what speed
 

looking to move up to a newer boat, one is a 2003 292 formula with t/6.2s. with gas going up i was thinking of small blocks. what kind of speed will this boat give me, compare to a set of 496s

patrick
HRPA

The 02 292 I traded in with 350 mags on a good day would run an honest 70 mph on gps, and I've seen speeds posted on here with 6.2s claiming 72 or so. Probably realistic.

I've seen 72 GPS under ideal conditions (sea level, 65 degrees, 1-2' chop), 3/4 tank of gas. I run 28P Bravo props and it has punch almost everywhere through the RPM range.

Only modification on my boat is removal of the Silent Thunder box, and I believe the 1-2 MPH gain I saw from that is related to less weight over the drives, not due to any significant improvement in exhaust flow...but it sure does sound nice.

IMO the 292 is a great performer for only having 320 HP per side; the Formula hull design is very efficient compared to some other makes, and nice attention to detail in the finish and creature comforts.

Prior to buying my 292 I drove other boats in this size range, but with the H.O. 496s and a conventional V-Bottom they weren't much faster...and they see the fuel dock more often!