Greetings all.

I'm new to this forum and am in the market for a formula I can tow with a mid sized SUV ( 3rd gen Toyota 4Runner) or a mid sized pickup. I already own the 4runner and really don't want to buy another tow vehicle if I don't have to.

My father had a 1991 242SS that "managed" for him on Lake Charlevoix, MI for many years (well 20 to be exact) -- and he recently passed away. So I'm looking for another boat. I really liked the 242 and it's versatility.

But 242 is just too big to casually pull around. I've just acquired a place up north in downtown Charlevoix, except not on the water. So until I acquire a permanent boat slip, the trailer thing is what I am having to deal with.

A 206 would be ideal, but nice ones are rare to find. Empty weight is listed at around 3400 lbs or so. Right in the sweet spot.

223s are out there in greater numbers, and are about at the limit of what I really want to pull here and there.

Any suggestions or leads from the voices of experience?

Nice looking with Big Block/Bravo but Pricey...
http://norfolk.craigslist.org/boa/2915292738.html

Another nice Big Block boat
http://kansascity.craigslist.org/boa/2879942822.html

Nice 223 but not sure if it is saltwater or not
http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/bod/2925273077.html

Thanks for the reply --

The VA boat already sold --

The KC boat -- I have spoken to the owner (a boat mechanic) and am waiting for some attl pics.

its not mine and maybe to old but with the price plenty of room for improvement

http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/boa/2959874435.html

Gotta admit that VA boat looked like a nice piece. I think there is another one somewhere with upgraded imron that I will try and track down that looked clean. Hopefully you can find a nice one. They are SOLID little boats and brought a premium back in the day but that is because you got the same quality Formula offered across its entire line. I have been on everything from a 17 one, F-18, F3, 206, 223, 223ss, 242 and they are all great boats for their size you can't go wrong if you can find one that has been taken care of. 206 vs 223 I would opt for the 223 just based on size but the Ride quality in the 242 is where things change because of the deadrise in the hull. But if you are towing 206 is definately going to be easier all around

go after a 88-92 223 with a 454, or eat it buy a new truck and get the 242

Normally agree but I think he could be pushing weight limits with his current setup just with the 206. 223 on trailer full of gas is 6500+

Ya i know, but its a much better buy, besides we all push are trucks limits when we get started LOL

Ha I hear ya....I worked my ranger close to the max legal limit with a couple of boats. I am pretty curious how a 206 with a 454/bravo runs though. I know Formula did some testing with a big block setup. Really think Formula hulls react well to more power than what you could get stock.

ya they like power, but a 454 in a 206????????? damn, I may be maxing out my Sierra and then some soon lol