That, I'm very familiar with. I've had two, a carbed 5.7/290 duoprop on 24 Seabird and a fuel injected 5.7 with a newer, sx duoprop in a 25 Seafari. Both very good, although I prefer the 290, IMHO a more reliable drive. It has its problem areas, tilt mechanism and power trim cylinders, but neither will keep you from getting home. A carbed 5.7 is easy to troubleshoot and work on, even for me, who ain't exactly gifted at mechanics.
They balance very nice in a 23, weight's low, helps CG. Roll and pitch are better than outboards. For me the best thing is that old car engine will warn you before it quits, no small advantage if you are going very far offshore.
If you haven't had a duoprop before, steering it in reverse takes a bit of getting used to, but the extra powerful low end torque is fabulous for low speed planing and fuel economy is very good.
Maintenance is like any I/O. There is plenty and you have to stay on it for the package to stay reliable.
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