delaney

that is awesome!!

probably true for outboards and smaller boats, just not the 327. the working engine cannot reach WOT RPM, due to drag of the hull and part of the skeg of the other. i attempted to peg the throttle, the boat actually moved faster while not trying to get on plane. not to mention the crazy amount of fuel i burned on the one engine getting back to harbor. you would think that 375HP would be enough to get that boat on plane - perhaps if the outdrives were single props the WOT could be reached but the DP just didn't have it

just so you know, losing an engine w/ twins will only allow you to travel at idle speeds. the boat will not get on plane w/ only 1 engine and if you lose your starboard engine you won't have power steering either. i wouldn't worry too much about needed twins on Lake Michigan, instead invest the $$ in a very good VHF w/ distress call. i would guess that 95% of all recreational boaters stay within a few miles of shore - fishermen may be the exception. no reason to be 30 miles offshore i know the above is true because it happened to me - lost the upper & lower output gears on starboard engine, tried raising the engine, lowering it, etc. but one engine would not get my boat on plane. i was 1 mile off shore and 8 miles from New Buffalo harbor. steering w/o power steering is a great workout

a few differences will be the noise level should be lower unless you flip the captains call switch. Certainly more area to use at the stern w/ platform and sunpads. more $$ to maintain for sure and harder to access.

i used to slip my 327 in a channel marina that would cause the fur to grow. i use the Pettit bright white, it made a huge difference. i would take the boat out and do a general wipe down while at anchor. The brown color wipes right off and each fall i buy a gallon and just paint the water line and any spots that need it. last summer was the first time i purchased 2 gallons and rolled the bottom. i like the white - from a few yards away you cannot tell the bottom is painted - highly recommend . initial cost is high, but for fresh water it performs well

I had mine redone - including upgrading the removable windows at Canvas Innovations https://www.canvasinnovations.us/welcome they did a great job - not sure where you are located. i do not believe you will be able to blind order any canvas as zippers, snaps and straps have to be measured to line up.

the factory installed one is most likely just forward of the engine i would guess starboard side protruding from the hull (black plastic) that info is then wired to the smartgauge. i would agree w/ Iggy, get a transducer this one is from Garmin and includes the water temp (8 pin) if you want fishfinder features you will also need a GSD sounder along with this - and of course the chartplotter to see the fish. BOAT - "Break out another Thousand"

My 1st Chap 264 had the hinged arch. don't be fooled it is a 2 or 3 man job and once you remove the back bolts you need to install a spacer, so basically the arch is tethered and you only gain maybe 6" of clearance. not a 10 min job if you are going in and out of garage. maybe newer models of the arch are better

do you have pics of it? sounds like you are drilling through a strut or other type of support

that is a long span if you are just supporting on the ends - you can try Werner ladders for aluminum picks but again 22' is probably too long without a center support for just a walk plank.

get the hard top!!!! - canvas top will require replacement eventually, the hard top requires a buff and wax like the rest of the boat. the bars that attach to the windshield are great while underway for those moving around or while at anchor for something to hold onto. never a noticeable obstruction for me while driving

extra insurance, security, etc. can never be argued about - neither are needed until they are!! - if you feel better knowing that you have a backup than go with your gut feeling. the rest of this group will "what if" this thread to death with options, add'l batteries, dedicated lines and on and on - i am no exception. if you are wanting a true backup if the main fails you can tie the backup into the existing line but simply raise the float on the backup so it will not work unless the primary fails - a low / high setup. if you are worried that you will have a major breech of the hull and you want a dual pump - run a dedicated line - more security / insurance = more time and more $$ - your boat / your call

the mitivac works well - and is reversible to put the old oil into the gallon jugs. if you go that route, the screw on connector is a garden hose fitting - a few bucks at home depot - i use a garden hose x barbed adapter. i am certain that there is oil left in the engines maybe 1/2 quart or so but that is ok just stay on a regular schedule

if you are only boating in normal good days, than any boat that fits your interior and performance criteria will be fine from row boat to cruiser. if you are asking if it is safe if you get caught in a storm - i would respond that any of the larger Chap boats handle chop very well, are free bailing, and can and will get you safely back to harbor if you are responsible. all the SSX model lines ride very well with the deep V hull and higher freeboard

things that may help while on the water. as others have said, small tool set to include adjustable wrench. i always carry a qt of oil and a spare fuel filter, fuel is a common issue that doesn't take much room. i have a plastic bin that i keep bungie corded in the ski locker. also a good leatherman multi tool w/ a knife. use that more than anything. i find loose screws and i keep a tube of lock tite and a small tube of 5200 sealer for carpet screws that pop up, just take care of on the water and done. 1/2" size line is fine for a 26' boat