Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

[BIGSTRIPER80]

Hey guys, I can't believe how much info is on this site. Amazing. I am glad that I am a new boat owner as of today! I just bought an old POS 1987 Renken that will be a project this winter for the spring. New floor, a few cosmetic things but will be used for Striper Fishing in the bay. Anyway, it's got a 1987 4.3 mecrusier in it with a Bravo I (I think) outdrive. I had my local mechanic check it out. Everything was okay, got it winterized etc... He said before we take it out he would recommend replacing the plug wires and cap since it looked like the originals were on it. I know my way around a car motor a little and have tinkered on a few outboards but this will be my first I/O. I think mine still has points and carb vs. the electronic version. My questions after this essay are how hard is this to do myself? Can I go to the local auto parts store and pick up the plugs, cap and wires because I believe Chevy makes the blocks for these engines correct? This is basically a Chevy 4.3 vortec?
Thanks for any advice/input as I am going to learn more as I go!

Andrew

 

[kwoolard]

Re: Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

If you can find a serial number for your drive and the engine, we can tell you exactly what drive you have and what your ignition style is on your engine.

But basic tune up on a marine motor is basically the same as automotive, with the exception of having to have marine approved parts. As for the spark plugs, cap, wires and rotor, once we know the serial numbers we can give you those part numbers as well.

DonS might be along shortly and could probably tell you what the part numbers are off the top of his head.

Also recommend getting a manual for your drive and engine.

Welcome to the I/O world!

 

[Don S]

Re: Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

Really going to need an engine and outdrive serial number to be much help. In 87, I don't think Merc ever put a 4.3 with a Bravo I drive, Didn't use the Vortec engine till 93 - 95 sometime, and hadn't used points distributor ever on a V6. Always a Thunderbolt IV.

 

[BIGSTRIPER80]

Re: Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

Thanks for the replies. Please don't hold me to correct info. I was surprised there was a mercruiser in there since I thought Renken used OMC stuff those years so it could have either been repowered or the boat is newer than I think i.e. with the 4.3 a 90's model. Also not sure about Bravo I it could be a II. I will look at getting a serial #. The boat model is a Renken 2000 Classic cuddy which I have done reserach started in 86-87 so it could be a 92 or 93. Hmm??? And it does have the 4.3.

 

[BIGSTRIPER80]

Re: Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

Oh, did they make a 4.3 that isn't labled a vortec per say? Earlier? Or is the 4.3 a Vortec which is what i think it is called from Chevy.

 

[Don S]

Re: Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

Boat doesn't really matter, just what engine.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

Once you find the engine model you can get wires,cap and spark plugs from Napa.They carry the Sierra line of parts.

 

[wncrjb]

Re: Mecrusier 4.3 Plug wire and cap change

Oh, did they make a 4.3 that isn't labled a vortec per say? Earlier? Or is the 4.3 a Vortec which is what i think it is called from Chevy.

Somewhere in 1992 or1993, the vortec was introduced. About the same time as the balance shaft 4.3 showed up. The first vortecs had a stamped steel valve covers and timing cover. Starting around 1996 is when the real "vortec" was introduced. This model had a much improved head design. It also had plastic valve covers and timing cover. The intake was changed from 12 bolts to 8 bolts where they bolted to the heads. The timing covers also went from 10 bolts to 6 ( I think ).

wncrjb