I am in the middle of purchasing a new 256ssi with the mercruiser 8.1. When looking at the boat the engine did not have the top cover on it that says "496" mercruiser. The salesman said this is because the engine hatch sits too low. I am wondering if this is true. I can't imagine Chaparral building a boat they had to take the engine cover off in order for the hatch to fully close. Can anyone tell me if the have seen a 256ssi with an 8.1 engine having the engine cover on top?<br /><br />Thanks--Derek
If the Merc mounts any higher at all it would be an issue, there was only two inches to spare. I was blown away that the dealer thought it wouldn't fit for the same reason you did. Maybe they messed up and designed that cover around a 454 . . .<br /><br />I think I posted something about that combo in another thread of yours. Nice boat. The 236ssi I mentioned over there leaked at the transom swim-step joint if beached (the step would go under water). They've got it sealed up now, but I'd take a good look around that area. I don't believe the 256 I know has the same issue, but I've only seen it on the beach once and I wasn't with him when he pulled it out.<br /><br />
