Engine Replacement PCM 330 on an 04 Air Nautique?

[nwb14]

I'm looking at an 04 Air Nautique with 1500 hours that appears to be in great shape. However, given the high time I want to plan for the worst, so what would it cost to replace the engine with a factory new one? Would a transmission change be needed as well? Could I replace it with a cheaper new PCM Ford 351 from the 90s model Nautiques? If the price is right I think it might be a good buy. Lastly, I like to ski and board equally so is this platform versatile enough for both? Thanks!

[Quinner]

04' Air could be several different boats, which model is it?

Did you do a compression test? That motor could still easily have another couple thousand hours of life left. With 1500 hrs the trans may need a rebuild at some point, is it leaking or slipping at all?? Would ballpark about $1k for a rebuild or rebuilt. If the motor does need a rebuild it would likely be cheaper to have that done then swap in a Ford. A brand new Excalibur is going to be some bigger $$$, about 10K for a bobtail

[nwb14]

It's a 216 Se direct drive

[Quinner]

216 will provide a decent platform for slalom and wakeboard. If you are skiing the course at 28 off and nail your whirlybirds 100% of the time you may want to consider a different boat(s) however. How is the interior?? Reskinning that entire boat with factory matching material could easily run 4k plus.

[t.franscioni]

I had my 02 engine rebuilt. Cost was $1600 for the rebuild plus some of my time... Tranny can be rebuilt yourself if and when it needs it. You can buy the clutch pack and gasket kit and a rebuilt manual from nautique parts and or skidim. Bearings can be purchased at your local industrial shop or online if it needs those as well. I did mine and it was pretty straight forward. Cost about $400 I believe for the tranny parts... I agree 1500 hours isn't a lot and means the boat has been run more regularly over the years so that engine may be in better shape than some 400-500 hour engines. If compression check turns up bad you have a $2,000 negotiating point.