Formula vs Checkmate
 

Ok, new to the site with a simple question. I have a 1986 Formula 242LS with a 260Merc. Nice boat, slow as a dog. Have an opportunity fo purchase a 1996 Checkmate Convinsor with a 502MPI/Bravo set up.

Here's the question: Tell me all the goods and bads about the Convinsor based on your experience. Good boat?

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

There are not many bad things I can think of. Its a hell of a boat for the money. You wont be sorry. Go for it.

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

Excellent boat. Runs great in the rough, handles well, very solid boat. Equipment/amenities on most Checks are pretty basic. Runs fast which reasonable power. Great boats for the money.

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

Thanks guys. Wow, i just did some research and my Formula weighs in at 4500lbs. No wonder its slow. The Convinsor weighs in at 3300lbs. Amazing. OK, cool, I look at the Checkmate tomorrow. Its got a 502MPI so i bet its quick. Thanks again for your feedback.

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

Alan,

Thats a nice Formula, I really like the older 242's. Good luck in your search for a faster boat.

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

Take a good look on the options with the Checkmate, and how they compare to your Formula. When I compared the (2)brand boats, a number of items were standard on the formula, that were optional on checkmate. Not a knock on Checkmate, but just how they set them up & price them.

Only knock was between the (2)boats, the quality of the wiring on the Formula was a lot better.

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

4500 lbs vs 3300 lbs.....you know which one will ride better. Of course , depending where you're using it , that may or may not make a difference.

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

I believe the Convincor is more in the 4000-4200ilb range,a definate step up from your Formula in my opinion.

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

I had a 23 formula with SBC and alpha. was about 45mph. after dumping alot of $$ to make it go faster, then dumping a alot of $$ in repairing the stuff that kept breaking, I went out and bought a 1 yr. old 253 Checkmate Convincor that ran 67mph stock. (the formula was only running 57mph when I got rid of it). It was the best decision I could have made.

The formula seems more solid of a ride, but then again it was much slower. The formula may have gotten looser if it went 67.

Where do you boat ?

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

Alan. Is the Checkmate your referring to in Bothell?

Re: Formula vs Checkmate
 

I have been in both boats and have been impressed both times however the checkmate was before the formula ..... I guess its like well the first love and then the real thing.... Formula is definately heavy and slow in some areas but checkmate lacks a little in the refined areas. Repowering can be a tough thing and you could get a real mess. But you could really come into the perfect set up. Dont get me wrong . I still think checkmate is still a sweet boat but it all depends on you and your needs and wants :rolleyes: