Engine Size vs. Length or Weight

[Bald Eagle Jones]

Looking for feedback/opinions/rule of thumb for engine size vs. boat length or weight for cuddy cabin, 22-26ft. I'm finding many 5.0 but not too many 5.7. Is the 5.0 enough?

 

[RogersJetboat454]

Re: Engine Size vs. Length or Weight

Looking for feedback/opinions/rule of thumb for engine size vs. boat length or weight for cuddy cabin, 22-26ft. I'm finding many 5.0 but not too many 5.7. Is the 5.0 enough?

5.0L would probably move it, but nobody ever complains about having a little bit of extra power on tap.
When you get up into the high 20's on length, most solo small blocks are going to have their work cut out for them.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Engine Size vs. Length or Weight

There are far too many 5.0 powerplans in the 22-26 foot cruisers. It is a lousy combo, on anything but the 22-23 footer. Once you hit 24 feet or longer you need a big block motor.

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Engine Size vs. Length or Weight

There are far too many 5.0 powerplans in the 22-26 foot cruisers. It is a lousy combo, on anything but the 22-23 footer. Once you hit 24 feet or longer you need a big block motor.

Agreed. I prefer at least a 5.7L in anything 20'-23', and the 24'-27' is where a 7.4L or larger becomes necessary. 28'+ is twin engine territory.

 

[Slip Away]

Re: Engine Size vs. Length or Weight

I'm finding many 5.0 but not too many 5.7. Is the 5.0 enough?

That's why you are finding so many 5.0L in those boats. Underpowered and people are trying to get rid of them.
Cuddy's are heavier than a same size bowrider, and depending on the length, 5.0L is just adequate for light loads,
and moderate watersport activity. Just puttin' around and cruising to the cove, they are okay.

 

[QC]

Re: Engine Size vs. Length or Weight

I disagree on the 5.0 if it is MPI (260 hp propshaft) and a Bravo 3 or duo-prop. That combo will plane a small cruiser easily. If it is a 5.0 carbed, and a single prop drive, I agree with the others. An older "260" carbed 5.7 is worth only 230 at the propshaft, and a single prop drive makes it even worse. I would say the Bravo 3, and a 260 5.0 are as good as an old 300 big block as far as hole shot is concerned. Despite what everybody says, there are replacements for displacement. Duo prop type drives is one of them.