Opinions on PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP

[Nautibouys]

Anyone have any opinions (Good, Bad, or Indifferent) on the PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP Engine. As a new owner of a boat with this engine curious about what to look out for. Economy, Power, Maintenance, Etc.

[east tx skier]

RE: Opinions on PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP

I haven't been behind the PCM version of this GM block, but I have skied behind the Indmar marinization rated at 260 hp in a 98 MC Sportstar. I think it would depend on the boat and use. For skiing, the Indmar version was surprisingly peppy out of the hole (and that's with a 1:1 drivetrain).

I know it's not a terribly specific answer, but at the very least, it'll give your post a bump.

[Sethro]

RE: Opinions on PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP

I've skied and driven a 1997 SNOB with the 5.0 on a 2200' long private lake. No problems getting up to speed for the slalom course even with me 6'5" 240lb behind the boat. Quite honestly, I didn't notice a huge difference in slalom course performance from my friend's 1999 196 with the GT-40. And those differences were only behind the wheel, not while skiing. The 5.0 merely "seemed" to work a tad harder, but no data to back that up. I was pleasantly surprised with the engine.

[Nautibouys]

RE: Opinions on PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP

Mine is in a 2000 Ski Nautique 196. As I research I just don't see many with this engine. Seems like most are all GT-40's, even though there were cheaper options. Must say something about that engine, and I suppose the full efi helps too.

[Jubers]

RE: Opinions on PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP

I have a 2000 SNOB with the 5.0. In a larger Nautique it may be too small but it works in this hull. It is noticably slower accelerating than the GT40 but I ski on a site ~1800 ft and have no issue getting up to speed (it has turn islands). I run into 38 off and have not seen any personal improvement skiing behind the GT40 or GM 5.7 but it is a slightly different pull. It definitely does suck up less gas. I have not had any mechanical issues.

[Nautibouys]

RE: Opinions on PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP

I have a 2000 SNOB with the 5.0. In a larger Nautique it may be too small but it works in this hull. It is noticably slower accelerating than the GT40 but I ski on a site ~1800 ft and have no issue getting up to speed (it has turn islands). I run into 38 off and have not seen any personal improvement skiing behind the GT40 or GM 5.7 but it is a slightly different pull. It definitely does suck up less gas. I have not had any mechanical issues.

Jubers thanks for the info. When gas gets back to $4.00 and it will I will appreciate any relief in that area possible. Our closest gas station to the lake is 12 miles away. I come from the i/o world and there is the obvious difference there between the 3.0L and the 4.3L. Inboards are all new to me. My guess is this will have more than my 4.3L ever hoped to have.

[TRDon]

RE: Opinions on PCM 5.0L GM 305 275HP

coming from an I/O, this will be night and day. I have never been behind one, but I cant imagine it is too far off of a GT40. Especailly in a ski hull. Good luck!