I think it is totaly doable to find a 35' Fountain for $55K.
Take a look here: http://www.powerboatlistings.com/fountain/

Also do a Google search. Remember it is really a buyers market right now. Just because someone is asking more don't be affraid to offer less, you might be surprised.

Cost of operation: I used to figure 20-24 Gallons per hour cruising at 3,000 to 3,200 rpm, and that was 40-45 mph. If I figured my total run time, including idleing in and out of harbors + cruising it usually came out to 12-15 gph. Not bad for twin HP500EFI's.

There are a couple nice 35's near your price range in the OSO classifieds.

You will not be disappointed with a 35. Big enough to run the rough stuff, and small and light enough that you won't be constantly sweating grenading a drive.

Remember that $55K was my top so not so easy when you start going for post 2000 (EFI) boats. I also really need to find a boat with the race faring because i think i would have problems getting over the window, ~ so that narrows the search. But, I still think my boat is out there .... and the hunt is half the fun.

I do understand why the prices jump between years now (following the evolutions of the hull). Funny how you can learn more about something in a few night on the forum then years of reading the mags. Thanks guys!

I am surprised, forums being what they are, that no owners of the earlier hulled 35s haven't stood up for their boats though.

What year did the 35 get the anchor locker?

I believe the locker was introduced in 2001. I would not look past a clean boat with carbs and you can find out a lot about Fountains by looking at Teamshogren.com as they have alot in stock and detailed pics. Happy hunting.

The anchor locker is on the Lightnings, but not the Lightning Classic and not the EX. As far as race fairing vs windshield, I assume you are referring to climbing out onto the front deck to dock. This is not a problem on any of the 35's as there is a nice walk around deck on both sides and all you have to do is step on the passenger seat and out onto the side deck and go on out front. So Stock windshield of either a lightining, Lighting Classic, or Executioner should be no problem.

Thanks for the info and that works for my crew but I am a paraplegic (can't walk) so I think my best way to the bow (front deck) would be to transfer from drivers to passenger seat to dash in front of pass seat and over the race fairing.

It won't be graceful but it should work.

The Lightning might work for you, it has a frame on the windshield, the Lightning Classic or EX would for sure need the race fairing.
I admire your perserverance.

How strong is the windshield? - it seems pretty tall.

Thanks, living well is the best revenge .... and playing with toys like these!!