Engine swap possible?

[Darin300]

You guys will have to fogive me I don't know much about boats. I'm a auto tech and can repair with no problems. My question is, I have a 85hp 1989 bayliner capri 18ft, with a force engine, which I just pulled into the garage last night and am going to rebuild it, pistons ect. But before I put more money in this thing, is it possible to swap out the engine with another unit, honda ect, will another engine bolt up to the drive, I'm sure it will be alot more money, but I'm thinking it would be worth it in the long run, I really like the boat itself. Or am I stuck and better make the best of it. Thanks for any info. Have to add the engine is inboard. I guess you call it an L drive.

 

[Bigprairie1]

Re: Engine swap possible?

Darin, this is quite an idea. The L-drives have a pretty dubious reputation so I can appreciate wanted to try a better motor with one.
That said, I have no idea as to how difficult this would be, not being overly familiar with the specifics of the L-drive. You will probably end up having to make a few parts/adapters/etc yourself to say the least. However anything is possible with enough thought, effort and oh yeah, money.
That said...go for it. This would be one of the most interesting mechanical project endeavors going here without a doubt. You will probably be the first guy to ever attempt such a thing. If you succeed...I definitely want to see some pics.
BP

 

[Darin300]

Re: Engine swap possible?

Well I'm looking into some engine options, doing my research now. like I said I really like the boat itself. I have a small family and we don't go out much. The boat is all we need. Not to mention I got the boat a few years ago for 300.00 dollars and no joke the boat is like brand new everything on it is perfect, but the engine sucks. If I had a nice 4 stroke honda ect. on it, sure would be nice. I'll keep you updated.

 

[Bigprairie1]

Re: Engine swap possible?

If you really like the boat, but not that L-drive system there is another option I have seen on at least two (former) L-drive boats.
The owners of these boats sealed and patched the original L-drive transom hole, which I believe is a bit of an overhead drop down from the transom area. Then they had an extended aluminum outboard support built. One guy was running a 100-120hp Johnson and the other guy had a large evinrude on his. They looked great, like they belonged there.
The guys said they loved it and it wasn't that big a deal to do. They were able to keep a boat they really liked and repower with something a lot better and faster.
Maybe worth considering...and a lot less work?
BP