To some extent I think we have strayed away from the original post, It was initally a question of "why" people dont run a Sonny Motor, not, which is cheaper Sonny or Merc.

The blower motors I have been around weren't exactly "low maintainance" compared to the big inch naturally aspirated ones, might be different in a marine environment? Why couldn't the 5.3 heads be used in endurance racing? All thats different is port size/configuration and bore spacing. I dont see how bore spacing limits endurance? As for cooling, YES the Hemi head does have water jackets, thats why IHRA Pro Stock and Nitrous Pro Mods have radiators. The blocks are usually solid, but, can be ordered with water jackets.

Jesel Rockers, Manton pushrods, and titanium valves will "live" for a lot longer than 6 seconds, they actually might last LONGER than conventional valvetrains in some applications. the maintainance is much easier too, since you can usually change valve springs without relashing the rocker arm.

The one thing that you cant always put a price tag on is being "unique". I have been to quite a few poker runs and at some of the BIG ones just about "every other" boat you see has Merc 1075's/1200's [1350's aren't AS common] you also see a TON of blower motors, so, having a Big Inch Sonny motor with stand alone EFI might be kinda cool

Just my thoughts [-:

Michael

Do you still run T/S? We may have met? I wrenched for Billes in Pro Mod, I beleive the race in Va, was at Dinwiddie? We probably raced at a few of the same tracks if you ran any of the national events? I know the 1/8 mile Stuff is HUGE down your way, some FAST 10" tire stuff too! Good Times!

Michael

No, gave it up almost 2 years ago..we ran a local T/S deal around here(southern outlaw Top sportsman) had a great time..my son drove...sold the car, trailer and my R/M big chief engine, still trying to sell the sonny's...but looking at doing a drag radial car with turbo LS power....now if we can stay busy enough to support it ???? Rob

I hear ya! I was on "Racing Junk" a few days ago and couldn't believe how much the price of stuff has dropped, motors that where 50K a few years back are going for 1/2 that now, guys must be losing a pile of dough, its a shame. Might be better to just "mothball" the Sonny motor until things pick up or pick up a cheap roller and go bracket racing???

I saw some pretty quick radial tire cars in Orlando a few years back, lots of guys running turbo stuff now, makes a ton of power, the "Lynch Mob" turbo Mustang is crazy quick, bet its a scary ride!

Good talking to you, good luck with the Turbo deal, hope works stays busy enough for you to get out racing again!

Michael

Although I do not specialize in marine engines, I do assure you that I am an accomplished engine builder. This is how I have made my living for the past 18 years. There are several great marine performance builders on this site. These guys do a great job and could probably do a great job on any type engine. Most good builder can build any type of engine well.
Now, in no way do I imply that all engines are interchangeable. That is foolish. I am simply stating that with proper parts selection, clearances and tune up engine building not a "black art".

Hi Fellas... If you don't have or have never had a SONNY'S engine. Shut up.
Did your brother's, wife's cousin's friend have experience with a SONNY LEONARD engine?
Oh, please let us know!
STFU. I know Sonny's monster blocks, just keep your trap shut. Don't assume /RPM, TIME, FUEL, etc.. Shut up and have your mom/wife make you another Monster energy drink to wash down your Cheetos and bring it to your bedroom.

Just don't type/write/respond or comment on what you have not one molecule of knowledge about.
Get a life and stop watching porn.
I REALLY HAVE A SONNY'S MOTOR AND HAVE RUN IT FOR A FEW YEARS NOW, IN MY BOAT, RELIABLY, AT FAR LESS THAN MAX RPM and guess what dip****s. It's bulletproof.
Oil, valve lash, clean fuel and nothing anything else.
A LOT OF HP AND TORQUE all day long at 4K RPM when it will spin 7K in a car.
Just shut up.
Get a job.

You're getting all worked up over a 15 year old post

i think its AI bots digging up these old post

Too bad theres NOT a "laughy" face to click on you getting all jacked up about a 15 year old discussion on a public forum, LMAO !

tried them, doesnt work. 1000cid, 1300 hp , put in drive and the bravo just fell of the transom.