selecting an engine.....

FWC is not that expensive relative to the cost of the boat or even just the engine. Aftermarket kits are ~700 on boatfix last time I checked. Wish I had it - the next engine/boat will.

My understanding of the Horizon engines is that they are easier to maintain and have a pressurized water system that lets you pump and flush the system from one valve. Otherwise, mechanically they are the same. If you want an extended boating season, they are the way to go.

These bullets sum it up:
# Ceramic coated exhaust elbows better resist high temperature and corrosion
# Horizon models feature closed cooling that includes exhaust manifolds for added corrosion resistance
# Brass sea water pump housing improves life and better resists damage from running dry

Here's the link:
http://www.mercurymarine.com/350_mag_mpi_horizon_sd_-_300_hp
 
My observations wrt engine size support the articles. It's all in how you use the power.

I have friends with smaller engines who burn just as much gas as I do.

However, I can carry more people, get on plane, and go 55+ whenever I want to.

I'll never own a boat this less than a big block - unless its an outboard.
 
quote:
Originally posted by Freddy

While I agree with everything being said, i.e. bigger engine, FWC, it should be tempered by how much you're going to use the boat and how long you're going to keep the boat.

Click to expand...


isitsummeryet

Fred puts it in the correct perspective. I didn’t believe the fuel consumption would be better with bigger until I saw it with my own eyes. (Fuel flow gauges) Glad I listened to some friends (like here) that steered me that direction. As far as FWC…if you are going to keepuse the boat often and in salt…the 2k FWC is well spent money, especially in comparison to the overall purchase price of the boat. I spent more than that on my stereo system…

You have no idea how many times I walk around saying "is it summer yet"

Freezing in Oklahoma
 
And you guys don't know how often I've said I wish I had FWC!!! It's now standard on all Crusader engines, I'm a couple of years too early for a change.
 
Who was it that said "I've never heard of anybody trading a boat in because it has too much power?"
 
For those who doubt the size of the boat to fresh water relationship goto your local sea ray dealer and check what they have in stock for sundancers from 24'-whatever. You will find that most all the boats over 30/32 will have fresh water cooling in stock while the 24,26, will all have raw water in stock. I spent alot of time looking at sea rays last year here in CT and this dealer was on the ocean not a lake.

Being that it's only $2,600 more for FWC I didn't get it either but that's what they had there. The total cost to upgrade from standard power 5.7 to 350 mag fwc is just over 5k so I dont get that either I would buy FWC and More power.

Looks like a one post wonder anyways

Mark
 
I think it's because they are entry level boats being bought by people with no previous experience. Cheaper to them is the bottom line. They don't know displacement and FWC from Barbie Dolls! Anybody looking at the larger models probably has some experience and knowledge and they don't want small engines and RWC.
 
To buy a boat for the average person is not normally for the short term, the first time buyer looks at as they believe is the best economical options.
Having had to service & repair a large range of inboards i can only agree with those that are PRO-FWC.
As for boat size verses ? is it possible that most go for FWC in the 24-26ft thats why the Dealers have more RWC models availabe.
(dont sell as Many)RWC's.
A larger Engine within the range you are considering will not work as hard as the smaller unit for the same carrying load
so your fuel economy will be within range.
I have been caught in some compromising weather conditions without to many options, but to run them out with rough seas.
The extra HP was without a doubt when needed a must to be able to control the boat (stuff the fuel Economy) im for safety factor.
(AUSSIE boater Wild KIMBERLEY COAST WA) LOL....
 
My father picked up a 260SD last august and I told him go FWC - the dealers (all in salt water) all have RWC because of the added cost of the FWC - I told Dad to wait and order one but he didn't- his reasoning - even the RWC will outlast his ability to boat - so that plays into the how long are you going to keep it... but for $2K I'd do it in a heartbeat and go with the bigger motor.
 
Yes to both the MAG engine and the FWC. Both options are listed as BIII drives so no cost to upgrade there, but BIII is a very good idea.
 
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