'92-'99 T290 Owners Please Read/Respond!!

[Finz11]

I have a 1996 T290 Open with Twin Marine Power 5.7L TBI's and a 4KW Kohler genset.

My question is this, what is the original or current location of your lead ballast weights?

I have 3 on the aft starboard side close to the chine near the exhaust tube
1 is in the aft center starboard bilge on the outside of the stringer
1 is in the aft center port bilge on the outside of the stringer

So, I have a total of 5. I am noticing a moderate list to starboard (side with 3 ballast weights) and wonder if I should have equal ballast weights on starboard and port.

Your replies are appreciated!

[t-290]

I have the same year and model boat. I think I have more on my stbd. side

[Finz11]

Thank you. That is helpful. I don't have any ballast weights to port, just on centerline and to starboard. Unfortunately, Luhrs doesn't have any specific information so I'm thankful to owners like yourself who can provide information.

Tight Lines-

I have the same year and model boat. I think I have more on my stbd. side

[Larry G.]

I have a 1996 with Volvo diesels. I had no idea these boats had lead. Is it glassed in? Is it just for list. Where should I look?

[Finz11]

My ballast weights are not glassed in. 2 of them are just laying in the bilge, 3 (starboard side) are epoxied to the inside of the hull.

Locations are in the aft bilge. Pull out the storage bin in the lazerette and you can see where they are located. 3 of mine are on the inside of the chines near the exhaust tube. The other two are on the outside of the stringers - just ahead of the rudder stock.

The purpose is to provide stability, but I noticed more weights on my starboard side, where I happen to have a slight list. Take a look and let me know what your configuration is.

I have a 1996 with Volvo diesels. I had no idea these boats had lead. Is it glassed in? Is it just for list. Where should I look?

[Larry G.]

I'll take a look at the boat this weekend. My boat seems to lean to port if anything. When I have the port cooler full and the livewell empty it really leans but that's what boats do. I'll let you know what I find.

[Larry G.]

Looked everywhere and found no lead in the lazarette. Maybe because of the extra weight of the diesels?

[Finz11]

Ah, thanks Lary. I appreciate you checking. How long have you owned your 290? How do you like it? Where do you fish the boat?

[Charlie Horse]

I have a 97' 290 with marine power 5.7's. I don't have any ballast in mine. Hope that helps.

Chuck

[Finz11]

Chuck,

That's very helpful. I'm thinking of removing mine. With all the weight in my stern, the boat squats quite a bit and the tabs don't bring the bow down as much as I'd like. How would you classify the handling of your 290.

I read some negative press before purchasing mine (was considering Bert 33 and Blackfin 29). I bought it anyway and am quite pleased with it. I've yet to experience "dangerous heeling" to one side when underway with people moving around the boat.

[Charlie Horse]

Keith,
I sold my 89' 290 in the fall and bought the 97' not too long ago. I too looked at many blackfins and Berts but the layout of the Luhrs is perfect for what I do. The hull is just as good as any and i have no problems with the "cheap hardware rumors". As for the ride I've never experienced the hard list that throws you out of the boat. As with any deep V it will roll on a side sea but nothing I would not expect and I've had mine in every situation possible. I love the 290's, and although I may get passed by the occasional sea turtle, I don't need to go fast anyway :)