Non Seacraft Formula 233 Question

nitz · #1 10-20-2009, 04:42 PM

I am rebuilding my 233 Formula (new stringers, transom, floor, etc...). I have a 5.7 liter volvo penta w/ a brand new transom assy and outdrive (duoprop) that I was going to put in it, but have been having second thoughts. These are my options:

1. Go ahead with the power package I have.
2. Sell the motor and outdrive and buy a used 250hp 2 stroke outboard.
3. Sell the motor and outdrive and save up for a new or slightly used 250-300hp 4stroke outboard.

What are your opinions? Do you think the ride will be better with the I/O? Thanks, Mark.

Dilligaf · #2 10-20-2009, 05:21 PM

i personally like I/Os better... dual prop really gonna help steering. yes it will ride better. my buddies dad had a 23 ft CC 1980 formula I/O he loved it. he now has a 32 ft Mirage I/O deisel... sweet ride. i believe I/O get a bad rap cuz people are scared of them i guess. they have the same maintance basically but just a little more time comsumeing to work on [tighter space]. also a lot cheaper to replace when time comes.

rockdoc · #3 10-20-2009, 07:13 PM

I/Os aren't for everyone. More maintanance which is fine if you can do it yourself; and they're not great if the boat's staying in a slip or on a mooring where marine growth is a problem. But, the ride is better, I think because of the lower center of gravity. And the nice clean closed transom is a plus, balanced by the minus of the motor box taking deck space. The new outboards are really nice, and I'm tempted to switch over to a 250 E Tech or Suzuki myself.

Having said that, If you decide to sell your Volvo, I'm looking to replace my old Mercruiser package and I'd be interested.

Steve

cdavisdb · #4 10-20-2009, 08:30 PM

Like the man said, they aren't for everyone. Keeping them in salt water is poison, especially down south where the boat stays in the water. They are more maintenance and you have to do it or the system gets unreliable and REALLY expensive. If you keep up with it, expense is ok, but still not cheap. I like to say I throw money at mine and it takes care of me just fine.

The advantages of I/0s are you can do much of the work yourself and they will almost always warn you well before they crap out entirely, unlike outboards (you have to listen and have good guages). Further most things can be fixed on the water, if you have the spares. In your case, the center of gravity issue is important because of your relatively high center and deep V. Also, the duoprop you will LOVE. Darn near bullet proof and fabulous torque. You can slow way down in snotty conditions. My old Seabird (very similar hull to yours) would plane solidly just above 11 knots, no jumping on and off a plane no matter how rough. Fuel economy will almost certainly be better than anything else you could have.

My opinion: If its not to be kept in the water, keep it, for sure.

Connor