5.7L merc block question

[gordond]

i'm looking to replace my block because it cracked due to freezing. It's a 1999 5.7L Merc Vortec. Is the block 'vortec' or is it just the heads & intake?

I'm wondering if I can get any 350 block and use my heads, intake & exhaust.

Thanks

 

[Bondo]

Re: 5.7L merc block question

Ayuh,...... You need a Post-87 block....

 

[gordond]

Re: 5.7L merc block question

thanks for the info!

 

[Mkos1980]

Re: 5.7L merc block question

You will find that on the vortec blocks the timing chain cover area is a "tad" differant but the plastic cover will fit any 87 and up block, along with all your roller valvetrain stuff.

 

[gordond]

Re: 5.7L merc block question

One more Q, do I need to be concerned about 1 piece & 2 piece seals? Is that pertaining to the crank seals?

I have found a 1988 short block. This should work?

 

[Mkos1980]

Re: 5.7L merc block question

It will work. Yes you need to be concerned. You want a 1 piece RMS. Like Bond said 87 and up. You will want to swap your cam and roller valvetrain over as probebly even though the block is roller ready, that 87 came with a flat tappet cam.

 

[gordond]

Re: 5.7L merc block question

hey thanks Mkos1980, you actually read my mind as i was wondering if the rollers would fit.

how benifical would it be to update the roller rockers and lifters to some performance ones? Would there be a decent power gain? Any recommendations?
I wouldn't change to cam, because i understand marine engines are not suppose to rev extremely high.