Good job Scott! I figured you guys would be on top of this.

I've got the 24' Skater with 2 5.3s in it. Bone stock engines right now. I've got intentions on doing some work to them but it didn't work out this winter. I've been dealing with my mother that recently passed away due to ALS.
It does run a little over 100 right now and gets great mileage.

I agree with a few other people on here, for a smaller boat you can't beat the LS engines. I think when you get to bigger boats that the advantage goes away in a hurry.
I think over 416" 550hp is a good place to start thinking about a big block. I would rather have a N/A big block than a boosted LS to get to 650hp... at least with weight not being as big of a factor in a bigger boat.

just my 2 cents. :party-smiley-004:

You did amazing work on that boat.

In the spirit of good natured debate...where are all the NA BBC that make 700 HP?

1) This may turn out to be one of the biggest mistakes Mercury has ever made. Besides, even the BBC's that GM used to provide to marinizers were not in "stock auto form".

2) If you look at ALL the marine power manufacturers (Volvo Penta, Ilmor, Indmar, Pleasurecraft, etc.), you will fund that Mercury is very much out on their own. The LS-based engines are among Volvo Penta's biggest sellers, and Volvo-Penta is actually a larger supplier than Mercury among independent boatbuilders (ie, not owned by Brunswick).

The BBC is an awesome and legendary engine. I grew up watching them in drag, street and Can-Am cars. They ruled the roost for almost fifty years, but time is marching on...

Thanks! I still have a few things I need to do, and I've had the help of some good friends.

I don't mean to say there are production 650 hp BBCs out there, but a well built 598 is no slouch...

I'm just saying I think both engines have their place.

L96 6.0 .http://www.gmpowertrain.com/Librarie...rine.sflb.ashx

LS3 6.2 .http://www.gmpowertrain.com/Librarie...rine.sflb.ashx

LAS 6.2 SC .http://www.gmpowertrain.com/Librarie...rine.sflb.ashx

Of the 3 engines the stock LS3 is the best choice but only makes 400 hp and is limited in rpm due to the powdered rods, cast pistons, and stock valves.

The LSA has good peak HP but gets low end power from boost...that kills the fuel economy

The 6.0 is heavy and makes less power because the bore is a touch too small.

These are the engines merc was testing...not that impressive compared to BBC

Twin Ilmor LS small block 570hp would be nice but the $$$ are crazy. They also make peak hp at 6000rpm which is a little high for my taste.

I just wanted to get on here and give you guys a little more information and to offer to answer any questions or give some opinions.

The motor in the article is on race gas. It is a high dollar piece because of the stresses and trials a Trophy truck goes through. This would be overkill in many areas for most marine enthusiast. A few notable points:

ARE dry sump
Winberg Crank
Dyer Rods
T&D Custom Shaft rockers
Solid Roller

All of these are big $$ items that would not be needed in most builds. Also, this motor makes peak power at 6100-6300 rpms. A very early peak for a typical 800hp small block, especially considering the single plane and solid roller.

We do LOTS of big blocks. Trust me if we are bias either way it is in favor of BBC.

The LS has advantages for sure, its light weight and compact size make it a great piece for our Trophy truck.

I think for most, if a BBC is an option, over about 700-750 flywheel it becomes a no brainer over the LS. The money it takes to make over that NA on a small block in general really becomes hard to justify IMO.

So guys I will monitor this thread and please ask away I am glad to help.

How much do they want for them?