looking for a BT

[stevewy]

I'm in the market for a 2000 43 BT with the extended cabin. Cash deal, am able to go around $100K. Anyone know of anything available?

[Ratickle]

Welcome, so you mean the extended cockpit I think?

[John P]

How about a 06 or 07 43? May know of one sitting not sure on the year though.

[stevewy]

Thanks John --- I'm typing faster than thinking. Yes, I meant cockpit. I'd love a 06 or 07 but I'm sure way out of my price range. Currently, I have a 33 Bertram cruiser and a Powerquest 280. My goal is to go from 2 boats to 1. I love the BT and the cabin works for my wife. I can see there aren't many Thunders made and few available, so, I may not be able to find one that fits my price and tastes, but think it's worth a try. Thanks for the response

[Ratickle]

Currently, the most interesting one out there I know of, is the one at National.....


It says a GT, but it is obviously an EC. Here's the link and some info clips...

2001 Black Thunder 430 GT for sale | Cleveland, OH (http://inventory.yachtauctions.com/Page.aspx/diid/7112828/list/InventoryList/pageId/29975/view/Details/2001-Black-Thunder-430-GT.aspx)


2001 Black Thunder 430 GT For Sale In Fort Lauderdale, FL
Call
List Price $99,000 | Stock Number: 29233 | Status: In Stock

Loud, fast, style, comfort and eye appeal are just a few words to describe this Black Thunder. She offers four drop bolsters in her cock pit with an aft bench and molded in steps port to get on her bow. Built with a cabin offering more then six foot of head room, full galley and head and private forward birth. facing sette seats offer storage underneath and plush ultra leather covering.

OH

NATIONAL STOCK # 29233

PLEASE CALL THE CLEVELAND OFFICE AT (216) 391-1900 OR EMAIL US AT INFO@NATLIQ.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DETAILS ON THIS VESSEL. THE PRICE LISTED IS THE SUGGESTED SALE PRICE OF THIS VESSEL. IT MAY SELL FOR MORE OR LESS, ALL OFFERS WILL BE SENT TO THE SELLER WHO RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ACCEPT, COUNTER OR REJECT.

NATIONAL STOCK # 29233

[stevewy]

Currently, the most interesting one out there I know of, is the one at National.....


It says a GT, but it is obviously an EC. Here's the link and some info clips...

2001 Black Thunder 430 GT for sale | Cleveland, OH (http://inventory.yachtauctions.com/Page.aspx/diid/7112828/list/InventoryList/pageId/29975/view/Details/2001-Black-Thunder-430-GT.aspx)


2001 Black Thunder 430 GT For Sale In Fort Lauderdale, FL
Call
List Price $99,000 | Stock Number: 29233 | Status: In Stock

Loud, fast, style, comfort and eye appeal are just a few words to describe this Black Thunder. She offers four drop bolsters in her cock pit with an aft bench and molded in steps port to get on her bow. Built with a cabin offering more then six foot of head room, full galley and head and private forward birth. facing sette seats offer storage underneath and plush ultra leather covering.

OH

NATIONAL STOCK # 29233

PLEASE CALL THE CLEVELAND OFFICE AT (216) 391-1900 OR EMAIL US AT INFO@NATLIQ.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DETAILS ON THIS VESSEL. THE PRICE LISTED IS THE SUGGESTED SALE PRICE OF THIS VESSEL. IT MAY SELL FOR MORE OR LESS, ALL OFFERS WILL BE SENT TO THE SELLER WHO RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ACCEPT, COUNTER OR REJECT.

NATIONAL STOCK # 29233

Yea, that is an interesting one. I had seen it online before. I really don't like the double row of bolsters and im not sure you can convert it to the more conventional 2 + 1 single row. It's also carb and I like Efi but that's no deal breaker

[Cruz-N-Thunder]

It is EFI. Those are 575 sci. They have two GM tbi per engine. Should be easy to change layout. I've seen them set up a couple different ways. Mine has 3 then 2 then bench.

[stevewy]

Thanks. You can't really tell by the photo but it looks pretty tight to move on bolster up. I thought maybe the "GT" had less than the 9' 6" beam. If that change can be easily made I may be interested in that one.

