Re: 1
DSW, interesting way to introduce yourself. As a Ford fan, I like nothing better than to see good HP from a FoMoCo engine. I run a modified 302 myself. However, yes you can build good power from a 2.3 on the street, but the marine world is a bit different. There is way more stress placed on a marine engine. and it's not all about horsepower. You must have the torque to go with it. There is a really good reason that Ford never used this motor in a truck other than the Ranfger. I like creativity and effort, but you are asking too much from a 2.3.<br /><br />Since you have a Cobra, and an early one at that with that combo, there is also a good chance that it is a Bayliner? As a bowrider of that age and style, you will likely need 200+hp to get to 50. I have a 19' powered by a 225hp V8 and my best run has been 48.7 on GPS. Granted, my hull is a much deeper V than most.<br /><br />Getting a 2.3 to run on pavement is one thing, but the water isn't like the street and has its own challenges. If you want something with that displacement to turn 7kand live longer than a couple minutes, look here:
http://www.mercurymarine.com/2.5_efi_sport. In the sterndrive world, after a certain point, there is no replacement for displacement. Yes, many here know hor to get more HP from an engine, but you also have to understand and respect the limitations. I know someone who has a stroked 302 (can't remember the final displacement) attached to a Mercruiser #1. He loves the power, but the couplers made for the engine can't handle the stress. The engine is the most visible component to change, but there is a lot of other itms that aren't made to handle what you are trying to do.<br /><br />Good luck, you will need it. <br /><br />BTW: Don, crate me one of those up and send it over to me for testing would you?
