Is the 3.0 a big enough engine?
 

I am considering purchasing this boat. My questions will a 3.0 be a big enough motor to jump out out of the water to get on plane, to tow a coulpe of tubers, skiers at the same time. Could anybody give me a guess as to what top speed would be? I know the right prop pitch makes a lot of difference but in general does the 3.0 have the power to pull and the speed to cruise. Or is the 4.3 so much better I shouldnt even consider the 3.0. p.s. I the boat is an 18'. Thank you for your time. - Tyler

1996 mariah shebah
3.ol 4cld
8 person
with trailer
low hours

Re: Is the 3.0 a big enough engine?
 

If you're using it primarily for watersports and entertaining for more than 3 people, I'd seriously consider the 4.3L. The 3.0L is a great little engine for the 180's, it's a great balance of horsepower and fuel economy. But if you need the extra "oomph" for skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and hauling around passengers, I think you'll be much happier in the long run with a 4.3L engine.

Re: Is the 3.0 a big enough engine?
 

I agree with ShabahZ250. I have the 3.0l in a newer 18' Mariah and love it for it's reliability and fuel economy. I use my boat for cruising the Intercoastal Waterway and 100 mile trips aren't uncommon so I love the fuel economy provided by the little engine. I haven't used it for water sports but i don't believe that you would be happy with the four cylinder for your stated use of the boat.

Re: Is the 3.0 a big enough engine?
 

+3 on the 4.3L for the use you are indicating.

Re: Is the 3.0 a big enough engine?
 

I owned a similar sized boat a few years ago with a 3.0 Mercruiser. The boat performed fairly well, except when pulling up skiers (especially when doing deep water slalom starts). Top speed was about 35 mph. This year I purchased a 180 Talari with a 4.3 L and it made quite a difference. I would highly recommend trying to find a boat with at least a 4.3. I can pull tubers and skiiers all day on one tank of gas and I have plenty of power to get skiiers out of the water quickly. Tpp speed on this boat is around 48 mph.

Good Luck,

Carl