aq 130 or 131

[robzilla69]

i currently have a 17' runabout with a aq130c/270 combo. the motor is tired and needs rebuilt. I found a guy selling a aq131a/275 combo that has closed cooling used for $1000. I notice the 131 has less hp rated than the 130 but not by much. The closed cooling is the big draw for me since i operate in salt water.
can i just swap out engines and bell housings and use the 270? i know it is in good shape, or do i need the 275 for some reason? Or im i blowing it totally by ditching my 130? thanks for any advice!

 

[captmello]

Re: aq 130 or 131

the two engines are quite different. the 131 may have different exhaust and motor mounts. otherwise there isn't anything wrong with making the switch. AQ130 parts are getting hard to find these days anyway. I would plan on changing the entire drive train including the transom shield and outdrive to make sure everything works together. I suppose you could use the 270 outdrive bit you'll still probably need to change the exhaust pipe. Just make sure you get all the parts and study the differences before tearing anything apart.

let us know what you decide and update us on your progress.

 

[robzilla69]

Re: aq 130 or 131

Thanks for the quick response. I'm meeting the guy for a sea trial with the motor and drive tomorrow. He is upgrading to a v-6 power plant and drive so his mechanic will be removing the old ones and i get everything. As long as the work well it seems like a no brainer. I just dont get how a 2.0 is rated at 130hp while the bigger aq131 is only 120 hp and is overhead cam. oh well Volvo voodoo I guess.

 

[Don S]

Re: aq 130 or 131

Different years and different rating methods will account for the HP rating difference.
If everything works ok on the sea trial, I would recommend changing everything to the newer model. When it comes to repairs and selling the boat, it will be a lot easier when everything is the same vintage, instead of a mass of different parts.

 

[robzilla69]

Re: aq 130 or 131

thanks Don sounds like a plan to me. This thing is so much easier to work on than my old fiberform aq260 i love it!

 

[robzilla69]

Re: aq 130 or 131

ok the motor was in good shape had a slight lean miss form idle to mid throttle. the stock carb looks simple but obviously needs work. the drive was good except didnt lock in reverse. typical stuck lock pin. anyone know of a carb upgrade for this unit looks like a webber dgv might mount up. a choke would be nice in the cold weather!