I appreciate the input. I will have to do a bit more testing on it and see how it does. I am also going to keep and eye out for a larger set of props and give them a try. These motors really seem to run well. I had a 280 or 300hp tbi volvo in my other boat and there is a incredible difference in the power. Im definitely pleased with the results of the larger prop, but as anyone, if I can squeeze a couple more mph out of the old girl I will. Speaking of the hook, I have contemplated many times about removing it, but was always a bit leary about it. It would not take much work and maybe I should consider it some more. let me know what you think. thanks

Read Vinny's experience on the hook:
http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/s...light=272+hook

Sure would be interesting to see how a 292 with Duoprops would respond. I think propeller technology has come a long way since the 70s and 80s and I bet the right prop would negate the need for a hook in the hull. Duoprops throw an unknown into the mix though. You can always put it back.

Sabercatt, How's the water level down your way?

rising quickly. a bunch of houses near me are underwater already and its not supposed to crest till friday. The ramp I put in at monday night, which was already flooded then, is an additional 5-6 feet under now. I think they said 10' total rise but haven't heard lately. no boat testing for me for a little while.

Did the 292 actually have the hook? i thought it was only the 242 and 272.My 272 ran 59.9999 small blocks bone stock(260 hp) Ran a 23 mirage at 4800. cruise was 40 @ 3300. My 311hull is actually concaved abit.

Yeah it has the hook. was that gps on the 272? I know Im giving up 2-4 mph with the duoprops, but it sure comes out of the hole great. not sure what year your 272 was, but there is about 1250# difference on the '90s. I need some more seat time to really see how this thing is going to perform. If I can get FRMULTR to dump enough salt in the river up by him, I can pick a couple mph that way. As soon as the water goes down I'll be able to do some more testing. Great weekend for weather, just not for water.

yup GPS mine was a 1987 with 638 hrs when i sold it. The 272 was rated i believe at 5750 dry. I had Alpha drive on my small blocks. The 59.9 was with me and a full tank of fuel.
Here is a pic

good lookin boat. I was tempted to keep my silent thunder platform, but opted to build an aluminum swim platform. it sure does take up a lot of space in the shop though.

Been meaning to ask about the small blocks and Volvos. You mentioned the transom was already cut for the Volvos; do you know the history behind that? Or did the Volvos just happen to bolt up perfectly? Just kinda curious about the history of the boat.

As for the SBCs, a buddy and I have been talking about engine swaps between big blocks and small blocks, and the position of their mounts. Since the 292 was never offered with small blocks, what can you share about how your engines bolted in and aligned? Did the brackets go right back in the original location and the engines bolted on perfect? I'm trying to convince him to acquire a BBC 272 (comes with Bravos and all the good stuff) and drop in "massaged" small blocks. And then lose the hook.

Thanks for sharing!

the only reason i kept it was my wife loved it and the noise police around here. After i put the " thru tunder kit" on it i was for sure i would get busted but never did. Now with the 311 i have kept it all stock the baffles are still in there and they say i am at 92 DB. i will have to quiet it down some how next year.