I'm going to check out a 353 sport, my only concern is no hydraulic steering. Is it neccesary running 496ho's?

Good question. I ordered all my Sports with Lathum,because Formula used to have a rule that any boat capable of over 70 got it.Sport runs approx 75,so I assumed they got away from that rule to keep the Sport price down.I have never run a 353 without Lathum. If the boat is clean and price is right,run it and see what you think.Also realize resale value will suffer without Lathum,so keep that in mind. Formula did sell most Sports without it,as it was not listed as an option,but was available. Lot of 303's and 312's were built without it with no problems.Lathum of course is preferable,but not necessarily a deal breaker.Again,seatrial it.

I've got a 06 353 for sale right now w/out H.S. and I've never had any problems. Boat runs great in all water conditions. Give me a call before you buy anything.
Corey

Is the Lathum on a 353 full hydraulic?

Yes

While not absolutely necessary if you buy a boat without it I would definitely plan on adding it .... best addition I have made .......m

I wouldnt own one without it.

I had a 2005 sport without hyd. steering and the main reason I traded it for a 07 was the steering was very unsafe. Changed the helm, cable and ps actuator all twice still very drifty. I would not recomend anyone owning a boat without hyd. steering. Alittle pissed that the factory didnt do anything for me but Trenton Marine took care of it all. They still have my 05 For a good deal all someone has to do is add hyd. steering and the have a super clean sport.

So your the guy who traded in the 05 353 with the midnight beach color scheme. I looked at that boat, 353 & price were just too big. I live right across the river from Trenton Marine Center. Just picked up a 292, do you keep your 07 there?

how much is approx. cost of adding it? By that time am i better off looking at stepping up to the next model?