Mercruiser 4.0L on 84 19' Sea Ray - info on this engine??

[edtranslate]

I am looking to purchase a 19' Sea Ray - 1984 open bow
The guy tells me it is 4.0 V6 engine. This is all the info I could get.

I haven't seen any images of it and he is not really familiar with boats, he is selling for a friend in the Military. He doesn't have a digi camera or know how to attach images to e-mail, he is an older guy.

Is anyone familiar with this engine, I am familiar with the Mercruiser 4.3L (I know this is a great reliable engine) but not the 4.0. A mechanic told me told me to stay away from the GM 3.8? My father has a 350 5.7 chevy engine in his boat and know that is also a very solid reliable engine. I am going to take a look at this boat and hear it run but I do have to drive over an hour to see it and this guy does not have much info.

Any info on this 4.0 engine would be really appreciated especially any problems people may have expercienced or heard, anything I should look out for before I make the drive to see it? Thank you.

Eddie

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruiser 4.0L on 84 19' Sea Ray - info on this engine??

Mercruiser did use the 3.8 in 83 and 84. 85 was the first year of using the 4.3L, there has never been a 4.0L V6 used.
Before you buy it, take it for a test run. Make sure it idles ok (no misses) and make sure it gets full WOT. Also check the engine oil when running and make sure it isn't getting overfull and milky. That would indicate a cracked block.
Also check the gear lube and make sure it's not milky (water intrusion) or black an burned smelling.

 

[edtranslate]

Re: Mercruiser 4.0L on 84 19' Sea Ray - info on this engine??

Thanks for the info on the engine years. If it does turn out to be a 3.8 then I probably will not want to purchase the boat since I have had a couple different people talk down about that engine including a Mechanic. Unless of course I can get it a great price but I really rather have something with a V8 anyway.
I appreciate your input.
Eddie

 

[MikDee]

Re: Mercruiser 4.0L on 84 19' Sea Ray - info on this engine??

The Chevy 3.8V6 and the 4.3V6 is basically the same engine, but the 4.3 has larger pistons, and a longer stroke. Of course the 4.3 has more power, that's part of the reason.