On the downside; I had a deal in place to sell my cruiser but it fell apart last night. Bummer . Oh well, I'll just keep it listed.

I'm really geeked on the thunder. Looks like the perfect boat for my needs. I've heard they are really tough on drives. What ate some experiences or advice from other owners?

[Ratickle]

The boat for sale is NOT a GT. The Gt is the flatdeck version, like Coolermans.

On the EC, they were only twin engine optioned, and therefore the engine compartment is shorter. That's where the extra cockpit room came from.

If you look at this pic of the boat,

73931

You can see where the deck/hull rubrail line has a raised deck above it.

If you look at this pic of a GT,

73932

You can see where the deck above the rubrail line is barely above the deck/hull attachment point.

I assume this is the configuration you are looking for? This is the one in Michigan for 139,000 I think currently.

73933

Changing the other one to match this would not be all that difficult if that is what you are looking for.

[Ratickle]

The only negative on the extended cockpit version, in my humble opinion, you can only run twins. And, you can never have enough room for a drive upgrade with trannies (unless you run with the Konrad style where the tranny is in an extension box. But, with the new IMCO and Bravo drives out there, that is not nearly the issue it used to be.

[stevewy]

Yes, the cockpit configuration on the Michigan boat is what I like. I appreciate the explanation.

Powered by the 575s what cruising speed and RPM am I looking at? Top end? Other than potential drive issues (pretty big issue) are there any other known problem areas with the BT? Thanks

[stevewy]

Just called on the Cleveland boat. It just sold

[Cruz-N-Thunder]

Yes, the cockpit configuration on the Michigan boat is what I like. I appreciate the explanation.

Powered by the 575s what cruising speed and RPM am I looking at? Top end? Other than potential drive issues (pretty big issue) are there any other known problem areas with the BT? Thanks

Mine with tired 575s ran out at 73 with low fuel and 4 people in the boat at 5100rpm. I typically ran around 55 and it seemed around 4000rpm or so. Not 100% sure on rpm. Should finish new set up in a couple weeks. 575s are a good platform to start with. Drives are the only problems I know of. Have to really baby it on plane and try to keep it in the water. Ran all last year with no issues.

[BDARCHER]

You can never have to many seats or to much head room in a boat. Ive only had one drive issue and I think i hit something. If you have a drive problem just call the bravo shop. John will fix it up.

[BDARCHER]

Ill sell mine.

[stevewy]

That is a beautiful boat!

[BDARCHER]

That is a beautiful boat!

Thanks Its a 2001 46EC with 500 EFI and XRs.

[stevewy]

Ill sell mine.That is BY FAR the nicest looking BT I've seen. I'm limited to a 43 because of the space of my lot and my hoist configuration. I'm also sure your asking price would be beyond the $100k budget I have set.

Another set back this week was that the guy who had offered to buy my Bertram backed out. Not sure why.

[BDARCHER]

I think the 46 has a longer swim deck and bow is longer. Which I think make the boat lines look nicer. The Bts are just big heavy machines that need a little more power.

[stevewy]

Just curious; I noticed that the boat name says "Pensacola Florida" and the location of your post is Millington Tn. Is the boat fresh water or salt?
I think the 46 has a longer swim deck and bow is longer. Which I think make the boat lines look nicer. The Bts are just big heavy machines that need a little more power.

[stevewy]

Probably different than most on here, but my interest in the Black Thunder isn't really speed. Currently I have a Powerquest 280 with a stock 502. When I bought the boat it had a pro-charger on it, and I blew the engine (ran lean). So, I returned the motor to stock although it still has the big lower unit, racing drive, and extension box. I cruise at around 40 MPH at 3500 RPM, top end is about 60. I'll kick it up to 60 once in awhile for the thrill, but normally just cruise. I love the boat. My wife hates it because she is spoiled by the cabin and ride comfort of my 33 Bertram. I don't want 2 boats, and think the BT is a good compromise. If I can cruise at 40 - 50 MPH, and get a top end occasionally in the 65 -70 range that's good enough for me. Having the huge cabin and good ride in rough water that serves my purpose (I often boat Lake Erie --- shallow and can get pretty nasty).

