I've seen a number of references to "flat deck" models - how do these differ from, say, a 38 Top Gun? Do they have full interiors or is it a stripped down model?

I went back through my copy of "King of Thunderboat Row" but it doesn't really get into detail on the individual models.

Thanks for the education, I'm slowly getting up to speed on what Cig made, when they made it, etc. Quite the education...

The 38' Topgun repalced the "Flat Deck" in 1986/87. Prior the "Flat Deck" had 3 models the SE loades top of the line #3 speedmasters, 500 , 540 up engines, and Kevlar. Then came the S model, 400 hp to 500's TRS Drives non- Kevlar, less guages. THe intro was the "L" ? or some other letter, I have all the original brochures from 1974 to 1999 at home, I can check if you need it. All boats had full cabins, head, sink, V-Birth. They weighted in at 10,500- 11,500 depending on power and Kevlar.
Scott

Interesting... is there any difference in the bottom between a flat deck and a top gun, or is it only a new deck? This history is good stuff, as far as I'm concerned!

To my knowledge, no 38 flat decks had a notch in the transom. (except for for possibly a race boat or two). Except for some very early Top Gun's, Top Gun's came with a transom notch. In 2000, they started an optional 38 bottom that had steps further up in the hull. You can get the stepped and non-stepped versions today. The stepped version is faster but you sacrifice some rough water handling and stability in turns.

Barry

I have a 38 flat deck that has a full cabin built in toilet holding tank etc.
The hulls are the same except for the notch transom.
They did make some with the notch but I believe they were all race setups.
Excellent riding boats. They take some horse power to move.

Mark

I am researching tank and plumbing specs for our 1995 Top Gun

do you still have the original brochures ?

I have a lot of that info if you need it

Scott I have a 1985 Flat Deck an original SSM III Kevlar boat . I put a notch in it so I could run SSM V drives and avoid installing boxes . Mine has a full cabin , no built in head and no sink just an ice box . I guess they were not all the same . With the V drives, twin 605 cu in and 725 hp a side mine runs 78 mph . I think with removing a drive spacer and a different prop it should go a tad over 80 mph . But rock solid in 3 to 5 footers . Cheers RG.