2003 velocity 280 with a new xr outdrive, about 30hrs on unit.
Current engine is a sci 575 with some upgrades making around 650-675hp.
Engine is getting a new cam, heads and intercooler, power will be around 775-800. I also plan on installing a 565 big block with around 850 hp once this 575 gets close to service interval.
The xr is working perfect right now, I never smash the throttle down fast or haul butt through 4 ft waves hammering on the drive. Just roll into throttle slow, Just the way i like to drive.
What is the logical move for a stronger drive set up without spending 25k? Max machine gears? maybe just do a scx upper? i am Not very educated on the drives yet. Thanks.

SCX upper

we run a 550 na 800hp with an xr we killed the torque down low and wind the crap out of it up to 7000 they like rpm much better than torque

So the upper on the xr is the weaker link with the drive? Save money and get the scx upper and that should be a decently strong set up? And yes we are going to be very conservative on the timing ramp up to try and kill some torque.

SCX vs XR............there really is no comparison, and depending on your prop shaft depth might consider an SC lower

Wow massive difference, any recommendations on a good place to purchase the upper? Teague??

got the dual steering finally done and got her all cleaned up. She is so clean for 22 years old

Looks good! What steering was on it? I like the pipe swim platform. .most 280s have a added on glass platform.

Padraig

I bought one from CP Performance and had a good experience.

https://www.cpperformance.com/p-1107...ete-black.aspx

Not sure on platform, I've never seen a 280 with one like it. I remember some 260 boats had them. The boat only has 344 hrs, 112 on the 575. Such a sweetheart.