tpenfield

I will be looking at some Formula 280 SS boats over the next few weeks (1996 - 1999 models) and a few have the twin V6 with the counter rotating Alphas. I am wondering how much of a dog the boat would be with the 4.3's instead of the more common 5.7 w/ B3's?

TIA for any experiences in that regard.

gare

Because of the gear ratio, expect to be in the upper rpm range most of the time. Bear in mind, there are a lot of Dad's cruisers out there powered better. You know you don't want them going around ya.
I had an under powered V-6 boat before..............never again.

glenncal1

Tpen- I asked the same question, I had a 27 FB sea ray that had those motors and at sea level the boat ran really nice with them. Now this wasn't a go fast but the boat would cruise nicely at about 30 (3300 rpm) and had a top of about 40. I would imaging the 280 would weigh a little less so would perform about the same or a little better. With v-8's and B3s everything I have read says 30 mph at 3000 and 55 or so on top depending on which v8. Because I boat at high elevations I bought a v8 boat (haven't received yet). I personally think the v6 efi are good motors, you will have to test drive to see if they are enough HP for you.

Hematite

I would test drive it. You may be surprised that there is not as much difference as you think there might be. As glenncal1 said they are good engines and those engines and drives should be somewhat lighter than twin SBC and B3's. It's not a HP boat anyway but rather a great all around cuddy. You will be pleasantly suprised at the gas pump with the 4.3's.

DaveLarsen

I'm in the same situation, looking at a 280br with twin 4.3's is it enough? I just sold a 260ss with 7.4 mpi and a b3 and loved the performance...any advice?

ray3652

have a friend i boat with that has a 1995 280ss with twin 4.3 and he loves it. Good on gas runs 54-55 on gps