I figure it wont take long but it definatley just feels awkward right now.

We have been in training with my first mate and never gave that a thought about it being easier for her to operate the throttles from the other side. Very good point!

Then again, anyone behind us will probably think we are just holding hands while driving!

For training, you should be in the passenger side running the throttles, trim, tabs and have her at the helm steering. Once her comfort level improves she can take over full control. But for you as the instructor/passenger you are in easy reach of the controls should things get uncomfortable.

I have had a lot of novices take the helm on my boat and it sure can be intimidating for them. But when they know I am right next to them ready to take over, they enjoy the experience that much more.

Thats true and what we have been doing now. I stand behind her and work the throttles and trim while she steers and can see how the boat reacts with those in different positions in turns and at speed.

She doesnt like to take her eyes off the road so to speak which is good but it can be challenging teaching someone how to drive by feel for the most part. I keep telling her she needs to glance at the gauges from time to time so she can put the feel to where the gauges say they are at.

She is getting better but is still gun shy of docking more than anything.

the idea of using 2 engines to spin the boat instead of the steering wheel just baffles her right now but she will get it eventually.

Going from the 35 to the 38 where on the boat do the extra 3 feet go?

As far as I know, it is mostley in the front end but i could be wrong.

I would assume it depends on if the 35 was a staggard model and if the 38 is.

One negative for the 496 is parts avalibilty. If you were to ever need a new block none are available. Gm quite making this motor several years ago.
Allen

Both ends I think. Cabin is larger and engine compartment has more space to accomodate the staggered engine set up. Believe the cockpits are very close.

Parts availability for the 496 a problem??? Are you serious?

How long ago did GM stop officially making the 3.0, 4.3, 5.0, 5.7, 7.4, and the 8.2 blocks???

GM Powertrain and parts are rarely an issue.

The scarcity of a boat company is more of a concern than any powertrain components.

Agreed! Both, GM and Fountain are still up and running.