Looking at moving up in boats. Considering a Baja 342, Fountain 35 Lightning and a Formula 353 Fastech. The Baja has more options available that the wife likes and the price is better than the other two with the added options.

This boat will have 500 EFI's and every option available except a generator.

Looking for feedback on what speeds the boat should run with 500 efi's and how well the boat handles.

Any information is appreciated.

Thanks Mark

Mark,
I have a 2001 342 with the Boss package. Twin 502 MPI's. Never did get to check speed with a gps however speedo reads about 71 wot. I have everything but the generator. I really like the boat. Moved up from a Checkmate 242. One of the main reasons I got the Baja over the brands you mention is the cockpit space. Even got married on the boat at a local waterfront rest, on 7/04/01. enough room to 5 people to stand for the ceremony. Well anyway I really like the way it performs.

TTT

Anyone else with one or any comments?

hotboat tested one back in 98-99 i think, i beleave it ran 75-76 with hp500efi;s they liked it alot if i remeber correctly

Hey Boss,
My cousin has a '99 342. Great boat. Has not had any problems with it at all. The boat is fully loaded with 502s. Can run a consist 71-72, but I have seen hit 75 on speedo. Claims on GPS he is 1 mph on the high end. It handles the rough KY Lake water quite well too!

I think I would consider a 36 outlaw first.
Just my .02

I have a loaded 342 that just happens to be for sale (I think it is actually sold) We moved up from a 272 w/ a 502 for a little more comfort. It has to be the most comfortable boat in the class of 33-36 footers. Still very trailerable to get to the best spots but with the 500's it runs into the upper 70's on regular gas. I've not been able to tweek it since the first summer we found ourselves with a new daughter. She loves the boat but she only likes going about 60. We'll be slowing down to a cruiser for a couple years but I don't think it will be too long before little Morgan wants to go 75 again.
The 342 is based on the 33 outlaw hull which is Baja's F-2 boat. Runs great in the sloppy stuff we frequently get here in the Great Lakes. Perfect long weekender though we've stayed aboard up to 10 days with the kids.

Ive had a few beers tonight, but how is a 342 moving UP from the 36 Outlaw you have?

Of course since this is a 342 thread, I have about 4 or so assorted carpets for 342s left. One or two have the BAJA logo, and one is with the big BOSS logo, and some plain ones I believe.

How 'bout something faster??
You should look at my PQ.
Very low hours, 81 mph, A/C, hot/cold water, vacuflush, a bigger cabin & cockpit than Baja, and so clean that I guarantee you'll think it is virtually new.


http://home.infionline.net/~brip/pq