1997 mercruiser cracked block?

lowvlot

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 5, 2009
Messages
231
I bought a 1997 Bluewater at the end of the season last year. I have never winterized an inboard before but tried my hand at it. I researched and thought I did what was expected. I took the hoses off and drained them, took the plugs out of the block or so I thought. It appears that I missed one. Today I ran water through it and water started to leak from the block. The paint is peeling right there and it appears to be cracked. However I can't really see it too good due to the paint. What now? Do I remove the paint in that area to inspect the damage or do I sell the boat I have never sailed? Can this be repaired and at what cost? Any help and advice is much needed and appreciated.
Thank you in advance.
 
Joined
Feb 19, 2015
Messages
74
Well, I just replaced a 97 4.3 mercruiser. I THOUGHT it had a cracked block. But there is only one fix for a cracked block. Replace it, new or reman short or long block. Either way, for me was not cheap. I'm doing the work myself so saving money there. I'm $2800 into it and hope that will be it. Already had the new motor so went ahead and replaced it. For me, the decision was based on the condition of the rest of my boat. It's in prime shape, worth the investment.
 

lowvlot

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 5, 2009
Messages
231
Well, I just replaced a 97 4.3 mercruiser. I THOUGHT it had a cracked block. But there is only one fix for a cracked block. Replace it, new or reman short or long block. Either way, for me was not cheap. I'm doing the work myself so saving money there. I'm $2800 into it and hope that will be it. Already had the new motor so went ahead and replaced it. For me, the decision was based on the condition of the rest of my boat. It's in prime shape, worth the investment.

Please elaborate on "THOUGHT"
 

flipbro

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Feb 8, 2013
Messages
830
Anything can be repaired. Ask yourself if its worth it cost wise. What shape is the boat in? Is it solid? Depending on the crack if its externally only you may be able to clean up the area with a die grinder and jb weld it. But thats a half a$$ fix in my opinion.. Just remember life is better with a boat lol
 
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