nOOb I/O question 3.7 vs 3.0

[spareparts]

you best bet will be a 5.0L v8. They are generally cheaper than the V6, give roughly the same hp as the 4bbl v6 with a lot more torque. They've been building them forever(it seems that way) so there are a lot of used ones and plenny of parts and suppliers. They are easier to work on than teh Most of the ones I've seen actually give better cruise fuel consuption than the v6. the 5.7 is thT same weight and size, but they usually carry a premium price tag. The 3.7 was a good motor in its better days(87 and later). But they are getting scarce and expensive. The 3.0 will work, buts its going to be working hard(and burning lots of fuel for the speed)

[yodaddy]

Thanks for your input. I was originally looking at an '88 3.7, and have since found an '89 with 3-400 hrs on it. Haven't seen it in person yet, but if everything checks out and it runs good it's coming home with me :)

[cfelton]

Welcome to the site!! Sounds like you're leaning towards a 3.7. They're good motors, and their problems are easily fixed. My 170/470 gets really good gas milage and has plenty of power. I've topped out at 42mph with 2 adults and 3 kids, trimmed up and tached out. I love my 170!! Good luck with yours!

[yodaddy]

Originally Posted by cfelton

Welcome to the site!! Sounds like you're leaning towards a 3.7. They're good motors, and their problems are easily fixed. My 170/470 gets really good gas milage and has plenty of power. I've topped out at 42mph with 2 adults and 3 kids, trimmed up and tached out. I love my 170!! Good luck with yours!

Thanks for the welcome, and your input.

I bought one of each, a 3.0 and a 3.7. The 3.7 is an '89 165hp and runs like a brand new motor. I'm swinging it into my '78 V20 Cuddy, and will keep the 3.0 as a backup motor. The 3.7 is currently in a 17' Larson All American, and pushed it to 47mph (GPS) on a mirror calm lake a couple of days ago.