I've got an older bravo 1 (88) witht the narrower lower unit. I've read a lot of posts with boats going slower after the nose cone. Would I see a benifit with the older drive? I plan on the boat going between 69-74 mph. If so what brands to buy and avoid!

I don't think you are currently fast enough to justify a nose cone. I have always heard that you have to be running 80 plus to get any benefit from a nose cone. I have a Baja Hammer that used to run about 76 to 78 with my prior engine. I lost 4 MPH with the nose cone. Took it off and the speed came right back. Looked cool though.

I know on the post 91 bravos nose cones would slow you down. I've read in a few places the pre 90 bravos the nose helps over 60 mph. What year is your bravo?

Just for fun. I actually lost one the nose cones off my Bravo drives. Where does that fit - one with, one without? I was actually thinking of removing them as I too had heard that at speeds less than 80 showed no benefit. I had not heard anything about the pre 90 drives improving for speeds above 60. I may have to buy a replacement.

The original bravos had a blunter torpedo. From what I have found they are the only ones that really need a nose cone. I was just hoping someone could confirm it. I guess I need to call Hydromotive.

I know this is old but I am wondering if you ever figured anything out on this subject.

I did- I called Hydromotive and they said it's not needed until 72 mph or so. Even then, with the older Bravo design you may gain a few MPH or maybe see no gains. I never installed them on my boat, I'm not at the 72 mph mark so no point in spending money on something that won't do anything.