Python Engine

[Pondking]

Considering a boat with the Python engine. Looking for info on this motor. Positives and negatives. Thanks in advance for any help.

[NautiqueJeff]

I assume you're looking at getting a Super Air or a Super Sport. There are a couple of things to keep in mind with that engine. First, your engine cover will not be the standard engine cover for other engines. It will sit up higher than the covers for the rear storage compartment, and will make the sundeck harder to use. Also, there is quite a bit more noise and vibration associated with that engine. It uses quite a bit more fuel too.

I have seen two Super Airs that had the Python engine, and they both REALLY flew. It is a powerful, great engine, but you have to be willing to accept the drawbacks above. My personal preference would be to get a ZR6 instead, but the Python is very cool.


Python Engine

[Nautiqueman]

I have owned 16 Nautiques since 1987 (you are talkin' to a 40 year old) and have driven a Ski Nautique and SAN with a PYTHON in it. They will blow you away with the power. Especially the Ski Nautique. It will throw a passenger out of the observer seat if you hammer it at 40- unbelieveable. Nautique Jeff is right about the motor box- engine is huge and I believe about 500-700 pounds more than standard engine.

My biggest problem was in the SANTE, the wide open run on pure glass water was like riding the ocean. It was porposing (bouncing) like crazy. It was not loaded and I was the only one in the boat, so that might not be a problem with a load.

Also, the vibration on the Ski was amazing. It rattled the platform just idling. It was like there was so much power under the engine box, it had to come out somewhere. They are loud engines and sound fantastic- heads will turn! (no Invertaflow on the Python - straight pipes), but after about 3 hours in the hot sun, I think it would be irritating. You might not be able to get a stereo loud enough to hear it above the motor noise.

You can make your own decision, but the extra $$$ and noise may not be worth it after about one day on the water.

I believe my friend that used the Ski Nautique w/Python one day said they put two tanks of fuel in it during one Saturday's use.

Let me hear what you think.

[Luke]

Here is a picture of a SAN w/Python from Wakeworld.

[99ProAir]

That is a sweet looking boat, esp. with the Python! That boat would look sweet with a tinted windsheild!

[Pondking]

In fact it is a Pro Air with midship engine. I assume it would really lessen the elbow room in the boat.

[Nautiqueman]

you won't have to put as much ballast since the engine will be doing some of the weight for you

[rocco]

I have this Motor in my 2000 model Ski Nautique Ski Boat..502..8.2 430hp.its BAD
I love it,,,,,But you can't hear the Music at any speed..and yes the Ski platform does shake too.
the Motor cover is Big too....But if you ride like you got some cents about yourself,,Its not to bad on gas..Now stay in the fast mode..make sure there a place close by thats has GAS..But there is NO other Ski Boat that can stay with it for about 50 to 75 yards..top speed I guess around 52 to 55 mph......

[Pondking]

It sounds wicked but not very practical for a family with young children. I'm leaning away from the Python and I'll continue looking for the similar boat with GT 40 which seems to be the most reliable and popular in the Nautique line up.
This site is a wealth of info. Thanks to all that replied to my post. I'd love any other opinions on any of the motors used buy nautique.

[Air206]

I love our ZR6 liter... FWIW. ........... Crazy on power, quiet, and no heavier nor larger than Excaliber...

[AbunDiga909]

I have to second Air206 on that...

[DRAGON88]

It sounds wicked but not very practical for a family with young children. I'm leaning away from the Python and I'll continue looking for the similar boat with GT 40 which seems to be the most reliable and popular in the Nautique line up.
This site is a wealth of info. Thanks to all that replied to my post. I'd love any other opinions on any of the motors used buy nautique.

what years of air nautiques are you looking at?

and also why the pro air? (just wondering) the TWC hull works ok, but once you start weighing it down thoes pockets in the back may cause you to get bad gas consumption. Personally I would either go Super Sport (SAN) or Sport (Air either TSC or TSC˛ hulls)

[Pondking]

Dragon88,

Thanks for the heads up. I'm looking at '98 - 01 mainly cause that is what my budget can afford. Admittedly I don't know alot about Nautiques. I'm learning by reading postings on this site. My 1st choice is an Air Nautique 'cause I'm looking for a cross over boat. I've got 2 kids under 6 and I want to teach them skiing and wake boarding. Further I'm a hard core skier that found crackboarding I mean wakebording ( f-ing addictive) in my late 30's and I'm at an intermediate level. I was not aware, until now, that there was a hull difference.
V-drives while i love the lay out, won't be as effecive for my needs.

I'm having a tough time finding a nice clean Air Nautique in the pacific north west. If i'm off base and misunderstanding the Nautique line I would love to know. The model years,and hull correlations, and best use for each type confuses the **** out of me.
I would also appreciate any thoughts or suggestions.

[AirJeff]

I just went through the whole process of figuring out model differences/ hull differences and what years had what before picking up an '02 Air, I'll PM you the list I put together and it might help things make more sense.

[Air206]

AirJeff -
Post it - I would like to see it too - May help others too!