2004 370 SS w/500 EFI - Bravo III's ??


Y

YoYoPedro

New member
I currently own a 1996 Cruisers 3175 Rogue (Express Cruiser) on Lake Michigan in Chicago. For a few years I've been lusting after a Formula. I was originally thinking of a 330 SS, but I'm not sure that I'll be "wowed" long enough with that move, compared to what I'm piloting right now. So I'm considering the 370 SS instead. Looking at a 2004 370 SS w/Mercruiser 500 EFI - Bravo III package, w/90 hours. Although the boat has been driven in saltwater, it has fresh water flush and has ostensibly been flushed after each use. Also looking at a 2003 370 SS w/84 hours on Volvo 8.1L GXI DuoProps. This boat is usually dry stored, but also used in saltwater when used. I'm on Lake Michigan and have some idea (fears) of the difference that fresh vs. salt water can make, in overall longevity, etc. of a boat. So, I guess my questions are:

1) What are pros or cons of either propulsion setup (known issues, etc.)?

2) Were there any big material differences between the two model years in terms of features, upgrades, etc?

3) Is the previous saltwater usage going to have long term deleterious effect on overall life and reliability of either boat if used only in fresh water going forward?
 
1) What are pros or cons of either propulsion setup (known issues, etc.)?
Th Volvo DP has more of an advantage since it is less prone to corrosion than the BravoIII. If you look into the BravoIII I would make sure it has been updated with Merc redesign with more zincs that happened in 2004. Check the Mercathodes and Galvanic Isolators and make sure that they are running.

2) Were there any big material differences between the two model years in terms of features, upgrades, etc?
I think the two are about the same.

3) Is the previous saltwater usage going to have long term deleterious effect on overall life and reliability of either boat if used
only in fresh water going forward?
If the boat is well cared for with flushing, cleaning, maintenance, and anode replacements then I think you should be fine.
 
If it is truly the 500hp engines I doubt it has bravo III's, probably bravo xr or I, make sure either way. I think you may sacrifice some hole shot with the single prop drives but top end will be much more with the 500's. Also you may want to check your insurance. It usually goes up quite a bit for the blue engines.
 
Come on!! Tell us, did you get it? We want to hear all about it. Does it have bravo III"s Did you get the race engines? Inquiring formula owners want to know.
 
So far still researching, not sure what I'm gonna do

But trust me, this is where I'd be bragging about it when it happens. Also reconsidering the 330 SS option. Decisions, decisions...
 
330ss Is an awesome boat all the luxuries of a cruiser with the performance of a sport boat, handles like a dream and parties like a rock star at anchor. Of course I am a bit biased ;) I am sure you will be happy with any Formula.
 
Pedro,

I have seen a used 370 for sale at Waukegan Harbor. As I recall the the boat has very low hours and of course no saltwater use. It might be worth checking out.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top