Quote:
Originally Posted by iwannacig
thinking of buying a 292 fastech. would like some feedback on different engine packages.i am seeing 377's,350's. did they ever make that boat with a single,500,525, or575sci .also would like to know how good they are to ski behind? top speed? 292 vs. 272?
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iwanna292,

I have a '06 292 with 6.2's running 28 pitch labbed Bravo 4-blades. Top speed range is 69-71mph.
I find the slowest cruise speed with my props is around 37 mph. Any slower and you need a lot of tab to keep it from falling off plane and running very inefficient mileage wise. It is pretty efficient in the good cruising range of 40-50 mph at 1.8-2.0 mpg (I have SmartCraft - SC5000). In perfect conditions I have seen 2.2 mpg. The boat holds 113 gallons of gas, so a decent cruise range is possible.
I had the Bennett tabs replaced with Mercury 280S K-planes. MUCH better rough water handling when hanging it out and it will plane out faster. The K-planes along with Latham hydraulic steering makes it a dream to drive!
This boat is not good to ski or tube behind. I have pulled my daughter tubing with the K-planes burried and trying to keep it under 30 mph, but it is a struggle. Plus no ski pylon, so the rope is low to the water and will splash the riders in the face.
Other than the skiiing the 292 a great all around boat. Small enough to tow easily and handle solo on the water if needed, but big enough to tame most water on inland lakes and rivers. VERY comfortable interior and high quality construction. We got the full bimini and enclosure. Spend many nights sleeping in it during the season. Great boat for long cruises and can get the adrenaline flowing running 70 mph in the rough. As for upgrades... a few years down the road when more engine builders in the marine industry start offering reliable, high HP LS small block engine packages that don't cost and arm and a leg, I see a lot of potential!
You should be able to find some great deals out there. Good luck!
Dave