f302 setup and speeds? just purchased!
 

I just bougt an 86 f302. Stock 454, trs drives, borg transmission, 3 blade 24 pitch props. Getting serviced at Wilkes Marine in Santa Ana, Ca.

Any recommendation to setup are welcome. The updated formula thread is great for the cosmetics. No need to change out motors or drives but the props may go to a 4 blade.

Need some pics!! Congrats on the purchase

302's are great boats...in fact I have my eye on one after I finish the 255 I'm doing. In your case I recommend running it and enjoying it. You are probably propped correctly...down the road consider changing the old "Log Style" exhaust manifolds and risers to the newer center riser style. They weigh about half as much and perform better. If yours have any time on them you might consider replacing them...especially if the boat has had much salt water use.

I think that boat should run about 60~65 depending on load and cruise 50~55 over long distances with ease. The 302 is a great ocean boat.

Thanks for the encouraging info. I posted questions about the a
302 prior to purchase and generated a lot of positive feedback.

My 1986 must be pre updated- throttle-controls so I may change those out too. But I agree.....take it out and run it. It should be water ready in about a week. So far no major issues post survey. TRS drives look good, however one had rusted u-joint due to a boot that let water in. Wilkes Marine is making the area round again as it was poorly repaired before by someone else. The new boot should be water tight.

I want to update the swim step from the teak. Any suggestions?

As soon as I figure out how to upgrade my membership I can post photos. In the meantime, there is a 302 that appears to have just sold in Stockton, CA. A rare find on the west coast.

Look up Delta Marine Sales in Stockton. It is under used boats.

what engines? 330's or 400 cyclones? 24P 3 blades a ton of prop for a 330 boat...hope it's 400's

you can always use photobucket and it's free...easy to use.

The motors are 330. Seems like a 4 blade may lift up the rear better. But, haven't had it in the water for a baseline on everything yet.

4 blades and 330 not necessary in my opinion...

So you think 3 blade will work with the 330? Will soon find out. Jim Wilkes and I will run it at Irvine Lake in a week or so.

I think I have Photo bucket up. The rusted out trailer is gone. So here are the beginnings of the "before" photos. I will get more next week.

http://s1352.beta.photobucket.com/us...r/story/54505#