What motor do I have?

[mossygo]

I bought a 78 silverline with 470 mercruiser. Now, I was told that it was a ford motor, my buddy says it's a chevy engine. The serial number is readable, it's rated at 170hp. Any ideas?

 

[Don S]

Re: What motor do I have?

The 470's (3.7L) were a Mercruiser only engine made by Mercruiser. It had an aluminum block strictly Mercruiser manufacturer, with a 460 head and valve train. That's the Ford part. Only Chevy part was a Delco Remy distributor.
When they work, they are a powerful 4 cylinder engine. But when they go bad, it's expensive.
They are noted for a camshaft that drives the engine circulation pump. When the seal leaks you get antifreeze in your oil.
They had cooling problems with the 3" heat exchanger. Lots of parts are NLA especially with the OEM charging system modeled after an outboard.... Dumb idea. There are aftermarket brackets and alternator setups that work, Ya just need money.
There will be others here that know where the special, one of a kind 470 forum is at.
Since the SN is readable, what is it?

 

[mossygo]

Re: What motor do I have?

SN 5319950. I'm obviously new to inboards so thanks for the answers. 5 years in the coast guard and I don't know much about boats(airdale). I had another question. The guy I bought it from said that the motor has an expensive upgrade that has to do with the heating/cooling of the engine. Have any idea what that might be, and what the benefits are? Thanks again.

 

[Trent]

Re: What motor do I have?

Most likely had the 4" heat exchanger installed since the 3" was too small.