My hoist deal is pretty limited. I live on a canal with an 80' lot. My hoist is in a cutout that is surrounded by dock. I only have 40 feet from the first piling to my lot border where my neighbor has his hoist. The hoist people tell me I can reconfigure the hoist to back a new boat in and have the weight in the back. That doesn't leave me much room to maneuver. I think I can handle a 43 on a windy day, but a 46 would be really challenging.

That being said; I love your color scheme, and although I hadn't thought of double row bolsters, yours look nice. I'm retired and have a limited boating budget, but if yours was in my price range, and I could figure my hoist out ---- and my Bertram sold I'd be all over yours. That's a whole bunch of "If's" though
Just curious; I noticed that the boat name says "Pensacola Florida" and the location of your post is Millington Tn. Is the boat fresh water or salt?

[BDARCHER]

Its on a lift in the Miss river. I have trailered to the gulf once. had a great tiime. I bought it in ATL GA in 08. Fla is the port of call coast guard thing

[Ratickle]

The difference in overall length of the 43 vs the 46 is not 3' however. I'll doublecheck it to be accurate, but I believe it isn't all that much.

[Cruz-N-Thunder]

The difference in overall length of the 43 vs the 46 is not 3' however. I'll doublecheck it to be accurate, but I believe it isn't all that much.

I think you are right about the length. I know the swim pad is longer but not sure about the front. I would be curious to see what all was changed from the 43 to the 46. I don't think there were too many 430SCs made with the extended cockpit.

[stevewy]

That would be great if it's not. The 46 has a more lean look and hey who wouldn't rather say they have a 46 as opposed to a 43!

[stevewy]

BD: As I've mentioned, there are issues I have to overcome before I canbe a serious buyer. I don't want to waste your time, but I do really like the looks of your boat. If you have any other pictures and information can you email them to me? My email is stvsboat@aol.com

[stevewy]

I'm back in the "thinking/looking" stage on a BT purchase. A new buyer for my Bertram is in place, so, I'm back in the market. A few questions:

1) I hear a lot about BT's having serious drive problems. I've read this forum and know about John and his good work. However, I'm not interested in making a $100K purchase and having to drop down thousands more for a new or different drive set-up. One that I will be looking at is a 43XC powered by custom 540's @ 530hp running Bravo 1. I can't believe a Bravo 1 is adequate for a boat this heavy. Any thoughts are appreciated.

2) How difficult are they to trailer and is a F-350 dually sufficient for long distance? Any advice on hitch set up or other trailering?

3) What is the best prop set up for getting on plane and topping out in the 70MPH range. I'm more into the comfort than top end speed

and,

4) What are some rough water experiences people would like to share that will give me an idea of how they handle and ride.

Thanks for any input.

NOTE: BD If you read this, I would be interested in hearing more about your boat if you're seriously thinking of selling.

[Ratickle]

I doubt we'll get him on here this week because of first Madison then the Gold Cup, but Steve David can tell you all about rough water handling from when he used to take his across to the Bahamas from Miami, and back, in all kinds of weather. (And the Cigarettes tucked in behind him to follow!!:sifone:) I'll shoot him an email though, don't hold your breath.

[Ratickle]

Now, I do not believe a stck Bravo 1 is strong enough. A stock XR I think would last if taken care of. On a 46 I'm not a positive.

As for getting on plane, should never be a problem unless you are propped for maximum top speed.

In June of 1999 Hot Boat tested a 430 Extended Cockpit when they first came out. It had twin HP500EFI's and Bravo Ones and was loaded with all the heavy options.

Top Speed, radar 73.0mph

Time to plane - Less than 5 secs

0-30 13.74sec
0-40 16.83sec
0-50 20.36sec
0-60 25.73sec

4000 RPM Cruise - 57.9mph

[Ratickle]

By the way, Powerboat did a test of Steve David's "Sabrina" 43 back in August of 2000. It had trips, but I'll quote

"During testing off Hawk's Cay, our test team eked out 81.6 mph, which is pretty impressive, given the 5- to 6-foot seas that day."

[stevewy]

Thanks. Helpful response.

