Looking at 05 VLX with Hammerhead. Any Concerns?

[Stuart]

I just made a deal on an 05 VLX with the Hammerhead. It's got 80 hours on it. Looks like a nice boat, seems well taken care of. I looked around a little (on here) and I'm getting a little nervous about that engine. Any comments, concerns, or advice before pulling the trigger with the checkbook? Thanks

[Woodsprinter]

Hammerhead just more than Monsoon.

[SMERRILL]

I've got an 06 23 LSV with the Hammerhead and I LOVE it. We load it up with 10+ people, 1250 lbs ballast, wedge, and pull a boarder out of the hole with no problem at all. I've heard people complain they've had issues with their boats that have a hammerhead, but I love it. 400 horse and 425 ft/lbs of torque is pretty hefty.

It is a race engine and requires more maintenance. The only things I had to learn was how to properly take care of the engine. It consumes oil at a faster rate than normal (which is normal for this engine), it takes higher weight oil (straight 50 weight) and I change the oil more often. I think if you maintain it well, you will love the engine.

Edited April 30, 2010 by SMERRILL