I can vouch for that!!! MV 35s old ride, correct?

Been there at 105 with Monte, this is one of the boats referenced in my post above, the 97 Lightning. Awesome boat, definitely "On a Rail". I believe that 110 mph was the final dialed in number.

you're correct. still have'nt reset the tattle-tale,109.9 gps from Monte. The best I've achieved 106+.

Thanks for the replys. Got the rocker tabs off I was wondering if I should pull the boxes off as well since the engines are out already. Dont really know if they help on not. Dont see a lot of Fountains with them on.

I have read more articles that extension boxes seem to hinder the performance of fountains than help

The new twin steps, pretty much all sizes, seen to like the Merc ITS set up which is an extension box of sorts, less set back than others but still a set back, combined with the short Sportmasters. Fountain is doing a lot with that package now. From what I hear it is the set up for the big top end number.

The single steps, not so sure. A close friend, the other 35 mentioned above, runs boxes and the Imco shorties. Can't remember the gains he had, if any. I need to call him about something next week and will try to remember to ask for the low down on the box deal.

Monte was the ultimate dialer-inner, have never seen anyone as methodical about the process. Paid off, that is one sweet ride you have there.

We were out with Monte one day a few years back running around with John Gossen, the week before his fatal accident, and caught a set of freighter waves at 100+. Just glanced at each other with that "UT-O" not going to be pretty look, it came thru in spades. When it comes to handling at speed there is not another Vee that can do it better than a Fountain. There are times I wish I had kept the single step and beefed up the power to get to the century mark in that hull, they are just awesome to be in at those speeds.

I did let Monte drive the new one this past summer, one day in some 3 footers. His comment was that the Biotch has an attitude. I got a kick out of that coming from him.

When referring to big power are we talking yesteryears power or todays ? I guess I'll try to take the boxes off really dont have anything to lose.

Most 35's dont act like what you are going through. Had a 2000 Lightning with Whippled 540's, standard length drives. It was rock solid over 100 mph. If you over trim it the boat would let you know. Just a thought. What kind of trailer is the boat on? Is it supported properly. You might check the last 4 feet of running surface to see if it has a hook or rocker in the hull. The faster the boat go runs the more noticiable any imperfection will be.

The boat sits on a Myco trailer it seems to be evenly supported the transom sits about 2" ahead of the rear bunk.

big power
 

I don't exactly understand your question, but I would consider this power of today.....