Getaway
Well-Known Member
- Oct 13, 2010
- 1,077
- Boat Info
- 1998 290DA Sundancer
Lowrance electronics, Fishhawk, Scotty Downriggers
BoatWheels Tri-Axle Trailer
- Engines
- Single big block 454 MPI Mercruiser engine and Bravo III outdrive.
The 4.3 ltrs are darn close to bullet proof if maintained properly. I would say it's a very smart choice.
I have not had drive issues with my 454/Alpha, but I bring her up slowly and back her down slowly. I'm not one to run her at 5000 r's much either and I cruise at 3000-3200 generally.
I'd much rather have a Bravo drive, but the Alpha is ok if you are easy on it and don't hit anything.
CC is right, the twin 4.3's in these boats is darn near a perfect setup.
I had the 4.3 in my '97 Starcraft Islander. That motor sipped gas and never gave me a lick of trouble during my 13 yrs of hard use. The new owners are still running it hard with no issues. We ran that boat out into the middle of Lake Huron a couple times to a spot called Yankee Reef. It was about 75 miles round trip plus trolling for salmon/trout for 6 hours. That engine burned 26 gallons total for the trip. That boat only weighed 3800 lbs loaded, but that is still very good fuel economy.
I have not had drive issues with my 454/Alpha, but I bring her up slowly and back her down slowly. I'm not one to run her at 5000 r's much either and I cruise at 3000-3200 generally.
I'd much rather have a Bravo drive, but the Alpha is ok if you are easy on it and don't hit anything.
CC is right, the twin 4.3's in these boats is darn near a perfect setup.
I had the 4.3 in my '97 Starcraft Islander. That motor sipped gas and never gave me a lick of trouble during my 13 yrs of hard use. The new owners are still running it hard with no issues. We ran that boat out into the middle of Lake Huron a couple times to a spot called Yankee Reef. It was about 75 miles round trip plus trolling for salmon/trout for 6 hours. That engine burned 26 gallons total for the trip. That boat only weighed 3800 lbs loaded, but that is still very good fuel economy.
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