Mercruiser 470 fans

[hayhauler]

I have a mercruiser 470. Almost everything I've heard about it has been bad, but it also seems to have its supporters. I haven't had enough experience with it to have an opinion. My first thought was to replace it with something else, but I'd rather not if it can be a good servicable motor. I'd like others opinions and suggestions. Especially those who like them, what do you do to get the most out of it?

 

[NET PROPHET]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

I've had a 1978 470 for 3 years now. Like you I had read all the negatives about this engine just AFTER I had bought it, thought about changing engines etc. Decided to run it the first season and am really glad I did, it has quite a bit of low end torque, good on gas,I like the enclosed cooling. Mine had been converted to an alternator before I bought it so I didn't have that to worry about. I am planning on replacing the Cam seals this Winter as preventative maintenance( this is the 3rd major problem with these engines). DO NOT OVERHEAT THIS ENGINE they have an aluminum block and cast iron heads you can run into head & gasket problems.<br />check out Breezeworks.net this is a site dedicated to the 470.<br />Good luck

 

[hayhauler]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

Thanks, I've been to breezeworks, and it is informative. But there is a lot more input here. Plus, input at breezeworks is more about solving problems, the breadth of information here seems a lot deeper.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

I have one and as frustrating as it sounds I like mine. I have done tune-ups, fuel pump, starter and manifolds. It overall is a great torque motor and consider that the older V-8's were only at 200 hp and with all the weight.<br /><br />I'm sticking with mine anticipating the conversion for the charging system.<br /><br />Bob

 

[skeffer]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

I have a 78 470 also and I don't have any coplaints tho I have only had this one for a month it does run well. Just no sure what the temp range for this motor should be. Mine ran around 200-210 last time out which seems a little high. I have done some maint and will need to recheck this weekend but I don'thave any complaints and mine is pushing a 17' silverline at 45mph

 

[rattana]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

Here are some postings about this setup and a link to a 470 forum. http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi

 

[HULKSTERUPS]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

This is my first boat,1987 19 ft Regal Sebring with a 180 mer.The boat sat for 2 1/2 years it, needed alot of tlc ,she runs pretty good,I have a little engine knock,someone told me it was a lifter,I hope so. I did a alternator kit.How do I know if I need cam seals,is there a oil leak?And where would I spot this problem.I see We have some old boats out there.<br /> Don

 

[rattana]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

Try that link again, http://www.breezeworks.net/cgi-bin/MBoard/forum/display_forum_topics.asp?ForumID=1

 

[sroger007]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

I have a 1980 470. It still has the original charging system - works fine. Just did the cam seals - engine out - easy as pie. I've still got the 3-1/2" heat exchanger to boot - peaks at about 165 degrees. Being a northerner I store the boat for 8 months at a time. She starts easily every time when I break her out and she's a blast on the water - Great torque, good gas mileage and really quiet.

 

[hayhauler]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

SRoger, I've got to replace my cam seals, and I don't even know where to begin. The good thing is I don't think my motor will have to come out.<br /><br />Is there a repair manual of choice for this motor? Does iboats sell one?

 

[Walter Eckland...]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

Our family has owned a 1980 Glasply cuddy with a 470 since it was new. The engine's been rebuilt once and outdrive rebuilt twice. I've converted it to an external alternator and pertronics ignition. I've rebuilt or replaced almost every external part on the engine. The boat is sentimental to me so I want to keep it forever. But, it's always been a little underpowered, especially with two many people in the boat. I'm considering re-powering it with a 350 mercruiser and alpha outdrive for a combined weight of about 1200 lbs, or a total conversion to sea drive with perhaps a 250 Yamaha weighing about 500 lbs. Does anyone know how much the 470 with outdrive weighs?

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruiser 470 fans

Welcome to iboats Walter. Please do not reply to old posts from the archives, this one is from 2004. If you have a question, please start a new thread with your question.