ontheh2o

Very close to closing sale of 1998 312 with 502's. Boat on a large inland lake in KY with a houseboat as home base. Never used the cabin of the 312, or even turned on the frig. Question is whether to go to a new 292 or perhaps a used 353. (Troutly's 353 traded to Nelem's a prime example).

The 292 is probably big enough and works with my current lift. A 353 also means a new lift as the 312 with a full tank of gas was more than it could handle.

I would however like to stay in the 75 mph class. Are Scorpions the only way to do this? Could the 350 mags or the 6.2's be modified to get there without going too crazy? Which is the better base to modify and what would be recommended?

If a 292 is upgraded to 377 Scorpions, is external steering still an option?

Any thoughts appreciated.

cuda

The hydraulic steering is standard with the Scorps, as well it should be for the $32K upgrade over the 350 mags.

Formula Outlaw

Looking at your "requirements", I think where you do your boating is the deciding factor. What kind of water will you be running in? If you get in rough water (4/5/6 footers) your gonna wish you had the 353. If it's usually smaller, the 292 will do fine. Remember, todays 292 is basically an old 27 footer, just with a platform glassed in. Formulas that have the "bolted-on" silent thunder platforms, they are NOT included in the length, however, like everybody else, when they are glass in they are included in the length. Example: if you ever get the chance go below in an older 311 SR1 then go below in a new 312, you'll think your on a 27 ft. boat.
In a 292 the Scorpions should get you the speed you want, the 350 mags will need some work. I'd call Formula and get their opinion on what would need to be done to get 75 out of 350 mags, and I bet it will void the warranty. That's something else to think about. Troutly should be able to offer some solid advice here. Troutly, are you listening?????Good Luck.

ontheh2o

Never see 4 footers at Cumberland - just wakes from an occasional 50 foot Sea Ray. Wondered whether the 1000 lbs less weight vs. my 312 would impact ride though.

Good point on voiding warranty - that's why I was considering 377's even though they are overpriced. Does the 377 have cast iron exhaust manifolds or some CMI type manifolds?

Formula Outlaw

I knew Troutly would come through. The fact that everybody wants to help out is what makes this whole forum work so well. All things considered sounds like the 292 with the "377's" is going to be your best bet. Keep us all posted. p.s. Try catching a wake off a damn freighter in Tampa Bay sometime. I think you could surf off them.

ontheh2o

I see IMCO makes Powerflow exhaust for small block Chevy. Wonder if one could talk Formula into a factory installation?

Thanks Troutly!

Magicfloat

You have to make the call.The 292 is a small boat,but great performance, 80mph + with 377's,but obscene money from Merc.Most owners of 271's want a 292,most owners of a 312 want a 353,and most owners of a 353 want a 382. Buy as large as you can afford. The 353 is my favorite,but that's just me.Only you can decide,but I have never had an unhappy 353 owner.