4.3l Engine Swap

[RedRangerVIP]

Hey guys , been awhile <br /> I picked up a 1989 4.3L OMC Cobra boat on Ebay yesterday for my conversion on my 87 VIP 17 footer. <br /> The power package is complete , other than the outdrive , but it is a start.<br /> Can anyone tell me the dif in weight between the 2.3L Ford I have in it now and the 89 4.3L setup?<br /> Thought about adding more foam if it is much more.<br /> Thanks for any help , and it's good to get back!

 

[Don S]

Re: 4.3l Engine Swap

I can't tell you what the weight difference is, but I can tell you the foam is not going to make the boat sit higher in the water, only keep the boat above water (A little bit) if it tries to sink.<br />Since you don't have a drive yet, be sure to find one for the 4.3. The gear ratios are way different on the 3.0L and 2.3L engines. Along with being a lighter built drive. The bullet diameter is smaller on the 4 cyl. engines.

 

[RedRangerVIP]

Re: 4.3l Engine Swap

Hey Don thanks for the heads up on the drive. I ran part #s and found they were different also.<br /> I run the boat between 5000 and 9000 ft elevation. Any suggestions on upper and lower gear ratios?<br /> So the foam is more of a safety factor than anything?<br /> Do you feel the weight of the 4.3 will be too much for the 17 footer?<br /> Thanks again!

 

[Darkhorse1201]

Re: 4.3l Engine Swap

IMHO I think you will be okay with the 4.3. I have a 1992 Sunbird that is a 18' and came from the factory with a 4.3 OMC Cobra.

 

[RedRangerVIP]

Re: 4.3l Engine Swap

That's funny swsidlo!!<br /> That's the same boat I got for my repower, except it is a 1989 model.<br /><br />

 

[boatgrunt]

Re: 4.3l Engine Swap

I have the manual for the 89 Cobra. Let me know if you need any other specifics looked up.

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: 4.3l Engine Swap

I plunked a 3.8 V6 in place of the 2.5 in my 17'... <br />It weighs about 120lbs more...My hull was offered in it's day with an inline 6, so I didn't think weight would be an issue and it's not.