5.0 or 5.7 mercruiser

[redlinj]

OK, will spare all the naughty details but I destroyed my engine and outdrive in my 1982 Grady White Tournament 224. Had the Mercruiser 3.7 485 in it. Yes I could replace it with the same setup which would be the easiest to do, but maybe not the smartest! I'm in all likelihood gonna go with a 5.0 or 5.7. Yes, I know what's involved! Boat weights in around 3600lbs. I'd like the 5.7(254 hrs '90) but can get a better deal on the 5.0 which has less hrs and is a bit younger. Not concerned with carrying heavy loads or pulling skiers or tubers but would like some good top end. I know they are both reliable! Which one! OPINIONS PLEASE!

 

[thumpar]

I would go 5.7l since you are doing the work. 254 hours is nothing. I just hit over 650 on mine and it runs great. Are you getting the whole setup? The drive ratio should be changed with either one.

 

[alldodge]

+1 agree, the 5.7 would be a better choice, the 5.0 is not much better then a 4.3L. That said your 3600 lb boat will do well with a 4.3 but you will love the 5.7 and it will work very easy to get you where you want to go. When you want to punch it you would go OH YES

 

[Bondo]

I would go 5.7l since you are doing the work. 254 hours is nothing. I just hit over 650 on mine and it runs great. Are you getting the whole setup? The drive ratio should be changed with either one.

Ayuh,..... Ditto,..... 250 hours is just barely broken in,....

 

[redlinj]

Yes, I'll be getting the whole setup. I do want the 5.7! It does seem to be the logical choice!

 

[keith2k455]

Although I say take the 5.7 if you have the choice, I'll give you some perspective. My 5.0 moves my Crownline wonderfully. I have a good 3 blade stainless prop that helps and I have yet to put more than 13 gallons in the tank after 5 to 6 hrs of the kids tubing. Just saying, but if you have a choice why not take the 5.7?