Somewhere between 26-28 feet, you need to consider whether to go with
single or twin screws. Over 28 feet, twin screws are almost a given.
Beyond that it really depends on where you boat and in what
situations....Do you want speed or manuverability?

Speed - just remember..."there's no replacement for displacement." At
the time, you're 5.0 liter was probably a base engine and they likely
offered a 5.7 upgrade or possibly a 7.4 option, but a 7.4 option would
have been doubtful for a Bayliner at that time. The 5.0 is probably
just adequate for the size of the boat...definitely not a thrill ride
though. You might want to look at a single screw duo prop. I have a
friend who has a 26' boat with a duo prop 5.7 350 which will do 55, or
better, on a good day.

Manuverability - Twin screws are a lot more manuverable in docking
situations with wind, but you're gonna burn more fuel. I'm guessing a
single 454 will probably burn less fuel than twin 4.3's...twin 305's
would really cook, but that is probably not a Bayliner or Maxum option
and that will definitely keep the Saudi's in business.

Ride - A quick FYI, unless a boat is totally underpowered, your engine
has little to do with your ride quality, so aside from the power issue,
you should really ask yourself whether you've been "truly" happy with
your Bayliner quality in terms of its ride/hull as well as the quality
of the interior and hardware (windshield, etc). More importantly, a
better brand will give you a much better ride, as Bayliners and Maxum's
are not known for being solid/rigid hulls. Beyond that, I am almost
positive that a Maxum is really a Bayliner in wolf's diguise. They
are, or were, at that time owned by the same conglomerate.

What I'm saying is that if you're gonna upgrade boats, you should
upgrade brands. If you can swing it, look for a better brand like a
Regal or Chaparell. Those brands won't break the bank like a
Chris-Craft, Formula or a Cobalt, but they are solid mid-line boats and
you won't regret it on the resale end either.


pailleg wrote:
Hi,

I'm planning to step from my 1992 Bayliner 2655 to a Maxum 1993 270
SCR. I want to get more power, since my current Bayliner got only a
merc. 5.0 L (305 HP) and find some rides a little tuff.

1) Should I go with dual 4.3 L (205 HP) mercruiser or a single 7,4 L
(454 HP) and what's the pros and cons of having 2 engines instead of
one ? I can't make my mind about the fuel overall cost.

2) What about my upgrade choice, since I want more room, a better
finishing and a smoother ride ?

Thanks for your so appreciated advice.

Guy