I am going to be as straight as I can with you here..

keep in mind, I have had a few drinks tonight.  There really is no book that can tell you wow to build the ultimate jet boat engine...

This book however http://www.eastwood.com/how-to-build-killer-big-block-chevy-engines.html?fee=5&fep=27253&srccode=ga220010&gclid=CKyOgJvYj8ACFYk7MgodqgsAjg Will IMHO give you the basics.


I will say this. You cannot build a kickass car engine and expect it to work in a jet boat. many have been humbled by this fact. You need to build an engine that can withstand 800 HP but only make 600.

Once you figure it out, you will be a self made guru. Keep thinking 5,500 RPM and you do not need ANY low end torque and you will be fine.


I have to go get some sleep now... I can't feel my fingers...LOL

GT

To be honest, I have no interest in building a motor, I'd prefer to leave that to a professional BUT I want to feel confident maintaining and diagnosing potential issues rather than bringing it up to Greg as GS Marine every time I have a little issue.

As far as a book, I know they don't have any information that can't be found on the internet, however, when a pro decides to sit down and right a book about any given topic, they typically are capable of compiling all the relevant information as presented it in a clear and orderly manner (i.e. from basic to moderate to complicated).

I feel like I'm completely out of my element here but I know a good book will get me on the right path. I'm going to order the book that you suggested GT, I appreciate the recommendation.

im pretty sure you'll never find a book about building jet boats.  but all standard "marine" books could/should apply.  the terminology is still the same and even though theres some things that dont exist on a jet boat all of the mechanical should be held to the same standards as any other boat.  fuel lines, electrical, mechanical, etc.  theres things that are done for a reason and most of the time its for safety.  sure regular ol rubber goodyear hose WILL work, but USGS approved fuel hose is what you SHOULD be using in a boat.  regular ol wire WILL work, but tinned marine wire will last longer and resist corrosion.  cheap home depot bolts?  they'll rust.  use ALL stainless with nylock nuts to resist vibrations not lock washers. use thick washers when bolting into/through wood to resist crushing it when getting things tight and spreading the load out.  in a car a fuel leak will drip out onto the ground, in a boat it leaks into the bilge and splashes everything.  it all needs to be resistant as well as UV resistant.  115* heat will kill most regular hoses and wiring.  but in a car its under a hood and almost always sees a constant temp/conditions. motor wise, like GT said... build it like a tank but expect it to run like a car.  have ways to shut things off.  valves for fluids and fuses/relays for electrical.  as far as the pump im sure theres a shop manual/service manual for a berk jet that would help you pick up all the things to look for and tolerances.