I'm thinking about buying a new ranger in the spring and I've always liked ranger boats but never considered one because I had a 2005 triton tr186dc with a 175 hp Yamaha but since it's sold I think I want a ranger z518 or a new model for 2017 z185. The reason for selling the triton was storage, on the front deck behind the seat there was storage but the lid was just to small and it was a pain. I like the layout of the ranger but want some insight on other ranger owners and know if others ran into this problem and if ranger is as great of a boat as I hear?

Ranger makes one heck of a boat. I've been the proud owner of two of them, both older, but both were great boats. The quality of them has always been a huge selling point. The Z185 looks to be pretty close storage wise in the center compartment, but it's not a rod locker. It should have a big enough lid. You could always call Ranger and get the dimensions of the opening to see if it's satisfactory for you.

 Obviously cost is the big thing, but if you're considering those, check out the Z518C. Same hull design and layout of the Z518, but it's rated for a 200. If I had the money to buy one, I'd have a Z518C with a Yamaha SHO 200 and get the ECU flashed so you'd have a 250 since that's the only difference between motors. 

2 hours ago, WIGuide said:

Ranger makes one heck of a boat. I've been the proud owner of two of them, both older, but both were great boats. The quality of them has always been a huge selling point. The Z185 looks to be pretty close storage wise in the center compartment, but it's not a rod locker. It should have a big enough lid. You could always call Ranger and get the dimensions of the opening to see if it's satisfactory for you.

 Obviously cost is the big thing, but if you're considering those, check out the Z518C. Same hull design and layout of the Z518, but it's rated for a 200. If I had the money to buy one, I'd have a Z518C with a Yamaha SHO 200 and get the ECU flashed so you'd have a 250 since that's the only difference between motors. 

this in a nutshell……….