Mate 229

I found what appears to be a good deal on a '89 Panther. Has twin 600hp big blocks with Bravos. I don't know if the drives are stock which may be a problem with that HP. My real question is in the hull. I like the classic looks but don't know how they run and handle. Anyone who has or had one and can give me some input would be appreciated.

SCARABJ

iTrader: (1)

I have a 88 panther with 509 procharged motors xr drives with 2 inch shorter imco lowers fastest to date 98 mph on radar. mine is like a rock no problems with big water. when i raised the x dim 2 inches i picked up 5.5 mph but had to switch to brovo 1 props the boat handles and is faster with hydromotives quad 4s with stock x. I have had this boat for 8 years. hate to see it go but the motors are coming out and going in my 1999 33 avs. the stock 502 mag mpi are going back in the panther to sell if you have any questions about the boat call me 904 545 4821 I did about every thing you can do with this hull so maybe i can help. james

After Burner

I ALSO HAVE A 88 PANTER, IT ALSO HANDLES AND DRIVES GREAT
A LITTLE AIRESH OVER 80 MPH, BUT I NEED TO CHANGE THE
STERRING TO "LATHEM" ARE "MARINE MACHINE".
FOR THE MOST PART, THE BOAT DRIVES GREAT....

Mate 229

Thanks for the input. I spoke with the guy selling the boat and not sure if this will be the one. Says there are some stress cracks and it has been awlgripped white. That scares me . There are several for sale and may check others out. What kind of HP would I need in this hull to run 75-80? Some had 454mags and up to 650hp blower motors. I want to be able to use it and not constantly work on the motors.

SCARABJ

iTrader: (1)

I have had several engine combos in mine. carbed hp 500s 77 mph with the stock x dim 27 pitch mirage plus with 1.50 gears props swinging out. just make sure it has full hyd steering this will make a world of difference. If you are looking fo one i have a great one for sale 99 502 mpi mags 99 brovo ones less than 250 hours new gimbles. the motors and drive are coming out of my 99 33 avs. all new gafrig gauges and bezels all mecanical indacaters powder coated rails and tubular platform. thunder paint from factory alum trailer with disk brakes If you want i can e mail you some pics. james

Mate 229

Send me some photos when you get them and a price. I'll be in Florida sometime in July and may want to take a look. I have offices in Orlando and Ft Myers.

blue thunder

I have a 88 panther with 454 mags. I love the boat for the chesapeake bay size water. I'm not sure yet... but I think I get right around 70mph out of the 365hps. I think the panther is a great boat for its vintage. I'd have to pay up around $100k to match it in new technology.

I'd love to see any pics of other panthers posted here. I'll put some up soon as well.

BT

X-Rated30

Don't limit yourself to the Panther. Scarab made at least three boats with the same hull design as the Panther (someone correct me if I am wrong):

Scarab 300 -- basically the same, but with rectangularish portholes in the cabin. (Till early 80's)

Scarab S-Type -- I don't know of any differences. Mine was built for surface drives, and has a slight hook in the last 4 feet or so, that non-surface drive models don't have. I don't know if the S-Type came with any other drives. (mid 80's)

Scarab II -- Raised deck version

SinkorSwim

Where is the boat located? MO / Kansas area?