[dsharp]

We took a 23' in on a trade on a larger boat about 10 years ago. It originally had a 120 hp volvo diesel inboard with a jackshaft to a sterndrive. I ran it like that for about a year in the gulf out of Freeport, tx. They run o.k. when they're light on fuel; maybe 18-20 knts. The main problem is it carries 120 gal. of fuel right in the stern. It was about 15knts full of fuel and the noise was deafening; would barely plane. Took out the deisel and put in a 454 Crusader with a 1:1 borg warner - went straight inboard. I think I've got a 14x13 3-blade on it. It planes at about 1800; cruises mid 20's at about 2800 slightly over 30 at 4300. The main problem getting speed out of a Seacraft is the weight of the hull and fuel placement. I personally prefer a heavier boat than a light flimsy one. They ride better and seem to be fairly indestructable within reason. It probably would have run a little better with a 1.5 gear to get some more prop under it; that goes back to the weight. All in all its been very comfortable for its size and low on maintenance. I was wondering if anyone had tried putting a 383 chevy in one with a 1.5 to one; it would be about 300lbs lighter;