I'm new to iboats but have been lurking here for awhile to draw on the knowledge base that exists here. I recently purchased a "project" boat that I'm in the process of dismantling as the start of a restoration project. The boat is a Sea Ray SRV 180 with the original 120 hp Mercruiser I/O. I am interested in opinions regarding the feasibility of installing a contemporary 3.0 L w/compatible outdrive. I think I need to mention a couple of things at the outset. I have two other boats, so this is not my only boating option. I have a reasonable idea of the costs involved, and have budgeted for it. Bottom line is, I like this particular boat for personal, nostalgic reasons and I'm interested in restoring it with new drivetrain reliability. I am not interested in building a speedboat, or I would have bought a different boat to begin with. Resale vs. investment is not really a factor in my decision. So, the question is: Is the swap reasonable without excessive modifications to the transom? I plan to rebuild the transom if I find it necessary, but I have no standard of comparison from which to work, in determining the compatibility of the existing engine mount locations with an updated engine and drivetrain. I have talked with locals who suggested just rebuilding what I have and running it. Any thoughts?
