Help with 1984 3.0l mercruiser

[8595transam]

I just bought my second boat. 84 Galaxy conquest 17' bowrider. The motor is seized up. Is it worth rebuilding? From the looks of it it was never winterized.

My main question is what Could I look for to put in it's place? If I went to a auto/truck salvage yard. What motors would fit in it's place and give the same hp or more? Which ones can re-use some of the stuff off of the merc?

Would a v-6 fit in it's place without moving the mounts? I know I would need new exhaust manifolds and risers for the v6.

any help or links would be great.

 

[havasuboatman]

Re: Help with 1984 3.0l mercruiser

Unless your block is junk, rebuilding would be loads cheaper than buying new.
You wont find an automotive motor you can cheaply swap.
V-6 mounts differ from the in line
And you can't hook up a v-6 exhaust without changing to a y-pipe from your single.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Help with 1984 3.0l mercruiser

The 3.0 is an industrial engine that has been marinized for boating.
They tend to blow head gaskets and crack heads if they are not maintained.
I have also seen the block crack between 2 and 3.

But like hot rodding, if you are good enough you can put anything in anything, only problem with boats, you need the proper gear ratio in the outdrive.

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: Help with 1984 3.0l mercruiser

Stick with the 3.0L. They don't blow head gaskets nor do they crack heads, very tough engine. 'nutcase

 

[8595transam]

Re: Help with 1984 3.0l mercruiser

From the looks of it I might be able to get by with new piston rings and honing the cylinders.

 

[Don S]

Re: Help with 1984 3.0l mercruiser

Don't start looking for the "Just Get By" method. It's only going to cost more in the long run.
Read the Blue part of my signature line below

VVV
-V-

 

[Peaceful Pirate]

Re: Help with 1984 3.0l mercruiser

Look around and you should be able to find a complete rebuild kit for the 140hp for around $300-$350. Even if you get it open and find the cylinders rusted, just have it punched out to .20/.30 and rebuild it. As ?nutcase noted, these a tough little power plants in if give in just basic care and maintenance, they are like a Timex ? they just keep on ticking!