02-27-2022, 08:22 AM
I had a 1997 31 Open for more than 10 years with over 2000hr when I sold it. Now own a 38 Open. My preference was the Crusaders as I believe they were marinized better.. As an example the manifolds on the Crusaders were fresh water cooled and the Merc's were salt water cooled. As a result only the elbows needed change when salt corrosion required a change. Also, Crusaders used Balmar alternators (maybe Tiara spec'd this) which were bigger than the Merc GM alternations. Raw water pumps were solid bronze and the Merc's were a combination of plastic & Aluminum (I believe)... Crusaders have always had a better reputation but that may be just what I've heard.. M2C
