New 2012 Challenger 180 - What determines HO?

[rbounds217]

I bought a new 2012 Challenger 180 (non-SE) and the Rotax is rated at 215 HP. The HO (SE version) says that it is 255 HP. Does anyone know what the difference is between the two engines? If so, is is possible to upgrade this engine without too much cost/hassle?

 

[davo]

The 255hp version has a larger supercharger and an intercooler. If you alter your boat do it after the warrantee expires.
Cheers

 

[Dr Honda]

AND... it has larger injectors, and a different program in the ECU. So... it's not easy or cheap to do the upgrade.

If you wanted 255 hp... you should have bought that version. AND... as above... any engine mods will void the warranty.

 

[rbounds217]

Wow, I found out about the intercooler but did not know about the other mods. Thanks for the additional info guys. Oh well, when I went to look at the boats they did not have a 180 in the SE version, only a 210. Besides, I didn't really want to pay for all of the extras that come with the SE anyway. With only 15 hours on mine I have gotten it up to 46 MPH on calm water. I wonder what the extra 40 HP would do for the top speed?

I work in the automotive industry so mods under warranty have always been a no-no for me.

 

[hemivt]

wow 46.. my 210 with twin 155's gets to 47 lol

 

[rbounds217]

wow 46.. my 210 with twin 155's gets to 47 lol

I have only hit that speed twice, both on calm days and within the first 5-10 minutes of run time. It will do 43/44 no problem though. I have not experimented with high octane fuel or anything, maybe this spring.