OPtimax/ Pro XS? For my new Thunderstream!

[Andyhydro]

Hello. After years of working a side job I have scrimped away enough cash to buy a new Thunderstream and engine. My questions to those who can help me out are:

I understand these hulls need light weight engines, not really interested in rebuilding an old one....which leaves me with some sort of Optimax option. These boats are rated for a 175, but in the true Hydrostream spirit I was thinking 200 or 225. However the new Optimax engines seem to generally run 100 pounds or more heavier. What new modern engine would you suggest?

What kind of jack plate would you suggest?

Can the new Optimaxs or Pro XS be fitted with a sports master gear case?

I have heard of people installing the battery/ extra weight in the bow...would you suggest this?

Given the extra weight is there need for set back?

From what Ive read most people are running 28" choppers....Would you suggest this prop given the new engines rpm and weight?


Thank you so much, thought I would check with the pros before buying.

[Hippie459MN]

RussF on here is running a 2010 Thunderstream with a Pro Max 225 on it. Its the Hydrostream of the month right now. More info on it here - http://www.hydrostreamforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=46&t=1187

Im sure he will chime in here and be the one to best help you with these boats. They look to be very good build quality and Russ is more then happy with his.

[77viper]

A pro xs would be sweet for sure, you could put a sportmaster on it but wouldn't need to.

A vking is a little less weight sensitive than the smaller streams but you sure could put the batt up front, I do on my viper. Just keep the fuel in the rear as the weight changes and it's better to have it in the rear for that reason.

As far as a prop hold off until you get a engine, pick up a couple used props and borrow as many as you can untill you find one that works for you. The quest for the magic perfect prop is never ending, I have gone through about 25 props for my 2 streams so far and I am always looking for something better.

[Andyhydro]

Thanks so much for the info guys! I would love to hear from RussF on the subject! Why is it that I wouldn't need a sports master gear case?

PS This seems like a really open minded forum! Ive chatted in rooms with guys who wont even recognize thunder stream as part of the Hydrostream family. I think these boats will be our saviors as the originals get too old to be safe. I couldn't sleep the night I came across the Thundermist site! Finally someone who builds the boats exactly like they did in the late 70s early 80s but with improvements that don't sacrifice the MPH potential or the classic lines. It reminds me of what everyone wanted in the auto industry with the charger....except we lucky boaters got exactly what we wanted!

[Andyhydro]

PPS The 200 Pro XS comes in about 7 pounds heavier than the plain optimax at about 505 dry. A few other forums really had me worried about modern engine weight with regards to high speed handling issues. Confirm or deny?

[77viper]

You could put a nosecone on a stock gearcase and be fine. I run a 200 case with a bobs cone on my viper and have a cle case with a bobs cone for the vking.

From what limited information that is out on the thunderstreams I do believe the boat is built a little heavier than the originals. That would help aleviate some problems with the heavy motors. That and it's a 18' boat and not as sensitive as the smaler lighter boats.

[Andyhydro]

Thats a great idea...had no idea that was an option! Thanks!

[Hippie459MN]

Thats a great idea...had no idea that was an option! Thanks!

Its amazing what you can learn here. I know being the boss around here even I have learned a ton from the members here.

[77viper]

BOSS, LOL.

Just bustin on ya Kevin

[Hippie459MN]

BOSS, LOL.