84 thundercraft repower

thundercrash

Recruit
Joined
Aug 17, 2010
Messages
2
Hello all. New guy, new boater. I am the proud new owner of a grungy but solid 1984 18' thundercraft flamingo. The previous owner/friend is moving back to the US and couldn't be bothered towing back the boat, which is in need of some lower end repair and engine work. It cost me a 60 of rye. The engine is a 470 merc. I should probably ask my questions one at a time, but I can't help myself.

1. every car I owned in my younger years I have riped out the origional engine and put in a 350. I would like to do the same with this boat. Can someone point me to a thread or link that would give me the info i need for this task.

2. The lower unit is in an unknown state and in many pieces. From those with experience, am I better just getting a rebuild kit if available or looking for a complete unit with engine?

3. Is there a reason why I would have to use a marien engine as opposed to say a regular automotive engine with a special cam and cooling modifications.

The nice thing about this boat is that I don't have to worry about ruining a good thing being that its beat up already. I'm not thinking pretty here, just loud and fast. Thanks for your advice. Chris.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,357
Re: 84 thundercraft repower

2. The lower unit is in an unknown state and in many pieces. From those with experience, am I better just getting a rebuild kit if available or looking for a complete unit with engine?

Yes... What you have, Won't work with a 350...
 
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