454 7.4 big block question

wadouglas

Cadet
Joined
Sep 13, 2007
Messages
21
I have a 1979 Bayliner Victoria flybridge with a 5.7L small block V-8. Assuming I have enough room to install it, what would be the pitfalls of putting in 7.4 454 big block. It seems to me a small block 350 is a little under powered for this 27 ft, probably 9000 lb boat.
 

TilliamWe

Banned
Joined
Dec 21, 2004
Messages
6,579
Re: 454 7.4 big block question

The biggest pitfall would be your outdrive being able to handle the torque of a 454 and the weight of that boat combined.
 

wadouglas

Cadet
Joined
Sep 13, 2007
Messages
21
Re: 454 7.4 big block question

I thought it was only about 100 lbs heavier. I have a 290DP outdrive so I should be good there.
 

boat1010

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Mar 10, 2009
Messages
781
Re: 454 7.4 big block question

There shouldn't be any problem with the out drive. The only problem I see is the extra gas you will burn. BUT I sure do like the extra power when I want it. Sounds like a good deal to me. My 454 id 330HP and there are some 350s that push that much too. You could look at stepping up your 350 too. But usually they are not as reliable after the extra HP. Good luck and happy boating.
 

AZSenza

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Mar 11, 2008
Messages
521
Re: 454 7.4 big block question

There are plenty of crate 5.7 and 6.2 (Stroked 5.7) motors that will deliver the same performance as a bigblock without the weight and poor economy. Built right they will be as stout as the stocker. Bottom line is...a better bottom line!
 

Gary H NC

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 1, 2005
Messages
8,972
Re: 454 7.4 big block question

The 383 crate motor would bolt right in and have the power...Just a thought.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,083
Re: 454 7.4 big block question

I have a 1979 Bayliner Victoria flybridge with a 5.7L small block V-8. Assuming I have enough room to install it, what would be the pitfalls of putting in 7.4 454 big block. It seems to me a small block 350 is a little under powered for this 27 ft, probably 9000 lb boat.

Ayuh,.... Depending on What Drive you have,...
It can be a Plug & Play,...
Or,..
It could require a Complete Driveline replacement....
 
Top