[SteveDavid]

Hi guys,
Blowing drives isn't specific to Black Thunders. Anyone can blow a drive if they throttle too hard or not appropriate in the wrong conditions or simply too much HP or torque. My 2000 43' came with triple 500' and stock bravo drives. I ran it two years and about 270 hours that way with NO drive issues. I then installed Whipple Blowers which produced app. 690 HP each and went with XR drives. Would get about 60 hours per drive before something would blow.
With the 500's she was a dream. I ran numerous times to the Bahamas, including Nassau, West end, Grand Bahama, Bimini, and throughotu the Keys and key West in all sorts of conditions from glass to small craft warnings. The last trip back from Bimini in 7-9's with a 20 knot NE wind against the northerly flow of the gulfstream. Constantly on and off the throttles and no problem. The Black Thunder is a rock solid hull, as good if not better than anything on the market for alot less money. Maybe not as "cool" as others or as refined, but I prefer comfort, livability and reliability to "cool". I could cruise all day between 55 and 60 MPH in anything up to real 3 footers. Beyond that it's a matter of how comfortable you want to be. When we ran in ugly stuff, like the 7-9's, I ran between 28-33 and NEVER broke a thing, NADA, Nothing.
If you find a 43 with twin 500's expect about 72 MPH. Twin 525's about 75 and twin 575's about 77, real speed, full fuel in warm temps and humidity. I demoed them for BT at the Miami show for several years and the speeds I'm quoting are GPS speeds. (I was never an employee, just a customer that liked the product and the family that owns the company). The 2nd. generation 46 has a teriffic ride. The bottom was changed from the first 46's by reducing the notch length thereby extending the running surface. The 46 is identical to the 43 from the back seat to the bow. The length increas in the 46' is in the engine bay and swim platform. What you will notice with a BT, as opposed to low freeboard boats, is a greater reaction to wind. This is offset by use of your trim tabs, or minor adjustment in drive trim differential. Once you are used to the handling, it's easy.
In short, buy one, have a ball and enjoy a huge cabin, great ride, solid build quality and an owners group that from my experience were people who weren't of the flash and bling variety, but more about boating fun, overnights on the anchor or in a marina, with friends and family.
Steve David

[Coolerman]

Hey Steve, great post!

Also, another small difference from the 43 to the 46 is the 46 has a slightly more aero/sharper entry in the nose. Also, the 2nd generation 460's not only had the notch filled in, but had the outside chines lowered as well. The steps were also increased in size.

[Ratickle]

What year was the change from first gen to second gen on the 46?


And thanks Steve, I really didn't expect you to have a spare minute until after the Gold Cup...

[Coolerman]

I think the change was late 05'/early 06'........ Nothing that can't be done to older BT's.

[racer511]

Thanks Steve, well said

You make Black Thunder owners proud of there boats, they are great boats!!!!!!

[Monopoly 46]

I have two for sale 460EC with 525's and a 43SC with 650's not blower motors!
Brett

[Ratickle]

You can't sell both Brett!!!!!

[Monopoly 46]

You can't sell both Brett!!!!!

hahaha trying to get into a skater!!
Brett

[endeavor1]

I have two for sale 460EC with 525's and a 43SC with 650's not blower motors!
Brett

I ll take the 46 :drool5:

[stevewy]

I have two for sale 460EC with 525's and a 43SC with 650's not blower motors!
Brett you can send photo's, specifications, comments, and pricing to stvsboat@aol.com

Thanks

[Ratickle]

hahaha trying to get into a skater!!
Brett

You'll miss the headroom!!!!!



Skater's are a sweet boat, what size are you thinking?

[endeavor1]

you can send photo's, specifications, comments, and pricing to stvsboat@aol.com

Thanks

Performance Boat Brokerage | 1997 Black Thunder 43 Tall Deck (http://www.performanceboatcenter.com/boat_detail.asp?boat_id=586) - the 43

[rschap1]

WOW
That looks nice and price seems good...

as far as I know.

:)

[John P]

Endeavor those are your colors!:puke:

[Ratickle]

I've often wondered about an arch arrangement for weekends etc. Was that a factory option then, or did that come off a Sonic or something later?

[endeavor1]

Endeavor those are your colors!:puke:

Funny man you are

[Ratickle]

I actually think it looks pretty good. Seems to be a reasonable price also if it's in good condition and low hours on the rebuilds like it says.

