I have a 4.3 in a 2WD Chevy 1/2 ton. I love the engine. I'm sure it can handle a 18.5 boat OK. I pull a flatbed trailer with a small tractor and loader. It is not fast, but works out pretty good. I made a 800 mile trip with my truck loaded down with about 800-900+ lbs and it traveled just fine. I was skeptical of V6s up until the time I got this truck. I noticed that it stays in overdrive much better than my 5.3 1/2 ton although there is no comparison in power. I am certainly a fan of the GM 4.3 now. If you end up driving with small loads, or a town driver, it will work out great.
