Mercruiser swap

[BrockR]

i have already inquired about a 305 350 swap before but have a couple new questions i have a 76' 898 motor is locked up i have option to buy a 96 350 out of a chapparal not sure of model yet waitn on pics from the guy but i think its an alpha 1 will this engine run with my 898 outdrive (mounting up properly) and would it handle the hp difference but if not i get the 96' outdrive with the engine would i only have to change outer gimble mount or the whole thing inner and outer
thanks for all your help

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Mercruiser swap

Brock - I am not sure exactly what you are asking... your post is kinda hard to read and decipher without a few periods tossed in.

There are differences between the couplers at the very least with a two piece rear main engine like your 76' vintage - and the one piece rear main of the 96' vintage engine.

There is also a difference between the outdrives. The 96 outdrive would not mate up with what is currently on your boat.

 

[BrockR]

Re: Mercruiser swap

so would you guys say my best bet is to get ahold of an older merc 260 is that the vintage im lookin for

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Mercruiser swap

The 1996 engine would work, simply, if it has the same diameter flywheel that your 1976 has. If it doesn't, it's going to get more complicated, and you have to by some accesories (starter, engine coupler for sure).

The outdrives are NOT compatible at all. The 1996 is an Alpha 1 Gen 2. You would need everything from the back of the 1996 engine to the propshaft to make it work.

Your 1976 outdrive could handle the increased hp.

 

[BrockR]

Re: Mercruiser swap

ok sorry let me ask a very specific question so i know what i am about to get into. if i drop this 350 in and leave my old outdrive what mods will i have to possibly or definitely make. Thanks in advance guys

 

[Bondo]

Re: Mercruiser swap

if i drop this 350 in and leave my old outdrive what mods will i have to possibly or definitely make.

Ayuh,... The rear motor mounts are of a different spacing,... You'll need to use the Mod.1 flywheel cover...

The Flywheels themselves, may, or may Not be the same size....That can lead to several Issues, such as starter mounting,+ clearence issues...

The Couplers are Very Different... As are the crankshaft bolt patterns...
You'll need to get a retrofit coupler, like the old 1, but with the New crankshaft bolt pattern...
Sierra sells 'em...