Anyone familiar with the boat? Brett?

[endeavor1]

I actually think it looks pretty good. Seems to be a reasonable price also if it's in good condition and low hours on the rebuilds like it says.

Anyone familiar with the boat? Brett?

Its extremely clean. Boat is mint mint mint. Have seen it several times first hand and know how the owners take care of that boat among their others.

[stevewy]

Received an offer on my cruiser tonight, and will get the deposit Thursday. So, am now able to be serious in my search for a 43 or 46 extended cockpit thunder. Please let me know of any fresh water thunders available

[Nevr2nd]

Performance Boat Brokerage | 1997*Black Thunder*43 Tall Deck (http://www.performanceboatcenter.com/boat_detail.asp?boat_id=586) - the 43

Ive seen this BT, its on a lift in Porto Cima, looks nice.

[stevewy]

BD Archer: if you check in here, drop me some more info on your BT. I've sold my Bertram, and have figured out how to get the lift I need at my house. So, I'm not lImited to the 43 like I thought I would

[BDARCHER]

901-626-0005

[stevewy]

BD: you can send extra pics and specs to stvsboat@aol.com

Thanks

[stevewy]

BD: If you have time, don't forget to shoot me some pics.

I'm also looking at a 1999 43' in LaCrosse Wisconsin. Boat was originally in Az. Anybody familiar with it?

[Ratickle]

BD: If you have time, don't forget to shoot me some pics.

I'm also looking at a 1999 43' in LaCrosse Wisconsin. Boat was originally in Az. Anybody familiar with it?

Any pics of it???

[stevewy]

I don't know how to post pics, but the boat can be seen on yachtworld.com. It's the one in Lacrosse Wisconsin. Yellow and black graphics

[Coolerman]

Ive seen this BT, its on a lift in Porto Cima, looks nice.

I've seen it as well.... It's better than new. No exaggeration there.

[Ratickle]

I've seen it as well.... It's better than new. No exaggeration there.

Do you know the other one in Lacrosse????

74128

74129

74130

[stevewy]

I've exchanged emails with the guy in Wisconsin. It sounds like a really nice one. 35 hours on motors and hasn't been used in 5 years. The trailer is sweet and the boat looks in extremely good condition. The major drawback is that I'm looking for an EC, which this one is not. I'm going to take a look at the one in Algonac (near me), although because of the price I'm not too optimistic. That one is also supposed to be first class. B D Archer must be tied up as I haven't heard back from him. My wife definitely thinks I should hold off until next season and see what is available, and she's probably right. Although, if the right deal were to go together ........ I'd be all over the right thing NOW. The problem is finding the "right" thing ---- a EC, in excellent shape, within my budget.

Every one that I've looked at has something that doesn't fit my perfect scenario; either it's not an EC, isn't in great shape, doesn't fit the budget, isn't powered right or something...... Oh well, nobody said it was a perfect world.

[BDARCHER]

Sorry I havent got back with pics. Ill post some this weekend.

[stevewy]

No problem. I've been pretty busy also. I scrolled through the old posts on a thread here titled "pics". I saw a couple that you posted a few years ago. Is the boat turbo charged?

[BDARCHER]

Thats a turbo charged 30 Superboat ive had since 93

[Ratickle]

It is a good looking boat.

[stevewy]

Yea, from what I've seen it looks very nice. I like the color scheme. Now that I've figured my hoist dilemma out, I prefer the 46. Looking at a few of the old pics on here (pretty small and hard to see) I almost flipped out with the pic of a turbo charger. I had a bad experience with a pro charger, and really just want a stock motor. To my relief Bobby explained that was a pic from another boat. I'm also a concerned with all the talk of drive issues with the Thunders. However, I would think I should be pretty safe with XRs and only 500 EFI's. There is a lot to like about this boat. Wish it wasn't so far away.

