Walk thru air dams on 2005’s

When I ordered my 2005 SN206, I assumed that it would come with the walk thru air dam as standard equipment since it was listed as such in 2004. Not the case. It is now an option. A $150 option!!!! Absolutely ridiculous. I complained to CC and they gave me the standard "we'll note your comments" reply. I stated that their competitors provide this item as standard equipment. In fact, Malibu's system is very slick. I can't imagine that a 2' x 2' piece of Sunbrella fabric costs anywhere close to $150. But if so, then just raise your base price $150! No one would notice and no one would complain. Whatever "bone-head" in the CC hierarchy made the decision to make this an option should be fired.

OK, I've ranted. Now, for the solution. I made a template of the opening and after several test-models, I've made a clear lexan piece that fits perfectly into the opening and attaches w/ dual-loc that I had left over from mounting my Goode Powershells. It sits high enough to divert wind over the windshield without compromising the ability to open the center section of the windshield. Works great and looks OEM. If anyone else out there is interested, I could probably have it made it in whatever color you want for around $35 (I'd have to check w/ the supplier). I believe it would fit all models but I'm not certain. If I could do it for $35, then you would assume that CC could do it for alot less and provide their customers with the value they purport to give. I've owned 15 CC's in my lifetime and have felt in the past that they provided the best value for the dollar. That may no longer be the case.

I'll take some pictures of my "walk-thru air dam" this weekend if anyone's interested in seeing it. Let me know.

jdarwin@lakesatcottonwood.com

Congrats on your new SN. Too bad they had to leave you angry over $150....a good dealer should have taken care of you.I have a '99 Sport that will finally be paid off in a few months and I have been toying with the idea of trading for a new one. I went to one dealer and the guy was so arrogant and useless I just couldn't bring myself to spend money with him.When I did find another dealer who was close, it was a totally different story,they were nice,helpful and very appreciative of my potential business.I will say the price for a new one nearly gave me a grabber right there on the showroom floor.I remember paying what seemed to be a small fortune for my '99 and either I am getting cheaper in my old age or the pricing is getting out of control.I understand R&D and high quality costs money but hly s*it! Mastercraft and Malibu are equally as expensive and I guess it comes down to supply and demand.People are buying these boats faster than they can make them so the price will keep going up and up and???? Enjoy your new boat, they are really,really nice!!

Yeah, with all those multi-page advertisements from all the manufacturers ($$$$) the magazine doesn't dare make a negative comment.A few years ago, they had some bad press on the Nautiques so CC didn't send any of their boats for the next couple of years. I think that is when it really changed as far as the commentary.

Funny everyone seems to have similiar complaints to mine on the new boats. Just recently, a friend of mine purchased an '04 boat (can't remember exactly which one as I do not see him often and am not really current on the new models). Anyway, my wife and I immediately commented to each other how gaudy we thougt the interior of the boat looked. In our oppinions, way too much chromed art deco lookin stuff everywhere. Then I mentioned how much such a boat costs (between 50-70k) and she could not believe I was telling her the truth! I am sure the quality is outstanding, but no way I could ever justify spending that kind of money...I am just too cheap (even if I could afford it).

Also, it is interesting that some of you like the early to mid '90's boat. I recently purchased a wrecked '93 from a member of this board. I am currently still deep into hull repairs, but both my wife and I really love the size and look of the boat. In fact she was made that I purchase the boat given the amount of time it take me away from the family to make the repairs, but once I trailered the boat in the driveway and she and the kids climbed in, her attitude changed immediatley...she loved it! Especially compared to our '77 Martinique (mainly due to the vastly larger room/size). So, the '77 goes on sale once the '93 is floating again. I will miss the Martinique, but it is really just too small for the five of us.

BTW: If anyone is interested in a typical before and after shot of a repaired hole, give me a shout and I will email the pictures to you.

Hey sorry to bring back this ancient thread but just searched for Candlewood and now found Kworell...

My fam. got an '04 Air 216 from Candlewood East too, and I also think they're the best. They're amazing and treat you like royalty. Which 216 is yours, the green one? I saw that one there a lot while we were making our long frequent trips there before we finally closed the deal. If you're out on the lake or on Lilli and see the blue/black 216, wave us down I'd like to meet you guys...

~Austin

My current boat is a 05' 206 Air, for me upgrading throughout the years has been primarily for reasons of performance, dependability and function however I also feel that the stern drives have always maintained good looks and lines despite what year they were built. The wake characteristics continue to improve as does the handling and technology like electronic ignition, fuel injection, fuel control cell, ballast systems and hull designs. The added bonus for me beyond the general improvements as a tow boat is the enhanced functionality/comfort as a family boat like greater seating capacity and a more comfortable ride through rough water.
I have enjoyed every Nautique I have owned from old school to new and there is no denying the price tags can be tough to swallow, but for me the enjoyment these boats provide is worth every penny.