38fountainecman

I have owned a 90 292 SR1, an 86 357 Kamma SR1 and a 97 419 Fastec with triple 525SC's. Formula makes great boats. Moved to the Fountain for interior room and layout. Before the formula's I started in a 16' Bayliner, then a 23' VIP. I would suggest looking at the 353 Fastec, especially if you want to run in 3' seas. You just can't beat length when you are wanting to run speed is larger seas. Also, the 500 and 525 hp big blocks with bravo drives are a great engine package. Finally, whatever you get, it must include external hydraulic steering. The hydraulic steering may be one of the most important tools in gaining the best performance out of your Formula. My 292 felt much "larger" in seas with the hydraulic steering compared to stock mercruiser steering. Good luck!

Splitdecision271

292 is a great little boat, I love mine. 6.2s would be the motor of choice, very reliable. Depending on how often you see 3-5fters and whether or not 353 is just too much boat at this time, I'd definitely consider the 312. Probably the most solid, trailer-able boat Formula offered IMHO. Definitely offers a more stable ride in any water over the 292. You can find them with SB 6.2s or BB 7.4s in the earlier models. Pick your poison. Good luck with your search.

4mulafastech

I have owned my 292 since 2006. It has the 6.2's and factory installed Latham hydraulic steering. Definitely try to find one with hydraulic steering. As has been said, makes it handle much better. I upgraded to 280S K-Planes after a couple years of ownership. Big difference compared to the stock Bennetts, especially in bigger water. When it is really rough I can run 30-35 mph with the tabs down. This keeps the full length of the hull and sharp V entry down and is suprising how smooth the ride can be in really nasty water. If you try and fly over them she is a bit tail heavy with those twin engines back there. It does fine flying over 2' and under, just when things get bigger than that.

What is the deadrise on your Convincor hull? The 292 is 24° and weighs 7000 lbs dry which helps in the rough. The twin steps also help performance and efficiency. I have SmartCraft and see 1.8 to 2.0 mpg running 45-55 mph. Top speed is 68-70 mph loaded in the summer and 70-72 mph lightly loaded in cooler weather.

I don't think you will regret getting one. Our 292 serves our needs perfectly. We love it.

RGPIII

wow i appreciate all the responses. looks like i will be making the right choice moving to the Formula family. Hoping to find one at a dealer in which i can just trade my Checkmate in and leave with the Formula. but that is proving harder to find. wishful thinking.

The dead rise on the Checkmate is also 24 degrees. but the boat is only 3300lbs.

VoodooRob

Isn't "HarleyBaggers" Formula for sale? I believe its a 312 freshwater boat.

88242LS

we are a loyal bunch lol, they all have issues, but Formula seems to have less, still in business, and as I have stated in the past when I call for anything they help as if i just bought new, not 20+ years old,

despite what some thing, I would not be afraid of a 303/336 SR1, for the money you get quite a boat, If I had to pick on the 292 it would be because the cabin is very basic, I have a 303 and am very spoiled bye the fridge shore power and other goodies, including cabinet space, I have 502's and get 74+ all the time 454's gets you 68-70

88242LS

it is??

badmonkey

http://www.boattrader.com/listing/20...tech-102106513

This boat is for sale from dealer...seller is motivated and is close friends of gentlemen I bought mine from. This might be a good take if your looking to trade to a dealer??? Just a thought. Wannna see you get into that Formula quickly so I have another running buddy in Pasadena.

Chris.

harleybagger

It is for sale... Thanks Rob!

PM being sent....

88242LS

Why?