Did Mercruiser make a?

Fatbs

Seaman
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Mar 26, 2012
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51
Did Mercruiser make a mid 70's model 188 hp with a ford 351?
I have broken down the motor and i believe it has 351 heads. any help??
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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Probably a 302 with 351 heads. Measure the bores
 

Bt Doctur

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Aug 29, 2004
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They are listed in manual 1 and 2 :255" ? What is the spread of the intake manifold bolts left to right. 8ish is a 302 and 9 ish is a 351
 

Silvertip

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Sep 22, 2003
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I had a 1978 Century with an OMC I/O and the engine was a 351M. I'm not a Ford guy but I believe they had a 351 Windsor, a 351 Cleveland, and a 351 Michigan (hence the"M"). That was cast into the intake manifold. Served me well for many years. Can't vouch for the 351C or 351W in boats, but I can vouch for the 351M.
 

achris

More fish than mountain goat
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May 19, 2004
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Ford engines used by Merc with stern drives, and their designations.

'888'. 302 engine with 351 heads, 2 bbl carb. 188hp 1972-1976
'225'. 302 engine with 351 heads, 4 bbl carb. 225hp 1974
'255'. 351 engine, 4 bbl carb. 255hp 1973-1974. (only with TR drive)

In 1970 to 1972 they also used a 302 coupled to hydraulic or electric gearboxes, not seen since (thankfully!) and that engine was rated at 215hp.

Similarly configured Ford engines were also used as MIE (inboard/ski). Mercruiser ended their association with Ford in 1976.

Chris..........
 

Fatbs

Seaman
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Mar 26, 2012
Messages
51
Okay so it is the 302 with 351 heads. I had a not so good compression test and have broken the motor down. So what would be the rebuild kit i would need to order?
 

achris

More fish than mountain goat
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May 19, 2004
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27,468
Gasket kit I would get from FelPro. If it's new pistons you need, try one of the aftermarket on-line shops.
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
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go to your local engine builder and have them order the parts.
 
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