Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

[cliffblue]

I don't know if starting a new thread for every question I have on this project is the right way to go. Maybe I can come back to this one if I need additional information. The bolts holding the power steering pump, lower unit reservoir and alternator to the engine block and heads use no lock or flat washers. Having run into numerous assembly errors while working on this boat, I was curious if this lack of washers of any kind is correct? Thanks, Cliff

 

[cliffblue]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

Questions 2. I had to buy a separate intake gasket set because Fel-Pro does not offer a 4.3 marine head gasket set with correct Vortec intake gaskets. I only used the intake to head gaskets and the RTV out of the set. Knowing that there are extras in these sets for different applications, there is really a lot of gaskets, o-rings etc left over in this kit. Just don't want to miss anything. Opinions?

 

[achris]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

Hi Cliff. As Merc have been using the 4.3 since about 1985 and it has gone through numerous changes since then, it would be far more helpful if we have the engine serial number as a starting point in our search for answers for you...

Just as an example, I recently had a 1991 engine (4.3) in that had swallowed the ocean. It was of course dead. The owner decided against a rebuild or a new long block and went with a complete new engine. He also asked what he should save from the old engine and keep as a spare. The ONLY thing that was compatible was the starter-motor...

Even just the basic block has had 3 changes. To about 1992 was the original (no balance shaft), then from about 92 to 97 was the Gen II (with balance shaft), then came the Gen+ ('vortec' heads)....

Chris.....

 

[cliffblue]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

Hey Chris, sorry about that. I've been around long enough to know that. OM060235. Just thought that the regular mechanics would know if the accessory mounting bolts normally had washers or not. Thanks, Cliff

 

[cliffblue]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

Question 3. Elbow to exhaust manifold bolt torque? 3/8 bolts, manual says 33 lb. ft., OEM manifold conversion guide says 44 lb ft???? Bolt threads call for Perfect Seal but they come with red sealant already on the new bolts. ? Which torque? Stopping at 25 for now

 

[achris]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

Hey Chris, sorry about that. I've been around long enough to know that. OM060235. Just thought that the regular mechanics would know if the accessory mounting bolts normally had washers or not. Thanks, Cliff

I just checked my engine (also a 4.3) and it does not have washers.. Looks like that's the way they come from Merc...

Conversion guide? What conversion are you doing?

Chris...

 

[cliffblue]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

Thanks on the bolts. Mercruiser OEM one piece to two piece exhaust manifolds. Just manifolds and elbows, no risers. The guide that came with the kit. Thanks, Cliff

 

[achris]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

I'd got to 33lb-ft... (assuming normal 'wet-joint' manifolds)

Chris.

 

[cliffblue]

Re: Another question on the reassembly of my 4.3

Thanks