Formula Outboard Models - Question for Anyone who may know


T

tpenfield

Member
I am liking the fact that Formula is starting to introduce outboard motors as a power option on some of their mid-size boats. The big CBR's seems to have them and I just noticed that it is also an option with the 350 SS.

A question I have is what becomes of the space in the engine bay, since the engines are no longer there, but rather hanging off the end of the swim platform ?

Is there just storage there, or is there another use of the space ? I also would imagine that there needs to be a bit of structural modification to the outboard models to hold the weight of the engines on a bracket that extends to the edge of the swim platform.

I'm liking the fact that the sun sports are starting to have outboards as an option . . . since outboards are generally better for ocean use as are the sunsport and Fastec boats, versus the CBR's and bowriders.

just waiting to see the 310 SS offered with outboards :)
 
Yes, I did not notice until I went through the "Build" process and then noticed that triple Verados is one of the options for the 350 SS.

F-350SSOB.jpg
 
I know the fuel tank is 60 gallons larger on the 350 CBR OB, so that chews up some space. I'd imagine they can't put too much weight back there since there's a lot hanging off the back. Seems like a great storage compartment for noodles or a lily pad, but not much else.
 
Comparing the 430 to my 400ss, there appears to be a huge increase in interior volume with outboards. The aft cockpit area on the SS is the cramped 'c' shaped seating while the 430 has a larger and more open 'L' shape. They also were able to include the port side bench that seats 2-3 more adults. Therefore the outboard design added aft seating for 3-4 adults in place of I/Os. In addition the cabin is similar in size to my SS and sleeps the same number of adults while replacing the deck with bow rider seating for even more guests to sit in. So, at least with the 430, your answer is HELL YA those outboards opened up some serious room! I assume the same applies to the other models coming out.

I only wish the lines of the boat were a little better (at least with the 430). The boat is just a little to angular for my taste. Between the rake in the windshield, the gap on the platform and the straight edges of the hardtop the design isn't as smooth as the Formulas I love.
 
I am just wondering if they have a redesigned mid cabin section for the outboard versions of the same model (350 CBR for example) or if they just alter things in the engine bay on back towards the swim platform.

Perhaps one of the Formula TAG folks that frequent this forum can shed some light on the differences.
 
Last edited:
I found the answer to my 2 year old question regarding what becomes of the engine bay on the Formulas that have Outboards (as well as an I/O option)

This is a 310SS w/ outboards as an example . . .

There is an 'engine pod' extended from the standard hull as well as the engine bracket itself . . . so I'm assuming the 'pod' increases displacement/buoyancy at the stern (needed to support the engine weight), as well as increases the effective waterline length.
F310SSOB1.jpg

The compartment that normally would house the sterndrive engines looks to be wide open space. You can see what looks to be the batteries located in the engine pod.

F310SSOB2.jpg

So, you might get a chunk more storage space with the outboard models. Me like !!!
 
Last edited:
I could put a queen size berth in the storage area of my boat. But they definitely use a bunch of space for bigger gas tanks. How does fuel capacity compare on the 310/350 BR with OBs vs the I/Os?
 
Hey Ted, I had the same questions so decided to stop by a Formula dealer and check it out. These photos are of a 310 Sun Sport with twin Verados.outboard_formula01.jpgoutboard_formula02.jpgoutboard_formula03.jpg
 
The only thing that I don't like about the outboard models is that you don't get much of a swim ladder as compared to the I/O models.
 
Everything is a trade off. While there is a reduced area on the back of the swim platform, there is still enough on the sides. For me, the fact that I can back into almost any anchorage is pretty sweet and my pre run checks are WAY faster. I am definitely an OB fan when it comes to ease of boating and maintenance.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top