Recent content by Mamier

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    Idle setting 5.7

    My 5.7 MerCruiser has been idling at 800rpm (even in gear) and now its jumped to 1000rpm at idle and in gear. Can anyone tell me what its suppose to idle at? I've ordered my manual. :)
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    Why do marine engines cost so much?

    Pricing new or remanufactured MerCruiser engines (want to go from the current 260hp to the 300hp). I can't believe the cost of a new engine or even a remanufactured unit. Gesh, you can by a new car for the price they want for just the engine. Can anyone tell me why? lol. Also, any thoughts about...
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    Maintenance Question

    Me again. 1985 260hp 5.7 MerCruiser. I thought it would be a good idea to check the oil (as I do in my car) and cannot find a dipstick on this engine. Can someone tell me where it is? <br /><br />Also, as fall approaches,another question. I will be keeping the boat in the water. In Seattle, it...
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    Ignition Questions

    1985 MerCruiser 260 (5.7). 275 original hours. Engine runs great. But. When the engine is cold, I turn the key and get nothing for about 7 seconds, then the starter engages. Once the engine is warmed up, turn the key and no problems. Any Idea?
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    5.7 Belts

    1985 Mercruiser 260HP (5.7). Noticed this weekend some belt slippage (reminded me of my Mom's old Chrysler). Squeals at idle but clears up under load. Belt seems loose (bouncy). Applied some belt dressing and it got rid of the squeal. Question is about how tight these two belt should be. Should...
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    Mercruiser 5.7 reliability question

    Ok, I've posted here before about the purchase of my 1985 Formula with a 260hp engine. Only 270 hours. Its running perfect. But here is my question for you experts. I use to be an outboard man...and very use to the OB running around 3500rpm. Now I look at the rpm on this V8 running 3k-4k rpm and...
  7. M

    Lower Unit Won't Tilt Up

    Some assistance please :) 5.7 Mercruiser 1985 with 270 hours on engine and outdrive.All original. In water today,and outdrive won't tilt up. It does come up (for about three seconds) then the tilt motor stops. Press down, it goes down. Any thoughts?
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    Engine Choices

    Currently have a 24' Formula 242LS with a 5.7 (350) 260hp Engine. THinking about repowering it in the fall with a big block (454) 350hp. THoughts? <br /><br />Boat tops out at 50mph. Would love to get 60 out of it. THanks!
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    Carpet question

    I have a 1985 Formula 242LS. It has a small cuddy cabin. The gray carpet was trashed (mold and discolored). I removed it this weekend. I am now looking for carpet replacement that matches. The original carpet was plush and thick, with a heavy, cushiony rubber backing. <br /><br />Any ideas on...
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    Formula 242LS Parts

    I just aquired a 1985 Formula 242SLS with 271 hours on her. Yes, not used very much. The boat is completely original. Its missing some of the black plastic rub strips on the sides (and a few assorted other things). Is there a place to find used formula parts? Or perhaps a formula forum?<br /><br...
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    Oil Changes 5.7L

    I just have a general maintenance question. I just bought a Formula with a 5.7 (260hp) MerCruiser. The yard has done some maintance (replaced some stern drive seals, water pump etc) and done a tune up that included an oil change. The engine has 271 hours one it (its a 1985). How ofted does this...
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    Silent Choice

    Can anyone tell me what a MerCruiser 260hp with Silent Choice Exhaust is? The dealer says it has this option but all I see is thru transom exhaust. Thanks.
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    Transom Exhaust to Hub

    I just bought a 1985 Formula 242LS with a 260hp Mercruiser engine. The exhaust exits the transom (noisy). I've read that its pretty easy to move the exhaust back to the prop. Can anyone tell me if that is true? Thanks so much for any advice!!
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