Okay, I'm building a SBF. I have a great 5.0 HO roller block that I'll probably stroke to a 347 and bolt on some aluminum heads. I have these great H&M exhausts and I have my induction figured out too...
What I need to learn about is cross over systems and raw water cooling! Some of my issues are:
The classic H&M systems look simple and I can find a similar crank driven RW pump. However, I cannot find a SBF crossover pipe (I can probably make one) or a two outlet thermostat housing. Is there a system , or parts around that I can use to emulate this?
I could use a stock style recirculating pump yet, again I'm not sure if I can find a proper marine one in aluminum with a bronze impeller (should I consider an electric pump). The stock system seems much more complicated than 2 supply hoses to the exhausts so, I'd need to know what to plug up, and what to route where, while still having a clean looking engine install. If I keep a pulley recirculating system , do I go with V-belts or a serpentine? (Still have an alternator and potentially PS pump too)
The third consideration is if I were to install a fresh water system either now or, at some point in the future (I don't boat in salt water)... but, I may want to travel with this boat so, you never know.
lastly, I'm looking for a clean installation. I'd like to keep a somewhat vintage look but, not necessarily a historically correct one as long as the job gets done. Is a raw water/crossover system worth all the extra effort?
So, any thoughts, preferences, advice, experience?