small block vrs big block

[kory]

I am looking at a 2000 21' Galaxy/California open bow . It has a 5.7 small block volvo I/O. The engine exhaust was modified for through hull exaust. Is this the best engine for lake.river skiing and family fun? Since it is a basic chevy small block can I increase performance threw add such as super charges or should I be thinking big block. I am looking for fast/fun boat but econmical for family fun use but dont want to under buy the engine. I have heard that the 350 might be a bit anemic, not sure. What are your thoughts.<br /><br />Kory

 

[MGuckin]

Re: small block vrs big block

Just my 2 cents.<br />Small block gm's are good base motors. So are bb's.<br />You want power or economy? Can't have both.<br />I guess it depends on how fast you want to go. Have you water tested the boat yet? <br />It may be suitable as is.<br />Most boats with modified motors have had extensive modifications made to handle the additional stress and handling complications.<br />How big is your wallet?

 

[L Christopher]

Re: small block vrs big block

kory:<br />I have a 22'Chaparral (weight 3500lbs. empty) with a 5.7l EFI 260bhp. With my family of 5 and two additional teenagers all the toys and 400lbs. of fuel, I top out at 52mph (so says the GPS). Hole shot could be better with that load but that is a prop problem. I don't know what kind of speed you are looking for maybe keep up with the guys in those bass rigs. I would take the boat for a test drive.

 

[kory]

Re: small block vrs big block

Well that is my feeling as well. Supposedly the boat is a 50+MPH boat. I think that is fine for me. I am not sure I want to pay through the noise for gas in 500ci BB. If a really need more I figure I could just bolt on some type of charger to the 350 in the future. Are any of you happy that have done that type of thing. Alot can be done with a 350 I figure.<br /><br />If this was a jet boat I think you would have to opt for the larger engine because of the inefficency in the jet, but I like the stern drives.

 

[Trevor]

Re: small block vrs big block

THERE IS NO REPLACEMENT FOR DISPLACEMENT !!!!!!<br />GO BIG OR GO HOME!!!<br />the chevy 350 is a great motor powerful and ecomomical but the BB is going to get you there faster and but remember the golden ruel about HP<br />you have to burn a certain amount of fuel to make that HP BB are fun but SB are usuly the answer.

 

[DJ]

Re: small block vrs big block

kory,<br /><br />Just because you have more, doesn't mean you have to use it all the time. A large engine loafing is going to equal or better the fuel economy of a small engine working hard.<br /><br />Your resale $$ will be much better with a big block. It will sell faster too.