carb vs tbi

scottberry

Cadet
Joined
Jul 3, 2009
Messages
20
I replaced a bad 5.0 L Mercruiser with a 5.7 L with a little more power. Since the original engine was a vortec with the TBI, I decided to build a vortec motor to keep from replacing everything. The engine shop put an upgraded cam and some other little items to give me a little more HP.

I can't seem to get it tuned right as it runs a little rich at low RPM's and idle. I have played with the timing a few times but can't seem to get it right.

I was considering swapping out the TBI with a new intake and carb. Can anyone share the pros and cons. Also besides the fuole pump pressure, what else to I need to consider when making the swap.
 

gadget73

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jun 20, 2009
Messages
308
Re: carb vs tbi

If you changed from a 305 to a 350 with a cam, you'll either need to have the TBI computer re-programmed to handle the changed engine, or get a computer for a 350. The non-stock cam throws a wrench in the works though, since there is probably not going to be any computer on the shelf that just happens to be exactly what you need. Not sure how flexible the Merc EFI stuff is, but on a car what you'd do at this point is have the thing tuned, whch alters the fuel and timing curve to match the new motor's needs.
 

scottberry

Cadet
Joined
Jul 3, 2009
Messages
20
Re: carb vs tbi

I also have a funny whistleing noise when I throttle down. I replace the IAC last season but it still whistles. Is this common on a TBI?

I guess I will need the cam and engine specs to get the ECM re-programmed, correct?
 

maxxman04

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Mar 30, 2009
Messages
352
Re: carb vs tbi

yes you will need all that info for Mark. he's great tho.
 
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