I just purchased a 1980 25' Skipjack Sport Cruiser with a 260B engine and a 290 power trim outdrive. I have a couple of questions regarding the engine and outdrive. First the engine. When I purchased the boat the engine is in pieces and not complete. It is missing the crank, cam, flywheel, pistons and some other small parts. I have the block, heads, vibration dampner, wiring harness, alternator and raw water pump brackets. My first question is 2 part, replace the engine with a rebuilt that was a direct replacement, or go with a vortec. I know the vortec is more expensive. the rebuilder seems to think that the vortec will work with a new flywheel, intake manifold ect. the old manifold and risers are cracked, so I have to get new anyway.
second question is about the outdrive. It is a 290 power trim. I have a dp lower unit that the prop shaft Part # 872533 is grooved from fishing line. it came off a 280 outdrive on a 24' skipjack, both have 5.7L v-8, although the skipjack may have had a smaller v-8 when new. I found a used prop shaft for a reasonable amount of money, but I'm not sure the gearing would be right with the 290. any feedback would be appreciated
second question is about the outdrive. It is a 290 power trim. I have a dp lower unit that the prop shaft Part # 872533 is grooved from fishing line. it came off a 280 outdrive on a 24' skipjack, both have 5.7L v-8, although the skipjack may have had a smaller v-8 when new. I found a used prop shaft for a reasonable amount of money, but I'm not sure the gearing would be right with the 290. any feedback would be appreciated
