Mercruiser 5.0 upgrade to 5.7 ECM question

[Mcguiver]

So I've replaced my 2001 5.0 alpha 1 gen 2 engine with a 5.7 (both vortec) which has the thunderbolt V ignition system. I kept the 2 bbl carburetor and replaced the 5.0 venturi cluster with the 5.7 cluster so I feel the fuel/air side addressed. I bought a knock control module & sensor and my plan was to integrate it into the existing 5.0 ECM module. I ran the engine 8 hours so far without the knock control module integrated and everything seems to be performing well so here's the question.

Has anyone already done this and what was the outcome (performance, fuel efficiency, fried electronics, etc, etc,,,)?

If not does anyone know what's the difference in the 5.0 alpha 1 gen+ module and 5.7 alpha 1 gen+ module to say that integrating the knock control functionality will provide protection for the 5.7?

 

[alldodge]

The difference with the ICM is the timing curve, don't know the exact differences. My guess is the motor may not have all the power that's available but should do fine. I would connect the knock module up.

The knock sensor for 5.0 and 5.7 with 2bbl with years 1998-2001 use the same sensor

 

[Scott Danforth]

if both were carb'd, hook it up and go boating. there should be a 22 or 24 on the module for the amount of curve. however if you think you are leaving just a bit on the table, advance the base timing by 1 or 2 degrees with the knock sensor connected.

 

[Mcguiver]

Thanks for the quick replies! FYI - I integrated the knock control function with my ICM and must have awaken some logic in it. Before the knock module was connected, at idle condition, I only saw approximately 2 degree increase in base timing. Now it appears I'm getting 4-6.