1989 Z22 handling

[bigalbubba]

Hi Guys,
Anybody have any experience with 89 era Z22. I have cornered a beauty and just want to know from others if this is a good handling boat. The boat came with a 260 hp MC but was upgraded to EFI 330 hp MC. Feel free to chime about any info. Thanks Donzigo for the gas tank info.

Al

[DTM]

I have a '87 Z21 (same boat as the Z22) that I enjoy very much. I had it on the intercoastl (by Hilton head Island) and now on Lake Lanier.

I di dhave a slight handling problem when I first got the boat. The prior had the wrong prop on the boat and it "chined" walked alot and you coould not go slow enough to even dock. After changing the prop (would have to check size and pitch) it handles alot better at slow speeds (used as little as often in this mode) and handles very well at higher speeds.

When using for my son skiing, I can put the boat on it's side (almost) with no slip (about 25 -30 mph) when he needs to be picked up....

Hope this helps....

[3rdDonzi]

I also had an '87 Z21 with a 454 Magnum and Alpha Drive.
It was a beautiful boat. I bought it new and owned it for 17 years. The only thing that I did not like was the way it porpoised at most all speeds on plane regardless of outdrive trim position other than full down and plowing. The porpoising was easy enough to dampen with the trim tabs at the expense of a little more drag. It was not too fast, top end in the 55 - 60 range depending on the prop and chop. I have been told that the small block Z 21 and 22s dont have the porpoise problem but I've never been in one.
Sold it a year ago and I'm happy to be back to the boat that grabbed my heart as a kid. (18 Classic)

[bigalbubba]

thanks guys for chiming in.
I found out the boat was really an 87. Donzi didn't make them in 89. The one I am interested in is quite a gem. It was upgraded from the small block 270 hp to a small block 330 hp EFI.:)
I am writing an offer as we speak. If you have any other insights let me know. thanks again.

Al Fortis

[3rdDonzi]

Al,
Hope your offer goes through. You will enjoy the boat. In 87 it was the Z 21. It was either 88 or 89 they included length of the built in swim platform and called it the Z22 with no change to the hull.
Let us know if you get it and please post some pictures. I am curious how the small block improves the porpoise problem that I had.
Corky

[jdsdls]

Big difference in 87 to 89. 89's where built by a complete differnt company (OMC). Don't get me wrong still a great boat but have the hull surveyed and save your self some headacres. 86-87 had some stringer issues.

[bigalbubba]

Hi Guys,
Well the Guy excepted my offer. I am very happy. I got the boat for way less than what he was asking for by doing my due diligence and research. Here is the web site so you can see some pics.:) http://web.mac.com/albertlewis/iWeb/DONZI%20Z22/1989%20Donzi%20Z22.html

Enjoy the pics. If you Guys have any more to share please do. Learning about the boat is essential so thanks again.:superman:

Al

[KerrLake]

Congratulations! Looks great.

[3rdDonzi]

Beautiful boat. Enjoy!!