Carborator Questions

[bobbymcgee88searay]

I need help! I am not uch of a mechanic by any means. I know that I need a new carborator for my 1988 21' Searay. It has 5.7 L Mercruiser. I am trying to avoid the high cost of marine parts. Is there any reason why I can't put a regular carborator for a 350 Chevrolet on my boat. As long as the spark arrestor fits. It should work, Right?

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Carborator Questions

Not a good idea.A marine carb has a hookup on the back for a line that runs from the fuel pump in case of pump failure.
An auto carb does not.It MUST be marine rated carb to avoid explosion.
Think of yourself and passengers!
You may try flying fish carbs on the net.Not that expensive.They will also rebuild your old carb.

 

[Robj]

Re: Carborator Questions

On boat, the carb MUST be marine rated. For safety, not worth messing with an automotive carb to save a few bucks when the consequences and cost you much more.

Have a great day,

Rob.

 

[Windykid]

Re: Carborator Questions

Marine carb only!!!

 

[45Auto]

Re: Carborator Questions

Lots of rather small but important differences on marine carbs to keep gas vapors from building up in your engine compartment. Doesn't matter with cars because the fumes are heavier than air and sink down out of the engine compartment. On a boat they build up in the bilge and engine compartment until BOOM! See this link:

http://www.cpperformance.com/products/Fuel_Systems/carb-selection.htm

Doesn't take much of a spark to ignite gas vapor. Use an automotive carb on a boat and one day you're liable to find out the hard way when the engine backfires or a spark plug wire cracks and the spark jumps.............

 

[wire2]

Re: Carburetor Questions

Re: Carburetor Questions

Why do you say you need a new one? Unless it's physically broken by something falling on it or burning, it should be rebuildable for much less $ than new.
Look in the yellow pages for Carbureter.