python motor hours

[hydrosport]

How many hours do the 8.1 python owners have on their boats? Just wondering if the motors are long lasting and reliable.

[Miljack]

We've got a 99 version Python, it's a 8.2 or 502cid engine with 340 hours so far, absolutely no issues. These engines were the "hotrods" for PCM and they were handbuilt, not many of these engines in their towboat lines. For some reason these engines burn some oil, so if you're looking at purchasing a used one, it would be important to see the maintenance records.
The ignition system is different on the 8.2 vs. the 8.1 with the 8.1 having the more recent "distributor-less" style ignition, with the coils near the plugs. Our boat did require a new ECM (elec. Control module) covered under warranty by the previous owner.

Check the prop size, try to determine if the previous owner was a wakeboarder who really weighted the boat down (2K+ lbs over stock). The advantage of the Pythons is that they have a lot of low end torque, and they sound great! The sound is a preference however, some people don't like how loud they are.

Jack

[WakeSlayer]

Python Power !

I just passed 250 on mine before winterizing. No issues whatsoever. I got it Aug 05 with 135 hours. They do use a little oil. I have a friend that is just around 950 hours on his, no problems there either. These are both Super Airs. Another friend has one in a 99SNOB, not sure where is hours are at, I would guess 500 or so. Never heard him have a problem.