MerCruiser 4.3 MPI Question

[X Hoser]

Always a great place for advise and I need some! Looking at a 2008 22’ South Bay Tri-toon that has a MerCruiser 4.3 MPI with an Alpha Drive. They state only 64 hours. I have never owned a Pontoon. Most seem to have outboards so not sure about this combo?

Will basically be used as a bay cruiser, a beach in on a lake in Tennessee that does not have many beaches and maybe pull a grandchild on a tube or possibly skis. Not looking for a fast toon, just a good reliable one that can get out of it’s own wake.

So, my questions are;

Is this a decent power package? Reliable?

Being mated up to an Alpha Drive acceptable?

Should I stick with an Outboard, say 150 HP or more?

They are asking $32,900 for it including the trailer.

Reasonable???

TIA

 

[Racey]

It's a proven package, nothing wrong with it for a toon.

Impeller is in the drive on an alpha do servicing a water pump inside a cramped engine compartment wont be an issue either.

 

[Shlbyntro]

It's a proven package, nothing wrong with it for a toon.

Impeller is in the drive on an alpha do servicing a water pump inside a cramped engine compartment wont be an issue either.

but the oil change will be if it doesnt have a remote oil filter. tuneups will be near impossible.

otherwise great package, no qualms

 

[thedan]

I have an 06 Lowes 24’ with that same package. I can get 34 mph unloaded downhill with the wind at my back. Loaded and biminis up, you’re in low/mid 20’s. Tubes kids good, but has ZERO wake. I’m happy with it.

 

[PlanB]

Our first toon had a 350 Mag and the current toon has a 300 Verado O/B. I would go O/B all day long if you can find one you like. The O/B boat carries the bow better and is better around the docks (tighter turning radius). The O/B is also very easy to service.