Arch removal 2003 3500 SY

[shrew]

Mercruiser discontinued the 7.4 (454ci) @ 300 -325HP (depending on the year). The interim engine was the 8.1 (496ci) @ 375HP (which also came in an HO @ 425HP). They were also releasing an 8.2 (502ci) @ 430HP. The 8.1 HO and 8.2 were really competing for the same market. They then discontinued the 8.1 (496) engine.

They ended up replacing with 8.2 (502ci) @ 430HP. The 6.2 (350HP) was a logical replacement, as it was between the older 7.4 and 8.1. However the cost of the small block was an appealing option for boat manufacturers. In a Bravo III application, the 6.2 is 362 lbs lighter and only 25hp less than the 8.1. (still 25-50HP more than the 7.4).

It was a logical choice to move in that direction. For a mid-sized cruiser in the 32 - 36ft range the 6.2 is a really good option.

[Foxy 01]

Thanks Shrew I know we are off topic but that was a very interesting post. My boat has the 7.4's and is shaft driven. The only 8.2's I saw here came in the 37' Maxum and fuel here is expensive so I don't think they were that popular. The 7.4 is bad enough if you plant it so we try and take it easy.

[Stray Cat]

Originally Posted by Foxy 01

Stray Cat Just as a matter of interest what engines are in the 2001 Maxum?

I have the 7.4 V drives.

[Foxy 01]

Originally Posted by Stray Cat

I have the 7.4 V drives.

Do the 7.4's have cast manifolds or have you replaced them with something else? I fitted mine with the stainless steel ones nearly ten years ago and they are great. I think the boat came about two inches further out of the water without all that weight. The only thing we find over here is you have to regularly check the anodes for deterioration. The cost is a bit higher than the cast jobs but I would never go back.

[shrew]

7.4's had cast manifolds, risers and elbows. The 8.1 and 8.2's came with cast manifolds and risers and SS elbows.