Difference in Auto and Marine block on 4.3l cobra

[phiggins]

I purchased a 1988 ChrisCraft 4.3L Cobra with a cracked block. I have since found a 1986 Chev Blazer with a 4.3L engine and 120000 miles. What is the difference in the Block. Can I do a complete teardown and swap the pistons, cams, heads and intakes to the Auto block? If not what is the difference?

 

[180shabah]

Re: Difference in Auto and Marine block on 4.3l cobra

This has been covered many times. If you search you can read for hours.

Bottom line there are minimal internal differences. If the blazer has good compression and no knocking, just use it. However you MUST use ALL of the external parts from the boat engine. Starter, distributor, carb, alternator, fuel pump etc. Also, you should replace the core plugs with brass.

The head gasket will also be different, but if you are in fresh water only you should still get a few years out of it. Of course, a complete rebuild would give you peace of mind for many many years.

 

[BLinindoll]

Re: Difference in Auto and Marine block on 4.3l cobra

Leave the pistons, get a new cam, all new bearings and rings and seals, switch to BRASS freeze out plugs, and swap everything else.