1997 290DA with 4.3 V6s?

[magstang1]

I'm going to look at a 290 Sundancer with twin 4.3 V6s this weekend. This is the wider style that was made from 1997 to 2000.

My question is, are these engines adequate?

I realize they are not ideal, but are they enough to get me where I am going? I found a boat close to me that the owner is desperate to sell. The price is reasonable now, and he told me he is willing to negotiate.

I'm not looking to set any speed records, but I don't want a boat that won't plane with 6-8 people and gear on board. If I get the deal I think I may be able to, I can live with the compromise of the reduced power.

This boat has a generator and a/c as well that will add some weight.

I've spent the better part of today scanning the forums and I've come across contrasting accounts ranging from one person who said the boat wouldn't plane with 6 people, to others who have said they really don't mind the 4.3/alpha combo.

Any first hand knowledge out there?

Also, what should I budget to replace the camper top? All the hardware is there, but the sunbrella and eisen glass need replaced.

 

[northern]

I had a 28 footer by 10.5 wide with twin 3.8 V6. It would do 26 knots and I drove it at 3800 RPM at 22 knots. Boat weight was about 8000 pounds dry and had upper and lower helms. It would have been nice to have bigger engines. Boat burnt 1 liter a minute at 22 knots. I have seen a lot of 28 footers with 4.3 L and they seem to like them. We normally had 3 adults on the boat 50 gallons of water 100 gallons of fuel and 1 to 2 weeks worth of groceries and beer. No problem getting on plane.

 

[Walz]

I just traded a 98 290 with those engines and drives for a 310. It was not the fastest to get on plane, but once up ran at a good speed. Had to use trim tabs in most cases. Very economical on fuel!

 

[magstang1]

Thank you. This is the kind of input I'm looking for.

Walz,

How many people could you comfortably take out for a day trip? Would you say 4 adults and 4 children was possible?

Do you have any idea what your fuel consumption rate was at cruise?

Thann you.