Edumacate me please!!!
 

I own a 22' Carrera that I bought new in 1989 that I love dearly. She started off with 330hp but now is closer to 550hp (68 mph on gps) and although I have always pushed the limits of the little boat (LA to Catalina Island, Ocean City Md to Baltimore, Annapolis to Charleston SC(yes by water)) I am thinking that it is time for me to step up to something a little bigger and with twins (thinking trips to the Bahamas and maybe the great loop eventually).

I have always really liked the Fountains and have never heard a bad word from an owner.

So I need educating.....

What are the differences between the lightning, executioner and fever models?

I would like to be able to see high 70s but still be economical at cruse (2 miles/gallon) which seems reachable in the smaller fountains (am I right in thinking that the fountains tend to be more economical then the matching cigs and such?

I am leaning on staying under 35' (looking at 29', 32', and 35') and my budget will hold me to pre-2001 or so (looking to spend under $55K - the more under the better) and would appreciate ALL feedback I can get.

Thanks.

Oh yeah ... what years were no step, single step and double step and how do the compare????

I would say if you are running in the ocean a lot you need a 35. That being said they were straight bottom through 94. The 95 has a small step through 97. In 98 they had a big step through 00 or 01. Then they went to a twin step. The 35 is not found as a Fever model, only a lightning and executioner. Prior to the twin step model they were all lightnings. The main difference is the top deck is styled slightly different. Hope this helps. Now is a great time to buy!

Very helpful, thank you.

I would go for a 2000 or newer, that way you get EFI, which is much superior to carbs. The 2000 Lightning Classic is a single step and was later re-named the Executioner, then after that the lightning had 2 steps. The easiest way to tell the difference is the windshield on the Lightning has a frame and the motor box (back deck) opens in one piece, the EX and lightning Classic the motor box splits down the middle and opens to each side and the windshield is plexiglass with with a forward turned venturi. They are great boats. You won't be disappointed.

Kahn - really beautiful boat, I love the stars and stripes graphics :drool::drool:

I had EFI on my wish list when looking at re-powers, glad to know 2000 could be original.

ok big question - how much of an effect did each evolution of the steps make? Am i right in thinking that the steps are why the fountain hull is so efficient?

IS the 35 the smallest Fountain to have a separate head? Am I right in thinking that all 29s and 32s could have is a porto-potty under the seat? (I don't really care but will help in smoothing over wife) :evilb:

Thanks again for the help

The twin step makes a difference in performance. The 2000+ 35ft lightning's hull provided a really stable ride at speed. The cabin of the 2000+ 35 ft lightnings were also superior to other models. It had an enclosed vacu-flush toilet, a sink and refrigerator.

IS the 35 the smallest Fountain to have a separate head? Am I right in thinking that all 29s and 32s could have is a porto-potty under the seat? (I don't really care but will help in smoothing over wife) :evilb:

Thanks again for the help[/QUOTE]

I believe the 35 is the smallest fountain that was available with a Real head. It also has a lot more freeboard than the 32.

I can't comment on the differences of 1 step vs 2 step, as my only ref. is the single step and I loved it. I now have a 27 Hallett with no steps and no notched transom and I feel like I am in a boat that was designed by Fred Flintstone by comparison. I really miss the Fountain. Mine had a seperate head and a portapotty, which was my choice because you don't need to get it pumped out. The 35 could take any weather that Lake Havasu could dish out, but in the ocean (Pacific) bigger would be better. I always lusted for a 42 and will get one someday.

I really appreciate all the info guys - I am taking notes......

But, are we losing touch with the price target a little?