty much level.

Here's a picture of the area and distance just for reference........the real issue will most likely be traction on the ramp I'm guessing or we go for a swim

 

[Dr Honda]

Nice lake...


If it was flat, Id say to do it. Since you have a hill to go up and down... I don't know if I would try or not. If it starts pushing you going down the hill... it could end badly.

 

[RFoster130]

That really is a cool looking lake. Looks kinda steep too. Good luck!!!

 

[phatcat]

That really is a cool looking lake. Looks kinda steep too. Good luck!!!

It's a little development called Havasu Palms on Lake Havasu, which is part of the lower Colorado River with California on one side and Arizona on the other.

If you haven't heard of it Havasu is without a doubt THE "Hot Boat" lake in the west. Many of the west coast brands like Advantage, Eliminator, Conquest, Magic and others are based there or were in the past. On any "Big" weekend there will likely be 50+ boats on the lake capable of 100+ MPH.....and there is no speed limit on the lake!

Our place is in the middle of the lake but very remote at the same time. You can only reach it via 8 miles of VERY rough dirt road (takes about 45 minutes), via boat or Plane as there is a dirt strip for those fortunate enough to be able to get there that way:coolgleam:

Cheers!