I saw someone, maybe you, mentioned that in another thread. It was my understanding that the HP500's needed springs around 400 hours, but the 500 EFI's didn't have the same issue. It was caused by an oil cooler thermostat in the HP500's that caused condensation in the valve covers and made the springs deteriorate early. I'm not sure if that's what caused it or not, but I've never heard of the 500 EFI's having the same issue. I just figured they switched to a different spring.

One of my buddies picked up Steve's old 500 EFI's a few years back and they have over 500 hours on them now. He just did head gaskets, but the springs all tested good.

You wont own it long enough to need to worry about it anyway

Buy! Buy! Buy!

I'm a new car apart on price still, don't book your room in Florida yet.

No one wants to throw a number on a 47 with 500 EFI's? Maybe I'm the one that's crazy

Not many new listings on 47's I've only been watching them for a few months. Either they sell fast when priced right or just not that many come up for sale?

That is soooo true J.T.

Does anyone know if any bottom changes were done on the 47's over the years?

I'm being told 1998-2005 bottoms were different and Fountain went back to the 1997 bottom in 2006. The 1998 - 2005 bottoms you need to run some tab to keep the boat straight.

Not sure of bottom changes over the years, but I have a '99 with 525sc's and extension boxes. Boat runs straight and level with just a touch of drive trim and a touch of port tab to counter torque rotation. Best boat I have ever owned. Engines have 450 hours and have only had belts, wires, etc. at 350 hrs. Springs were tested and were at spec. Looking to trade down to 35' or less to fit a lift at a house I just bought in Florida. Check it out at www.UpperChesapeakeYachtSales.com

Sharp boat! What kinds of speeds do you see with that set-up?

the 97 was a small step the 98 was the big step as all since then have been, i would think when they went to the twins with bigger power they may have moved the steps. i have also been told that the 47s like to flop from on side to the other on a casual lope down the lake. but when there up and running there a freight train.

later

The 47' runs straight as an arrow. I run 3,000 RPM's at just under 50 MPH and can walk away from the wheel even in a cross chop. Stock 4 blade 30 pitch Mirage props give me about 88 WOT. Previous owner ran Hydramotives and swore to 92 MPH.