1984 Formula LS 24'
 

I am going to look at a 1984 Formula LS 24'. It looks like it's in good enough shape and it's priced just under $6k. Has a 260hp 350 Merc. Any input would be appreciated including how to talk the wife into it!

Thanks,

Daniel

I like the older formulas personally but don't expect a speed freak. If it's alpha drivers and the sb 350 it may be a little bit of a pig in the water. You can always upgrade power and drives if you want more though!

Thanks for the reply. Not sure if it's alpha drives. I assumed it wouldn't fly with a 350. I'm about to head out to look at it now and will report back. What do you think of the price?

price is reasonable if boat is in decent shape. Good riding boat, but rather underpowered with a single small block.

Just looked at it. It's in great condition and seems well maintained. He said that it looked fast but only went around 35. I would definitely like more speed than that. Does anyone have any suggestions? I definitely don't want to spend $5,000 swapping an engine on a boat like this.

Thanks,

Daniel

I just got a fresh water 1985 242 with a 350 single and alpha.300 hours. one owner and no trailer mint condition, I put it in the same day I bought it and took a trip. Paid a little more than 5000. Live it though. Does 42 max but going to get a better prop. Good enough tho. It takes off good though.

That's good to hear. I had a Wellcraft Nova that took forever to get out of the hole.

ya its a nice boat....i want to do thru hull on it this winter....but i am not 100% sure how...i mean i think i do but i dont wanna mess up!

Ya, that's another thing I wish it had. I'm still thinking about it...

Just being totally objective, I wouldn't buy that particular boat.

I'm assuming it still has the teak swim platform, accents, & old quicksilver throttles & gauges? If I were you I'd look for at LEAST a 1990 or newer, just so you'd have the fiberglass swim platform & newer throttles. The price isn't going to be much different, or possibly at all, if you'll just look around.

Just fyi, is all.

One of my best friends bought a 1990 242-LS a year or so ago that has a 454, Bravo drive, bolster seats, 360 hours, trailer, & all of the newer controls for just over 10k. You'll be a HELL of a lot happier waiting for one that doesn't have teak in the long run. It dates the boat significantly, & is a pain in the ass the maintain, IF it's not already cracking & falling apart?

Good luck! Those old Formulas are great boats & will last you a long time if you take care of them. :ernaehrung004: