I am not sure about the spec's of the 388 but I have never been much of a
Chevy man. The big question I have is you did not mention the spec's of the
outdrive or the inboard. More torque means more twisting on the drive
components that may or may not be able to take it. Need to check their
capability.

Your upgrade to a 388 sounds logical. But If it is that logical why doesn't
Chevy offer that engine as an option in the truck or car. The increased
stroke means that the compression ratio will change so I would guess that
new pistons and rods are required to get back to something reasonable? When
I am at the dock I really don't care if the engine starts or not. I can
have lots of fun there and fix the problem tomorrow. When on the water I
want ultimate reliability on being able to get back home. That's just me.

Everybody wants more horsepower and torque but there are a few things that
an owner can do to help performance. 1) Remove as much excess weight as
possible. You want to enjoy life but you don't need to duplicate the living
room furniture on the boat. Do you need every kitchen appliance?2) How is
the trim when moving - is it optimum? 3) Are the props right?, and 4) is the
bottom and props clean and free of fouling?

Also, read the specs on your boat and/or similar ones. It seems like going
from 500 HP to 600 HP only add a few MPH at the top end. The view may not
be worth the climb.

I have heard folks say that a gas engine will last ~2000 hours. Its a
function of the running at high HP vs the requirements of a car. One engine
probably failed for some reason and was replaced at 1000 hours. It would be
nice to know why.

Have fun boating and good luck with your rebuilds.




"Stu and Marilyn Wright" wrote in message
...
I am looking at a Cruisers Inc 32' express. It has twin 350 chevy
engines. One engine is new and the other has 1000 hours. The boat itself
is in very good shape for a 1989. I'm sure the old engine will need
replacing soon. If I buy it, I was thinking I would build two 388 c.i.
engines. This is a 350 block with the 400 crank. I get the torque of the
400 with the reliability of the 350. I would assume the boat should
plane a little easier. Any thoughts?

Stu