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Too Stroked 04-06-2013 06:19 PM

Speaking as one who's been in the marine business for many, many years, let me ask a few questions. First, how old is your hull and what kind of shape is it in? The reason I ask is that you're starting to talk about pouring some serious money (big block / Bravo drive) into the hull and although it can definitely be done, it's not going to be cheap unless you're pretty handy and can do everything yourself. (And this isn't a swap for a first timer.)

The other end of this one is that assuming you successfully complete the swap, your boat isn't going to be worth a whole lot more. So unless she's in great shape, you're planning on keeping her for a long time or you love a challenge, you might be better off staying with a rebuilt and relatively stock small block. And stock is a hell of a lot more reliable too.

sprink58 04-06-2013 07:22 PM


Originally Posted by Too Stroked (Post 3900266)
Speaking as one who's been in the marine business for many, many years, let me ask a few questions. First, how old is your hull and what kind of shape is it in? The reason I ask is that you're starting to talk about pouring some serious money (big block / Bravo drive) into the hull and although it can definitely be done, it's not going to be cheap unless you're pretty handy and can do everything yourself. (And this isn't a swap for a first timer.)

The other end of this one is that assuming you successfully complete the swap, your boat isn't going to be worth a whole lot more. So unless she's in great shape, you're planning on keeping her for a long time or you love a challenge, you might be better off staying with a rebuilt and relatively stock small block. And stock is a hell of a lot more reliable too.

+1

I can tell you from recent experience...once you move the power up the ladder that requires Bravo Drives...be prepared to write some BIG checks. Bravo stuff is EXPENSIVE compared to Alpha almost like everything doubles!! If there is any doubt that you can't afford it ...don't do it...live with the SBC with 350 or less horsepower and use an Alpha drive. That boat will be quick with that kind of power and won't break the bank.


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