Towing a Precision 23

[majorkong1]

I'm considering purchasing a trailerable sailboat and recently learned about the Precision 23. It seems to get strong reviews and checks many of the boxes that I'm looking for. One concern I have is the ability of my vehicle to tow it. I'm 2 hours from the coast so while I'd sail it often on a lake, I'd like the ability to tow it several hours to destinations like the Chesapeake and FL.

I have a 2023 Mazda CX9, max towing capacity listed at 3500 lbs. The 2006 Precision 23 is listed at 2450 displacement (is this the dry weight of the boat, totally empty?). I’m not sure what trailer weight is but based on some internet searches it's at least anywhere from 700-1000 lbs. Then of course you have the motor, gear, people in the car, etc. Seems like it's running up against or slightly over my towing capacity. But I'm not sure of these numbers and perhaps in practice there is some leeway with towing ratings, especially if I decide to tow shorter distances only.

Would appreciate any advice on whether I can tow a Precision 23, thanks!

 

[kappykaplan]

The 2006 Precision 23 is listed at 2450 displacement (is this the dry weight of the body, totally empty?).

Yes.
Welcome to the forum!

 

[dlochner]

The displacement weight is the dry weight, no gear, no extra stuff. You can tow it, however, it will be right at the max load for the car and I doubt it would pull it out of the water up a wet ramp. You've been wanting that nice new and shiny F150 haven't ya?

The Precision line of sailboats is well respected for construction and sailing ability. Jim Taylor was the designer and has some notable boats besides the Precisions, including several models of Sabre, the Colgate 26 and others.

 

[dmax]

Definitely not enough truck. The trailer could be more than 1000 lbs., they are very heavy. Manufacturers are notorious for understating the weight of their boats - could easily be another 1000 lbs there. I would size it to be a 5000 lb load. See if you can find someone who has actually weighed one on a trailer. Don't exceed 80% of the max. for the tow vehicle if going more than 10 miles. Best if tow vehicle outweighs the trailer, go for long wheelbase on the tow vehicle.

 

[Project_Mayhem]

Towing isnt all about transmission and engine. My SUV has the same engine and trans as it's truck counterpart but with less towing capacity because the suspension is absolute crap. This results in dangerous emergency braking, uncomfortable and sometimes painful ride quality and swaying. Just something to keep in mind

 

[majorkong1]

Thanks all. It seems the consensus is that it’s definitely not doable for highway / long distances, and likely not doable even for the ramp.

if I were instead to target 80% of my towing limit, it seems the Precision 21 might be an option (1875 lbs displacement). Does that sound right?

 

[bzano]

A good rule of thumb in my opinion is to take the max towing rating of your vehicle (manufacturer recommendation) and divide by 2. This number should be what the boat’s dry weight (displacement) should be. For example if your towing limit is 3500 #, figure a boat of 1750#. This allows for trailer weight, motor, gear, etc.