Yeah... I think I'm going with the '05... stay tuned..

I've read a lot about the header issues as well on the 525's. Don't rag on me too much for this, but I'm not likely to be doing 80's on a regular basis. More likely to be cruising in the 50-60 mph range most often with the occasional thrill ride. My question is really do the header problems surface if the engines are pushed hard frequently or is it more a function of the engine design generally?

With those headers, ... "it just is", meaning there is nothing specific that causes failure. Some get lucky ... and some don't. Some say it is the extra unsupported length on the staggered engines, others say salt water, others just say $hitty quality, and others have no problems at all. :pray: There is a merc service bulletin to remove the rear hose, plug that bung and change the flow restrictor bushings. Supposed to put more water flow around the tubes. Supposedly the "pre-cool collar" are worse, but there have been failures of the ones with cool collars, too. Usually it is in the welds where they either develop pinholes, or crack. I started draining mine after every outing ... I couldn't stand the thought of those headers trashing my nice metallic blue and polished stainless steel masterpiece that merc made while I was home, asleep, after a fun day of boating ....

Is it the crazy graphic 38 from LOTO??

It's not that one, but I will glady share once the deal gets done. I am going with the 2005.

The one in Jersey?

In fairness to seller, don't want to identify the boat until after sea trial / survey in case there's a problem and deal doesn't proceed. Promise to share afterwards though!!! I can't seem to upload attachments, anyone know why that would be?

i may be wrong but i think you have to be a paying member to upload pics

Can anyone recommend a GPS unit ? I've been looking at the Lowrance HDS-7M Gen2 and the Garmin GPSMAP 740... Anyone have experience with either one?

Took delivery yesterday!!! 2005 Lightning 38, staggered 525 EFI's..... can't wait until tomorrow!!!