[Ratickle]

Road Trip!!!!!:cheers2:

[stevewy]

Yup! Road trips are always a good thing. Did the mapquest thing...... 12 hours to Memphis by "road", but cheap o air had some decent fares

[stevewy]

BD: I don't want to be a "pain", but if you have time I am really interested in seeing more of your thunder. I am looking at one tomorrow night, and would like to be able to do some "comparison" thinking. After viewing some more pics I could develop whatever questions I might have and we can correspond over the phone or email, and then in a few weeks I'll come down to your area, meet you and look at the boat. The season is almost over here in Michigan, but we might be able to still work something out this year.

[Monopoly 46]

you can send photo's, specifications, comments, and pricing to stvsboat@aol.com

Thanks

sorry for the late reply but my bt is the one at pbc its purple with a arch
Brett

[stevewy]

Thanks for the reply. I had looked at yours some time ago. Very nice boat, and I've heard it's mint. We really like the cabin of the post 1999 thunders.

[drpete3]

I know of a turn key 02 46 EC thats here in MI. Its a friend of mine and he has his eye on the 51 outerlimits.

[stevewy]

Thanks. Have him send me some information and pics. I looked at a 43' last night and have scheduled a viewing of a 46' in early September

[stevewy]

Just FYI, I'm not interested in blower motors or triples

[endeavor1]

I know of a turn key 02 46 EC thats here in MI. Its a friend of mine and he has his eye on the 51 outerlimits.

What boat is that?

[stevewy]

I am traveling between Detroit and Mackinac between tonight and Tuesday. If your friend is interested in showing the boat have him send me an email Or post contact information on .

I will be looking at a boat in Tennessee September 7 and would like to be able to make a decision then

[drpete3]

It's the one from Boyne thunder that's white black red yellow. I'll let him know

[drpete3]

Has IMco scx -4 drives and warmed 575s

[stevewy]

Thanks. I'm around Indian river and get horrible cell reception where I'm staying. I leave there a few times a day to check mail and messages (like now). He can call me at 313 617 3024. If it goes to voice mail I'll call back when I get the message

[drpete3]

He works nights and will be sleeping now. With the new drives/props and recent work thats been done i know he will be north of 150k on his price too

[stevewy]

Thanks for the information. No reason to waste his time, that's considerably more than I am looking to spend. Thanks anyways

[stevewy]

I opened this thread back in June. There aren't many Black Thunder's for sale, and even fewer that have the extended cockpit. To the best of my knowledge, I looked at or considered every BT that is on the market ---- at least every BT that was brought to my attention. It was a pretty tedious process that included conversations with Mr. Jenkins, Shane Poelling, and a number of BT owners. Not too mention, the input from many here on this forum. I took a couple "road trips", did a ton of reading, talked to many not-BT owners, lots of conversations with my mechanic...... and I can't even tell you how many conversations with the opinion that mattered most MY WIFE. A road of ups and downs, but I'm pleased to report that as of 10-17-2012 I am now officially a member of the BT family.

I have purchased the 2002 46' EC that was listed on here by "Bear" in a thread titled "selling my Thunder". The owner is a great guy, was indeed a pleasure to work with, and truly a BT owner with a passion for his boat. The boat is far above average condition, in fact my surveyor called it EXCELLENT. Through many months of endless email exchanges, many phone conversations, and a whole bunch of give and take the deal went together smooth. Hopefully, he doesn't think I was a total jerk for being quite "picky" and truly a pest with a flood of questions, answers, and follow ups.

Now, I'll probably inundate this forum with countless questions of how to drive and take care of it.

I just wanted to take a few minutes to thank "Bear", the Jenkins family, Shane, and all of those here who gave me information or leads. Thanks again,

Steve

[jetcruzr]

Congratulations! How about showing us some pics?

[rschap1]

yep congrats

[racer511]

congrats Steve on new boat,
I'm glad it all worked out
your a Black Thunder owner now

[Ratickle]

A huge welcome to the BT family.


We'll send you the rules on smart-azz comments for the forum, (and emails), and dress attire for the events and in public for the rest of your life.


Once a BT'r, always a BT'r......

[Coolerman]

Congrats on the new boat, welcome to the BT family!

[endeavor1]

A huge welcome to the BT family.


We'll send you the rules on smart-azz comments for the forum, (and emails), and dress attire for the events and in public for the rest of your life.


Once a BT'r, always a BT'r......

