1997 Cobalt 252 with 7.4GI, DP vs 2000 Cobalt 226 with 5.7 GSI, DP

[cobalt252]

I'm considering down sizing from my current 1997 Cobalt 252 with a V-P 7.4 GI D-P to a 2000 Cobalt 226 V-P 5.7 GSI D-P.

Is the Volvo Penta 5.7GSI engine inherently less reliable than the Volvo Penta 7.4GI?

My research shows quite a few complaints about the TBI fuel system on the 5.7 liter GSI engine ...

Marine quality parts and rebuilt kits are hard to find because of a discontinued fuel injection system design ... True?

I've owned my current 7.4GI for 8 years and it has been essentially trouble free.

Here are the specs for both engines:

1997 Cobalt 252
430 hours
Engine: 7.4GI PLKDCE
Outdrive: DP-S, ratio 1.68
F6 props


2000 Cobalt 226
280 hours
Engine: 5.7GSI PEFS
Outdrive: DP-SM, ratio 1.95 M22
F7 props

(I think the 280HP GSI engine will be adequate for a 23 ft boat, especially with F7 props)

Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[SD2600]

As the saying goes. If it ain’t broke. Don’t broke it....

 

[GeorgeDes]

I have a 1999 FW Sundowner 245 with the 5.7 GSI (PWTR). It has the VP DP-SM 1.95 outdrive with the F7 props. I love this engine and outdrive combo. I have never had a problem with the outdrive or the engine. The TBI parts are readily available as they are basically the same parts as used on the truck/automobile version of the engine. The 280hp is totally adequate for what I use the boat for.

 

[QBhoy]

As far as I know...the single point injection GM V8 engines are crazy reliable things.