I've done a complete restoration on a 1991 Fastlane 40 and now I need to repower. I've got a couple of options and I was looking for some feedback and advice.

The boat is 40' long and 17,500Lbs when fully loaded. I had twin 540's at about 550HP each, with older Bravo I drives that managed to stay together. 24/4 blade prop, WOT @ 5200rpm at 67MPH on the GPS.

It cruises really well in the low 50's, and I'd like to be able to cruise in the low 60's. I'm not as concerned about top speed as much as reliability and efficiency

I'm considering a couple of options:

A) 650HP, Upgraded Sportmaster lower on my Bravo I

B) 725HP, new XR

With either option it seems I'll be into the repower around $75K. I'm just curious I'm on the right path of if there's something else I should be considering.

I've included a link to the 1988 promo video to give you a better idea of the boat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9bV7UjmTEo

Cool Boat! good luck with the repower. She is heavy and I think most will tell you that drives will be your weak point. XRs aren't even rated at 750hp but if you ease on plane and never leave the water, they may hold up.

Yeah, I'm a little concerned about the drives as well. If I'm going to spend the time and money on a repower, I really want to do it right and make it as close to bulletproof as possible.

I considered the Arneson drives at one point, but I'm not sure if that's the right solution either.

Also, I need to choose new exhaust. Stainless marine or CMI headers?

For a boat this size and power the Arnesons are real smart choice.

Arneson! Most reliable and you can gain speed with less HP making your engines more reliable also! Cool boat and would be nice to have something unique!

Freshen those 540s and add some 871 blowers, Arneson ASD7 and sell all the old bravo stuff. Cruise at 70 throwing a rooster