Hell, I still get team "Saxman/Oldman" shirts and text propoganda all the time. It was even recently noted a member in STL that there were several hotties at a particular restaraunt. THis is how BT guys take care of their own.... lol

[Ratickle]

What happened to your Saxman/Cougar shirts???

[stevewy]

Big day for me today. My new Black Thunder starts the long journey from Chesapeake Bay to Michigan and should arrive here early tomorrow afternoon. Obviously, I'm pretty excited.

The boat appears to be in really great shape. But, just as is the case with all pre-owned boats there are a few personal preference changes that I am planning on making. My wife wants to change the color scheme in the V-Berth. My sister is a professional seamstress that specializes in making aircraft interiors, so, I'm lucky that I can get much of the work done at only materials cost. The change my wife would like to make includes the colors on the padding that surrounds the V-Berth (on the wall above the berth). It looks like the padding is in 3 sections. Does anyone know how that padding is attached? Hopefully, it can be easily removed.

The wife also really likes the colors of the curtains on most Thunders (kinda black and gold stripped). If anyone has changed their curtains and need to sell the original ones, I would be interested. If not, I'll contact BT and see if they have any leftovers in stock or can hook me up with the vendor.

I rarely have more than 6 people on the boat at one time and would prefer to have more space between the bolsters and the back bench. I'm planning on removing the second row of bolsters to provide additional space. That seems like it will be a pretty simple job of just removing the lag screws holding the bolsters, disconnect the power, take the seats out, and repair the screw holes. Will it be that simple, or is there more to it? Removing the bolsters means that I will have 2 bolster seats available for sale. They are in perfect condition, but obviously would probably have to be recovered to fit an existing color combo. If anyone is need of them let me know.

The owner installed some pretty neat fender brackets in the engine compartment. However, I prefer to have more space in there, so will probably remove those brackets and store the fenders elsewhere. Where do most people keep their fenders? I'm thinking under the rear bench.

Also, I'm considering upgrading the stereo system. A few Black Thunders I had looked at previous to purchasing this one had kick-ass custom stereo's. One had the amplifier installed behind the refrigerator -- I'm not sure where the amp was on the other one. Where is the best location to install an amp? It seems to me that behind the fridge may not allow the airflow to keep the amp cool enough to operate, and I don't want it shutting down numerous times.

The generator doesn't have a separate battery --- is that the normal set-up? I would think that the genny should have it's own dedicated battery

When we took the boat out for it's sea trial, she ran great. The operator said that he only uses the trim tabs to balance the ride, and even then it's minimal use. To get the best performance he just trimmed the boat out by slightly raising the drives. I know it depends on water conditions, number of people on the boat, etc, but, what is the normal drive and tab settings for easy cruising. Most of my time will be spent just cruising Lake St. Clair or the St. Clair River, and that means fairly calm waters and a speed around 3500 rpm's. I also do Put-In-Bay once or twice a year, so choppy Lake Erie is also in my future.

Thanks in advance for any responses you may have.

[Ratickle]

For cruising, every boat is a bit different, but you will figure it out quickly. When I go on a run with someone trying to figure it out, I tell them to go through a continuous number of steps at the main rpm's they feel comfortable running the engine at. So, you will set the RPM at 3500 while you have a normal load, with the tabs all the way up and the drives at nuetral. Then, tap the drives up one bump, record rpm and engine changes, again, again, etc. At some point the props will blow out, or you will notice a major drop off in speed. This usually happens shortly before you see a big increase in the roostertail. But, you will find your most efficient cruise speed by doing this, and take the time to do the same 3000rpm, 4000rpm, 4500rpm, wide open. The tabs you will dial in after the drive dial in. Usually they are 1 click up so they only bump the water in a lean etc. But, when turning any step hull sharply at speed, do not have the drives trimmed in, or the tabs way down. The stern will lift and you will not have fun......

[racer511]

The drives at nuetral from Ratickle's post, is normally 3 to 4 on the drive gauge every boat is a little different, your drives or below nuetral at 0 on gauge

I hope that helps

[stevewy]

Very helpful response.................. thanks

The clock is ticking; boat should be here in an hour or so!!!!

[BDARCHER]

Congrats on the new boat.

[stevewy]

Thanks Bobby