more power from 4.3lx

[brunolund]

so I've got a 96 4.3lx. believe it is rated at 175hp. non vortec, 4bbl carb. thunderbolt ignition.
I've seen other 4.3 non verge ca rated at 205hp. wondering what the differences are and if its possible to get more power from my engine without going to vortec heads.
my engine runs great, no complaints, but I'm always tinkering with it, and would always want more power. the boat does 49mph GPS so no need, but like I said. I just want. it.
thx.

 

[Watermann]

Re: more power from 4.3lx

Bolt on stuff is about it shy of the vortec heads. If your running stock cast iron manifolds then... Maybe marine headers for that 4.3, I believe they do make them. That would jump your HP if combined with an after market intake and better carb too. Maybe a performance cam upgrade to match up to the new intake and carb. How about a blower!

 

[Volphin]

Re: more power from 4.3lx

It's simple my friend. Shed weight and add upgrades. NOTHING is going to add more power and torque than Vortec Heads. Just doing the heads, intake and carb really woke my 4.3L up. Then my bottom end let go after 13 years of faithful service.

My new 4.3L will start for the first time tomorrow. Here's what I've added:

Edelbrock 1409 Carb
Edelbrock Performer Intake for Vortec heads
Vortec heads with comp cams springs, keepers and locks, ported for torque (heads cost $75 from boneyard+425 for 5 angle valve job)
Hi-Tek polished stainless steel exhaust manifolds (VERY pricey but are 15 lbs each)
Comp cams 1.6 Magnum roller tips
Comp cam 170HR
Flat top pistons +5cc
Seakamp closed cooling system
MSD wire set
Weiland high flow aluminum circulation pump
Aluminum timing cover
Comp cams double roller timing chain

So... If I were you, I'd enjoy my boat this summer and buy some Vortec heads and intake manifold in the Fall. Tinker with her this winter.

 

[Bondo]

Re: more power from 4.3lx

so I've got a 96 4.3lx. believe it is rated at 175hp. non vortec, 4bbl carb. thunderbolt ignition.
I've seen other 4.3 non verge ca rated at 205hp. wondering what the differences are and if its possible to get more power from my engine without going to vortec heads.
my engine runs great, no complaints, but I'm always tinkering with it, and would always want more power. the boat does 49mph GPS so no need, but like I said. I just want. it.
thx.

Ayuh,.... Yer motor IS 205hp, a 2bbl. carbed 4.3l would be the 175 hp motor,...

 

[brunolund]

Re: more power from 4.3lx

well I like to hear that. I was under the impression the LX made it the 175.
guess I was thinking if I had 4bbl and 175, and another had 4bbl and 205, neither being vortecs, what the difference was.
makes a lot more sense this way.

 

[H2Onut]

Re: more power from 4.3lx

Nitrous................instant gain. Added 5MPH to my brother in laws 5.7 in a 20' Celebrity.