Opinion on 28 Heat power
 

I'm entertaining the idea of going to a new 28 Heat, but not sure on which motor to go with. Looking to go 80-85mph. Would the 540 do it, or do I need to go 565, or bigger?

My 2000 (stepped) has a 500EFI (475hp) in her, runs pretty solid into the 70s, damn near always. That being said, I would think at least 600 to get you there. Are you going with a MCOB or closed bow?

I've read (and heard) the 500 boats are 70-72 ish, 525's are 75ish.

Do a search, lots of speed info on here.

It will take 600 hp to get you to 80 possibly 81-82 with the right prop and depending on your elevation. Most of the wood free Heats that I know of with 600sci engines run right there including mine before I did the Whipple upgrade.

+1

MCOB. I did some more reading on the 520 and I really like the 2 year warranty and the ITS feature. I may forego some extra MPHs for reliability. Anyone have any experience with the 520? I wonder how receptive it is of a Whipple later down the line. From what I understand, it has forged internals...

I am sure the 520 is a great motor but the cast more restrictive manifolds would not be the best choice with a blower installed so by the time you spend around 3-5k for some headers and around 12k for a Whipple you may as well get the 565 or the 600sci. which are both very reliable as well. JMO

Does the ITS transom system come standerd with the 520 or is it an extra charge?

Looks like it's an extra charge, not sure how much yet. I'm going to Nordic next month to find out more.

How do you like the ride in the Heat? I currently have a walk-through Rage with a 502 HO and love it.