Bmaxs also weigh quite a bit more than what a bravo does, X2 that weight off the back of a 292?

Stick with the bravo's. You will not make the torque from a small motor. Also, I had a b max, and lost a lot of speed. For me it was worth it because It was behind almost 1000 hp. As far as the steering, you should at least put on a add on hydrolic system. They are not near as expensive as a full system and work well. Good luck with the build

I know I know, but being completely serious, I'd tear into it right away, I REALLY want to try for a mid 80's boat. I posted on the thread phragle, but this is one of the other builders I am considering now after I've begun to re investigate the guy in Washington based on what you said. http://www.ebay.com/itm/420HP-Twin-3...ZT9VnA&vxp=mtr

They are local, 45 mins, good reviews and references as well. Just a little bit higher than most people I've reached out to.

I keep having an ad pop up on facebook about Shogren selling all used parts at 50% off including drives. Have you looked at his stuff? Might save ya some money

I agree, key words being SETUP CORRECTLY.

Becarefull buying the cheap shrogren drives. A friend bought a sport master fro them that looked great until after the first run. The drive had been repaired and was leaking oil through the side of the lower

If a bmax is set up properly, you won't lose any speed either. They are 40 pounds heavier than an XR. Although with 500 HP, I'd stick with an XR all day long if you have one already.

Yes, "setup correctly" is the difference maker.

I agree with this statement....I put a Bmax behind a 700HP blower engine on a 29 lavey Craft and lost no speed

The drives I have now are being sold, it's a long story, Volvo dps, cool set up actually. search my name and you'll have a good read, or a few lol. I've never had good bravo experience and it makes me leery. if I went bravo it would be the 1x rated to 450hp. I personally had a Bmax about 8 years ago now behind about 650 in a cat. Man did that thing take a beating. Never had an issue. It's why I'm drawn back to them. deaoitw my low hp