1988 Formula SR1 311
 

I am looking to purchase my first Formula and want to upgrade from the previous boat I had. I am looking at a 1988 SR1 311. What is the general concensus on this boat? Things to look for or problem areas? Thanks for any updates that are available!

I own an '89 311. Good boat, heavy, not real fast compared to new stuff. No inherent problems. There could be all sorts of issues though depending on how the boat was used and stored and cared for. If it has been cared for properly, covered, stored inside in winter, not left in the water, there should be no problems structurally or asthetically. Engines and drives could need work depending again on use and hours.

Get some more details and photos. Search this thread under
"311" and you'll learn tons.

Great boat all around. A little slow with 454s and TRS drives but still a solid boat that you will like when it gets rough. As with any older boat you need to have someone check the transom and stringers for moisture, but they rarely have an issue. You will likely find a slight porpoise in smooth water, just drop the tabs a little and it goes away.

there is one at loto that lutzparty has for sale. its had a lot of money put into it. paint, rebuilds, drives, etc.

pm him. you wont be sorry

Cuda still got his 302 for sale?

I have a 302 for sale im in your part of town the boat is at 16 and jefferson if you want to look at it everything has been redone. i have a baby on the way so im moving up i mean down to a cruiser. it is a 1985 302 not asking a lot for the shape this boat is in email me at [email protected] if interested

Thanks adam

I have a 1988 311 I keep in a rack building on Lake St. Clair. Where is the one you are thinking about? I looked at a lot of them before I bought mine, I could take a look at it if you want.

I have a 87 272 for sale 383's 425 hp only 87 hrs .:drink:

The one I am looking at is in the Cleveland area. I've owned a boat for the past 9 years, a 1998 Powerquest 260 SX powered by a 502 that I bought in 99. So, looking at an older boat means I need as much history and personnal experience from other owners is great information.

Steve H. - I don't have access to pm at this time. Is there another way to contact this person? Thanks!

http://midwestboatparty.com/forum/sh...ad.php?t=13471

i dont see his add anymore. may be sold. not sure though

As others have mentioned, they're great boats and the classic styling makes them look newer than they are. I have 454's with Bravos in mine, and when I was looking some friends steered me away from TRS drives. (Thier opinion was that TRS parts could be hard to find in coming years but now Konrads are available as a bolt on option.)

I don't know if parts are really hard to find for TRS's, but I'm glad I got the Bravos because the engines sit about 10 inches further back in the boat and that gives you some extra space in the engine compartment. You'll apprecite the extra space whenever you have to climb in there.

a friend of mine has a nice 311 with trs drives, and optional 420Hp engines. VERY clean with new manning trailer
$38k here in west michigan

in general, if you are looking at mid 80's boats it will be hard to beat a formula

the silent thunder swim platforms were one thing to look for , making sure they were not water rotted on ther front surface ( repairable)

get a survey when serious ( applies to any used boat purchase)


Ramb

Rambunctious - How do I get a hold of your buddy? Is his boat listed here in the classifieds on this site? Thanks for the help. West Michigan is no issue for me. Already asking people about surveys. Won't buy anything without one.

he is standing right here.
it is the white/red/black one on Offshore classifieds.

Doug Fischer is the owner.
he can be reached at work at 616-394-6142

Rambunctious - Thanks! I have looked at his boat already and was already planning on calling him. Trying to work out my schedule when I can make the drive to look at it.