new owner of 1999 stratos 295PE w/questions

[cowgillj1]

Hey guys...just purchased a stratos from an online auction...seems like a clean boat but Ive got some questions.....how fast should this boat run when properly set up? There is no prop or jack plate so Im starting with a clean slate, boat has the evinrude 200hp FICHT engine....has this been a reliable motor? Also considering adding a hotfoot and protrim if not equipped already. Any other comments on this particular boat would be helpful...I am pretty picky and this boat appears to have low hours and in above average condition. Previous owner was an old guy who croaked and most likely didnt fish tournaments or big water with it. Any info is greatly appreciated...sounds like a great all around platform.

[Neilslure]

I think I would have passed on the Ficht, buddy of mine "had" one that gave him all kinds of trouble, last week he got fed up and put on an Etech.

Hotfoot and protrim are definatly worth investing in

For speed I would guess low 70s.

[Jlong]

I have the exact same boat and I love it! The 200/225 Ficht did not have near as many problems as the 150/175's did so if you run the correct oil and make sure to keep a regular de-carbon procedure you will be fine. I have a 6" plate and currently running a 25 Renegade...have not tried any other props. I finally got my GPS this week so I'll be able to play with the setup some and post numbers next week. I think you will be more than impressed with the 295. Hotfoot, Protrim and Jackplate are a must in my opinion.

[cowgillj1]

thanks for all the tips....Im pretty psyched to get this boat in the water and tuned in...Im hoping for low 70s speedwise. Everyone seems to think that these boats are great all-around boats that do everything above average. Does anyone know if the 295 Pro elite was top of the line for 99 or was it just an average boat....just curious.

[cowgillj1]

what else can you tell me about your boat? Was this considered top of the line for that year or was it middle of the road? It seems like a great boat.....

[OrygunBasser]

I'm not sure about it being the top of the line, but they used this hull for a long time, maybe even still. I have a 96 but without the ficht. This is also one of the best handling hulls. You will love the boat. IMEADIATLY take it to your local dealer and have it all checked out. (The engine), Espesially a compression test and get it upgraded with the latest settings. Use a really good oil that meets the specks. As to a prop, probably start with a 24-26 Raker and deffinatly get at least a 6" Jackplate. Run it aroung 2 3/4 above pad and you will get the low 70's you desire. Go slow with the speed untill you get the feel of the boat. It may want to chinewalk between 65-70. Always were your life vest and wear the kill switch!!!!!!

[tritontr200]

i have the exact same boat...used to be duracell pro andy morgans..its black, blue, and beautiful...mine has the 200 ficht and i have had some minor problems, the worst being an injector but its gonna happen...i do not have a hot foot because andy is 6-3 and it cramped his legs..i bought it in 2001 and never added one..you dont need it but it is a great safety benefit...mine on gps with just me (6-1,195) and tourney load will gps at 72.8 and around 70 with two people..i have a 6 inch plate and everything is factory..u can call stratos or cando to get the factory specs for the plate...im having new carpet and the top buffed next week and ill throw some pics on here...its a very good performing boat and i run a cupped 24 raker and a four blade 25 renegade and both perform well...from a 1 foot chop here on chickamauga to the 5 foot rollers on wheeler she hasnt let me down yet....

[cowgillj1]

I purchased my 295 without a prop so I had to start from scratch....just picked up a used renegade 23P fourblade for $300....seemed like a good deal and I will go from there. Hoping this prop will work ok but may not be enough top end for me. Phils props in cali didnt seem to think I needed a jack plate on this boat, said it was up to me, may add 1-3mph but that hull has plenty of lift already so not really needed, we'll see. Cant wait to get this thing in the water for a run.

[Kenneth ALBassr]

Not enough prop.