If you don't mind newsgroups, try rec.boats.

[This message has been edited by Dennis (edited 03-25-2001).]

 

I think for the info you're looking for, just go to www.wmi.org and click on the boating homepage... they'l;l have a bit more info on pelasure boats there. The bass fishing page is awesome too, if you're into that.

-Joe-

 

http://www.wmi.org/www/boating/boatboard/

 

Thanks for the help, I will check them all out. I'll foward the fishing links to my Dad he loves fishing. I just like to go fast, hehe.

I know a lot about small block marine engines, but now it looks like I have to learn about the big blocks.

[This message has been edited by Don C (edited 03-25-2001).]

 

If you want to really go fast, then dump the Bravo and hang a Speedmaster on that transom and power it with a 509 or 502 putting out around 600 hp.

If you want a fast boat for the open ocean, take a look at the models from Velocity.

[This message has been edited by Dennis (edited 03-25-2001).]

 

I would never own another MerCruiser product as long as I live. I have been around and rebuilt boats for over ten years and have never seen such poor engineer like you see with a MerCruiser. Just my two cents.

------------------
97 XLT 4.6L SC 4X4 ORP Gibson Catback
JBA Headers.. Hot Coated
Ford Motorsport 9MM wires
SuperChip
JL Stealthbox
Rockford Fosgate punch 45 to drive stealthbox

 

Hey all with spring on its way, I am looking to get a new Boat.

Does anyone know a good boat Message Board?
I know what boat I want but I have some questions on which engine to get?

Or does anyone know much about the MerCruiser stern drives?

the 3 in question are the
7.4 Bravo
454 Magnum Bravo

the one I have the most interest in is the 377 Scorpion Bravo, but it is new and can't find much info on it.

Thanks
Don

 

http://www.wmi.org/bassfish

Start there & I'm sure you'll find some terrific links to other (more applicable) sites.

 

Try Trailerboats.com. It's a very active site and you can find info and opinions on any boat-motor combination you can come up with.

 

JDF
I am looking at a 23 foot Baja, it comes with the Bravo One. I talked to Baja today and the brochure is allready outdated. There are all new engines out now. I don't have the info infront of me, but the 377 scorpion is real big bucks so that one is out.

I also wish I could put a Ford Engine in it, but mercs are all GM blocks, so I will have to deal with it, and I have to admitt the 350 magnum in my current boat has been awsome.

I will tell you onr thing, if you think car dealers are stupid you should see how stupid some boat dealers are. They didn't know about the engines, and told me that I could not change any interior parts on the boat. I called Baja, they told me no problem, just tell us what you want.

 

GORP,

 

GORP,
What exactly don't you like about Mercruiser?
The block is GM no matter who marinizes it, Merc, Volvo, etc.

Don C,
There are 3 different Bravo drives, I,II,III.
Bravo I would be a go fast which it appeares you're looking for (you didn't mention the boat).
Bravo II is a heavy duty workhorse, great for single or twin engine setups on heavy family style cruisers. The props for this drive are about $500
Bravo III, which has twin counter rotating props would replace the Bravo II which helps with tracking and backing down. Many people want BIII's on twin setups but I believe this is overkill.
P.S.
If you are getting a brand new boat, hold out for the replacement to the 5.7L the 6.0
Or replacing the 7.4L the 8.1L

 

Nice boat Don C,
Bravo I would be the right drive for that boat I believe. Several Baja's and Cigarettes at my marina with the Bravo I.
I have a 97 SeaRay Sundancer 330 twin 7.4's with BII's on my list. Took a look Sat. Talking price with the guy now. The real sticking point is I want the slip with it. Here in RI, slips are sold out. People bought boats a the Providence boat show only to find out there are no slips available.
I mostly run Narrangansett Bay and out to Block Island and the Vineyard occasionally.
Boat dealers just play dumb. Unlike car dealers, they would rather sell what they have rather than order something.
I don't recall if Ford makes any engines for the marine industry any more or Chrysler for that matter. They used to.