Formula 311 vs 357. What to look out for?
 

I can finally afford to own a boat. I am 27, new to the forums. But growing up we always had boats. 25 footers, mainly center consoles. I found my self using the boat more then my dad did, he sold the boat years ago and the boating ich never left me. I have multiple 1 ton trucks as i own a landscaping business. So with that said, towing isn't a issue. Ever since i started looking at owning my own boat, i have loved the lines of the old formulas. Particularly the 1988-1991 311 or 357.
I have only looked on the interenet, never went to see any in person yet. But this summer i wanna start looking seriously. I have seen a 311 in real life only once that was at put n bay. Totally amazing boat. My question is, what do i look for when i look at one? I plan on getting a boat surveyed before i buy. Is maintenance much different between a 311 or a 357? Is fuel usuage much different between a 311 or 357? I have read somewhere that 311s use around 20-25 gallons per hour? Any information would be greatful! Im not new to forums, i belong to the ford truck enthusiast forum. I have a love for modifiying 6.0 diesels. Got a good amount of money and time invested into my (2006 F350 6.0) and am wanting to start a new hobby.

Thanks!

Matt

The one of the biggest problems with the older boats is the transoms stringers and bulkheads tend to rot out . So make sure you check for moisture in those areas.

Welcome to the the forums where are you from asking because you talked about put in bay. I would say there are a lot around here to look at and get on before you buy. Come over to kelleys island at the beginning of summer there is always a few there you could check out. Stop down and talk to us all of use will let you check out are boats. It will just cost ya a beer. Lol you could even possible get on a few rides maybe.

Sounds like you have never run a big twin engine boat, so stick with the 311. 357 is a VERY big boat, almost 38'. Start with a 311, they ride great and are forgiving to operate, and will be much faster than a 357 with the same power. Once you get some seat time, move on to whatever you like

1989mach11, I am from westlake Ohio, 15 mins west of Cleveland. I am about 45 mins away from sandusky. So i am very close to the area. I deff wouldnt mind coming out! I will buy all the beer you guys want, but i am not a beer drinker.... More of a jager drinker :) haha.

Rexcramer, i have never run twins. I am sure i could get use to it. THe boat we had was a 2007 25 ft proline center console with a 200 merc out board 2 stroke. I take it the 311, is a 31.1 foot boat or a 32 ft? Never seen a 357 in person, but that 311 i saw was a big boat. I hear 357s are tanks on the water and ride over waves amazing. I assume 311s are like that to?

Switchbackman, whats a easy way to check for rotted stringers?

Formula has all their brochures online to view. They also include dimensions! The vintage you are looking at list their length minus a molded bolt on silent thunder swim platform/exhaust system.
http://www.formulaboats.com/brochure...ula-brochures/

I agree the 311 would be the best starting point for you. It is big enough to handle erie yet small enough to be able to Handel when the wind kicks up. Different boat but I love my 33 big enough for the lake and small enough that no mater the wind or waters I can handle it by my self. The 357 is a huge boat to start with imo. Especially in tight docking areas like the casino or at times pib.

I think the 311/336/353 are Formulas best offshore offerings. If I was looking to get into something the size of a 357, I would probably look at an older Cigarette Mistress or Top Gun.

I really like my 311. I have TRS drives with transmissions which I personally really like, added external hydraulic steering, and currently have the engines out building them to 525 horse or so.

What about the fuel usage between the two different boats

Mr Maine, what makes you want a 353 over a 357