4.3 Omc vs Mercruiser 188

[Earp]

I am working on a decent shape 87 20' Cadorette 200 with a omc 4.3 and a cracked block. I found a doner boat with a mid 70's ford 302/188 mercruiser. Is it worth the refit to get away from the omc stuff? It looks like there was only about 800 hrs on the 4.3, I know it will be easier to just swap for a new block....this is where you guys come in, any input would be great! Cheers.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 4.3 Omc vs Mercruiser 188

If i were to switch to a Mercruiser, I would try to find a lot newer drive. Keep in mind that your 87 boat isn't worth much anyway so before I would look into putting much effort or money into it, I would probably just sink the money into a different running boat.

To get yourself up and running for minimum cost, assuming your drive is working properly, I would throw another 4.3 in there.