I just got a new elbow / riser for my 83 488 mercruiser because it was burning holes in the boot, and while changing it noticed a crack between the two exhaust ports going into the elbow. It is in the manifold. The crack is only in between the two exhaust sides not the coolant. I have never lost any coolant and haven't had any other problems. Is there any purpose in having the two sides or exhaust? How often does a crack lile this propogate? Ther are no exhaust or coolant leaks. A new aluminum manifold and elbow will cost a lot of money. Run it till something bad happens?
I am also considering a swap into a chevy motor. I got a lower mile 2000 goodwrench 454 out of a 3500 for free. I know I would need intake and exhaust manifods, electric fuel pump, modification to the stringers for the mounts and a 1.50 or 1.32 outdrive. The stringers are about even with the sides of the 488 oil pan. Looks like just bases for the mounts would need to be glassed in. How much else would I need to make a truck 454 go where a 488 was. Will the bellhousing bolt up? Can the 488's quadrajet be rebuilt to use on a 454? Can i use the distributor from the truck? More work than its worth? I like the hull and its in good shape Its a 16.5 ft freshwater only boat.
I am also considering a swap into a chevy motor. I got a lower mile 2000 goodwrench 454 out of a 3500 for free. I know I would need intake and exhaust manifods, electric fuel pump, modification to the stringers for the mounts and a 1.50 or 1.32 outdrive. The stringers are about even with the sides of the 488 oil pan. Looks like just bases for the mounts would need to be glassed in. How much else would I need to make a truck 454 go where a 488 was. Will the bellhousing bolt up? Can the 488's quadrajet be rebuilt to use on a 454? Can i use the distributor from the truck? More work than its worth? I like the hull and its in good shape Its a 16.5 ft freshwater only boat.