Msetthsmile- I have a v-4 looper on my SS2000 Excel. I used a x-flow gear case (1988) It seem to hold up very well. No bearing carrier issues. I'm spinning a Mazco RE3 28" . Best I did on my Livorsi GPS 86-87MPH.Aeneas--
The 'beast' tag was for chuckles. It was pre e-tec and Ficht. That was a stock (except for cone) 115 Fastrike Johnson (98?). I was running 30 inch wheel on that thing and the holeshot was tolerable. Anyway, it ate a few big blocks for lunch--by well over 5 mph. Drawback was the lower unit which I could not keep in one piece (elevated shaft heights).
Might try it again someday with a beefier lower unit. I think 90 is possible with a souped up pump gas v-4. SS is a very efficient hull.
I ordered a 30" pitch ET which I will try next with some other mods. Probably would bring me close to 90????
Bruss