model 230mr merc.

[bigbenrusky]

i made the crusial mistake of not draining my motor soon enough therefore my block cracked and so did the exhaust manifold.
can these be welded? or am i going to have to shell out some major bucks and get a new motor?
if so what kind is preferred. i have a 1985 Century 3000BR. can anyone help? i don't know of anyone that owns one of these boats. thanks for your help in advance.

 

[Don S]

Re: model 230mr merc.

If you only have external cracks on the block, they have been fixed with JB weld and several other epoxies. BUT, when the crack on the outside, they normally crack on the inside of the block also. Then your oil fills with water. That can't be repaired.
Same with manifolds. But they can cost you an engine later down the line when they corrode out a little more. If you see a crack, replace them.

The 230 is a 305 Chevy

 

[bigbenrusky]

Re: model 230mr merc.

can you use a 305 chevy small block to replace and just change the crank? or does it have to be a marina motor?

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: model 230mr merc.

Welding the exterior of the block is possible...
However, it probably has internal cracks as well & will not be salvageable...
Fix the external cracks & either pressure test it or run it ....
If you hear air or get water in your oil, forget it.....
The exhaust manifolds, if cracked, are toast....
Get new ones, esp. if you are getting a new engine.......
Now would be the time to upgrade to a 5.7......
All of your accessories will bolt right on......
Pretty sure you will need a engine with the two piece rear main, (pre '87)........​

 

[bigbenrusky]

Re: model 230mr merc.

any guesses on where to find one for a reasonable price?

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: model 230mr merc.

can you use a 305 chevy small block to replace and just change the crank? or does it have to be a marina motor?

Upgrade to a 350......
You can get cheap rebuilt 350's from rapido Marine in Florida.....
I wouldn't waste time on a 305.....
It is the cam that is marine, btw....

 

[bigbenrusky]

Re: model 230mr merc.

have you purchased anything from them? or do you know of anyone that has and how did they run after?

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: model 230mr merc.

Several people from this forum have bought from him....
Free Bee Tony comes to mind.....
You might want to look in the 'search' function for some input....​