7.4l questions

[Stupid Fast]

I am looking at a 97 baja Islander 208 and 212. Both have the 300 horse carb. 7.4l mercruiser, Bravo 1- 1.5-1, 21 pitch stainless prop. My question: Is this a buildable motor. What is available, what works, can the block handle it?
P.S. Anyone familiar with this boat? good or bad.
Thanks

[jeff-in-ky]

First off I would think that a 21p prop would be to low of a pitch. I had a 98 Baja H2X (24') with the 300hp 7.4L and I was right at the rev. limiter with a 23p mirage. That motor is a workhorse and will give great service but is limited in hop-up opportunities it is a 2 bolt block, cast crank and pistons etc. A manifold, carb and cam change will help, as will aftermarket exhaust especially if it does not have thru-hull now. My boat ran 62-63 mph you should be able to get close to 70 mph with the mods I listed.
JB

[euby]

should be good up to about 550hp without any problems but jeff is right about all the cast parts.

[77charger]

Yes that motor is able to be hpped up.First off a cast crank and 2 bolt block will be plenty strong for most applications.Youre not building a motor to run past 6000 you will be fine.Currently my engine is a bbf 429 with an 11-1 comp and more goodies. It is a 2 bolt cast crank stock bottom end and holds well at 5500 rpm.has held well for 5 years.Only thing i should have done was put better valve spring retainers which i now did.Forged stuff is better but do you plan on blowers and stuff like that if not you can put the money you save somewhere else in the motor.Some will tell you different but like i sais you have to make MEGA Hp to take advantage of all the 4 bolts and forged crank,rods,etc.Other wise youre wasting money.