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540 Merlin coming together!

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This is a tool Mark uses when installing Aluminum Heads to cast iron blocks. You tech guys will understand it. I just drive and put gas in them!

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Me and my mistress !

What's up Eric! When I saw you at the rudder on New Years I wasn't sure you were serious about really doing this to your boat lol... We both had a few drinks. I'm glad you are doing this project. Your formula is a beautiful boat and anyone who has tied up with you knows how passionate you are about that boat. I'm not gonna be real happy when you walk by me in the main Chanel and my girl asks me "why is that boat faster than yours!?" How's the progress coming? I've been out twice already. Time to get the LKN crew back in action soon.

Quote:

Originally Posted by LKNCOBALT (Post 4419106)

What's new with you Bro! I doubt very seriously I'll be walking past your Fountain (unless its coming back from the 150 Bridge, late evening, and its sleek as glass, then, and only then, Maybe? Progress is slow of course, Mark had several other motors in front of me this winter and I think a couple of 525 rebuilds gave him a fit making the HP he wanted. I think the cam is the only thing holding us up, everything else is here. After that, things should come together quickly, I hope.

Glad to hear your making it out. Its tough having beautiful weather and no boat to enjoy it in. Kinda did things backwards on this engine build, but at first we were using my old 454 as a base for a 496 stroker, but things changed to a 540
. If not for that, I would be out on the lake this weekend with the 454 in place. hide site is always 20/20

Now all I need is a good friend, with a CHERRY Fountain , to invite me out on the lake (Hint Hint) Have lots of beer and fuel money, and you want find a better boat *****!

Nice man. I'm sure Bob will get it all together quickly once the motor is done. I got your cell number. I'll be sure to get you out on the lake while your down... Hell... I've had many people take care of me when I've been down for repairs or between boats. Your formula is sure to be a hellbender on the lake. Just another crazy a** lake Norman vessel causing trouble all summer.... Oh, and has anyone suggested HYDRAULIC STEERING?....

Quote:

Originally Posted by LKNCOBALT (Post 4419474)

Hydraulic Steering ? What's That ? LOL

Let's see, Just everyone!

Its on my list "to do" along with longer tabs. Just have some "unknown" cost, like custom dry/wet tails, that might bend my budget.

I know I will have to have Hyd.Steering to max out the power of that engine.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Papasmurf (Post 4415096)

Thought i would post up some cost so far

540 Merlin EFI Custom Built Should come in around $23,000
Used set of Keith Eckiard Headers $ 2,000
Used Bravo 1 Lower Housing w/1.25" prop Shaft $ 750
Rebuilding Lower with XR Gears and Upper Shaft $ 2,100
Hardin Drive Shower $ 130

Still to come Custom Dry/Wet Exhaust Tails $1,800 ?
Engine Install $1,500 ?

Longer Trim Tabs next summer $2,000
External Hyd Steering next summer $3,000

What will I have:

A Fully warranted 700HP 89Octane Engine that can continue on with me in any boat I may have in the future
A Fully warranted outdrive by my local guy, who is dying to see what we end up with that can also move with me one day

Piece of mind in knowing I have a well know Builder invested in the success of my engine

My local repair shop that is working closely with my builder and is excited as I am about the project

Money well spent!

Guess I need to add $2500 Dual Ram External Add On Hyd Steering..............Ordered it today, figured it was easier to install while engine is out. Boat will be safer, and I can maximize the new engines power and speed
Money well spent and don't forget those CC reward points.........can you say free airfare to St Pete in May!

Better make that $3000 on the steering by the time I get it installed ! LOL

Headed down to Little River, SC to see my engine and HOPEFULLY see it run on the dyno

Fingers Crossed

Its been a Long Road