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View Full Version : Bench racing opinions,new 18 2+3 engine



71-sixteen
08-22-2004, 08:41 PM
So..... bought my dream boat on e-bay,1976 18 2+3,volvo 280T,no engine but set up for chevy with bellhousing.I have a 71 16 holman moody 302 with volvo 250b drive but have wanted the 2 feet and trim.What are the opinions of people with experience with these boats? I,m thinking stroker 406 420 454 ,9.0 compression,wide torque band,aluminum heads,Edelbrock performer RPM air gap,MSD,steel crank-rods,High flow exhaust.Opinions on motors,exhaust,oil pans,trim tabs,props,engine builders,.What speeds are possible with this hull?Hydralic steering and manufacturers?Good and bad experiences? Although the bellhousing bolt pattern is the same I thougt the small block would be better than a Big block from a weight standpoint and for transom lift, Opinions? thanks in advance Jeff in North Carolina

Lenny
08-22-2004, 09:12 PM
I think 121 GPS is possible but, the QUESTION IS, how much do you want to spend and do you love your life?

Mid 70's seem attainable without any major headaches with less CUBES than you are contemplating.

Rootsy
08-22-2004, 11:12 PM
mid 80's is doable and controllable with a short drive and hydraulic steering...

a big inch mouse can easily make 500 / 500 at 5500 or less ... and still be pretty docile with the components you are speaking of... kinda pricy when you start talking bout $2k blocks and such... a 377 (std 4 inch bore / 3.75 stroke) or 383 (4.030 / 3.75) would be a more economical choice and can put you in the 450 range pretty easily...

425 ponies from a mouse with a 3 inch shorter drive (shorter than stock alpha / bravo.. ie Alpha SS) will net you about 79 - 80... this combo with hydraulic steering is freaking incredible as far as handling, especially with a 4 blade...

JR.

mattyboy
08-23-2004, 07:18 AM
I'd go with Rootsy on this one ;)

remember you pushing around almost 30 year old glass and resin you want to make sure the boat is solid or you might get more transom lift than you want :eek:

Lenny
08-23-2004, 08:31 AM
Jeff, did you get the white and red one in Punta Gorda ?

71-sixteen
08-23-2004, 09:10 AM
thanks guys for your input.Yes it's the red and white boat in Bradenton Fl. near Punta Gorda I guess