1995 merc 4.3 and 1996 innerchanges?

[Bansheex13]

I recently purchased a 1999 motor to put in my 1996 boat,and then found out the motor I have in the boat is a 1995.The motor in the boat has a steel pan and timing chain cover.The newer motor has the aluminum pan and plastic cover.I know the timing cover is different and won't work,and the heads are 12 bolt on my original motor and 8 on the new one.My question is, can I just swap in the cam and heads,and intake from the original motor and be good to go (I know I have to reuse the plastic cover on the timing chain from the newer motor) but am I going to run into more problems? I know this is a tough question and unless someone has done it or has been around a LOT of 4.3 liter Chevys it is going to be hard to answer,but hoping someone has done this before.

 

[wca_tim]

Re: 1995 merc 4.3 and 1996 innerchanges?

what are the block casting numbers for the two engines? It will make a difference...


the short answer to your question is...
maybe...

if on 8 vs 12 bolt heads your talking aobut the bolt pattern for the intake, the newer heads are a lot better heads... and would be worth a noticabnle amount of power to use even if you have to use a different intake manifold.

I haven't been around a "LOT" of 4.3's but have played with a few and have a folder of information on the various versions, compatibility, years, casting numbers, etc...

Others here may know the detailed answer off the top of their heads...

where did the new engine come from? is it a marine engine?

 

[Bansheex13]

Re: 1995 merc 4.3 and 1996 innerchanges?

The old engine casting number started with a T,so I know now the cam will not work.The new engine came from a 1999 4X4 Chevy blazer. Will the blazer cam work ok?

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1995 merc 4.3 and 1996 innerchanges?

Will the blazer cam work ok?

Ayuh,....

And use the Blazer's Heads too,... They're Vortecs....

Just buy the right manifold to mount your Carb,....

 

[180shabah]

Re: 1995 merc 4.3 and 1996 innerchanges?

The blazer engine is fine(except as noted on your other thread).

FYI - that plastic cover is a one time use item.

 

[Bansheex13]

Re: 1995 merc 4.3 and 1996 innerchanges?

Thank you for the replys,this is a great site with a wealth of information. I know the newer heads would be better,but the problem is they need redone,and the old heads look great.I am trying to get on the water because the season is short and don't really want to wait. Will the old style heads be ok? I can't find any info on head volume or compression ratios on 4.3's does anyone know if the chambers are the same cc's or if it would work for now?