LOL, Bill - I've never asked you for anything. I tried to show you respect on your resto threads, thats all I ask from you and FR. OK, Group hug


Now somebody needs to tell me how much of a bad idea this is. The exhaust is a problem, the way it tilts down. I don't think they run power steering pumps either. Almost all of their boats have a rudder system. I have hydraulic with power assist and would like to keep it that way.

Awesome deal, most sell for $12-15K each used.

Volvo 496s cheap is the way to go. If you could get these for the price of rebuilds or anywhere close. Easy decision. That would be your most reliable option. Rebuilt can be great but they are as good as they guy that built it and the parts they use. Nothing worse than being afraid to open it up, thinking it may blow. Or the feeling after something major blows and you just spent thousands.
Consider the costs of the second fix in the cost of the rebuilds.
Save up and spend the extra money now and it will pay off in the long run. Merc or Volvo 496s. Totally different story if you want to spend some more and have connections with a great engine builder.
Good luck.
Greg

Andy I know this can be confusing...but just make it simple.
With the original power the 28 Apache ran 67 tops..(365hp)
Go and get yourself a brand new pair of 6.2 320 hp and that boat will run 63 all day long and give you years of worry free trouble. Small blocks are the key...to easy maintnance and worry free enjoyment without breaking the bank.

If you really want to save money then get the 300hp 5.7 Merc's and you will still be in the 61 mph range.

If I did decide to go with the small block it would most likely be this 375hp 6.0L from Marine Power. Two year warranty, six year extended. Its got 492ftlbs of torque, but I haven't seen the torque curve on it. I should be able to see 70mph with that. Just found out they also plan to do a 6.2 LS3 engine.

I think that a discussion of warranties, and good and bad experiences may be a good idea if a warranty is a major part of the decision for you Andy.

I understand why you would like one. But I am not convinced that they are really any help if you have a problem. In a way... you give up control of the situation. Sometimes it is cheaper to work with a local person you trust when trouble comes along than the manufacturer. Less shipping, less downtime, less remove/replace.... etc.
Just a thought. Obviously... avoiding the costs of a major problem would be worth the downtime, shipping and trouble of working with the manufacturer.

Goop point FR. I don't want any problems.

I looked into the marine power warranties. They said as long as you have a good merc certified mechanic then there is no need for shipping. These are still GM engines.........and not hard to work on. I was told as long as the problem's can be accurately communicated by a knowlegable mechanic then they will reimburse parts and labor. These engines are used all over U.S. and Canada - on new river jet boats, small yachts, and ski boats. If I did need to go down to their headquarters in Louisana it would not be that bad of a drive.

I may just go buy a 502 415hp block with heads and dress it up with my old accessories. It would cost about half as much as buying new turn key. Throw on some shiny blue paint Hmmmmmm..........

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/boa/961799482.html

I always thought the 28 Apache was similar in weight and hull efficiency w/Active Thunder 28(1999)??
Why would you estimate the top speed @ 61mph w/ 350magMPI's?? I have seen 72 gps and run 68-70 fully loaded w/400 hrs on my 350/300hp; although I do have the Stainles Marine exhaust systems....
I believe my boat weighs 5500 dry...what's the 28Apache weigh w/tsb's?
24 degree? Notch or pad??

Sorry, not trying highjack thread! Love to follow these 28 Apache threads; I see alot of similarities w/AT and APACHE's....(that's a compliment!)

I can't remember but wasn't the 302 Baja a 28 Apache bottom???