I have come across a smokin deal on a 1997 35' Lightning single step. The only sticking point is that it has 454 MPI Mags (385 HP). How fast can I realistically expect this boat to do? I also have a line on a 99 32' fever, with newly rebuilt 502s. I have read on here that the 32 feels like a lot less boat on the water, vs the 35. Also, I already have a 3/4 ton diesel, so towing either of them wouldn't be an issue.
I boat in North Texas mostly, Lake Lewisville, Possum Kingdom, and Texoma occasionally, so i really don't see much "big water" outside of cruiser wakes. I am leaning towards the 35, just curious if it's going to be a dog getting on plane, and what I'm looking at for top speed. I would be happy in the low 70s, just not sure it's going to get there with that setup. Thanks in advance for the help!

Absolutely it will run in the low 70s. Candyman here on the board has the same setup on a 97...I've ridden with him and driven the boat...you will not notice the difference getting on plane, for certain, and the boat was only 2-3 mph slower than mine with 502 EFIs.

I agree 100 percent. Kills me how the 502 makes everyone think the 454 is garbage. Both mag engines are great! 30 hp per side and you are worried? if someone had changed the stickers on the intake to 502 mag I bet you wouldn't even know the difference.


The 32 is a good boat. But the 35 has much better resale, sits better in the water. I can't speak for the ride, but I can tell you my 38 is worlds over a 35 in rough so I imagine the 35 would have that advantage on the 32.

I completely agree with you on the 454 vs the 502. I currently have a 502 in my boat now, and it power seems to flatten out on the top end, and I've read several people feel the same, that the last few hundred RPMs don't seem to make much difference in speed. I know the 454 doesn't do that, I didn't think it would be that big of a difference, i just wanted to make sure before I pulled the trigger on the purchase. Thanks for the reply guys!

go for the 35. you won't know the defference . low 70 , no problem

I owned a 32 before my 35, the 32 was a great boat, my first with twin engines, but I really liked the ride of the 35 over the 32 worlds apart.
I had 525's SC in my 35 and it ran 80 MPH with one person light on fuel.
The 32 had 454 mags, and it ran 74 MPH, same deal.

I've got Reggies old 35 here for sale, maintained with an open checkbook, motors refreshed by our shop, blowers sent off to the blower shop, drives gone through all this spring, maybe 15-20hrs on boat since this work done. Upgraded JL stereo w/ dash remote. Here's a link with info and pics.

http://www.performanceboatcenter.com...sp?boat_id=602

Glenn

Glenn.. what will this boat run top end?

Is it me or does everyone have problems seeing " Scrolling through" the pics at PBC? they disappear on me when scrolling.

80 mph, but she's a strong strong runner, she'll hang with the big boys. Hated getting rid of that boat, had her for 9 years, longest I've ever owned a boat. We traded for longer Beak. This boat is worth look, for a 1997, she's a solid 9 out of 10.